Around the World in 80 Days

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Around the world in 80 Days is written by Jules Verne was my summer classic pick for this year.

For those who don’t know, many years ago after reading Pride and Prejudice one summer, I decided every summer I was going to read a classic literature book. Since then I’ve read through most of Jane Austin. I’ve also read, Poe, Alcott, Shelly, Dickens, Bronte, Fitzgerald, and many others.

Now this book may not seem like your ordinary classic. But a few years ago during my librarian days, we did a month long reading challenge. The goal was to read as many books as possible in a month. I was competing against my students so took the opportunity to read books I had always wanted to when I as that age. 

That’s when I read 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and it became one of my favorites. I’m not sure if it was that most of the story took place under water or if it was just that it was so far ahead of its time. But I was completely taken in by the adventures of the Nautilus and Captain Nemo.

Since then I’ve had Around the World on my To Be Read list.

Needless to say I enjoyed this book just as much as Leagues. Although the title is self explanatory, I’ll give you the gist anyway.

Phileas Fogg bets his companions that he can travel across the globe in just 80 days. Breaking the well established routine of his daily life Fogg sets out with his valet Passepartout. Passing through exotic lands and dangerous locations they seize whatever transportation is at hand-whether train or elephant-overcoming setbacks and always racing against the clock.

This book takes the reader along on a fast paced race against time and it keeps you on the edge of your seat right till the end. It’s a quick read and the while Fogg  journeys around the world trying to win his bet you get a glimpse into travel during another time.

I’m glad I finally read it. If you’re looking for a quick adventurous read, with a little taste of history, then this book would be a good choice. If you like classic literature and haven’t read anything by Jules Verne, I highly recommend him. He was one of the earliest, if not the first, writer credited with writing science fiction. His writing is years ahead of its time in terms of imagination and originality. You won’t be disappointed.

I’m on to the next on my summer stack! 

Happy Reading!



 

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