Extraordinary Voyages Series

Without even realizing it, the German professor Lidenbrock purchases his ticket to the center of the Earth. He finds an original runic manuscript which unfolds a long kept secret. The center of the Earth lies at the bottom of an Icelandic volcano. The obvious choice is to embark on a journey down the volcano and make the biggest discovery of all times. However there are so many dangers and obstacles, that the expedition seems to be doomed to failure. Will the professor get to the bottom of things or he will lose his life trying? Will he get to describe his findings or the nature will find a way to keep its secrets? Jules Verne's "Journey to the Center of the Earth" takes us on an amazing adventure through the Earth's depths which will leave us wondering if we really know that much about the Earth. -

"Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea" is a vivid combination of science fiction and mystery. It is first published in 1871 and it introduces two opposing parties: a monster which wanders around in the seas and a group of three people who embark on a hazardous and dangerous voyage aiming to get rid of the unknown creature. What they happen to experience is far from expected as the terrifying monster turns out to be a futuristic submarine commanded by Captain Nemo who takes the three "explorers" captive. The destructive mission becomes a fantastic undersea voyage. However there are still many mysterious things about the Captain. What is his true nature? Why did he built the submarine in secrecy? And why is he seeking revenge?-

"From the Earth to the Moon" continues in its sequel "Around the Moon" published five years after the first part. The three adventurers start their trip to the Moon hoping to survive and complete their mission. Many things go however wrong. It turns out that the projectile has changed course during their journey. They try to navigate it and fix the course but it gets even worse as the projectile begins a fall to the Earth. Everything seems doomed to failure. The lives of the three men are at stake. Is there even any possibility to survive? Will they live to tell what they have seen and experienced or the first ever mission to leave Earth will stay shrouded in mystery? -

The American Civil War has already ended. A Gun Club plays with the idea of building a weapon which can shoot a projectile to the Moon. Calculations and funding are only a part of the obstacles in the way. The original plan does not include people on board. Despite this not only one but three inventors take part of the trip. Will they survive the incredible acceleration caused by the explosion? Will they manage to get to the Moon? Jules Verne takes us on a scientific and imaginative journey to the Moon in the science-fiction novel "From the Earth to the Moon". The story is not only impressing due to the formidable telling skills of Jules Verne but also due to the fact that it is written almost 100 years before man finally stepped foot on the moon.-

Adventure, discoveries, exploration and dangers which hold your attention to the last page. Jules Verne's "Five Weeks in a Balloon" from 1865 combines all of them successfully. It tells the story of the explorer Dr. Fergusson who together with a few more people embark on a scientific expedition with a balloon. Their main goal is to study the then-called "dark continent" Africa which few knew anything of. The mission is not without obstacles as they have to experience windless days, face conflicts with natives and even try to escape a military army. Will the balloon take them safely home or their expedition will be doomed to failure? Is their perseverance and determination enough to find work-arounds or there are higher powers watching over them? -

This classic novel about adventure, courage and determination takes the reader on an exciting sea voyage around the world. Engaging and entertaining, "In Search of the Castaways" from 1868 is a story about shipwreck, quest and a rescue mission. Mary and Robert, the children of the castaway Captain Grant, want to launch an expedition with the hope of finding their father. Despite the difficulty to fund the mission, they embark on a long, dangerous and somewhat hopeless journey which can either lead them to their father or endanger their lives. -

The ninth book in Verne's 'Extraordinary Voyages' series, 'The Adventures of Three Englishmen and Three Russians in South Africa' details the adventures of a party of scientists attempting to measure the 24th meridian east. However, as they travel, war is declared between Russia and England, sending the party into conflict. Verne paints a vivid picture of South Africa, at the turn of the century. Beset by wild animals, natural disasters, and scheming villains, the scientists must either set aside their political differences or continue on their mission, separately. A romp filled with action, excitement, and more than a few stiff upper lips.

A mine that should have been mined out years ago. A series of inexplicable events. A city that suddenly appears almost at the centre of the earth. Mining engineer James Starr discovers that his former colleague Ford lives with his family in the depths of the mine. When Ford discovers a large vein of coal that remains underground, an endless stream of questions arise for both Ford and James, but one remains the biggest, and most pressing - should the secrets of the mines be uncovered, or are they best left buried? -

Jules Verne's 'Off on a Comet' is a science-fiction adventure first published in 1877. After a comet collides with planet earth, several inhabitants of earth are unknowingly carried away on it. Believing the collision at first to be an earthquake, it takes some time before the unlikely bunch realise what has happened. The group encounter all kinds of adventures on their journey through space – but will they ever see their beloved home again? A thrilling adventure, this is the fifteenth book in Verne's 'Voyages Extraordinaire' series which also included 'Journey to the Centre of the Earth' and 'Around the World in Eighty Days'.-

'The Survivors of the Chancellor' is a tale of shipwreck, betrayal, and intrigue. Written as journal entries from the perspective of passenger, JR Kazallon, the story starts innocently enough. Kazallon has decided to return to Liverpool from the United States and has booked passage on a ship, 'The Chancellor.' However, once the ship catches fire, Kazallon and his co-passengers must face all the dangers on, above, and below the unforgiving Atlantic Ocean. A masterful exploration of the lengths that people will go to to survive, 'The Survivors of the Chancellor' is a tense and gripping read.-

What about an unexpected two years' vacation on a desert island? It may sound appealing from nowadays perspective. But when a marooned ship drifts to sea with nobody but a group of young boys on board, things does not seem as promising as expected. The ship is caught by a storm and the boys end up on an unknown island. They will either adapt and learn how to survive or they will die. When it seems like their fate is predetermined after two years on the island, they notice a passing ship. Is this their way out or they will find themselves in even bigger threat? Jules Verne takes us on yet another sea journey with the adventure novel "Two Years' Vacation". It is a story about bravery, flexibility and intelligence by which Verne seeks to show everybody that everything is possible if you have strong will and perseverance. -

Inspired by his trip aboard "The Great Eastern" ship, Jules Verne writes the adventure novel "A Floating City". The story depicts a wonderful picture of the long sea voyage, the ship which seems so big that it is described as a city, the vivid places and sights that unfold before the passengers and the lasting impressions of New York and Niagara Falls. It is also a story of romance and bravery as a desperate woman who is travelling with her abusive husband finds out that the man she really loves is also on board. Verne gives as well a faithful picture of the usual incidents which occur on such long voyages. What is left for us to do is to immerse is this travel across the Atlantic and find out if everyone is going to make it safely home. -

Jasper Hobson and his crew have the mission to build a fort in the Arctic ocean. They manage to get there and establish the fort. However a massive earthquake changes their plans as unusual things begin to happen. The most unusual of all is that they have ended up on iceberg without even noticing. This iceberg becomes their lifebelt. But what will happen if or when it begins to melt? Where will it take them? Will they survive or they will be forever remembered with their last good deed – building a fort in a rich with natural resources area?"The Fur Country" is published in 1873. It depicts an artic adventure and typically for Jules Verne's style, it has series of descriptions and details of the expedition and the nature.-

Could you be Captain of a whaling ship if all the crew around you died in a tragedy? Would you even want to? And what would you do if the cook on board has plans of his own and wants to kill you? This and much more is what poor fifteen year old Dick Sands has to deal with as the only surviving crew member.Everything seems to be going according to plan. That is until the cook sabotages the ship and rather than arriving in South America, the group ends up in Africa. The evil cook's plan is to sell everyone on board into slavery. Will they survive all the obstacles and unexpected occurrences or will they fall victims to the African slave trade? 'Dick Sands, the Boy Captain' is an adventure novel which not only keeps you on the edge until the very end, but it also depicts the widespread condemnation of slavery.-

"Michael Strogoff I" is an adventure novel by Jules Verne from 1876. It consists of two parts and it tells the story of the courier of Tsar Alexander II of Russia, Michael Strogoff. There is a treachery afoot and Michael has to inform the tsar's brother in Irkutsk. He embarks on a long journey through Siberia which turns out to be way more challenging and dangerous than expected. He faces all physical and mental trials with determination and stoicism. He will either manage to deliver the vital message and prevent the rebellion in time or the future of his homeland Russia will be endangered by the Tartars. This story about torture, suffering and neverending obstacles is an example of the power of human spirit and the strength within each and everyone. In the first part of the novel Jules Verne takes us on a long Russian adventure. What the future holds for Michael and Russia is however to be found in the second part. -

'The Green Ray' is a story that exemplifies the age old saying 'It's about the journey, not the destination'. The Green Rays, are rare phenomena observable only in certain places of the globe as the sun falls below the horizon. They are said to have profoundly elevating effects on the mind and soul and Helena Campbell is determined to see them. Postponing the wedding forced upon her, she leaves with her uncles and two would-be suitors on a journey to distant shores that will test her absolutely. It is only in the moments where we are pushed to breaking, emotionally or physically, that we find ourselves, who we are and what we love. It is a brilliant novel, wracked with beauty and self-discovery. Verne's knack for the extraordinary creates a journey that is inspiring and stunning, perfect for anyone with an adventurous spirit or who loved 'Around the World in Eight Days'.-

'Eight Hundred Leagues on the Amazon' follows Joam Garral a Brazilian ranch owner living on the Peruvian border. When his daughter wants to return to their old city of Belem for her wedding Joam relents as the loving father he is. Joam is a wanted man however, framed for a crime he never committed he will have to face the music when he returns home, putting his life and everything he holds dear at risk. Garral is offered a way out, he can clear his name, but the cost could very well tear his family apart. It is a wonderful read built on the strength of Verne's mastery of description and his ensemble of brilliant characters.-

"Michael Strogoff II" is the second part of Jules Verne's adventure novel from 1876. It tells the story of the courier of Tsar Alexander II of Russia, Michael Strogoff. There is a treachery afoot and Michael has to inform the tsar's brother in Irkutsk. He embarks on a long journey through Siberia which turns out to be way more challenging and dangerous than expected. He faces all physical and mental trials with determination and stoicism. He will either manage to deliver the vital message and prevent the rebellion in time or the future of his homeland Russia will be endangered by the Tartars. This story about torture, suffering and neverending obstacles is an example of the power of human spirit and the strength within each and everyone. In the first part of the novel Jules Verne takes us on a long Russian adventure. What the future holds for Michael and Russia is however to be found in the second part. -

Jules Verne's, 'Tribulations of a Chinaman in China' is an adventure novel exploring the themes of true happiness, and the real value of life. Kin-Fo is a young and extremely rich man who suddenly loses his fortune. He decides that there is no point in living but, since it's impossible for him to take his own life, he asks his mentor, the philosopher, Wang, to do the deed for him. Things go wrong when Wang decides to give the task to a bandit. However what Kin-Fo does not know is that there is a plan going on behind his back and he is to be taught a lesson he'll remember for the rest of his life – however long that might be... Using humour, adventure and important life lessons, Verne questions whether we need to lose something in order to appreciate it.

Keraban is a stubborn, headstrong man from Istanbul, whose life changes all of a sudden ... because of a simple tax. Keraban is a man of principles. He finds out that a new tax is required for crossing the Bosphorus by boat. However rather than paying it, he decides to take a way longer trip which will cost him more money, time and may as well put his life in danger. What will happen? Who wants to make sure that Keraban will not make it on time for another arrangement he has? Will Keraban live to find out who is the villain in the story? Jules Verne's novel "Keraban the Inflexible" from 1883 interweaves danger and adventure by taking us on an exotic trip around Turkey. -

Jules Verne's "The Vanished Diamond" from 1884 takes us to the South African diamond fields. Victor Cyprien is a mining engineer who falls in love with Alice, the daughter of the rich landowner Watkins. He however is not willing to give his daughter to a poor man. Cyprien decides to earn a fortune by digging in a mining claim. Things do not go as planned. But he does not give up. If you cannot dig up a diamond, you create it artificially. Will this be enough to win the hand of Alice? Can a diamond change one's future? Is fortune more important than one's happiness? -

'The Begum's Fortune' follows the plans of two scientists, the French physicist, Sarrasin, and German, Schultz. Each has a share in inheriting a vast fortune and sets about spending it on the project of their dreams. A humanitarian, Sarrasin builds the city, Frankville, dedicated to upholding the health of its citizens. Schultz, however, constructs Steeltown, which is devoted to the creation of weapons of war. Astonishingly prescient, 'The Begum's Fortune' predicts a number of technological advances, including incendiary bombs, satellites, and even mobile phones. A taut and thought-provoking read for those with an interest in dystopian futures.

No matter if Bram Stoker has really been inspired by Verne or not, the similarities between Stokers's "Dracula" and Verne's "Carpathian Castle" are apparent. Jules Verne's horror novel is published in 1892 and it tells the story of count Franz who visits a Transylvanian village known for the mysterious things that occur. Franz decides to investigate further and find out the truth about the castle. What will happen when he finds out that the castle's owner is an old love rival? What will he do when he hears the voice of the lady he loved ... and who is thought to be dead? This romantic tale is shrouded by mystery, madness and fright. Will Franz's heroism, strength and courage be enough to fight the extraordinary or he will lose the battle against the inexplicable?-

An homage to Dumas' 'The Count of Monte Cristo,' 'Mathias Sandorf' is an action-packed adventure story, complete with coded messages, secret identities, island adventure, and a mysterious villain hellbent on revenge. It kicks off with a pair of petty criminals, Zirone and Sarcany, unwittingly uncovering a plan to free Hungary from the grip of the Hasburg empire. Packed with detail about the Mediterranean locations our less-than-scrupulous heroes visit, 'Mathias Sandorf' is a fitting tribute to one of Verne's literary heroes.-

The young man Godfrey Morgan and his mentor Artelett board a steamship and embark on a long journey round the world. Little do they know that the thrilling experience will also endanger their lives. The explorers become castaways, marooned on a desert island. Will they survive so far away from civilization? What will happen when they realize they are not the only ones on the island? Will they find their way back home ... alive? Jules Verne's "Godfrey Morgan" is an adventure novel from 1882. It is a story about a round-the-world ocean voyage, discoveries, dangers and courage.-

'North against South' is Verne's comment on the American Civil War. Farmer, James Burbank, is committed to the abolition of slavery, while former slaver, Texar, is a fervent supporter. However, Texar has another axe to grind with the farmer, as the result of his criminal past. Using all his wiles and resources, Texar conducts the perfect plan to exact his bitter revenge. At its heart, 'North against South' is an adventure story. However, Verne infuses it with social commentary and vivid details surrounding the Civil War and the lives that people led back in the late 17th Century. A tense and fascinating read for fans of films such as 'Glory,' starring Denzel Washington.

A 17th Century Indiana Jones, 'Captain Antifer' details the adventures of the eponymous captain as he strives to inherit the legacy of the wealthy Kamylk Pasha. Aided and abetted by the Egyptian signatory, Ben Omar, and his less-than-scrupulous sidekick, Nazim, Antifer's travels lead him across Africa and towards Norway. However, is the legacy all that it seems to be? 'Captain Antifer' is a rollicking escapade, packed with mystery, excitement, and double-dealing. An exciting introduction into Jule's works.Jules Verne (1828 – 1905) was a French author, whose works are thought to have seen the beginnings of the science-fiction genre. During his career, Verne wrote more than 60 novels, 54 of which were part of the 'Extraordinary Voyages' series. Many f his famous works have been adapted for film and television, including 'The Invisible Man,' starring Elizabeth Moss, '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,' starring James Mason, and 'Journey to the Center of the Earth,' starring Brendan Fraser.-

What do you get if you cross a family of French acrobats with the escape of a Russian political prisoner? 'César Cascabel!'Despite the outlandish premise, Verne deftly weaves a story of intrigue, friendship, and survival. After touring the United States with a circus for a number of years, the Casacabel family decide to return to France. However, the theft of their savings forces them to make their journey overland and, it is during this expedition that they encounter the fugitive, Count Narkine. While this reads as a tale of adventure, the author gives us a fascinating insight into the political trials and tribulations of the time.-

Strange happenings are afoot. Flight enthusiasts discuss possibilities of mastering the skies using lighter-than-air craft. A great inventor claims the opposite that mankind can conquer the world only by using heavier-than-air machines. Jules Verne and his novel "Robur the Conqueror" takes us on a science fiction journey which introduces us to the concept of air travel and the heated discussions which led to great inventions. How will the brilliant inventor Robur prove the flight club wrong? What will happen when they decide to steal his idea? Does the progress need to be at any cost or can humanity be preserved? Come along on this journey operated by Albatross, Robur's multirotor aircraft, to find out how this exciting story unfolds. -

The sequel to 'Robur the Conqueror,' 'The Master of the World' is part of the Extraordinary Voyages series. Narrated by Chief Inspector John Strock, the story starts with strange phenomena taking place across the United States. As his investigations lead him to the figure behind it all, Strock is faced with layer upon layer of seemingly impenetrable mystery. A fun and fast-paced book, this is one of the stories that helped Verne cement his reputation as the 'Father of Science Fiction.'-