Short Stories/Novellas

In "The Pearl of Lima," Jules Verne crafts a captivating narrative that intertwines adventure with rich exploration of morality and human ambition. Set against the backdrop of the mysterious Peruvian coast, the novel follows the fate of a legendary pearl that symbolizes both immense wealth and profound peril. Verne employs a vivid literary style characterized by detailed descriptions and an intricate plot, effectively immersing readers in the era's maritime lore and the potent allure of treasure hunting. This tale reflects the era's fascination with exploration as well as the ethical dilemmas faced by those in pursuit of their desires. Jules Verne, often referred to as the father of science fiction, drew upon his extensive knowledge of geography, science, and the human experience to create vivid worlds in his works. His passion for adventure and travel is evident in "The Pearl of Lima," which showcases his ability to weave thrilling narratives with underlying social critique. Verne's deep understanding of the consequences of greed and ambition likely influenced the themes presented in this tale, making it as relevant today as it was upon its release. I highly recommend "The Pearl of Lima" to readers who appreciate adventure laced with philosophical inquiries and ethical conflicts. This novel, representing Verne's signature blend of excitement and insight, invites its audience to reflect on the complexities of desire and the inherent risks of pursuit in an era defined by discovery.

The Blockade Runners is a translation of Les forceurs de blocus (1871). The Blockade Runners, a novella, was included along with A Floating City in the first english and french editions of this work. This translation, which follows that of Sampson and Low (UK) and Scribners (US) is by "N. D'Anvers", pseudonymn for Mrs. Arthur Bell (d. 1933) who also translated other Verne books. It is also included in the fifteen volume Parke edition of the works of Jules Verne (1911). There is another translation by Henry Frith which was published by Routledge (1876). Both of these stories are about ships; Floating City about the largest ship of the time, the Great Eastern, and Blockade Runners about one of the fastest, the Dolphin.

Something very strange is in the air of the harmonious town of Quiquendone. Unknown to its inhabitants, the mad genius Dr. Ox has unleashed a veil of oxyhydric gas over the town—his own living laboratory—in an attempt to spice things up. In his amusing portrait of an idyllic community suddenly overtaken by an appetite for aggression, Jules Verne points to the ease with which any society—and the modern resonance is unmissable—can be manipulated by its masters into hatred and war. Jules Verne was the originator of modern science fiction; among his works are Around the World in Eighty Days and Journey to the Center of the Earth.

In the Year 2889 was first published in the Forum, February, 1889. It was published in France the next year. Although published under the name of Jules Verne, it is now believed to be chiefly if not entirely the work of Jules Verne's son, Michel Verne. In any event, many of the topics in the article echo Jules Verne's ideas.

Rare edition with unique illustrations. The descriptions of the quaint villagers of Werst, their costumes, manner of living, and belief in the supernatural world would in themselves prove an interesting narrative, but when coupled with the exciting adventures of Nic Deck, the two Counts, the cowardly Doctor, and the beautiful La Stilla, the story is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting ever offered. This mysterious tale takes place in the area which in just a few years would become known as Dracula's homeland. Jules Verne has the knack of it. He knows how to make the scientifically romantic story. You might not know what a "nyctalop" was, but if you saw one flapping his wings around the dark fortress in the Carpathians, you would run for it, as did Nic Deck.. Orfanik is head conjurer, and in his trial he explains how he brought into play for a wicked purpose a variety of ingenious inventions.