Jules Verne and the Invention of the Future

(Hardback)

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From the acclaimed biographer of explorers Magellan, Columbus, and Francis Drake comes a unique exploration of life and influence of Jules Verne, the novelist whose mind spun the greatest adventures ever told and whose daring and prescient imagination sparked a lasting transformation of modern society and technology, inspiring everyone from J.R.R. Tolkien to Kurt Vonnegut to Jeff Bezos.

"We are all, in one way or another, the children of Jules Verne. Ray Bradbury

His stories inspired the greatest literary mindsJ.R.R. Tolkien, Kurt Vonnegut, Ursula K. le Guin. He inspired real-world expeditions and discoveries, compelling undersea explorers, aviation pioneers, and astronauts to seek out the unknown. Hes one of the most widely translated authors in the world, outmatched only by Agatha Christie and Shakespeare. Jeff Bezoss rocket factory includes a two-story replica of the spaceship from one of his novels.

Few writers have left such an enduring legacy on the world as Jules Verne. Widely considered the father of science fiction, Verne stands as the ultimate icon of inventiveness and applied imagination. His novelsincluding such revered classics asAround the World in 80 DaysandJourney to the Center of the Earthnot only thrilled and entertained, but also predicted innovations and technological advancements that in time would become everyday realities. Brimming with intellect, science, adventure, and paradoxes, his work dared to imagine a world beyond the limits of what was thought possible and, in turn, inspired future generations to achieve the unthinkable.

From acclaimed biographer Laurence Bergreen,Jules Verne and the Invention of the Futureis an engaging, vibrant, and richly researched account of a singular visionary who profoundly shaped our modern world.

Reviews

Fascinating. Engaging. Drakes story is both dramatic and timely. New York Times Book Review, Editors Choice, on In Search of a Kingdom A dramatic tale of discovery. ... Acomprehensive look at Drake, in all his contradictions. ... A lively and compelling history of a man whose blend of audacity, piety and cruelty changed the world. San Francisco Chronicle on In Search of a Kingdom Vivid. Entrancing. ... The accounts of Drakes circumnavigation and his subsequent naval career are very good indeed. They will surely delight aficionados of imperial history and anyone keen on real-life adventure stories. Wall Street Journal on In Search of a Kingdom Prodigious research, sure-footed prose and vivid descriptions make for a thoroughly satisfying account... it is all here in the wondrous detail, a first-rate historical page turner. New York Times Book Review on Over the Edge of the World Bergreens vivid account benefits from extensive research and his own navigation of the Strait of Magellan and other key parts of the route. But its the epic survival drama that grips, spanning mutiny, torture and Magellans death in the Philippines. Los Angeles Times on Over the Edge of the World

Author Bio

Laurence Bergreen is the author of the highly acclaimed biographies Capone: The Man and his Era, As Thousands Cheer: The Life of Irving Berlin, James Agee: A Life and Louis Armstrong: An Extravagant Life.