The ninth book in Verneâs 'Extraordinary Voyages' series, âThe Adventures of Three Englishmen and Three Russians in South Africaâ 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.
Jules Verne (1828-1905) was a French novelist who became known as the âFather of Science Fiction.â He wrote more than 60 novels, including âJourney to the Center of the Earthâ (1864), âTwenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seaâ (1870) which was also released as a film, starring James Mason, and âAround the World in Eighty Daysâ (1873), which has been released as a TV drama, featuring former Dr Who star, David Tennant.