Jeanne Commer

Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth is one of my all-time favorite books. I re-read it every year. I love the discourse on geology and other earth sciences which,at that time, were still mostly unknown and mysterious. The mineralogy lessons, the use of the Ruhmkorff lamps and other scientific tools, the descriptions of the the subterranean levels and the information on volcanoes and Iceland are all fascinating. But my favorite parts of the book are those that describe the enigmas, discoveries and adventure. What a way to start an adventure--with a secret message in an ancient language found in a very old book--a message that would take our 3 heroes on an amazing journey to a dormant volcano in Iceland and, eventually, into the bowels of the earth. It was the trip of a lifetime, full of danger and stunning discoveries. The writing made me feel as if I was right there with them, seeing what they saw and feeling what they felt. This book (along with Michael Crichton's "The Andromeda Strain") helped influence me to choose a profession in the sciences. It was a decision I have never regretted. Read the book and prepare for the journey.