Diego+B

1. Plot Overview: After decoding an old Icelandic manuscript purchased by Professor Von Hardwigg, he sets out on a long journey to venture down into the center of the earth with his guide and nephew. This has been his dream and has researched it along with his guide for quite some time. Although his nephew doesn’t want himself or his Uncle going on the journey (even trying to prevent it), they set off immediately and it quickly changes there lives and the way they see the world. On the way down volcanic tunnels, they witness an underground ocean-like body of water. Filled with prehistoric creatures fighting. They also witness giant mushrooms and giant people. During this fantastic journey, it gets cut short due to a raft ride that sends them out of an active volcano in Italy.
 * Journey to the Center of the Earth**

2. Character Lists: -Professor Von Hardwigg: Very intelligent and fairly wealthy professor. His dream and long time research all revolve around reaching the center. Almost obsessing over it. -Axel: The nephew of Von Hardwigg. He is not as adventurous as his Uncle and fears about all the dangers of the journey. -Hans: The guide and friend of Hardwigg. He is also very intelligent.

3. Important Quotations: "My uncle lost no time in obeying the friendly call, nor was I slackin following." -It’s from chapter 13 and its important because it shows the excitement Hardwigg has for this journey and how hard he works for this research.

"Then my uncle became a great man, and I was now the nephew of a great man -which is not a privilege to be despised." -This is from chapter 45, the last chapter. It is important because it really shows the change in Axel’s attitude about the journey compared to how he felt about it in the beginning. He now knows exactly why its important to his Uncle and he knows he seen things that no one else in the world has witnessed. For that, he really respects his Uncle.

Suggestions for Further Reading: I enjoyed this book very much. It seems like a story that all ages can enjoy and get into. Although there are some complex scientific terms, it is not a difficult read and its level of excitement and action make it very quick paced. I have a CD of an album made in the 70s or 80s by Rick Wakeman that I listen to often (even before I have read this book). It’s a 40 minute long, almost soundtrack-like album inspired by the story __Journey to the Center of the Earth.__ In between big classic rock and orchestra sounding pieces, are important quotes and narrations from the novel. If these types of science fiction/adventure books appeal to you, then maybe you should read other stories by Jules Verne. __20,000 Leagues Under the Sea__ is the story of Captain Nemo and his submarine, the Nautilus. With his team, and advanced technology for the time, he sets out to sea to study why there have been many ships sinking underwater recently. On this mysterious journey, they encounter many dangers of the sea including sea monsters. __Around the World in 80 Days__ is the story of an inventor, Phileas Fogg who has been challenged to circle the globe in only 80 days. It takes place in Britain during the 1800s, introducing new technology all based off of and inspired by technology in the real world. On his journey he stops in several different countries with completely different cultures.