Subject
United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Blockades -- Fiction Books
Best books
Jules Verne
A Floating City, and The Blockade Runners
"A Floating City and The Blockade Runners" by Jules Verne is a novel written in the mid-19th century. This work explores the journeys and adventures during a sea voyage aboard the "Great Eastern," a colossal steamship designed to carry passengers across the Atlantic. The narrative follows a variety of characters, including travelers, engineers, and sailors, delving into their hopes and interactions as they navigate their way to America. The opening of "A Floating City" sets the stage for the story, beginning with the narrator's arrival in Liverpool in March 1867, preparing for a voyage on the "Great Eastern." The narrator describes the ship as an engineering marvel, likening it to a floating city, and depicts the chaotic and bustling atmosphere on board as preparations for the journey unfold. As passengers, including the narrator's friend Fabian, embark on this remarkable vessel, the text teases early character dynamics and foreshadows underlying tensions, particularly regarding drastic changes that may emerge within the group. This initial segment establishes not only the ship's significant historical context but also hints at personal stories of ambition and heartbreak intertwined with the broader adventure of crossing the Atlantic.
Jules Verne
The Blockade Runners
"The Blockade Runners" by Jules Verne is a novella written during the late 19th century, originally published in 1871. The story revolves around the adventures of Captain James Playfair and his ship, the "Dolphin", as they attempt to break through a naval blockade during the American Civil War. Faced with the dangers and moral dilemmas of their mission, Playfair and his crew navigate through conflict zones to deliver crucial supplies, while also addressing personal stakes involving the captain's growing feelings for Jenny Halliburtt and her father’s imprisonment. At the start of the novella, the reader is introduced to the launch of the "Dolphin" on the Clyde River, which captivates the local population, partly due to rumors about her secretive mission connected to the war in America. The narrative quickly shifts to Captain James Playfair and his scheme to run the blockade to deliver supplies to the Confederacy while seeking to return with cotton. As the story progresses, a young woman, Jenny Halliburtt, who is determined to join her imprisoned father in Charleston, inadvertently complicates their journey. The opening chapters set the tone for a thrilling maritime adventure filled with suspense, as the protagonists confront both external threats from Federal ships and internal conflicts borne from their commitments and choices.
Jules Verne
Avonturen van drie Russen en drie Engelschen, Gevolgd door 'De Blokkadebrekers'
"Avonturen van drie Russen en drie Engelschen, Gevolgd door 'De Blokkadebrekers'" by Jules Verne is an adventurous novel likely written in the mid-19th century. The narrative follows an expedition led by astronomer William Emery and his companion Mokum, a skilled Bushman guide, as they await the arrival of a scientific commission by the Oranje River in southern Africa. The book explores themes of exploration and discovery against the backdrop of the diverse and challenging landscapes of Africa. The opening of the novel sets the scene along the banks of the Oranjerivier, where Emery and Mokum are stationed, waiting for their fellow expedition members from England. As they converse, their personalities emerge: Emery is composed and scientific-minded, while Mokum is restless and eager to hunt. This introduction highlights their differing perspectives and expectations for the journey ahead. The narrative builds anticipation for the arrival of the English expedition team and the purpose of their mission, which is to conduct a meridian measurement in the region. Verne vividly describes the natural beauty surrounding them and establishes a sense of both camaraderie and tension as they prepare for the challenges that await.
Jules Verne
Saarron murtaja
"Saarron murtaja" by Jules Verne is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around the steamship Delphin as it embarks on a mysterious mission related to the ongoing American Civil War. The protagonist, Captain James Playfair, finds himself embroiled in a dangerous undertaking that involves both political intrigue and personal stakes. At the start of the tale, we witness the launch of the Delphin amid a bustling crowd in Glasgow, with the anticipation stemming from its unknown mission. The ship, constructed for speed and carrying significant cargo, leaves port under the command of Captain Playfair. As the narrative unfolds, Playfair discusses potential danger with his crew while also being approached by the enigmatic Crockston and a young woman, Jenny Halliburt, who unexpectedly join the voyage. Their intentions, along with the true purpose of Delphin, become intertwined with the broader context of the Civil War, setting the stage for the adventures and moral dilemmas that are sure to arise.
Jules Verne
Kauppahuone Playfair ja Kumpp eli Pumpulilasti ja Sydän
"Kauppahuone Playfair ja Kumpp." by Jules Verne is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the character James Playfair, a young captain, who is tasked with a daring mission involving a steamship named Delphin, aimed at navigating the tumultuous waters of the American Civil War to deliver much-needed supplies. The story explores themes of commerce, bravery, and the moral dilemmas faced during wartime. The opening of the novel establishes the setting in 1862, highlighting the bustling atmosphere of Glasgow as the ship Delphin prepares for its maiden voyage. A crowd gathers to witness the launch, interspersed with speculation about the ship's purpose, particularly in relation to the ongoing American Civil War. We are introduced to the Playfair family, including James Playfair, who has a bold idea to not just transport supplies but potentially profit amidst the chaos of war. Early interactions hint at the challenges that lie ahead, as James faces not only the natural perils of the sea but also moral questions about his involvement in the war's conflicts involving the South and North.
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