The Mysterious Island

By: Jules Verne

Narrated by: David McCallion

Length: 19 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

Like many Jules Verne classics, The Mysterious Island takes you on an unforgettable journey of adventure and reflection. During the American Civil War, a group of Union soldiers escape their confederate captors when they steal a balloon. What they didn't anticipate is the violent storm that awaits them and leads them into uncharted territory.

When the storm-damaged balloon crashes, the men are marooned on a desert island. While awaiting rescue, the soldiers must work together to stay alive by making use of their survival skills and taking advantage of the vast resources on the island. Eventually, the men make the island into a home away from home, naming it Lincoln Island, after President Lincoln.

All is well until the group discovers a box of guns and ammunition that shouldn't be there. They begin to suspect the mysterious island may have its own secrets. Can the men survive long enough to be rescued off the island?

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One of Jules Verne’s Best

The Mysterious Island is the book that got me hooked on scientific adventures long ago. I read this as a kid and decided to reread it again as an adult. There are several aspects of this story that make it a must-read for children and adults alike.

The Mysterious Island is a fantastic sequel to 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, following the story of four Confederate POW prisoners who escape and become castaways when they crash land on an island. It tells of their quest for survival on the mysterious island and how they make use of science to create something out of practically nothing.

In spite of its age, this book won’t fail to keep you on the edge of your seat and is one of Verne’s best works. The reader, David McCallion, did a wonderful job in reading this book. I truly enjoyed his accent and character differentiations. This is the perfect book for those who like adventure and intrigue, along with a good dose of science fiction.

Loved this book

I've always been a fan of the classics if you're like me you like a good adventure this is the book for you

Another fantastic book from Mr. Verne

Great writing, if a little old fashioned, which is to be expected from a book that was published in 1875. Expect that some of the terms that are used will most likely be foreign to some readers, but in my opinion it's manageable with context clues.

A legendary book becomes an epic audiobook!

Would you consider the audio edition of The Mysterious Island to be better than the print version?
Verne is my favorite author, but The Mysterious Island has eluded me for forty years. The fact that the author interweaves exhausting details of the flora and fauna of the island into nearly every page has made it impossible for me to not lose focus the many times I've attempted to tackle it. This audio book with it's 19 hours and 8 minutes of narration was listened to on and off over the span of two weeks, including a seven hour road trip and a ten hour working in my basement weekend. If it weren't for this excellent audio book, I might never have read this incredible book.

What did you like best about this story?
Anything Vernian excites me. The story introduced me to Verne's 1870s world view, his politics, his religious convictions, and his fluid writing style.

What does David McCallion bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?
The narrator brilliantly added unique characterizations to each of the castaways and never lost his ability to keep the story going. He was clearly well-prepared to narrate and it shows in his clear voice.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?
In general, the book made me long for quality classic literature. Clearly, the most exciting moment for me was when Captain Nemo makes himself known to the castaways. The character of Captain Nemo is one I wish Verne could have devote more stories to.

Any additional comments?
Do not let the length of this audio book discourage you from jumping in. I consider the completing of it a conquest but now I want more conquests.

Wonderful production!

I adore this book. Absolutely captivating, engaging, and informative. Jules Verne is a master - so ahead of his time. Lovely narration, characters are distinctive. This is a jewel.

I usually dont read books but this book Lighted the fire

This is most likely the best book i have ever ”read” good Reader and One of the best Authors And a an incredible story.

beautiful!!!

I'm speechless!! this was by far my favorite Jules Verne book...with a surprise.😏😊, just sayin prepare yourself

Magnificent story

What a great story and conclusion of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. The reader did a great job.

Narration literally laughable.

But not funny when you actually desire a realistic performance and are dealing with a 20+ hour book.

The way this guy read his lines made me feel like I was listening to a parody of “stage” in a Geico ad.

The story itself is a classic. And unfortunately as of the time of this review, none of the other recorded versions of the book available on Audible were any better. So this is, indeed the best of what’s out there. But that doesn’t stop it from still being horrible.

Best book since 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.

If you liked 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, you will love this book. by far one of my favorite audiables. This book keeps you on suspense until the very end.