The Mysterious Island
Jules Verne
13 people recommended it in 9 threads, 2008–2022.
What people on Hacker News said
I read when I was 14-15 years old and the amount, details and clarity of science exposure in the book was really astounding. In a very positive, inspiring way.
If yes then I loved it as a child (it was one of my first "serious" fiction books that I read and somehow I imagine that it sparked my intrest in technology)
It was my first book by Jules Verne, and it striked me with it's utter realism. Most his other books, like "20000 leagues under sea" or "Journey to the center of the Earth" are based on a fictional devices or exceptional characters, but Cyrus Smith became for me a realistic exemplar of a man using his engineering skills and knowledge to change his life and world around him.
First adult book I read all the way through (I was fascinated! Re-read it recently and enjoyed it.)
The Mysterious Island absolutely bowled me over with the science and engineering.
Where it comes up
- Ask HN: Great fiction books that have had a positive impact on your life? 2020 · 3 recommendations
- Ask HN: What is your favorite fiction book? 2022 · 2 recommendations
- Ask HN: What are your favorite books or essays written at least 100 years ago? 2019 · 2 recommendations
- Ask HN: What was a book that changed your life? 2020 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Which books have you read more than once? 2020 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: What books do you recommend reading once a year? 2018 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Best books you read in 2012 2012 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Please name two of your most favorite books. 2009 · 1 recommendation
- Ask YC: What's the most inspiring sci-fi book you've read? 2008 · 1 recommendation