I wouldn’t have picked Around the World in 80 Days on my own. It wasn’t on my book list. But I’m really glad my mom’s friend, Johanna, sent it my way. This one turned out to be a true classic — and definitely should’ve been on my radar from the beginning.
As one of the foundational voices in science fiction, Jules Verne’s work belongs on every must-read list. I started reading this book about ten days into my transfer here, and about a quarter of the way through, I had an idea: what if I finished the book on my 80th day in prison, just like the journey in the novel? So I paced myself and read the final pages yesterday (April 12), exactly 80 days into my time here at Cumberland Prison Camp. I’m really glad I waited — it made the time frame in the story hit that much harder.
As with any classic, it helps to understand the author and the time period in which the book was written. Jules Verne was born in 1828 in France, and Around the World in 80 Days was published in 1873, though the story takes place in 1872. While reading, I kept reminding myself that this was written from the perspective of a 19th-century Frenchman, with all the limitations and insights of his time.
The book follows Phileas Fogg, a wealthy Londoner who many people consider eccentric. Not in a flamboyant way, but more like quiet and antisocial — I’d even say he’s methodical to the point of being mechanical. He sticks to a rigid daily routine and lives in a fine home in one of London’s nicer areas. His lifestyle is so precise that his servants often can’t keep up with him, and he goes through many until he hires a new one: Passepartout.
No one really knows how Fogg made his fortune or what business he’s in. His only known associates are his fellow card players at the Reform Club, where he plays whist daily. (I’m still not sure what whist is, but from the book, it sounds like a game of strategy and patience — maybe like spades?)
On October 2nd, 1872, Fogg hires Passepartout. That same day, over a game of cards, he overhears a conversation about a recent bank robbery in which £55,000 was stolen — that’s millions in today’s money. One man comments that it would be nearly impossible to catch the thief because of how connected and easy to travel the world has become. They reference a newspaper article that outlines how it is now possible to travel around the world in just 80 days.
This sparks a debate, and eventually a wager. Fogg bets £20,000 (about two million today) that he can indeed travel around the world in 80 days. With half his fortune withdrawn for expenses, he returns home and informs his new servant that they are leaving immediately. Just like that, their incredible journey begins.
I won’t spoil the plot for anyone who hasn’t read it, but let’s just say it includes a determined detective who believes Fogg is the bank robber, a surprising love story, a brush with opium, acts of heroism, wild animals, sacred rituals, and dangerous detours — from the jungles of India to storms at sea. It’s got everything.
This was a quick and compelling read. The action comes at you fast, and the pacing keeps you engaged from start to finish. I’m not sure if they ever made a modern movie from it, but if they did, I’d imagine it being in the same category as Forrest Gump or Big Fish — a whimsical, emotional, unforgettable journey.
I’m truly grateful to have read this, and I recommend it to anyone. Thank you again, Johanna, for sending this book and helping put Jules Verne at the top of my reading list.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
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