I have watched the movie
The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen but I had no idea that Allan Quartermain is the brainchild of H. Rider Haggard. It is my uncle who suggested me to read
King Solomon's Mines. When I read the introduction by Allan Quartermain, it blew my mind and sucked me right into it. The language is very simple and never fails to engage its reader very well. Its beautifully narrated. I have read
20000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne. This one is even more gripping than that!
Right from the first page till the very end, it will keep your eyes glued to the book. The portrayal of Quartermain, Sir Henry Curtis and Captain John Good are too good. Well the best part comes when Twala, the King of Kukuana Land, and Gogool, the witch doctress appear in the course of the story and Zulu dialect is used. The detailing of their power, ruthlessness and cruelty is awesome. Reading about Gagool alone will send a cold shiver down your back! Not to forget the spectacle of Kukuana Land, the battle field and the caves in which the treasure was found - the narration is simply brilliant. Oh! I almost forgot mentioning about the climax. Alas, it is beyond my power to put it in words. It is impossible to imagine the clever brains of Rider Haggard who could conclude this adventure in such a creative way!
Even though you don't aspire to be a writer, this book not only teaches you about literature but it also inspires you a lot to start dreaming of coming up with a novel of your own. Although this is my second read in this genre, I believe this is an amazing adventure ever written - a masterpiece, and I consider Allan Quartermain as the greatest adventurer of all time. The name "Quartermain" itself produces powerful vibe. You will certainly love the use of language with which intelligent ideas are so eloquently expressed! With this finished, I plan to read all works of this great novelist - Rider Haggard;
She,
Ayesha: The Return of She,
Allan Quartermain, She and Allan to name a few. This book is in public domain. So grab yourself a copy and have a great time reading it!
