First published in 1749, Henry Fielding’s coming-of-age novel The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling or Tom Jones is a funny and entertaining story with a fair bit of social commentary. Set in 18th century England, the protagonist of this novel - Tom Jones is an abandoned child, who grew in the household of Squire Allworthy. Tom grows into a wild young man who is also a womeniser. He, however, has a kind heart, often does the right thing and has developed affection for his neighbors daughter, Sophia - who is also in love with him. However, Sophia is being forced to marry the bully boy Blifil. Sophia runs away to escape from the marriage, meets with Tom at London and starts a new life. The story ends happily ever-after, but not before a series of adventure and misadventure. Tom Jones is a comic novel that will entertain anyone.
Fielding, Henry. Tom Jones, London : Penguin, 1966.
Library Catalogue Entry
French novelist Jules Verne is best known for his adventure novels. Published in 1873, Around the World in Eighty Days is an exciting adventure fiction which still remains very popular among readers of all age. The novel tells the story of Phileas Fogg, an eccentric and determined scientist who attempts to circumnavigate the world in eighty days in response to a challenge. Alongside Fogg, is his trusted companion Passepartout, who finds himself in trouble at various times of the journey due to his own misadventure. Fogg travels from London to Suez, Bombay, Calcutta, Hong Kong, Yokohama, San Francisco, New York and back to London, by various means of transport such as balloons, steamboats, elephants and trains. A fast-paced story of extraordinary courage, determination, action, adventure, fun and love - Around the World in Eighty Days will entertain anyone who loves a good adventure story.
Verne, Jules. Around the World in Eighty Days, London : Penguin, 2004.
Library Catalogue Entry
First published in 1894, Anthony Hope’s romantic adventure novel The Prisoner of Zenda offers an entertaining story. Although set in the backdrop of 1890s England, the events of the story unfolds in the fictional kingdom of Ruritania. Prince Rudolf, the rightful king of Ruritania has been imprisoned and drugged by his evil brother Prince Michael right before the scheduled coronation. Protagonist Rudolf Rassendyll, a British gentleman who was on holiday in Ruritania at that time - incidentally closely resembles the kidnapped king. Rassendyll was approached by Prince Rudolf’s close attendants to impersonate the king at the coronation. A chain of events including plots, counter-plots and swordplay along the way lead the story. The Prisoner of Zenda is a fast-paced, easy and entertaining read.
Hope, Anthony. The Prisoner of Zenda, London : Oxford, 2009.
