Journey to the Moon – Jules Verne

This week, I will talk about a book by an author who laid the foundation of the modern science fiction genre. Of course, it's not hard to guess, our author is Jules Verne. The book is one of his important works: Journey to the Moon.

Photo: Pelin Yüce

First, let’s talk about our author. Jules Verne was born in 1828 in France. He spent his childhood in Nantes, a port city. His interest in the seas and adventures is evident in his works. Jules Verne was the son of a lawyer and was sent to Paris to study law in order to follow in his father’s footsteps. Despite his legal education, he turned to his real passion, literature, and theater. After meeting a publisher named Pierre-Jules Hetzel, he started publishing his works. Hetzel gave him the opportunity to write his series called Extraordinary Voyages.

Jules Verne crafted adventure-filled stories based on scientific facts. We can say that he predicted many scientific achievements of the future. What made his works unique was that he was the first author to incorporate detailed scientific information and research.

Now, what does the book Journey to the Moon tell us?

The book begins with a group of artillery engineers deciding to send a projectile to the Moon after the American Civil War. It narrates in detail the events leading up to the launch of the projectile. It includes all the details, such as determining the launch time, selecting the location, preparing the projectile, and gathering the necessary materials. As they approach the final stage, an adventurous traveler expresses his desire to go to the Moon along with the projectile. And three brave men undertake the first journey to the Moon in a projectile.

In this book, Jules Verne used the scientific knowledge of his time to show that one day traveling to the Moon might be possible. The book also emphasizes people's belief in science and their desire to explore nature.

At the time of its publication, it received great attention and helped popularize the concept of space travel. Years later, in 1969, with the landing of Apollo 11 on the Moon, the book gained even more significance, making people think that the author's dreams had come true.

Photo: Pelin Yüce

When you read this book, you will be amazed by the author’s vision of the future and his ability to blend science with imagination...

I didn’t forget to include a few quotes from the book. 😊

“The boundaries of the world expand with the imagination of brave people.”

“Science is the greatest adventure.”

“Man exists as long as he dreams.”

“Going beyond imagination makes the impossible possible.”

Yolda Bir Kalem, leaving a mark on every journey…