Put oko svijeta u 80 dana

Around the World in 80 Days (1873) is one of the most popular and entertaining works of world adventure literature. The novel is a perfect example of Verne's genius for combining science fiction, travelogues and suspenseful action.

The main character is the eccentric, precise and cold-blooded Englishman Phileas Fogg, a wealthy gentleman from London who lives by a strict schedule. One day at the Reform Club he bets with his friends that he will travel around the world in exactly 80 days – an incredible feat for the 19th century. If he loses, he loses his entire fortune.

He is accompanied by his new French servant Jean Passepartout, a lively, skilled and loyal man who becomes the perfect contrast to his master. During the journey, they are joined by a young Indian woman Aouda, whom they save from ritual burning.

The heroes travel by ship, train, elephant, sledge and even a balloon, passing through Suez, Bombay, Calcutta, Hong Kong, Yokohama, San Francisco, New York and back to London. Verne masterfully depicts the wonders of modern transport and technology of his time, but also the obstacles: storms, Indian attacks, breakdowns, arrests and bureaucratic obstacles. All the while, they are secretly followed by the detective Fix, convinced that Fogg is a bank robber fleeing justice.

The novel is full of dynamic action, fine humor, optimism and faith in science and progress. Verne accurately predicted many technical possibilities (e.g. the speed of travel), while at the same time criticizing colonialism, prejudice and the narrow rules of Victorian society.

The work has undergone numerous theater, film and television adaptations (the most famous is the one with David Niven in 1956). It is still read with pleasure today because it combines classic adventure with wit and light irony. One of the most cheerful and widely read classics of the 19th century that still awakens the desire for travel and adventure.