Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea
(Libby/OverDrive eAudiobook)

It is frustrating to have to recommend yet another "new and improved" translation of Verne's classic. Whereas Emanuel J. Mickel's version (CH, Jul'92) is sedate, focused, and scholarly, Miller and Walter's tome bewilders (and yet it may satisfy the general reader). There is no bibliography, which means that allusions and references in the footnotes cannot be verified (except by checking Mickel's bibliography!). We take their word that the definitive French text was used for their new translation, although a cursory comparison with Mickel's careful prose reveals little variation. Even if the mechanics of the production are a bit sloppy, the editors' unbridled enthusiasm for Verne and his oeuvre deserves consideration. Mickel's introduction attempts to place Verne in a European context, as grandfather of modern science fiction (emphasis on fiction). Miller and Walter see Verne as a precursor of new scientific and technological developments, especially in space travel and oceanography. (The Naval Institute is the publisher.) Since each has its own special merits, it is probable that the serious Verne fan will have to own both translations. Recommended for undergraduates. R. J. Cormier Wilson College

Gr 3-7--Master storyteller Jim Weiss takes listeners on an exciting romp through Jules Verne's classic submarine adventure in this lively "storyteller's version" divided into 15 chapters. No longer told in the first person, this abridged version still manages to capture the excitement, intrigue, and flavor of the original story. When Pierre Aronnax, his servant Conseil, and harpooner Ted Land find themselves aboard the vessel of the enigmatic Captain Nemo, they are caught up in a unique adventure. Weiss provides clearly distinguishable voices for each of the main characters and does a wonderful job of capturing and holding listener interest. This version will introduce youngsters to Verne's masterpiece and inspire older readers to tackle the unabridged classic.--Deanna Romriell, Salt Lake City Public Library, UT (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. All rights reserved.

Gr 7 Up—A large sea monster, believed to resemble a narwhal, is roaming the seas and has destroyed over 200 ships that dared to cross its path. French Professor Pierre Aronnax, a distinguished marine biologist, has set his sights on killing this "gigantic cetacean." He and his faithful assistant, Conseil, accept an invitation to join an expedition aboard the Abraham Lincoln, an American frigate. The monster is finally sited and a battle ensues, resulting in Aronnax, Conseil, and a harpooner being tossed overboard and rescued by Nemo, captain of the Nautilus, a large submarine, which had been mistakenly thought to be a sea monster. For ten months, the three men sail with Nemo, a "terrible avenger, a perfect archangel of hatred." They are enthralled with the captivating scenery, discover new sea creatures and lost cities, and become trapped in a iceberg. Jules Verne's classic offers a perfect blend of suspense, adventure, and excitement that will entice even the most reluctant readers. This audiobook also contains a companion ebook—a 272-page printable PDF file complete with a full table of contents and index—and an interesting mini biography of Verne. Michael Prichard provides a stalwart narration; his rich, deep voice offers subtle changes for each character. An essential science fiction classic and a great choice for libraries in need of updating their collections.—Cheryl Preisendorfer, Twinsburg City Schools, OH