"Published in 1864, Journey to the Centre of the Earth is an early and influential work of science-fiction that has its protagonists venturing into an incredible new world at the heart of our planet. The novel tells the story of the eccentric Professor Otto Lidenbrock and his reluctant nephew Axel, who discover a way to descend into an Icelandic volcano. What follows is an adventure that leads to encounters with giant insects and dinosaurs, oversized mushrooms and proto-humans. This timeless classic continues to captivate readers the world over, and has been adapted extensively for fi lm, television, radio and the theatre and even inspired several theme park rides around the world."