Jules Verne is perhaps best known for his science fiction stories, and Michael Strogoff breaks that mold. It s a true-to-life tale of the titular character s journey across Siberia to deliver an important message to the brother of the Russian Czar.
Like other of Verne s works, Strogoff encounters many colorful characters along the way, and together they create a vivid depiction of the harsh life in Russo-Siberia, as well as the resilient spirit of its inhabitants. The attention to detail and the accuracy of both the physical and geographical depictions of Siberia was noted by contemporaries, though it s also said that Verne took some dramatic license in recreating some of the historical events.
Contemporary critics agreed that Michael Strogoff is a thrilling tale of the strength of men, of patriotism, and of the devotion of one human being to another. Modern critics consider it to be one of Verne s best novels.
