Journey to the Center of the Earth
What’s inside...
Journey to the Center of the Earth is a classic science fiction novel by Jules Verne that follows the adventures of Professor Otto Lidenbrock, his nephew Axel, and their guide Hans as they embark on an expedition to reach the center of the Earth. The journey begins when Lidenbrock discovers an ancient manuscript with a coded message indicating a path to the Earth's core through a volcano in Iceland. Despite initial skepticism, Axel joins his uncle, and together with Hans, they descend into the volcano. Along the way, they encounter prehistoric creatures, natural hazards, and marvels of a subterranean world. The explorers face numerous challenges and dangers, including getting lost, running out of water, and surviving a storm on an underground sea. Eventually, they are propelled to the surface by an eruptive force, emerging in southern Italy. The novel concludes with their return to Germany, where Axel marries his sweetheart, Grauben, and Professor Lidenbrock gains fame for their extraordinary expedition.
Age
8-12
Length
212 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Axel
Hans Bjelke
Professor Otto Lidenbrock
Discussion points
What do you think motivated Professor Lidenbrock to explore the center of the Earth? Would you have made the same decision?
How do the characters change throughout their journey? Which character do you relate to the most and why?
What challenges did the characters face during their adventure? How did they overcome these obstacles?
The story was written in 1864. How do you think exploring the Earth would be different if the characters were doing it today?
If you could explore any part of the world, where would it be and what do you think you would discover?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you discuss 'Journey to the Center of the Earth' with your child, ensure you encourage them to think critically about the characters' motivations and actions. Use comparisons to modern exploration to make the discussion more relatable and engaging. Validate their thoughts and feelings by sharing your views and experiences related to exploration and discovery.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Resilience
Explanation: The protagonist's journey to the center of the Earth is fraught with obstacles and unknowns. This journey exemplifies the importance of persevering in the face of difficulties and adapting to new challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by not giving up when they encounter challenges in their studies, sports, or personal projects, understanding that persistence often leads to success.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and the Pursuit of Knowledge
Explanation: The characters in the book are driven by a deep curiosity about the world, which leads them to embark on their remarkable expedition. This showcases the value of seeking knowledge and exploring the unknown.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be inquisitive about the world around them, to ask questions, and to pursue learning in all forms, whether it’s through reading, science experiments, or exploring nature.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the characters must work together to overcome challenges and solve problems, highlighting the importance of teamwork and cooperation.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working with others to achieve common goals, whether in classroom projects, family tasks, or playing sports with friends.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature and Environment
Explanation: The explorers' journey into the Earth reveals the complexity and majesty of the natural world, teaching a respect for the environment and the need to protect our planet.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be mindful of their environment, practice sustainability, and appreciate the natural world around them.
Example Lesson: Problem-Solving Skills
Explanation: The protagonists frequently encounter problems that require creative thinking and solutions, which emphasizes the importance of problem-solving skills and thinking outside the box.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to tackle their own problems creatively, be it in their homework, in resolving conflicts with peers, or in coming up with innovative ideas.