I just completed reading, “A Journey to the Center of the Earth,” my second reading of Jules Verne. I had previously read, “Around the World in Eighty Days.” Although not factual, and sometime not very realistic, Verne’s journey into the inner parts of the Earth provides a lot of scientific and perhaps even engineering thought and reflection. In engineering we use ‘instruments,’ devices to give us data about objects and environments. In the story we learn about barometers and chronometers and other devices commonly known during his day. We also learn a lot about geology and theories of ancient life forms. We also learn about a passionate professor and studious follower.

Although not my most enjoyable novel reading, I do recommend it for it’s attention to physics and the reasons noted above.