Who was Jules Verne? Know His Famous Works, Books and Legacy!

Every year, on 8 February, the world remembers the birth of Jules Verne, a visionary author whose imagination laid the foundation for modern science fiction. He was born in France and is often called the “father of science fiction”. 

Verne became a renowned figure for his famous works, including Journey to the Center of the Earth, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and From the Earth to the Moon.

Let us learn through this article how his works were remarkable. It is not only for their exciting plots but also for the scientific ideas and futuristic inventions he imagined. From submarines to space travel, many of his concepts were decades ahead of their time.

Jules Verne’s Early Life 

Jules Verne was born on 8 February 1828 in a middle-class family in Nantes. He started following his passion for science and literature. 

He started writing plays, essays, and travel stories, gradually developing a unique style called “geographical novels”. Soon, he became famous for his adventurous novels that blended scientific knowledge with thrilling storytelling.

These books combined real-world locations, scientific facts, and adventure, captivating readers while inspiring curiosity about the world and technology.

Jules Verne Career

Verne’s formal education began when he attended local schools in Nantes, France. He showed a strong interest in literature, geography, and science from a young age. 

Later, he moved to Paris to study law, as per his father’s wishes. Despite this, Verne spent much of his time at libraries and theatres.

He immersed himself in literature, science, and travel writing. Therefore, his diverse education, both formal and self-directed, shaped the detailed research and scientific accuracy evident in his novels.

Check Out: Who is Known as the Father of English Literature?

Jules Verne Books

Jules Verne authored over 60 novels and many short stories. Some of his most notable works include:

Source: Project Gutenberg – Jules Verne Works

What is Jules Verne's Most Famous Novel?

While opinions vary, “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea” is widely regarded as Verne’s most famous novel. Its imaginative depiction of Captain Nemo’s submarine, the Nautilus, and its underwater adventures captivated readers globally and influenced modern science fiction.

Was Walt Disney a Fan of Jules Verne?

Yes! Walt Disney was inspired by Verne’s visionary ideas. Disney adapted Verne’s works, most notably “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” (1954 film) and themed rides like “Journey to the Center of the Earth” in his parks, bringing Verne’s imagination to life for new generations.

Writing Style and Themes

Verne’s writing was deeply research-based. He meticulously studied geography, astronomy, engineering, and marine sciences, incorporating these details into his plots. 

This approach gave his stories authenticity while keeping readers enthralled. His recurring themes include exploration, scientific discovery, and the human spirit of adventure. 

This balance of imagination and accuracy is why his books remain globally loved and widely translated even today.

Jules Verne Legacy

To conclude, Jules Verne’s impact extends far beyond literature. Celebrating his birthday on 8 February is like a tribute to curiosity, innovation, and storytelling. 

Verne passed away on 24 March 1905 in Amiens, France, from diabetes, but his imagination continues to ignite dreams of adventure and scientific discovery worldwide. 

His vision of futuristic technology anticipated submarines, lunar missions, and even helicopters. Today, films, TV shows, and adaptations of his novels continue to introduce new generations to Verne’s imaginative world. 

Check Out: List of Best Selling Books by American Authors