King Solomon's Mines

Name: King Solomon's Mines
Rating: 7.71 (744 reviews)
Author: H. Haggard
ISBN: 9781544016740

Language: English
Published in: 2017
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Pages: 220
ISBN: 9781544016740

Embark on a perilous journey into the heart of uncharted Africa with Allan Quatermain, a seasoned big-game hunter. He is approached by the determined Sir Henry Curtis and his friend Captain John Good, who seek his aid in a desperate quest: to find Sir Henry's missing brother, last seen venturing into the continent's mysterious interior in pursuit of the fabled King Solomon's Mines. Armed with a cryptic ancient map, the trio, along with their enigmatic companions, faces scorching deserts, treacherous mountains, and the unknown dangers of a land teeming with ancient secrets and fierce tribal conflicts.

This pioneering adventure novel, first published in 1885, plunges readers into a world of discovery and survival, where courage is tested against formidable natural forces and the allure of unimaginable wealth. It remains a foundational work of the "lost world" genre, inviting you to experience the thrill of exploration and the enduring power of legend.

Subjects

Original edition details

King Solomon's Mines Originally published in 1885

Original language

English

Original publisher CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform

Other editions (840)

King Solomon's Mines

2016 • Open Road Media

English

King Solomon's Mines

2007 • Wilder Publications, Incorporated

English

King Solomon's Mines Lib/E (Allan Quatermain)

2011 • Blackstone Publishing

English

King Solomon's Mines (H Rider Haggard Classics Collection)

2015 • CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform

English

Allan Quatermain #1 King Solomon's Mines

2012 • Simon and Schuster

English

7.71 / 10 (744 ratings)

Reviews summary

Positives

The reviews consistently praise the book as a classic, fast-paced adventure tale, often described as "rollicking" and "punchy." Many found it an inspiring and delightful read, with its compelling journey through perilous landscapes and its quest for treasure and lost family members. Readers appreciated the constant action, including wild game hunts, encounters with lost civilizations, and tribal conflicts, which keep the narrative engaging from beginning to end. Allan Quatermain, the main character, is frequently likened to Indiana Jones, contributing to the story's entertainment value. The book is recognized for its significant influence on the "lost world" genre, pioneering many tropes that are still prevalent in adventure literature and film today, making it a foundational work in its field. It's noted for its readability, feeling as current as a modern book despite its age, and for its vivid descriptions of the African setting.

Negatives

However, the book also draws significant criticism, primarily due to its reflection of 19th-century colonialist attitudes. Many reviewers found the language concerning race and empire to be problematic and "cringe-worthy" from a modern perspective. The narrative is seen as portraying Africa as an exotic land for Englishmen to exploit its resources and impose their will, including deceiving native inhabitants and interfering with their political structures. The high death toll among African characters is noted as appalling. Another major point of contention is the extensive depiction of elephant and other animal hunting, which some readers found difficult to overlook and nearly caused them to abandon the book. Critics also mention a lack of character depth, social critique, or symbolism, suggesting the story prioritizes action over deeper exploration. Some found certain parts of the narrative, such as battles and desert crossings, less engaging or even predictable.

Conclusion

Overall, "King Solomon's Mines" is widely regarded as an influential and pioneering adventure classic that set the standard for many subsequent tales of exploration and discovery. While its historical context presents significant challenges for contemporary readers due to its outdated views on race, colonialism, and hunting, it remains a thrilling and immersive read for those who can approach it with an awareness of its time. It is particularly recommended for readers who enjoy fast-paced, action-packed narratives, especially fans of "Indiana Jones" style adventures. It is often suggested as a suitable read for teenagers and, in abridged versions, for younger children, offering a good old-fashioned adventure story. Readers interested in the origins of adventure literature and how historical perspectives shaped storytelling will also find it a valuable, albeit complex, experience.

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this book!

Rating sources

Subjects

Original edition details

Other editions (840)

King Solomon's Mines

King Solomon's Mines

King Solomon's Mines Lib/E (Allan Quatermain)

King Solomon's Mines (H Rider Haggard Classics Collection)

Allan Quatermain #1 King Solomon's Mines