The first book read in 2021! There's an anthology call for stories based on Verne coming up later this year, so I thought I'd brush up on some of his work before submitting. I've read this before, I think, if years and years ago, so the twist at the end was not a surprise. It's a fun story, though I have to admit I'm in two minds about Phileas Fogg. Yes, he is cool-headed and brave and principled, and those are all admirable things, but I just cannot get over his absolute lack of curiosity. That's kind of a dealbreaker for me. The man may possess admirable qualities, but anyone lacking in curiosity can fundamentally never be more than a bore. I'd feel sorry for Aouda except that, given the alternative was being burnt alive, he probably looks good to her. Well, in her place he'd look good to me too. I expect she's willing to swap a life of stultifying conversation, if any, for someone who doesn't play with matches.