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Parents' Guide to

Around the World in 100 Days

By Kate Pavao, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 11+

Fun follow-up to the Jules Verne classic.

Book Gary Blackwood Adventure 2010
Around the World in 100 Days Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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What's the Story?

Harry is never up to much good: He flunked out of Eton, tells his father he has never even considered a profession, and the book opens with him in jail after crashing his automobile. But when he bets the men at his father's gentleman's club that he can drive his car around the world in 100 days he suddenly has a new purpose. Joined by a group of entertaining misfits for his ride, Harry and his car, the Flash, encounter plenty of mayhem -- but they attract plenty of attention, too. Now if only people would stop comparing him to his father, the famous Phileas Fogg, who managed to win a similar bet years ago by making his way around the world in 80 days.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

There's definitely a little something for everyone here: This is an adventure story, a history lesson, and a coming-of-age tale all wrapped up into one. There's even a little bit of mystery (who is sabotaging the Flash?) -- and a hint of romance, thanks to a strong-willed female journalist who comes along for the ride. Readers who are paying close attention will find some interesting historical details about life around the turn of the century, and those familiar with Verne's original story will appreciate how details from the first book are worked into this sequel. But even those just looking for a fun, fast-moving story to race through will find plenty to hold their interest as Harry and his traveling companions face arrest, kidnapping, vandals -- and worst of all, the threat of losing the bet.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about this book being a sequel. Do you know the original Jules Verne story Around the World in 80 Days? Does it matter? What do you think inspired the author to return to this classic story?

  • This book has adventure, history, and even a little mystery worked in. It could also be called a coming-of-age story because Harry matures a great deal during his journey, and even finds his life's path. If you were the librarian, how would you classify it?

  • Which of these elements -- the adventure, history, etc. -- first drew you to the book? What had the most lasting impact?

Book Details

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