Jules Verne takes us back on the road with the world's most obstinate traveler in Kéraban-Le-Têtu, Volume II. The journey is far from finished.

The Story

Picking up right where Volume I left off, Kéraban and his crew are still committed to their insane bet: to travel around the entire Black Sea by carriage to avoid a simple ferry toll. This leg of the trip throws even more obstacles in their path. Think narrow mountain passes, suspicious local officials, and the constant threat of highwaymen. All the while, a romantic subplot involving Kéraban's nephew, Ahmet, adds urgency—they need to get back to Constantinople in time for a wedding! The real enemy, though, isn't the landscape; it's Kéraban's own unbelievable stubbornness, which creates every problem and, somehow, forces the solutions.

Why You Should Read It

This book is pure, joyful fun. While Verne is famous for futuristic science, here he shines at comedy and character. Kéraban is a masterpiece of comic writing—his rants are legendary, and watching him talk himself into (and out of) trouble is a delight. It's also a fascinating tour of 19th-century Black Sea cultures, seen through the eyes of these frantic travelers. The heart of the story, though, is about friendship and loyalty tested by one friend's utterly ridiculous principle.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who needs a laugh and a great adventure. If you enjoy classic comedies of errors, road trip stories where everything goes wrong, or characters with big, unforgettable personalities, you'll love this. It's a lighter, funnier side of Jules Verne that deserves more attention. Just be prepared to never look at a toll booth the same way again.