These lively, varied and tought-provoking science-fiction stories ( from the era of Jules Verne and II. G. Vells) are linked by their imposing central character, the punaciously adventurous and outrageous Professor Challenger.

The Lost World ( forebear of Jurassic Park) vividly depicts a perilous region in wich the explorers confront creatures from the prehistoric era. The Poison Belt presents an eerie doomsday scenario, while ` The Disintegration Machine" satirically comments on scientific cynicism. In "When the World Screamed` , the planet responds violently to an ewxperimental incursion. The strangest item is The Land of Mist, which seeks to reconcile science with spiritualism.

This memorable collection provides imaginative entertainment, entrancing escapism and bold provocation.