Sea Serpent: A New Translation

Published posthumously in 1901, The Sea Serpent (Les Histoires de Jean-Marie Cabidoulin) is one of Jules Verne's lesser-known maritime adventure novels, blending seafaring excitement with mystery, superstition, and the eternal conflict between reason and legend. Unlike Verne's more scientific works, this novel takes a more whimsical approach, exploring the power of myth and the imagination in shaping human experiences.

Set aboard a whaling ship, the story follows Jean-Marie Cabidoulin, a seasoned sailor whose tales of a monstrous sea serpent lurking in the depths spark fear and intrigue among the crew. As they navigate the vast and treacherous ocean, the crew is torn between skepticism and belief, questioning whether Cabidoulin's stories are mere sailor's folklore or if the mysterious creature is real. The novel masterfully builds suspense, capturing the tension between logic and superstition while delivering vivid descriptions of maritime life and the perils of the sea.

The Sea Serpent showcases Verne's ability to create gripping adventure narratives infused with rich detail and philosophical undertones. Through the lens of a thrilling seafaring journey, the novel explores the human need for wonder, the lure of the unknown, and the enduring power of storytelling.

This new edition brings The Sea Serpent to modern readers, offering an engaging and thought-provoking tale of adventure, mystery, and the enduring fascination with creatures that lurk beneath the waves. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Jules Verne or discovering his works for the first time, this novel promises a captivating journey into the depths of the sea-and the depths of the imagination.