4 stars for King Solomon's Mines (Allan Quatermain book 1) by H. Rider Haggard.
I own a copy of this book by chance. Some years back, the owner decided to donate this book and placed it on the free-for-all bookshelf placed outside the library which I always frequent then. Though used, the book looks good as new. One look and I decided to be the new owner and brought it home.
Since then, I have always wanted to read this book, but somehow, did not manage to. Beginning of this year, I tell myself I really need to get down to reading this book so that I can let go of it and re-circulate. I am glad this is finally done - the reading I mean.
If not for the free copy, I would never have seek out this book. It really is not my usual choice of read. The copy I have is the 1994 reissued edition. This book was first published in 1885. Perhaps because it was written so long ago, the way of writing and presentation is rather different from that in books these days. Nevertheless, the story flows well and the landscape was beautifully captured in the author's lyrical writings.
Now that I have finished reading this book, I plan to bring it along with me in my next trip to the library. I hope whoever owns it next will not only enjoy the story as much as I did but also takes great care of the book.
