Percy Greg Boeken

Across the Zodiac: The Story of a Wrecked Record is a science fiction novel by Percy Greg, who has been credited as an originator of the Sword and planet sub-genre of science fiction. The book details the creation and use of apergy, a form of anti-gravitational energy, and details a flight to Mars. The planet is inhabited by diminutive beings; they are convinced that life does not exist elsewhere than on their world, and refuse to believe that the unnamed narrator is actually from Earth. (They think he's an unusually tall Martian from some remote place on their planet.) The book's narrator names his spacecraft the "Astronaut." The book contains what was probably the first alien language in any work of fiction.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. To ensure a quality reading experience, this work has been proofread and republished using a format that seamlessly blends the original graphical elements with text in an easy-to-read typeface. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

This reprint preserves the original text from 1881, offering readers a chance to experience the historical context and themes as intended by the author. The book captures the essence of its time, reflecting the societal norms and challenges of the era. Its enduring relevance and unique perspective make it a significant addition to any literary collection, appealing to both history enthusiasts and those interested in classic literature.

This volume is a faithful reprint of the 1881 edition, preserving the original text and quality. It explores themes of family and marriage through the character of Ivy, who navigates the complexities of being both a cousin and a bride. The book offers a glimpse into the societal norms and expectations of its time, providing readers with a rich historical context.

Exploring the intersection of science and ethics, this work presents a critical examination of natural ethics devoid of religious influence. It delves into the implications of a secular worldview on moral principles and human behavior. The book, originally published in 1883, remains relevant in its challenge to traditional beliefs, encouraging readers to consider a framework for ethics based on scientific understanding rather than divine authority.

Culturally significant, this reproduction preserves the integrity of the original artifact, including copyright references and library stamps. It serves as an important contribution to the knowledge base of civilization, reflecting the historical context in which it was created. The work aims to provide readers with an authentic experience of the original text, maintaining as much fidelity to the source as possible.

The narrative follows Ernest Maltravers, a successful lawyer in London who becomes disillusioned with his life and values. His internal struggle intensifies when he encounters a figure claiming to be the Devil, who offers him unlimited power in exchange for his soul. This pivotal moment forces Maltravers to grapple with themes of temptation, morality, and the duality of good and evil within himself. Rich in Victorian context, the novel delves into complex moral dilemmas while vividly portraying London society, making it a timeless and thought-provoking read.