Time and Tide A Romance of the Moon   By: Robert S. Ball (1840-1913)

In Robert S. Ball's timeless classic, the reader is swept away into a world where the moon becomes both a setting and a character in its own right. "Time and Tide: A Romance of the Moon" is a remarkable tale that blends the realms of science and fantasy, transporting the audience on an unforgettable journey to the edges of our Earth.

The story revolves around a group of scientists who embark on a daring expedition to the moon, a venture both unimaginable and awe-inspiring at the time of the book's publication. Ball's attention to detail and his scientific background allow him to weave a rich tapestry of lunar exploration, breathing life into the journey and making it conceivable. The uncharted lunar landscape comes alive under his skilled pen, revealing a world brimming with mysteries waiting to be uncovered.

What sets "Time and Tide" apart is Ball's ability to infuse the narrative with a deep sense of romanticism. The moon, acting as a catalyst, evokes powerful emotions and experiences that transcend the limitations of human understanding. It becomes not just a backdrop for scientific discovery, but an entity that influences the lives of the characters and unravels their destinies. This marriage of scientific exploration and the ethereal realm of emotions is an artistic triumph, allowing readers to ponder their own relationship with the vastness of the universe.

In addition to its imaginative storytelling, Ball's prose is elegant and captivating, effortlessly painting vivid pictures of both the Earth and the moon. His descriptions are both poetic and accurate, showcasing his proficiency in the fields of astronomy and astrophysics. By interweaving scientific facts with captivating fiction, "Time and Tide" manages to educate and entertain simultaneously, leaving the reader with an enriched understanding of both the cosmos and the human experience.

Though the book was first published over a century ago, its relevance persists to this day. It serves as a reminder of the boundless human curiosity and our eternal yearning to explore the unknown. By delving into the depths of the moon, Ball skillfully taps into these universal themes, resonating with readers across generations. "Time and Tide" is a testament to the enduring power of great storytelling and the profound impact of human imagination.

In conclusion, Robert S. Ball's "Time and Tide: A Romance of the Moon" is a captivating tale that marries scientific exploration with romanticism, creating a mesmerizing narrative that stands the test of time. Balancing intricate scientific details with vivid storytelling, Ball takes readers on an unforgettable journey to the moon, where the mysteries of the universe blend effortlessly with the depths of human emotions. A classic in its own right, this book continues to inspire and captivate, making it a must-read for all lovers of literature, science, and the grandeur of the cosmos.

First Page:

Having been honoured once again with a request that I should lecture before the London Institution, I chose for my subject the Theory of Tidal Evolution. The kind reception which these lectures received has led to their publication in the present volume. I have taken the opportunity to supplement the lectures as actually delivered by the insertion of some additional matter... Continue reading book >>