The Lost Continent - The Original Classic Edition

For two hundred years, a civilized America had cut off all contact with the war-ruined Eastern Hemisphere until such places as Europe and Great Britain had become mere legends. Then Jefferson Turck dared take his U.S. aero-sub across the 30th Longitude West on the mission of a new Columbus, and a fascinating voyage of discovery.

First published in 1915, the motivations for this story are obvious. The nations of the western hemisphere have taken an extreme isolationist stance in the early years of World War I, to the point that 200 years later they do not even know whether anything or anyone has survived the massive armed conflagration that began in the early 20th century. The hero inadvertently gets stranded in Europe and makes all of the startling discoveries of the outcome of the conflict and ensuing 200 years.

The story is ERBs standard fare. However, like many of his books from this period, there are a few themes to the story that are of interest above and beyond the light adventure story. The elements foremost in this novel are the destructive nature of war and racism. There is also a certain amount of naivete from the period and the relative newness of the United States as a world power.

Most of Burroughs books are good reading for pre-teen to early adolescent, and nostalgic adults; this one is no exception.

I consider this a must have for anyone who likes sci-fi/fantasy.