The People of the Mist
A British adventurer discovers a lost race in Africa.
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The People of the Mist is a lost world fantasy novel by H. Rider Haggard. It first appeared serially in the weekly magazine Tit-Bits from December 1893 to August 1894, and was published in book form by Longman in October 1894. The novel was later reprinted in December 1973 as the sixty-third volume of the Ballantine Adult Fantasy series.
Plot
The penniless Leonard Outram seeks to recover his family estates by finding fortune in Africa. He and his Zulu companion Otter rescue a young Englishwoman, Juanna Rodd, and her nursemaid Soa from slavery. Leonard and Juanna are attracted to each other but often bicker, and their romance is hindered by the jealous Soa.
They search for the legendary People of the Mist, who are said to possess a hoard of jewels. Upon finding them, the protagonists become involved in a power struggle between the lost race's king and the priests of its giant crocodile god. Outram largely reacts to events, and the climax involves a toboggan ride down a steep glacier on a large flat stone.
Reception
Gary Westfahl described the novel as Haggard's best African singleton, noting it effectively engages a reader's attention. Lin Carter called it a sensational adventure story that explores cryptic Africa and reveals a lost civilization, written at the height of Haggard's powers. Carter added that its glory has been lost in the fame of Haggard's better-publicized novels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote The People of the Mist?
The People of the Mist was written by Sir H. Rider Haggard.
Who illustrated The People of the Mist?
The People of the Mist was illustrated by Arthur Layard.
More in English Fantasy Novels
Sources
Compiled from Wikipedia and the sources listed below. Text from Wikipedia is available under CC BY-SA 4.0; this entry is adapted from it.
- Wikipedia: The People of the Mist (CC BY-SA 4.0).
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