Heart of the World

Henry Rider Haggard is a recognized master of the adventure genre, a British knight, famous for dynamic, fast-moving plots where historical events can hardly be distinguished from fiction, and reality often blends with mysticism, magic, or even fantasy. In one of Haggard’s most exciting adventure novels, “The Heart of the World,” the action takes place in the very heart of the ancient land of the Maya Indians in South America. An Indian, Ignacio—the narrator—tries to revive the former greatness and independence of his people and is ready to give his life for it. He finds loyal friends among the pale-faced strangers: the Englishman James Strickland more than once comes to the aid of his red-skinned friend. Helping Ignacio, Strickland suddenly discovers that he is deeply—head over heels—in love with the daughter of the local king!