The Lost Continent

The Lost Continent by Edgar Rice Burroughs is a novel likely written in the early 20th century, set in a post-apocalyptic future. Following a devastating war, the Eastern Hemisphere has been cut off from the West for over 200 years. The narrative centers on Lieutenant Jefferson Turck, a naval officer of the Pan-American Federation, who embarks on a perilous journey beyond the established borders of his civilization. His quest is to uncover the mysteries of a long-lost and savage Europe. The story begins with Turck reflecting on Europe's isolation and the consequences of the Great War that left it abandoned. When his ship, the Coldwater, experiences mechanical failures, Turck is forced to cross into this forbidden, unknown territory. After a harrowing experience at sea, he and a few crew members wash ashore in a wild and dangerous land. As they navigate this savage world, they encounter exotic beasts and primitive tribes, discovering that civilization has regressed into a state of brutality and ignorance, far removed from Turck's advanced society. This sets the stage for a gripping adventure filled with peril, exploration, and the struggle to survive amidst the remnants of a once-great civilization.

Reading ease score: 76.2 (7th grade). Fairly easy to read.