The Mighty Atom (1896) is a novel by Marie Corelli. Published at the
height of Corelli's career as one of the most successful writers of her
generation, the novel combines realism, social commentary, and family
drama to tell a story of morality and the corruption of the youth. Due
for reassessment by a modern audience, Marie Corelli's work--which has
inspired several adaptations for film and theater--is a must read for
fans of early science fiction. "'D--d--did I hear you rightly, sir?
Ch--child-murder!' 'I repeat it, Mr. Valliscourt [...] Child-murder!
Take the phrase and think it over! You have only one child, --a boy of a
most lovable and intelligent disposition [...] and you are killing him
with your hard and fast rules, and your pernicious "system" of
intellectual training.'" Intended as a rallying cry to Christian
readers, The Mighty Atom states quite clearly Correlli's beliefs on
progressivism and public education. Raised in a household of atheists,
Lionel is left only with science to inform his thoughts and experiences.
Early in the novel, his tutor, a religious Scotsman, is dismissed by the
boy's father Mr. Valliscourt. On his way out the door, however, he makes
sure to state his mind to his employer. Despite his warning about the
boy's perilous upbringing, Lionel will grow into a nervous, lonely young
man. Addressing philosophical, scientific, and religious themes, The
Mighty Atom is a moving work of fiction which asks important questions
about an emerging modern world. With a beautifully designed cover and
professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Marie Corelli's The
Mighty Atom is a classic work of English science fiction reimagined for
modern readers.
