This novel follows the adventures of five prisoners of the American Civil War who escape by hijacking a balloon and crash-landing on an uncharted island in the Pacific. Using their skills and knowledge, they endeavor to survive and master the island's resources, uncovering its secrets along the way. Their ingenuity in the face of adversity, the discovery of a mysterious benefactor, and encounters with pirates weave a tale of exploration, survival, and the triumph of human intellect and camaraderie against the odds. The story is a testament to the enduring human spirit, the value of scientific knowledge, and the mysteries that the natural world holds.

The 5816th greatest book of all time