‘Nada the Lily’ is a historical novel written by famous English writer H. Rider Haggard. This novel is considered to be one of the best among his works. They say it was inspired by writer’s time spent in South Africa. ‘Nada the Lily’ is set at the time of the Zulu king named Chaka. The greater part of actions in this fantastic novel turn around him, but basically this book is the story about Umslopogaas, and his incredibly strong love for Nada, a native girl of great beauty. The story is narrated by Mopo, Nada’s father and Chaka’s doctor. During the course of the story Umslopogaas becomes friends with Galazi the Wolf. He lives on Ghost Mountain, and rules the wolf pack. Unfortunately, the story ends tragically. Nada, trying to escape the anger of Dingaan following the assassination of Chaka, takes a shelter in the cave on the mountain. Galazi dies trying to save her, but death finds Nada in the cave, which became her tomb. Nada couldn’t open the heavy stone door that she had closed behind her.
‘Nada the Lily’ is the story that has everything that can be found in a really great interesting book: love, adventures, awesome battle scenes and danger. Does reader need more? This is probably Haggard's most poetic and free-flowing yarn. A multiplicity of interesting characters will be found in this tale, although the central theme is the moving love story of Umslopogaas and Nada. The book makes the readers think, keeps their minds open for new ideas and thoughts. The book is quite serious, though it may not seem to be like that.
The book is great for everyone. This is a real masterpiece of English literature that should be definitely read. Nowadays it is not that easy to find a book similar to this is. Of course, shelves of book stores are full of different literature, but it doesn’t have that special scent of 19th century classics. To someone ‘Nada the Lily’ may seem fiction, to someone a historical novel. Probably, it has both something historical and fiction. Reading ‘Nada the Lily’ is very easy and delightful. Author had a perfect talent to make readers dive into the story. From the first chapter this story captivates and fascinates you. A really beautiful love story of two young people, who have to face too strong difficulties in attempts to keep their relations and, which is more important – their lives. ‘Nada the Lily’ is the perfect book to develop your fantasy, trying to imagine impressive landscapes, dangerous fights etc. If you have been moved by classic tragic story of Romeo and Juliet, if you are a real fan of enthralling action-packed adventures sagas, ‘Nada the Lily’ will not leave you indifferent! It’s definitely worth reading. Due to simplicity and great author’s talent to describe ordinary things in unusual way, this book will impress you. No doubt. And don’t mind it was written two centuries ago – it is gorgeous! Read the novel, and make sure yourself.