An early science fiction story, about some folks who build a moon out of bricks and go live on it.

Very early science fiction (circa 1870) story about a group of men who construct an artificial satellite made of brick ("Brick Moon") which is accidentally propelled into orbit along with various humans residing within.

There is some interesting science along the way, including discussions of the method by which the satellite will be launched (modern rocket technology did not exist), what material will be used so as to resist burning up when exiting the atmosphere at high speed, and how the satellite's orbit around earth will be determined.

The book also contains part fantasy, i.e., how the humans aboard the satellite ultimately begin life anew on their new world in space. Less rooted in science, but still amusing.

A must for any fan of early science fiction. I would have rated this book higher but for the author's stilted writing style that sometimes was difficult to follow. ( )