<p>I absolutely second Jules Verne; one of my favorite authors as a tyke, sparked my interest in the natural sciences. Read around the world, 20,000 leagues, mysterious island, Journey, 5 weeks, Earth to moon, and whatever else you can get your hands on. Make sure that the translation’s a well respected one, as I’ve heard of bad translations ruining it.</p>
<p>Speaking of French authors, read voltaire, Hugo, and Dumas. I’ve read a couple books from each and they rarely disappoint.</p>