This is the first critical edition of a Verne play; the book also contains many of his unpublished letters. His theatrical work (40 plays and synopses) was, until now, almost unknown, even though Michel Strogoff was among the greatest successes of the late-19th century theatre.

The introduction begins with a portrait of Jules Verne the playwright and a description of the relationship between France and Russia in the 19th century. A study of Michel Strogoff follows with a discussion of the genesis and creation of the play, major differences between the novel and the play, and Michel Strogoff as melodrama. Finally the reviews are summarised, incidental music discussed, as well as the success of the play at the time.