H. G. Wells Books

Focusing on the aftermath of World War I, H. G. Wells presents his visionary theories regarding future societal changes and the necessity for a unified global peace to prevent further conflicts. He emphasizes the profound suffering experienced by nations involved in the war and anticipates a transformative impact on social structures. The book also explores groundbreaking concepts like time travel, alien invasion, invisibility, and biological engineering, showcasing Wells' forward-thinking ideas that predate their popularity in science fiction.

The essays in this collection showcase H. G. Wells' reflections on early 20th-century social, political, and technological issues. Each piece presents his unique analysis of contemporary challenges and transformations, highlighting his insights as both a science fiction author and a keen observer of society. This compilation serves as a significant resource for understanding Wells' non-fiction perspectives and visionary thoughts during a pivotal era.

The book features an intriguing self-written obituary by Wells from 1936, offering insight into his thoughts and reflections on his life a decade before his passing. Additionally, it includes a comprehensive biographical timeline that highlights key events and milestones in Wells's life, providing readers with a deeper understanding of his legacy and contributions.

"Russia in the Shadows" by H. G. Wells, published in 1921, features articles from his 1920 visit to Russia. The book explores themes such as the collapse of Petersburg, Bolshevism, and the creative efforts in Russia. Wells, a renowned English writer, is celebrated for his contributions to science fiction and various other genres.

Combining the scientist's limitless vision, the historian's sense of destiny and the novelist's vivid feel for the everyday stuff of human life, the great fantasies of H.G. Wells constitute the most impressive - and the most exciting - achievement of twentieth century science fiction.

'As we saw it first it was the wildest and most desolate of scenes. We were in an enormous amphitheatre, a vast circular plain, the floor of the giant crater. Its cliff-like wall closed us in on every side¿' Thanks to the discovery of an anti-gravity metal, Cavorite, two Victorian Englishman decide to tackle the most prestigious goal - space travel. They construct a sphere that will ultimately take them to the moon. On landing, they encounter what seems like an utterly barren landscape but they soon find signs that the planet was once very much alive. Then they hear curious hammering sounds from beneath the surface, and come face to face with the Selenites, a race of insect-like aliens living in a rigidly organised hive society.

The narrative explores the profound disconnect between humans and the natural world, likening the relationship to a one-sided conflict, akin to that between man and ants. It delves into themes of existentialism and the often-overlooked impact of human actions on nature, challenging readers to reconsider their understanding of conflict and coexistence. Through this lens, the book invites reflection on the broader implications of humanity's dominance and the subtle complexities of life on Earth.

Exploring themes of time travel, ethics in science, and the consequences of human ambition, this collection features three seminal works. The Time Machine delves into the future, revealing the stark divide between social classes. The Wonderful Visit combines fantasy and satire as a heavenly being disrupts a quaint village. The Island of Doctor Moreau confronts the moral implications of experimentation on living beings. Together, these stories showcase the author's visionary imagination and critical commentary on society.

This collection features 13 imaginative short stories, showcasing H.G. Wells' mastery of speculative fiction. Notable tales include "Mr. Skelmersdale in Fairyland," where a man is tempted by a fairy queen, and "The Inexperienced Ghost," about a ghost unable to move on. Other intriguing plots involve a man experimenting with godhood, a magic shop offering genuine wonders, and a scientist marketing time itself. Themes of fantasy, the supernatural, and existential dilemmas weave throughout, reflecting Wells' innovative storytelling.