De beste science-fiction-verhalen van vroeger en nu.Meeslepende toekomstfantasieën van klassieke schrijvers als H.G. Wells en H.P. Lovecraft, maar ook van moderne meesters van de 'fantasy' als Richard Mateson, Robert Shackley en Ray Bradbury.Een bundel om ademloos uit te lezen...
De meest onwaarschijnlijke verhalen uit de Engelse literatuur van de afgelopen honderd jaar van Oscar Wilde, Ernest Dowson, Arthur Machen, Robert Ross, Arthur Conan Doyle, H.G. Wells, Max Beerbohm, H.M. Bateman, D.H. Lawrence, E.M. Forster, W. Somerset Maugham, Roald Dahl, Vyvyan Holland en Harold Acton
Zjednodušené dvojjazyčné převyprávění klasického fantastického románu H.G. Wellse, doplněné cvičeními a odkazem na MP3 nahrávku anglického textu. Určeno začátečníkům v angličtině.Román líčí příběh nadaného fyzika, který objevil metodu zprůsvitnění hmoty, a objevil tak princip neviditelnosti. Provede pokus sám na sobě a prochází řadou nesnází, které jeho neviditelnost zapříčiní, zároveň ale chápe, jak nesmírná moc se mu jeho objevem dostala do rukou. Rozhodne se zneužít svého vynálezu k tomu, aby ovládal lidstvo - jeho tragédií však je, že nepočítá s lidskou solidaritou proti teroru. Zahyne jako vyvrženec lidské společnosti v honbě, kterou na něj ohrožení spoluobčané uspořádali. Námět klasického fantastického příběhu zde byl převyprávěn zjednodušeným jazykem, doplněn zrcadlovým českým překladem, několika cvičeními a odkazem na MP3 nahrávku anglického textu v podání rodilého mluvčího. Celek je cvičným textem pro začínající angličtináře.
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.
Featuring the remarkable literary genius of H.G. Wells, this deluxe hardbound edition compiles his most celebrated works, highlighting his pioneering contributions to science fiction and storytelling. The collection invites readers to explore the imaginative worlds and visionary themes that define Wells's legacy, all presented in an elegantly crafted format.
"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.
H.G. Wells, a prominent political thinker as well as a first-rate novelist,
set down in The Rights of Man a stirring manifesto, and his words laid the
groundwork for the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which enshrined
human rights in law for the first time, changing the course of history for
ever and granting fundamental rights to billions.
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.
Volume 1-The Time Machine, The Wonderful Visit & The Island of Doctor Moreau
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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 value-for-money volume contains the very greatest of the science fiction novels by H.G. Wells, one of the true Grandfathers of SF. The Orson Welles broadcast of THE WAR OF THE WORLDS on public radio was 'the night that panicked America' as listeners believed they really were being invaded by aliens. Films, TV series, audio tapes, spin-off movies (THE NIGHT THAT PANICKED AMERICA), and Jeff Wayne's hugely successful rock opera followed. All these novels have timeless appeal: THE INVISIBLE MAN has been filmed and used as the basis for a spin-off series and other writers' novels. THE ISLAND OF DOCTOR MOREAU, filmed three times, is the inspiration for such diverse talents as Ann Halam and THE SIMPSONS. THE FIRST MEN IN THE MOON attracted the great FX master Ray Harryhausen to lend his talents to the movie; THE TIME MACHINE has been made into movies and TV series; Stephen Baxter's sequel, THE TIME SHIPS, received widespread acclaim. And H.G. Wells himself has appeared as a character in numerous books and films.
A scientist discovers a new substance which makes animals grow to several times their normal size, but soon the substance enters the food chain and the giant animals run amuck! Classics Illustrated tells this wonderful tale in colorful comic strip form, offering an excellent introduction for younger readers. This edition also includes a biography of H. G. Wells, theme discussions and study questions, which can be used both in the classroom or at home to further engage the reader in the story. The Classics Illustrated comic book series began life in 1941 with its first issue, Alexandre Dumas' "The Three Musketeers," and has since included over 200 classic tales released around the world. This new edition is specifically tailored to engage and educate young readers with some of the greatest works ever written, while still thrilling older readers who have loving memories of this series of old. Each book contains dedicated theme discussions and study questions to further develop the reader's understanding and enjoyment of the work at hand.
Antologie 3x3 English Authors je určena všem, kteří ve studiu angličtiny dosáhli určitého stupně pokročilosti. Jedná se o anglicko-český zrcadlový text tří detektivních povídek známých autorů: G. K. Chestertona, A. C. Doyla a H. G. Wellse. Sestavil a přeložil Ivo Pospíšil.
This collection of short stories by H. G. Wells is the most comprehensive yet, and showcases the hugely fertile imagination of the great author, whose ideas and storylines remain hugely relevant to this day.
Humor and reflection characterize this collection of essays by H.G. Wells, originally published in 1897. The pieces explore a variety of subjects, ranging from mundane aspects of daily life to profound insights about society and human nature, showcasing Wells' engaging writing style and keen observations.
Set against the backdrop of World War I, the narrative offers a deep exploration of the psychological toll of war on the Britling family. Through their experiences, themes of patriotism, resilience, and the human spirit emerge, as they confront the uncertainties of wartime life in the English countryside. H. G. Wells skillfully intertwines personal and political elements, providing insightful social commentary on family dynamics during national crises. The novel serves as a powerful testament to human endurance amidst adversity, showcasing Wells' literary talent.
Román G. H .Wellse „War of the worlds“ patří mezi první vlaštovky žánru sci-fi, získal světovou proslulost a dočkal se mnoha zfilmování (naposledy Stevenem Spilbergem, kdy byl do hlavní role obsazen Tom Cruise).
Jeho zjednodušená verze v této knize je určena pro mírně pokročilé studenty anglického jazyka. Účelem je především rozšířit slovní zásobu, ale také schopnost rychle a bezpečně porozumět mluvené angličtině.
Kniha je formálně sestavena tak, aby studentovi umožňovala co největší komfort při tomto stylu učení. Obsahuje:
- český překlad na protější / levé straně od anglického textu
- kontrolní otázky, jak jste porozuměli anglickému textu
- okomentované zajímavé gramatické jevy
- slovníček s fonetickým přepisem na konci knihy
Na audio CD najdete román v angličtině namluvený rodilým mluvčím, a to v pomalém i běžném hovorovém tempu! Můžete tak text poslouchat a zároveň kontrolovat psaný v knize.
Zjistíte, že učení hrou vám umožní zapamatovat si mnohem více, a hlavně je radostné i zábavné!
Immensely popular during his lifetime, H. G. Wells, along with Jules Verne, is credited with inventing science fiction. This new volume collects Wells' best-loved and most critically acclaimed works. In each, the author grounds his fantastical imagination in scientific fact and conjecture while lacing his narrative with vibrant action, not merely to tell a “ripping yarn,” but to offer a biting critique on the world around him. “The strength of Mr. Wells,” wrote Arnold Bennett, “lies in the fact that he is not only a scientist, but a most talented student of character, especially quaint character. He will not only ingeniously describe for you a scientific miracle, but he will set down that miracle in the midst of a country village, sketching with excellent humor the inn-landlady, the blacksmith, the chemist’s apprentice, the doctor, and all the other persons whom the miracle affects.”
[Penguin Readers Level 3]BUT the islanders, seeing that I was really adrift, took pity on me. I drifted very slowly to the eastward, approaching the island slantingly; and presently I saw, with hysterical relief, the launch come round and return towards me.
William Porphyry Benham's quest for heroic virtue drives the narrative, as he seeks to transcend the ordinary and attain greatness. His journey reveals the complexities of idealism and the struggle between personal aspirations and societal norms. H.G. Wells intricately examines the nature of greatness through Benham's adventures, presenting a thoughtful exploration of the challenges faced by those devoted to lofty ideals. The novel serves as a profound meditation on the pursuit of a meaningful existence amidst societal pressures.
This classical work has been preserved and republished in a modern format to ensure its significance endures for future generations. The text has been reformatted, retyped, and designed for clarity and readability, distinguishing it from scanned copies of the original.
Featuring a blend of fantasy and science fiction, this collection showcases ten original tales by H. G. Wells, highlighting his imaginative storytelling. Among these is the beloved "The Magic Shop," alongside other intriguing narratives like "The Man Who Could Work Miracles" and "The Red Room." Each story explores unique concepts, from miraculous abilities to eerie encounters, reflecting Wells' innovative approach to speculative fiction. This anthology is a testament to his creativity and enduring influence in the genre.
Known as a pioneer of science fiction, the author made significant contributions across various genres, including novels, short stories, and social commentary. His prolific output also encompassed history, satire, biography, and even recreational war games. Wells's innovative storytelling and imaginative concepts have solidified his legacy, earning him the title of "father of science fiction," alongside notable figures like Jules Verne and Hugo Gernsback. His works continue to influence the genre and inspire readers worldwide.
The narrative centers on two orphaned cousins, Joan and Peter, as they confront the intricacies of early 20th-century England. It critiques the traditional British education system, emphasizing its inadequacies in equipping youth for contemporary life. Through their personal journeys, themes of social change, individual growth, and the societal effects of World War I emerge. This reflective work offers a profound examination of educational challenges and the potential for reform in a rapidly changing world.
With carefully adapted text, new illustrations, language practise activities and additional online resources, the Penguin Readers series introduces language learners to bestselling authors and compelling content. Titles include popular classics, exciting contemporary fiction, and thought-provoking non-fiction. The War of the Worlds, a Level 1 Reader, is A1 in the CEFR framework. Short sentences contain a maximum of two clauses, introducing the past simple tense and some simple modals, adverbs and gerunds. Illustrations support the text throughout, and many titles at this level are graphic novels. The Martians are coming! They are burning houses and killing the people of Earth. How can the people stop them?
She wears her heart on her sleeve. Parting is such sweet sorrow. Something wicked this way comes! We're all familiar with these sayings. But where did they come from? Introduce young readers to the treasures of William Shakespeare with Shakespeare Illustrated Classics. Each title tells the tale of a popular play and is sure to inspire further Shakespearian study!
'He succeeds in placing before the reader a vision of the world in cosmic time.' Norman Nicholson. The Time Traveller knew that Time was only a kind of Space. The fantastic story of his adventures in a machine which could travel in any direction of Space and Time has captured the imagination of millions. H.G. Wells, one of the giants of twentieth-century literature, in this brilliant forerunner of today's SF did something which had never been done before and which had never been done since with the same vitality and bright inventiveness. 'The Time Machine,,, that little masterpiece' J.B. Priestly. Also included is one of H.G. Wells' most popular and enduring short stories 'The Man who could Work Miracles. Cover illustration by Alan Lee.
When the Time Traveler courageously stepped out of his machine for the first time, he found himself in the year 802,700-- and everything had changed. With a speculative leap that still fires the imagination, H.G. Wells sends his explorer to face a future burdened with our greatest hopes ... and our darkest fears. Propelled to the age of a slowly dying Earth, he discovers two bizarre races-- the ethereal Eloi and the subterranean Morlocks-- who not only symbolize the duality of human nature but offer a terrifying portrait of the men of tomorrow as well
Featuring 15 classic tales from iconic gothic authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelley, this collection immerses readers in the genre's eerie landscapes filled with supernatural forces and unsettling emotions. Set against backdrops of crumbling castles and haunted manors, these stories explore themes of mystery, lost secrets, and shocking violence. The luxury hardback edition showcases striking sprayed edge designs, enhancing the allure of these timeless narratives that pushed the boundaries of fiction in the 18th century.
What would a man from a fortieth-century utopia make of Edwardian England? In this, one of Wells's funniest and most perceptive scientific romances, the bewildered here, Sarnac, basking in a sunny, trouble-free world, is hurtled back 2000 years into the gaslit gloom of the streets of London - and into the life of the splendid Henry Mortimer Smith, a character to rival Mr Polly. Henry, a chemist's apprentice, is destined for greatness as a publishing tycoon, whisked along by his wilful sister Fanny and hindered only by his wayward loves. Looking back from the future, 'The Dream' is a wonderfully comic saga in which the mysteries of British life and the eccentricities of Wells's own day are alarmingly, and irresistibly recovered from oblivion.
This collection showcases H. G. Wells' imaginative storytelling through a series of intriguing short stories. With themes ranging from science fiction to social commentary, the narratives explore human experiences and the consequences of technological advancements. Each tale presents unique characters and thought-provoking scenarios, reflecting Wells' keen observations of society and the human condition, making it a compelling read for fans of speculative fiction.
A mountain climber, high in the Andes, falls into a strange valley. In London a man is looking for a green door. A third man tries to help an unhappy ghost. Each of these exciting stories shows us two very different worlds. But which is better? and can we be happier in another world?
In 1937, H. G. Wells proposed a predigital, freely available World Encyclopedia to represent a civilization-saving World Brain. In a series of talks and essays in 1937, H. G. Wells proselytized for what he called a "World Brain," as manifested in a World Encyclopedia--a repository of scientifically established knowledge--that would spread enlightenment around the world and lead to world peace. Wells, known to readers today as the author of The War of the Worlds and other science fiction classics, was imagining something like a predigital Wikipedia. The World Encyclopedia would provide a summary of verified reality (in about forty volumes); it would be widely available, free of copyright, and utilize the latest technology. Of course, as Bruce Sterling points out in the foreword to this edition of Wells's work, the World Brain didn't happen; the internet did. And yet, Wells anticipated aspects of the internet, envisioning the World Brain as a technical system of networked knowledge (in Sterling's words, a "hypothetical super-gadget"). Wells's optimism about the power of information might strike readers today as naïvely utopian, but possibly also inspirational.
'No one would have believed, in the last years of the nineteenth century, that this world was being watched keenly and closely by intelligences greater than man's' Exploring the primordial nightmares that lurk within humanity's dreams of progress and technology, H. G. Wells was a science fiction pioneer. This new omnibus edition brings together four of his hugely original and influential science-fiction novels - The Time Machine, The Island of Doctor Moreau, The Invisible Man and The War of the Worlds - with his most unsettling and strange short stories. Containing monstrous experiments, terrifying journeys, alien occupiers and grotesque creatures, these visionary tales discomfit and disturb, and retain the power to trouble our sense of who we are. With an introduction by Matthew Beaumont
H. G. Wells is often referred to as 'the father of science fiction' and this compendium of his stories contains two of his most well-known works in the genre, The Time Machine (1895) and The War of the Worlds (1897). In addition, the reader is treated to some stories of truly extraordinary dimensions: The Island of Doctor Moreau (1896), The Invisible Man (1897), When the Sleeper Wakes (1899), The First Men in the Moon (1901) and The Food of the Gods and How it came to Earth (1904). But Wells's phenomenal imagination ranged far and wide and thus we have included here two works of comic social realism, Kipps (1905) and The History of Mr. Polly (1910), stories that resound with Edwardian dreams, frustrations and triumphs. Wells is such a brilliant storyteller that well over a century after their publication, all of these texts are as fresh and compelling to us today as they would have been when his initial readers first turned their pages, often in astonishment and frequently in amusement. This is certainly a collection of the very best of H.G. Wells and we encourage you to devour them, and above all to enjoy the mercurial talent of this most original and precocious writer.
H.G. Wells' original masterpiece now includes a newly established text, a full biographical essay on the author, a list of further reading, and detailed notes. Famous for the mistaken panic that ensued from Orson Welles' 1938 radio dramatization, "The War of the Worlds" remains one of the most influential of all science fiction works.
Focused on accessibility, this publication from Megali aims to enhance the reading experience for individuals with impaired vision by reproducing historical works in large print. The initiative emphasizes the importance of making literature more available and enjoyable for all readers.
Bert Smallways embarks on a whimsical journey filled with comedy and tragedy, navigating a fantastical future that defies reality. As a commoner facing extraordinary circumstances, his star-crossed fate leads him through unexpected adventures and challenges, blending humor with poignant moments in a richly imagined world.
A mountain climber, high in The Andes, falls into a strange valley. In London
a man is looking for a green door. A third man tries to help an unhappy ghost.
Each of these exciting stories shows us two very different worlds. But which
is better? And can we be happier in another world?
In The Time Machine, Wells's Time Traveller journeys to the world of 802,701 AD, where humanity has divided into the effete, beautiful Eloi and the brutal subterranean Morlocks. In The War of the Worlds, the Martians -- intellects 'vast and cool and unsympathetic' -- send their war machines to wreak havoc across the world.
He succeeds in placing before the reader a vision of the world in cosmic time. - Norman NicholsonThe Time Traveller knew that Time was only a kind of Space. The fantastic story of his adventures in a machine which could travel in any direction of Space and Time has captured the imagination of millions.H.G. Wells, one of the giants of twentieth-century literature, in this brilliant forerunner of today's SF did something which had never been done before and which has never been done since with the same vitality and bright inventiveness.The Time Machine...that little masterpiece - J.B. PriestleyAlso included is one of H.G.Wells' most popular and enduring short stories The Man Who Could Work MiraclesCover Illustration: Alan Lee
Set in 1894, this graphic novel reimagines a classic science fiction tale of extraterrestrial observation and impending invasion. As Earth becomes the target of envious aliens, tension builds, highlighting themes of ambition and conflict. The vivid illustrations complement the suspenseful narrative, bringing the story to life and inviting readers to explore the interplay between humanity and otherworldly forces.
Exploring the concept of conflict, the narrative presents a thought-provoking analogy comparing human struggles to the relationship between humans and ants. It delves into themes of power dynamics and the perception of war, challenging the reader to reconsider what constitutes true conflict. The book invites reflection on the nature of existence and the often-overlooked complexities of life, suggesting that not all battles are fought with weapons, but rather through understanding and perspective.
Blast off into the unknown with this collection of ten classical works of science fiction and fantasy. Long before we ventured into outer space or explored the most remote regions of the planet, writers have spun stories of what might lie in those unknown worlds, or what awaits humanity in the future. Classic Tales of Science Fiction & Fantasy is a collection of ten novels and short stories that blazed the trail for the popular genre. Works by acclaimed authors such as Jules Verne, H. G. Wells, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Jack London, and H. P. Lovecraft will transport the reader to distant places and times—and set the imagination ablaze!
Orphaned at an early age, Artie Kipps is stunned to discover upon reading a newspaper that he is the grandson of a wealthy gentleman -- and the inheritor of his fortune. Thrown dramatically into the upper classes, he struggles to learn the etiquette and rules of polite society. But, as he soon discovers, becoming a "true gentleman" is neither as easy nor as desirable as it first appears. Kipps is a hilarious tale of one man's struggle for self-improvement and a witty satire of pretension.
The book presents a vision for establishing human control over life's destinies, aiming to alleviate current dangers and uncertainties. It argues that scientific progress is fostering a unified global perspective among the educated elite, which can lead to a world revolution focused on universal peace and welfare. By integrating various functional classes, the text envisions the creation of a world community that could evolve into a global religion. Its themes remain relevant, particularly in the context of contemporary global conflicts and efforts toward unity.
With the Introductory Chapter, The Revolution and Famine in Russia By H. G. Wells
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Set in a future totalitarian society, the story follows D-503, a mathematician who begins to awaken to his individual soul amidst a passionless existence dictated by the 'Benefactor.' This groundbreaking dystopian novel, which inspired Orwell's 1984, critiques oppressive regimes and explores themes of individuality and freedom. Originally banned by Soviet censors, it remains a significant work in speculative fiction. The modern edition includes an introductory chapter by H. G. Wells, enhancing its historical context.
Exploring the boundaries of science fiction, fantasy, and the supernatural, this collection showcases H.G. Wells' masterful storytelling. The titular tale, "The Door in the Wall," examines themes of memory and personal fulfillment. Complementing this poignant narrative are imaginative stories that tackle the dangers of scientific experimentation, time travel, and the intricacies of human nature. With a blend of social commentary and visionary ideas, Wells captivates readers through timeless explorations of the human condition and the mysteries of existence.
Featuring some of the most iconic works of science fiction and fantasy, this collection showcases H. G. Wells' influential storytelling. Readers can explore thrilling tales like "The Invasion from Mars" and "The Valley of the Spiders," which highlight his imaginative prowess and pioneering contributions to the genre. This carefully curated anthology celebrates Wells as a foundational figure in science fiction literature.
Exploring the future impact of technological and scientific advancements, H. G. Wells offers a forward-thinking vision of society in this 1901 non-fiction work. He examines the evolution of politics, education, and industry, emphasizing the interplay between these areas and the role of science. Wells expresses a belief in the potential of technology to create a more enlightened society, reflecting the social and political concerns of the early 20th century. This book serves as an insightful commentary on the possibilities of progress and human development.
The luxurious hardcover edition showcases H.G. Wells' masterpieces, highlighted by silver embossing and gilded edges. "The War of the Worlds" presents a gripping narrative of alien invasion through the eyes of an unnamed narrator, exploring the fear of an unyielding enemy. "The Time Machine" introduces a Victorian scientist who journeys to a distant future, uncovering a dark reality that lies beneath its seemingly alien surface. This collection celebrates Wells' profound impact on science fiction with its timeless themes and imaginative storytelling.
These twenty-one stories by H.G. Wells represents the variety of his imagination and reveal his power to evoke both scene and atmosphere. They include the scientific reconstruction of prehistoric life in THE GRISLY FOLD, the exciting futuristic fantasy of THE TIME MACHINE, and such vivid cosmic parables as THE COUNTRY OF THE BLIND.
Stories The Truth about Pyecraft by H. G. Wells, Warriors in the Mist by Ursula Le Guin, The Cats The Cow and The Burglar by E. Nesbit, Dr. Dolittle's Reward by Hugh Lofting, The White-Haired Children by Ruth Ainsworth, Harriet's Hairloom by Joan Aiken, The Way Out by Mary Norton, Riddles in the Dark by J. R. R. Tolkien, The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, Rip Van Winkle by Washington Irving, The Lion and the Unicorn by Lewis Carroll, The Wind on the Moon by Eric Linklater, By Caldron Pool by C. S. Lewis, A Ring of Stones by Alan Garner, Particle Goes Green by Helen Cresswell, and Escape to the Emerald City by L. Frank Baum.
A reflective collection of short stories showcases the author's journey from prolific writer to a more restrained creator. This volume includes a selection of thirty-three tales, primarily from the last century, emphasizing both notable and lesser works. The author acknowledges the shift in their writing focus and the challenges of inspiration, highlighting how encouragement from a friend sparked their initial foray into short fiction. The stories reveal a playful exploration of vivid, imaginative scenarios, blending absurdity with intriguing narratives.
Gorgeous Collector's Edition of H.G. Wells' classic tale of invasion.
Cylinders land on earth and invaders from Mars begin to destroy houses, then
whole cities, creating panic and mass evacuation before a foul black smoke is
released by the aliens. Includes a new introduction, the short story 'A Dream
of Armageddon' and The First Men in the Moon.
Exploring the complexities of love and societal constraints, the narrative follows Stephen Stratton as he reflects on his unfulfilled passion for Mary, who is married to another man. The novel addresses themes of emotional conflict and the struggle between personal happiness and social expectations, offering a poignant examination of relationships and the pursuit of individual freedom against the backdrop of moral standards of the era.
First published in 1922, A Short History of the World has become a classic of its kind. In concrete and vigorous prose H. G. Wells tells the story of the planet from its geological beginnings to the First World War. With a new introduction by Norman Stone
This volume unites four of Wells' liveliest and most engaging tales of the strange evolution and behaviour of animals - including human beings. The Island of Doctor Moreau is followed by three fantastic yet chillingly plausible short stories of human-animal encounters.
MYSTERY & HORROR Through the narratives of Mr Enfield, Mr Utterson, Dr Lanyon and Poole, Jekyll’s butler, the mystery of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is revealed: Dr Jekyll, an eminent scientist, has discovered a drug which changes him into the embodiment of his evil impulses. Which side of Jekyll, the good or the evil, will triumph? Dossiers: London and Crime The ‘Double’ in 19th-century Fiction
Fans of H.G. Wells's science fiction may be surprised by his lesser-known but once-popular work, which features a comically vibrant narrative voice, contrasting sharply with the somber tone of his more famous novels. The story revolves around Mr. Alfred Polly, a disgruntled shopkeeper in the dreary town of Fishbourne, England, who stirs up chaos and slapstick mishaps wherever he goes. Having left school at 14, Polly's education has left him in a state of confusion, akin to a botched surgical operation. Despite this, his mind brims with eccentric creativity, and his thwarted romantic aspirations lead to a hilariously misguided suicide attempt. While we won't reveal the outcome, it's worth noting that Polly's blunders make him an unwitting hero in his community, only to disappear for more misadventures. Critics often draw parallels between Polly's social satire and the works of Dickens, yet it also resonates with the humor of Mark Twain and Finley Peter Dunne's Mr. Dooley. Wells himself regarded it as one of his better works, highlighting Polly's heroic incompetence, his challenge to Edwardian norms, and his obliviousness to his revolutionary potential.
In the first of these two science fiction stories a scientist invents a machine that transports him into the future. In the second story a man watches his body slowly become invisible.
A mysterious stranger arrives at a quiet country inn, fully clothed and bandaged, sparking bizarre incidents in the neighborhood—doors open and close on their own, and disembodied voices echo. The atmosphere shifts from strange to macabre when a scientist conducts a self-experiment that renders him invisible, transforming him into a homicidal maniac with no regard for life or property. His unsettling presence at the Coaches and Horses inn piques the curiosity of locals, including Mr. Cuss, who suffers a painful encounter with the invisible man. As the stranger exploits his invisibility to steal and terrorize, chaos ensues in Iping. He enlists a tramp, Mr. Marvel, threatening him to retrieve his belongings. Marvel assists but ultimately betrays the Invisible Man, fleeing with stolen money and books. Injured in pursuit, the Invisible Man takes refuge with Dr. Kemp, a former university junior. Expecting sympathy, Griffin reveals his identity and experiment, but Kemp, alarmed by Griffin's violent acts reported in the news, decides to alert the authorities. His efforts culminate in the end of the Invisible Man's reign of terror. First serialized in 1897, the gripping tale has inspired numerous adaptations and sequels, captivating audiences worldwide with its themes of psychological terror and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
Stephen Crisp (Cover illustrator) George Hay (Introduction) Mr. Barnstaple was ever such a careful driver, careful to indicate before every manoeuvre and very much in favour of slowing down at the slightest hint of difficulty. So however could he have got the car into a skid on a bend on the Maidenhead road? When he recovered himself he was more than a little relieved to see the two cars that he had been following still merrily motoring along in front of him. It seemed that all was well -- except that the scenery had changed, rather a lot. It was then that the awful truth dawned: Mr Barnstaple had been hurled into another world altogether. How would he ever survive in this supposed Utopia and, more importantly, how would he ever get back?
This volume contains a generous selection of the tales of H. G. Wells, some of them famous, some forgotten. They demonstrate his immense imaginative energy, his originality and his prophetic genius
Featuring a prominent story, "The Country of the Blind," this collection showcases thirty-three fantasy and science fiction tales penned by H.G. Wells from 1894 to 1909. The stories explore imaginative themes and innovative concepts, reflecting the author's significant contributions to the genres. Each tale invites readers into unique worlds, highlighting Wells's visionary storytelling and his ability to blend the fantastical with thought-provoking ideas.