60 pages • 2 hours read
H. G. WellsThe War of the Worlds
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1898A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The War of the Worlds by H. G. Wells is a science fiction novel recounting a Martian invasion near London, as described by an unnamed narrator who witnesses the overwhelming technological superiority and destructive power of the Martians. Human civilization collapses, but the Martians are eventually wiped out by terrestrial bacteria. The story is notable for its depiction of mass panic and the profound impact of an extraterrestrial threat.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
H. G. Wells' The War of the Worlds is heralded for its groundbreaking narrative and imaginative depiction of alien invasion, demonstrating Wells' innovative foresight. Reviews praise its suspense and social commentary. Criticisms note a preference for more complex character development. Overall, it's a seminal work in science fiction, admired for its lasting influence.
Who Should Read The War of the Worlds?
Fans of speculative fiction and classic science fiction will delight in The War of the Worlds by H. G. Wells. Ideal for readers who enjoyed Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth or Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, this novel offers thrilling adventures, social commentary, and pioneering insights into extraterrestrial life.