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.

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.

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.

Mysterious / Dark / Suspenseful / Adventurous / Unnerving

H. G. Wells

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The War of the Worlds reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The War of the Worlds | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore The War of the Worlds and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The War of the Worlds Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Book 1: “The Coming of the Martians”

Book 1, Chapters 1-8

The War of the Worlds Book 1, Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Book 1, Chapters 9-13

The War of the Worlds Book 1, Chapters 9-13 Summary & Analysis

Book 1, Chapters 14-17

The War of the Worlds Book 1, Chapters 14-17 Summary & Analysis

Book 2: “The Earth Under the Martians”

Book 2, Chapters 1-5

The War of the Worlds Book 2, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Book 2, Chapters 6-10

The War of the Worlds Book 2, Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The War of the Worlds Character Analysis

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Themes

The War of the Worlds Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The War of the Worlds Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The War of the Worlds Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The War of the Worlds Essay Topics

The War of the Worlds

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The War of the Worlds?

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Book Details