âSelect Conversations with an Uncleâ is H.G. Wellsâ first book. It is a collection of fourteen humorous conversations between a man and his newly wealthy uncle. These short stories are more grounded than Wellsâ later science-fiction work, but they portray the same values and ideals that influence his celebrated novels. This deeply personal collection gives the reader invaluable insight into Wellsâ character and his views on topics from marriage to art. While these short conversations are intimate, Wellsâ unique and witty prose ensures that they are always entertaining. The best exchanges include the lovelorn tale of âLa Belle Dame Sans Merciâ and âOn Social Musicâ in which the uncle comically complains about a neighbour playing the piano poorly. Drifting between playful and poignant âSelect Conversations with an Uncleâ is the perfect read for fans of Wells or conversational literature such as Oscar Wildeâs âThe Decay of Lyingâ.
H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wellsâ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel âThe Time Machineâ, the sci-fi adventure novel âThe Island of Dr. Moreauâ, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel âThe War of the Worldsâ. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wellsâ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including âThe Invisible Manâ starring Elisabeth Moss.