When the Sleeper Wakes By: H. G. Wells (1866-1946)
When the Sleeper Wakes by H. G. Wells is a thought-provoking and gripping sci-fi novel that kept me captivated from beginning to end. The story follows Graham, a man who falls into a deep sleep in 1897 and wakes up in the year 2100 to find himself in a completely transformed world. Wells introduces us to a dystopian future where the working class has risen against the oppressed ruling class, establishing a new society. The cityscape is dominated by towering structures, and technology has reached unprecedented levels. However, what seems to be a utopia on the surface soon reveals its darker side, highlighting themes of inequality, power, and the corrupting influence of money. What sets this book apart is Wells' ability to explore complex social, economic, and political concepts within a thrilling narrative. The writer's vivid descriptions paint a vivid picture of this futuristic world, from the crowded streets and extravagant monuments to the advanced technology that governs every aspect of people's lives. The protagonist, Graham, is a relatable and sympathetic character. His struggle to come to terms with the drastic changes around him, his yearning for his lost era, and his desire to understand and contribute to this new society make him a compelling figure. Wells skillfully weaves in his personal journey alongside the larger societal issues, creating a narrative that is both personal and universal. One aspect of the book that stands out is Wells' commentary on the dangers of unchecked capitalism and the power it holds over society. He highlights the morally bankrupt nature of the ruling class and the relentless pursuit of profit at the expense of human lives. This critique remains relevant even in our contemporary world, making the book's social commentary all the more poignant. While the pacing of the story is generally strong, there are moments where it lags, and some scenes feel overly long and meandering. Additionally, the book's conclusion may leave readers craving a deeper exploration of the aftermath and consequences of the events that transpire. Overall, When the Sleeper Wakes is a captivating science fiction novel that delves into the human condition, exploring themes of inequality, power, and the corrupting nature of wealth. Wells' unique blend of social commentary and thrilling narrative makes this a must-read for fans of the genre, as well as anyone interested in thought-provoking and prescient literature. First Page: WHEN THE SLEEPER WAKES By Herbert George Wells CHAPTER I. INSOMNIA One afternoon, at low water, Mr. Isbister, a young artist lodging at Boscastle, walked from that place to the picturesque cove of Pentargen, desiring to examine the caves there. Halfway down the precipitous path to the Pentargen beach he came suddenly upon a man sitting in an attitude of profound distress beneath a projecting mass of rock. The hands of this man hung limply over his knees, his eyes were red and staring before him, and his face was wet with tears. He glanced round at Isbister's footfall. Both men were disconcerted, Isbister the more so, and, to override the awkwardness of his involuntary pause, he remarked, with an air of mature conviction, that the weather was hot for the time of year. "Very," answered the stranger shortly, hesitated a second, and added in a colourless tone, "I can't sleep." Isbister stopped abruptly. "No?" was all he said, but his bearing conveyed his helpful impulse. "It may sound incredible," said the stranger, turning weary eyes to Isbister's face and emphasizing his words with a languid hand, "but I have had no sleep no sleep at all for six nights." "Had advice?" "Yes. Bad advice for the most part. Drugs. My nervous system.... They are all very well for the run of people... Continue reading book >>

When the Sleeper Wakes By: H. G. Wells (1866-1946)

When the Sleeper Wakes by H. G. Wells is a thought-provoking and gripping sci-fi novel that kept me captivated from beginning to end. The story follows Graham, a man who falls into a deep sleep in 1897 and wakes up in the year 2100 to find himself in a completely transformed world.

Wells introduces us to a dystopian future where the working class has risen against the oppressed ruling class, establishing a new society. The cityscape is dominated by towering structures, and technology has reached unprecedented levels. However, what seems to be a utopia on the surface soon reveals its darker side, highlighting themes of inequality, power, and the corrupting influence of money.

What sets this book apart is Wells' ability to explore complex social, economic, and political concepts within a thrilling narrative. The writer's vivid descriptions paint a vivid picture of this futuristic world, from the crowded streets and extravagant monuments to the advanced technology that governs every aspect of people's lives.

The protagonist, Graham, is a relatable and sympathetic character. His struggle to come to terms with the drastic changes around him, his yearning for his lost era, and his desire to understand and contribute to this new society make him a compelling figure. Wells skillfully weaves in his personal journey alongside the larger societal issues, creating a narrative that is both personal and universal.

One aspect of the book that stands out is Wells' commentary on the dangers of unchecked capitalism and the power it holds over society. He highlights the morally bankrupt nature of the ruling class and the relentless pursuit of profit at the expense of human lives. This critique remains relevant even in our contemporary world, making the book's social commentary all the more poignant.

While the pacing of the story is generally strong, there are moments where it lags, and some scenes feel overly long and meandering. Additionally, the book's conclusion may leave readers craving a deeper exploration of the aftermath and consequences of the events that transpire.

Overall, When the Sleeper Wakes is a captivating science fiction novel that delves into the human condition, exploring themes of inequality, power, and the corrupting nature of wealth. Wells' unique blend of social commentary and thrilling narrative makes this a must-read for fans of the genre, as well as anyone interested in thought-provoking and prescient literature.

First Page:

WHEN THE SLEEPER WAKES

By Herbert George Wells

CHAPTER I. INSOMNIA

One afternoon, at low water, Mr. Isbister, a young artist lodging at Boscastle, walked from that place to the picturesque cove of Pentargen, desiring to examine the caves there. Halfway down the precipitous path to the Pentargen beach he came suddenly upon a man sitting in an attitude of profound distress beneath a projecting mass of rock. The hands of this man hung limply over his knees, his eyes were red and staring before him, and his face was wet with tears.

He glanced round at Isbister's footfall. Both men were disconcerted, Isbister the more so, and, to override the awkwardness of his involuntary pause, he remarked, with an air of mature conviction, that the weather was hot for the time of year.

"Very," answered the stranger shortly, hesitated a second, and added in a colourless tone, "I can't sleep."

Isbister stopped abruptly. "No?" was all he said, but his bearing conveyed his helpful impulse.

"It may sound incredible," said the stranger, turning weary eyes to Isbister's face and emphasizing his words with a languid hand, "but I have had no sleep no sleep at all for six nights."

"Had advice?"

"Yes. Bad advice for the most part. Drugs. My nervous system.... They are all very well for the run of people... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Science
Travel

eBook links
Wikipedia – H. G. Wells
Wikipedia – When the Sleeper Wakes

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