H. G. Wells' classic science fiction work, first serialized in 1897, is one of many invasion narratives prevalent in British literature towards the end of the 19th century. However, The War of the Worlds not only introduces the extraterrestrial element of brutal Martian forces on the rampage but also explores many other contemporary issues and themes.
Here then is a powerful first-person narrative that grapples with Martians, tripods, heat rays, the behaviour of crowds, love, human resilience and Woking.