The Young H.G. Wells - Signed Edition

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From acclaimed literary biographer Claire Tomalin, this exploration delves into the early life of the influential writer H. G. Wells. Upon Wells' death in 1946, George Orwell noted that had he ceased writing in 1920, his reputation would remain high, highlighting that while Wells is celebrated for iconic science fiction works like The Time Machine and The Invisible Man, his later writing never matched his earlier successes. Tomalin vividly recounts Wells' formative years, born in 1866 to a gardener and a housekeeper, grappling with poverty and health issues. Taken out of school at 12, he faced torment but persevered, earning scholarships and pursuing science degrees. Despite failing his final exams, he began writing textbooks, engaging in politics, and contributing to newspapers. Enduring serious illness and breakdowns, Wells sought escape through literature and imagination, gaining recognition with his first novel, The Time Machine, in 1895. This groundbreaking work transformed readers' perspectives and marked the start of his remarkable success. Leading up to World War I, Wells produced an impressive array of works, addressing science, social change, and future predictions, while forging relationships with notable figures. Tomalin's portrait reveals how these early experiences shaped Wells into a significant literary figure, emphasizing the importance of his youth in understanding his legacy.