The Wheels of Chance (Complete Edition) (eBook)

Herbert George Wells, more famously known as H. G. Wells (1866–1946), was a prodigious English writer in many genres, including the novel, history, politics, and social commentary, as well as textbooks and rules for war games. Wells is best remembered for his science fiction novels and is often referred to as a father of science fiction, alongside Jules Verne and Hugo Gernsback. His most notable works encompass 'The Time Machine' (1895), 'The Invisible Man' (1897), and 'The War of the Worlds' (1898). Wells's literary style is characterized by its vivid imagination, foresight, and social critique, encapsulated in engaging and accessible prose. In 'The Wheels of Chance: A Bicycling Idyll' (1896), Wells crafts a humorous and satiric narrative that reflects his own passion for cycling while also commenting on the social and cultural attitudes of his time. This novel diverges from his more renowned speculative works and offers instead a pastoral comedy that delves into the escapades of a draper's assistant during the cycling craze of the 1890s. Through his extensive and diverse body of work, Wells showcased his ability to blend fantastic storytelling with thoughtful reflection on contemporary social issues, solidifying his place as a central figure in early 20th century literature.