Book Review: The First Men in the Moon by H.G. Wells

July 26, 2012
Article first published as Book Review: The First Men in the Moon by H.G. Wells on Blogcritics.

About:
The First Men in the Moon by H.G. Wells is another classic book by the famous English author written in 1901. At the time the novel was ridiculed, however it stood the test of time for over more than a Century.

  • 176 pages
  • Publisher: Dover Publications (December 18, 2000)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0486414183

Book Review The First Men in the Moon by H.G. Wells

My rat­ing for The First Men in the Moon3

Buy this book paper or elec­tronic for­mat

More books by H. G. Wells

Part of the League of Extra­or­di­nary Gen­tle — Men of la — Book Chal­lenge (Vol. 1)

Thoughts:
The First Men in the Moon by H.G. Wells is a very imaginative book which, in the context of what we know now, is an amazing testament to Mr. Wells’ imagination, logic and foresight. In this book objects float in space, weightlessness is applicable, humans are able to cover large distances on the moon due to low gravity and spaceships generate an immense amount of heat returning to earth.

The story also has several philosophical tones. The two main characters, Cavor and Bedford are at odds with one another throughout. Cavor, the man of science, is a pacifist who works for the benefit of mankind. Bedford on the other hand is not a very nice guy, however practical, who is looking at science for pure financial gain.

I did not enjoy this book as much as I thought I would, the beginning was very slow and I actually only found the last part interesting where the emotional conflict becomes prominent. The moon dwellers, who are supposed to be the bad guys, aren’t very interesting nor did I have any emotions vested in the adventures of our two protagonists.

The last chapter I thought was the best, if you haven’t read the book stop reading as I’m going to give the ending away. Even though it seems that the chapter is disconnected from the rest of the book, I felt it gave the book the emotional punch it needed.

Synopsis:
Mr. Bedford lost his fortune and goes to Ken to write a play. By chance he meeds Dr. Cavor, a brilliant scientist who is developing an anti-gravity material. Soon after Cavor manages to create such a material and suggests to go on an adventure to the moon with his new friend.

Cavor, motivated by science, and Bedford, motivated by money embark on their journey to moon where they find a harsh world of freezing nights, hot days and not-so-friendly aliens.
Worst – it seems that the two explorers are trapped forever.

Zohar – Man of la Book
Disclaimer: I borrowed this book from the local library

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6 Comments

  • JonathanJuly 26, 2012 at 11:12 am

    Very cool, I didn’t even know this book existed– then again, I guess it wouldn’t be as famous, given how, as you said, it’s not much of a page turner. But still, great review. Thanks for telling us about it.

  • Bev@My Reader's BlockJuly 27, 2012 at 3:30 pm

    Like you, I didn’t enjoy this one as much as anticipated. I’ve enjoyed so many of Wells’s work, though, I suppose I was due for one that didn’t quite do it for me.

    • Zohar - Man of la BookJuly 27, 2012 at 10:46 pm

      I actually can’t put my finger on exactly why it didn’t work. I did enjoyed Wells’ other books though.

  • RyanJuly 30, 2012 at 10:40 am

    I’m starting to realize the vast amount that I have never read. I’m pretty sure I’ve never read a book by Wells. One of these days I’m sure I will though.

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