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A review by veelaughtland
A Slip under the Microscope by H.G. Wells
2.0
2.5 stars.
The Penguin Little Black Classics are a collection that I view, for the most part, as an excellent way to be introduced to an author's writing if you're wary about picking up a whole book or collection.
I have already previously read four H.G. Wells books, and I have to say that this little collection is not a good introduction to him as an author. There is essentially no science fiction elements in either of the two stories within this collection, and unfortunately the stories aren't all that interesting.
I preferred A Slip Under the Microscope - it's a story that follows a young man called Hill who becomes obsessed with becoming the best student in his class and beating his rival to obtain the heart of the girl he likes. However, he comes across a moral conundrum in the process. I enjoyed the observation of human desire and competitiveness, but overall I wouldn't say this was an amazing story or anything. (3 stars)
The Door in the Wall unfortunately didn't hold my interest. It had some mild fantastical elements, but overall dealt with a character's misery and regret at not grabbing opportunities that had presented themselves to him throughout his life. It shows the sacrifice of choosing what you feel will benefit your life over what you feel will benefit your heart and soul. I just found it a little dull however, and didn't really like the way the story was narrated. (2 stars)
Honestly? Just pick up The Island of Doctor Moreau. Seriously, it's way better.
The Penguin Little Black Classics are a collection that I view, for the most part, as an excellent way to be introduced to an author's writing if you're wary about picking up a whole book or collection.
I have already previously read four H.G. Wells books, and I have to say that this little collection is not a good introduction to him as an author. There is essentially no science fiction elements in either of the two stories within this collection, and unfortunately the stories aren't all that interesting.
I preferred A Slip Under the Microscope - it's a story that follows a young man called Hill who becomes obsessed with becoming the best student in his class and beating his rival to obtain the heart of the girl he likes. However, he comes across a moral conundrum in the process. I enjoyed the observation of human desire and competitiveness, but overall I wouldn't say this was an amazing story or anything. (3 stars)
The Door in the Wall unfortunately didn't hold my interest. It had some mild fantastical elements, but overall dealt with a character's misery and regret at not grabbing opportunities that had presented themselves to him throughout his life. It shows the sacrifice of choosing what you feel will benefit your life over what you feel will benefit your heart and soul. I just found it a little dull however, and didn't really like the way the story was narrated. (2 stars)
Honestly? Just pick up The Island of Doctor Moreau. Seriously, it's way better.