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In one of his most well known novels, H.G. Wells tells an amazing story about what would happen if invaders from Mars waged war on Earth. In The War of the Worlds the people of Earth are invaded by the far intellectually and technologically superior inhabitants of Mars, and are forced to fight back. As the story goes on the reader is captivated by the story of one man's journey while his race fights for survival.

For years the inhabitants of Mars have been watching Earth, studying the habits and lives of its people. In the opening chapter of the novel, Mars launches its first attack on the unprepared Earthlings. This act is observed but ignored because scientists don’t believe any intelligent life could possibly exist on Mars. When the Martians arrive, Earth’s forces are overwhelmed by the advanced weaponry and keen intellects of the invaders. Can the relatively primitive forces of Earth possibly stop the seemingly invulnerable warriors from Mars?

This novel gives its readers an original story of the struggles of mankind in an attempt to save Earth. Also the novel has a unique aspect to it because as most science fiction novels are set in the future, this one is set in the past, the year 1894. Another thing this novel offers is a unique writing style. Wells uses a descriptive style of writing and the entire book is set in the past tense, looking back on the story. This makes it feel more real as if it is a true event that is being retold.

Some readers may find this novel challenging to read. The author uses sophisticated diction that can be hard for younger readers. Also since it was written a long time ago, many of the cultural references used can be hard for readers to understand. Another thing is many readers may find the ending very anticlimactic as it ends with no fighting as would be expected from the title. Another thing is the slow moving pace of the novel can make readers lose interest.

Overall, this book only deserves two stars. The War of the Worlds is a slow-paced novel that is a challenging read. Its cultural references are hard to understand and the ending has absolutely no pay-off. Readers will find this book hard to enjoy unless they are big fans of Wells' writing style or big fans of this genre.