The War in the Air

The War in the Air cover
Good Books rating 4.08
Buy online
Technical
  • ID: 8102
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780141441306
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2005-05-26
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

H.G. Wells' 'The War in the Air' is a seminal work of early science fiction, first published in 1908. This novel explores the consequences of aerial warfare and its impact on global politics. Wells' prescient imagination delves into the technological advancements of the time, presenting a chilling vision of future conflicts./n/nThe story follows the adventures of Bert Smallways, an ordinary man caught in the midst of a world-altering war. As nations clash in the skies, Smallways' journey becomes a microcosm of the broader human experience in the face of rapid technological change. Wells' narrative blends action, social commentary, and speculative fiction, making 'The War in the Air' a timeless exploration of humanity's relationship with innovation and conflict.

Reviews
Fantasy Literature · 2025-12-20
thought-provoking 4.50

The War in the Air is not just an entertaining piece of futuristic fiction; it's also a highly moral one. The author's beautifully written passages add depth to the narrative.

The War in the Air stands out as a novel that transcends mere entertainment. It delves into moral and ethical questions, making it a deeply thought-provoking read. The author's skillful writing elevates the story, adding layers of meaning and complexity. The novel's exploration of futuristic technology and its societal impact is both timely and relevant. The blend of humor and serious themes makes it a unique and engaging read. The author's ability to weave a compelling narrative while addressing important issues is commendable.


Quick quotes

    But this isn't just an entertaining piece of futuristic fiction; it's a highly moral one as well.

    The author, in several beautifully written passages, tells us about the broader implications of technological advancement.

    The War in the Air is a novel that should be mandatory reading for all, given its timely exploration of technology and society.

At Boundary's Edge · 2021-11-09
insightful 4.00

The War in the Air is a pioneering work of military science fiction that offers a compelling vision of future warfare. Its exploration of technology and its impact on society is both insightful and thought-provoking.

The War in the Air is a fascinating read, particularly for those interested in the early development of military science fiction. The novel's depiction of aerial warfare is remarkably prescient, given its publication date. The author's ability to envision future technology and its societal implications is truly impressive. The story is not just entertaining but also carries a strong moral message, making it a well-rounded and thought-provoking piece. The blend of humor and serious themes adds depth to the narrative, making it a unique and engaging read.


Quick quotes

    The War in the Air is, if we classify it by modern standards, possibly the earliest forerunner of military science fiction that I have read.

    Wells ability to portray future (for the time) tech is incredible.

    The larger theme of how a new technology can disrupt society is explored in a way that feels both timely and timeless.

The Reading Bug · 2018-08-29
captivating 3.75

The novel is a strange mixture of low comedy and serious exploration of future warfare. The predictions about World War II are remarkably accurate.

The War in the Air is a unique blend of humor and serious themes, making it a captivating read. The novel's predictions about future warfare, particularly its accurate foreshadowing of World War II, are truly remarkable. The author's ability to blend comedy with serious exploration of technology and its impact on society is impressive. The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking, offering a compelling vision of the future. The novel's exploration of the societal implications of new technologies is both timely and relevant, making it a must-read for those interested in science fiction and its historical context.


Quick quotes

    The novel is a strange mixture of fairly low comedy – much of it is written as the misadventures of Wells's everyman character, as sort of a...

    The most remarkable thing about this novel is the weirdly accurate predictions Wells makes, not about World War I, but about World War II!

    A militaristic, industrialized world is depicted in a way that feels both familiar and eerily prescient.

Appears in Lists