H. G. Wells 
The Wheels of Chance 

H. G. Wells’ novel, The Wheels of Chance, is a captivating tale that follows the adventures of a young draper’s assistant who embarks on a cycling holiday in the English countryside. The book is written in Wells’ signature descriptive style, painting vivid scenes of the changing landscapes and the protagonist’s encounters with various characters. Set in the late 19th century when cycling was gaining popularity, the novel also serves as a social commentary on the emerging bicycle culture and the freedom it offered to individuals. Wells’ exploration of class differences and the pursuit of personal freedom through cycling adds depth to the narrative, making it a compelling read for both literary enthusiasts and those interested in historical fiction. H. G. Wells, known for his pioneering works in the science fiction genre, drew inspiration from his own cycling experiences and observations of society to craft this engaging novel. His progressive views on social issues and keen eye for detail shine through in The Wheels of Chance, creating a thought-provoking and enjoyable reading experience for audiences of all backgrounds. I highly recommend The Wheels of Chance to readers looking for a well-written and insightful novel that blends entertainment with social commentary in a unique and compelling way.

About the author

Herbert George Wells, more commonly known as H. G. Wells (1866–1946), was a seminal figure in the science fiction genre, whose innovative writings have left an indelible mark on literature and popular culture. Born in Bromley, England, Wells’s career in literature spanned over fifty years, with a prolific output that included novels, short stories, and works of social commentary. A former student of biology under Thomas Henry Huxley, Wells combined his scientific knowledge with a vivid imagination to explore themes of progress, society, and humanity’s place in the universe. His most famous works, such as ‘The Time Machine’ (1895), ‘The War of the Worlds’ (1898), and ‘The Invisible Man’ (1897), are characterized by their prescient ideas and engaging narratives. However, Wells’s literary repertoire was not confined to science fiction alone. ‘The Wheels of Chance’ (1896) is an example of his lesser-known, yet captivating forays into other genres—in this case, a comic novel that offers a penetrating look at the social mores of its time through the lens of a cycling adventure. Throughout his career, Wells was also an outspoken advocate for social reform and a futurist, envisioning a world united in peace—a theme permeating his non-fiction works, such as ‘Anticipations’ (1901). Wells’s literary style is marked by its clarity, imagination, and an enduring belief in the potential of human progress, ensuring his status as one of literature’s most influential and visionary authors.