H. G. Wells 
WHEN THE SLEEPER AWAKES (A Dystopian Sci-Fi Classic) 

H.G. Wells’ ‘When the Sleeper Awakes’ is a dystopian science-fiction classic that delves into themes of capitalism, technology, and the future of society. Set in a futuristic world where the protagonist awakens after a 200-year slumber to find a society completely transformed by corporate greed and oppression, the novel explores the consequences of unchecked power and the human desire for freedom. Wells’ writing style is lauded for its engaging narrative, vivid descriptions, and thought-provoking social commentary, making it a timeless and influential work in the science fiction genre. H.G. Wells, a visionary writer known for his groundbreaking science fiction works, was deeply influenced by the technological advancements and social changes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His unique perspective on the impact of scientific progress on society is evident in ‘When the Sleeper Awakes’, where he raises important questions about the ethics of capitalism and the dangers of a future driven by profit motives. I highly recommend ‘When the Sleeper Awakes’ to readers interested in thought-provoking science fiction that explores the consequences of unchecked power and the resilience of the human spirit. Wells’ timeless classic continues to resonate with modern audiences and remains relevant in today’s world of rapid technological advancement and social inequality.

About the author

Herbert George Wells, widely known as H.G. Wells (1866–1946), was a prolific English writer who is best remembered for his contributions to the science fiction genre. His prescient narratives have captivated readers with visions of alien invasion, time travel, and futuristic societies, all rooted in the social and scientific concerns of his time. Wells’ literary style often delved into speculative fiction, employing a mix of didactic and descriptive prose, which has been both critiqued and celebrated for its direct engagement with the moral and political issues of the early twentieth century.
Wells’ groundbreaking novel ‘When The Sleeper Awakes’ (1899) is a quintessential example of his work, showcasing his dystopian imagination and richly woven themes of authoritarianism, inequality, and the malleability of human society under technological influence. The book’s dystopian landscape serves as a precursor to many modern science fiction motifs, reflecting Wells’ uncanny ability to foretell the impact of societal advancements. His contributions to literature extend beyond his science fiction works, including novels such as ‘The Time Machine’ (1895), ‘The Invisible Man’ (1897), and ‘The War of the Worlds’ (1898), establishing Wells as one of the founders of science fiction and a seminal figure in early 20th-century English literature.