The First Men in the Moon

Published in 1901 and ahead of its time, The First Men in the Moon by science fiction author H. G. Wells is a fantastical story of a journey to the Moon which leads to the discovery of a brand new species. A prominent literary figure, H. G. Wells is known as the 'father of science fiction' for his influence and contribution to the genre. He wrote dozens of novels and short stories which covered the seemingly impossible, including space travel. Though Wells’ writing is nothing less than magical and masterful, his work is well known to question everything from evolution and religion to the class system of Victorian England, and his progressive vision for a future-driven society is well captured in his stories. The First Men in the Moon follows the narrator, a London businessman named Bedford and an eccentric scientist he meets in the countryside, Mr. Cavor. Bedford and Cavor become unlikely friends when Cavor shares he is developing a new material which can negate the force of gravity. Bedford sees the potential in marketing this material, cavorite, and tries to convince Cavor that this material could mean a wealth of opportunities for both of them. However, Cavor is only interested in going to the Moon. Bedford is reluctant to come with him, but Cavor persuades him by telling him there is no life on the Moon. That is, until they get there and meet insectoid lunar natives called Selenites. Will Bedford and Cavor be able to get back home? The First Men in the Moon is a thrilling tale of adventure and expedition with H. G. Wells’ imaginative world of the Moon, his fantastical science, and his sinister alien lifeforms.