The Time Machine

The Time Machine by H.G. Wells

A classic of the science fiction genre, The Time Machine tells the story of a scientist and inventor who creates just what the title says: a time machine. The novel begins at a dinner party, in which the inventor is telling his friends of the creation he has made. The narrator is one of the attendees of the party, however soon the scientist starts in on his experience, and most of the story takes place in his first-hand description of thousands of years in the future. He tells of his interactions with the child-like Eloi, and their frightening counterparts the Morlocks.

It can be intimidating to tackle the classics, but the Time Machine was a surprisingly easy read. At only around one hundred pages, the story is very straightforward and understandable. This book was originally published in 1895, and it's interesting to see what he pictured the future to be, as opposed to what some might assume now. He doesn't give much mention to any kind of advanced technology, in fact the world he creates seems to lack technology of any kind. The Eloi are simple people who don't seem particularly intelligent or strong survivors. It is a wonder that they are surviving at all.

The book had interesting twists and turns, and definitely had some frightening surprises. The depiction of the Morlocks is particularly creepy. These underground-dwelling creatures will leave you cringing when you learn how they live.

I would recommend The Time Machine for anyone who considers themselves a great science fiction fan. As one of the first great sci-fi novels, it's good to see where it all started, and how far the genre has come. Find it at the library in the young adult section.