War of the Worlds

I studied classic literature in college – the Greeks, the Romans, the Bible, etc.  And I was struck by how so many of our modern stories have their roots in the classics, which in turn drew their tales from ancient oral myths and morality tales.  Ever since, I watch for great works that change or establish new genres, which become the basis and inspiration for countless pieces to follow.
H.G. Wells The War of the Worlds is just such a work.

Many of us know of the several movies, the 1930s radio broadcast and even the rock opera based on Wells’ book.  But have most considered that this story spawned every tale of space invaders since?  Start listing your favorite aliens-attack movies, and I bet I can draw a straight line back to War of the Worlds.
Wells’ prose is dated.  But so are Shakespeare’s lyrics.  Both are no less great for their age.  Any and every sci-fi or literature fan needs to read this book.

-Reviewed by Bob Dirkes