The War of the Worlds

· John D. Rayburn · Narrated by John Rayburn
Audiobook
6 hr 43 min
Unabridged
Eligible
Want a free 4 min sample? Listen anytime, even offline. 
Add

About this audiobook

There were signs that H. G. Wells wasn’t quite sure how to end his famous story The War of the Worlds, which featured an invasion from the planet Mars. He certainly knew how to do the story itself and pointed out Martians were highly advanced over humans in their technology. Wells used an unnamed narrator telling the tale in first person with input from his brother. The book was published in 1898, and even with the passing of years, there are no present day traces of life on Mars, a reality that would have undoubtedly disappointed the author. Some of his thoughts about the other planet were of a strictly imaginary nature. In any case, he, like many others of today, would undoubtedly ask the question, “Can prophecy someday become reality?” It brings up a personal reaction ... are you optimistic? ... pessimistic? Make your own choice. No matter what you are, either one can provide you with some very listenable material in the two premises involved: Book one, The Coming of the Martians, and book two, The Earth Under the Martians.

Sci-fi has been an extremely interesting and exhilarating form of literature created by a number of top-notch writers. They owe a debt of sorts to Wells for leading the way. Listen now to understand more fully.

About the author

H.G. Wells was a professional writer and journalist who published more than a hundred books, including pioneering science fiction novels, histories, essays and programmes for world regeneration. He was a founding member of numerous movements including Liberty and PEN International - the world's oldest human rights organization - and his Rights of Man laid the groundwork for the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Wells' controversial and progressive views on equality and the shape of a truly developed nation remain directly relevant to our world today. He was, in Bertrand Russell's words, 'an important liberator of thought and action'.

John Rayburn is a veteran of over sixty years in broadcasting. He served as a news/sports anchor and show host, and his TV newscast achieved the largest share of audience figures of any major-market TV newscast in the nation. John is a member of the Broadcast Pioneers Hall of Fame. He is well suited to bring fascinating stories to life concerning the people, places, and things that combine to present lively observations of our day-to-day lives.

Rate this audiobook

Tell us what you think.

Listening information

Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can read books purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.