5 Books Like The War of the Worlds: Must-Read Science Fiction Classics

H.G. Wells’ The War of the Worlds has captivated readers since its publication in 1898. The novel tells the story of an alien invasion on Earth, with the extraterrestrial invaders easily overpowering humanity’s defenses. As one of the earliest and most influential works within the science fiction genre, it has inspired countless authors and filmmakers to produce their own tales of otherworldly encounters.

If The War of the Worlds piqued your interest and left you wanting more, here are five must-read science fiction classics that are sure to leave a lasting impression:

1. The Time Machine (1895) by H.G. Wells

Another timeless classic by H.G. Wells, The Time Machine tells the story of an unnamed protagonist who travels through time using his invention, the Time Machine. The nameless adventurer journeys to the distant future, where he encounters the sinister Morlocks and the peaceful Eloi, two divergent species of humanity. The Time Traveler soon learns the disturbing truth about humanity’s evolutionary destiny. A compelling commentary on the nature of progress and the fate of mankind, The Time Machine will leave you questioning the future we’re collectively building.

Read or listen toThe Time Machine by buying it here.

2. Brave New World (1932) by Aldous Huxley

Aldous Huxley’s dystopian masterpiece, Brave New World, explores a future society in which individuality, freedom, and privacy are all but extinct. With humans born into predetermined roles and kept in submission through mind-altering drugs, literature, and intense conditioning, this novel provides a chilling vision of a potential future. As relevant today as it was at its release in 1932, Brave New World will leave you questioning the meaning of humanity and the dire consequences of sacrificing individual rights for a repressive collective stability.

Read or listen to Brave New World by buying it here.

3. 1984 (1949) by George Orwell

Another iconic dystopian novel, George Orwell’s 1984, paints a grim picture of a future society under the iron grip of a totalitarian regime. The story follows Winston Smith, a bureaucrat tasked with rewriting history to suit the needs of the Party, and his quest for truth and personal freedom. The themes of surveillance, government control, and censorship explored in 1984 continue to resonate with contemporary readers, making this masterpiece a must-read for all fans of the science fiction genre.

Read or listen to 1984 by buying it here.

4. Childhood’s End (1953) by Arthur C. Clarke

Arthur C. Clarke’s Childhood’s End explores the potential consequences of a planet-wide alien intervention. As humanity enjoys peace and prosperity under the guidance of a benevolent alien race known as the Overlords, they are also gradually losing their identity and what makes them distinctively human. Utterly unique and thought-provoking, Childhood’s End challenges the traditional narrative of extraterrestrial encounters and raises philosophical questions about humanity’s ultimate fate.

Read or listen to Childhood’s End by buying it here.

5. Fahrenheit 451 (1953) by Ray Bradbury

In a world where books are burned and intellectual thought is discouraged, fireman Guy Montag’s duty is to destroy illegal literature. However, when Montag begins to question the oppressive regime, he must choose between conformity and personal freedom. Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 explores the consequences of a society where free thought and creativity are stifled by government control. A powerful indictment of censorship, ignorance, and totalitarianism, this enduring classic serves as a cautionary tale for the dangers of giving up our collective freedoms and critical thinking.

Read or listen to Fahrenheit 451 by buying it here.