Science Fiction· United Kingdom
The Invisible Man
by H.G. WellsAggregate Editorial Score13/100
TIME 100 Best Novels
Published 1897English
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When H.G. Wells published The Invisible Man in 1897, it quickly found its place in the broader tradition of science fiction. A scientist discovers the secret of invisibility and is unable to reverse it, becoming increasingly dangerous and disturbed. Wells's thriller is a meditation on the corruptive power of secrets and the impossibility of existing outside of human community. Themes of invisibility, isolation, power run through the work. The book has received recognition from TIME 100 Best Novels 1897.
Book Details
About the Category
🚀 Science Fiction
Speculative fiction exploring technology, space, the future, and society.
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🇬🇧 United Kingdom
This book is part of United Kingdom's rich literary tradition.
Explore books from United Kingdom →Editorial Assessment
H.G. Wells published The Invisible Man in 1897, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of science fiction from United Kingdom. The book's treatment of invisibility, isolation, power, science accounts for much of its enduring reputation.
The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Among its recognitions: TIME 100 Best Novels 1897. Its aggregate editorial score of 13/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals.
What distinguishes The Invisible Man is how it handles its central concerns — invisibility, isolation, power, science — without reducing them to neat conclusions. The book invites close reading and holds up well to it.
H.G. Wells's role in the literature of United Kingdom is well established. The Invisible Man can be read as both a standalone achievement and as part of a broader national literary conversation about identity, history, and the possibilities of narrative form.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.
Awards & Recognition
TIME 100 Best Novels
notable · global
189713
H.G. Wells is a celebrated author from United Kingdom known for influential works of science fiction.
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