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The English prose writer Herbert Wells is one of the founders of science fiction, the author of about two hundred books, a writer whose fictions, ideas, observations, foresights, warnings, and educational efforts changed the consciousness of people in the 20th century. In addition to the famous novels "The Time Machine," "The Invisible Man," and "The War of the Worlds," the titles and images of which have firmly entered the linguistic and cultural usage of humanity, Wells also created almost a hundred stories marked by inexhaustible imagination, a wide thematic repertoire, and enduring interest in the plots. This collection includes samples of Wells' short prose from different years — from his early student writings to late works created by an already recognized master of literature, thinker, scientist, and public figure, basking in world fame. Unexplained mysteries coexist in the writer's work with witty observations of English characters and customs, tragicomic sketches with sad parables, stories filled with primal horror with narratives about amazing discoveries and inventions, about the transmigration of souls and journeys to other worlds.