These short stories by H G Wells were collected and published in book form in 1895, they had previously appeared in The Pall Mall Budget and The Pall Mall Gazette (two of the many literary magazines in existence at the time) in 1893 and 1894. Wells proved himself to be a master of the short story format and these fifteen stories must have delighted his readers at the time. None of them are without interest and a few can still enthral readers in the 21 century. Many involve natural science of some kind, but it is not Well's intention to baffle his readers and he never lets the science get in the way of a good story.

My favourites were:

In the Avu Observatory An atmospheric tale of a lone astronomer in his pitch black observatory battling with a mysterious beast that intrudes into his working night

A Deal in Ostriches One of the five ostriches being exported on board a ship has swallowed a diamond, but which one was it and a bidding war develops with passengers trying to secure the bird of their choice.

Through a Window A man recovering from an incapacity views a chase along the riverbank from his window, he gets more than he bargained for when the action outside comes into his room.

Aepyornis Island A man alone on an island with an egg from an aepyornis: the largest of the extinct birds and then the egg begins to hatch........

The stolen Bacillus itself involves an exciting cab chase through London and The Diamond Maker leaves you puzzling over whether the hero is the subject of a con.

If many of these stories seem familiar it is because they have been reworked many times by authors since their original publication and of course Wells would have gained inspiration from stories that he had access to as well, nevertheless Well's straight forward approach to storytelling makes them all shine in some way or other. Tales full of mystery, adventure and imagination, with some amusing opening paragraphs where Wells sets the scene in his own inimitable way. A thoroughly enjoyable and quick read. 3.5 stars is a good average. ( )

http://www.sfreader.com/read_review.asp?book=1040 ( )