Neil Gaiman argues that the science fiction novels of H.G. Wells, while fine, pale compared to his short stories. Gaiman says that the SF stories survive, while "many of the mainstream novels he considered more important and significant are gone and, for the most part, forgotten, perhaps because the novels were very much of their time."
Perhaps. But they may be due for reconsideration. While trekking in Bolivia, I came upon a copy of Wells' all but forgotten The History of Mr. Polly, which was a revelation. Fiercely funny, keenly observed, and delightfully gentle, it charmed me precisely because it was so much of its time.
By all means, read the stories, but find a copy of Mr. Polly, too.
