English author, journalist and historian (1866-1946). Autograph letter signed „H.G.“. London. 8vo. 2 1/2 pp. On his Chiltern Court stationery.
$ 1,696 / 1.500 €
(94523)
To Scottish author Naomi Mitchison (1897-1999). „I’ve now seen the new Childrens Encyclopaedia which I’ve found very interesting. Whether it is quite what children need, could land me into a vast dissertation on education. I got back yesterday to England so that I haven’t delayed writing you. How did your boy’s operation turn out? I hope satisfactorily. Come & have lunch one day with my daughter in low & me. I will talk about Russia & education & everything. What are your days? […]“ Wells was remarkable for the foresight and imagination he displayed in such famous works as "The Time Machine," "The Invisible Man," and "The Outline of History." In addition to his prescient writing, Wells was deeply concerned about society's future, leading him to seek answers from such organizations as the Fabian Society, a group of British intelligentsia interested in socialism.
Following the Bolshevik Revolution, Wells visited Russia (one of three such trips he would make) and subsequently recorded his negative impressions in his book "Russia in the Shadows." In 1932, Mitchinson edited a collection of essays on science, psychology, economics, writing, and more, entitled "An Outline for Boys & Girls and Their Parents," which is most likely the book referred to in our letter. Mitchinson was a prolific writer whose many works included historical and science fiction, fantasy, poetry, travel writing, and autobiography. Her best-known book is "The Corn King and the Spring Queen." Like Wells, Mitchinson was an ardent socialist and devoted her life to political and humanitarian causes. Her 1932 trip to the Soviet Union led to the writing of "We Have Been Warned," which was rejected by many publishers and censored after its publication due to its controversial content between two like-minded writers and thinkers. The letter is folded and in fine condition..