The War of the Worlds Illustrated

The War of the Worlds Illustrated

1898 • 280 pages

Ratings1

Average rating4

15

This isn't a review about H.G. Well's story but about this particular edition by Bitmap Books.

Presentationally, this Illustrated Edition is fantastic. The paper quality and binding is excellent, and the design is fantastic.

I was disappointed however to find multiple errors throughout the book. In the Interview with the Artist section I found two (admittedly minor) typo's. More annoyingly were issues in the story itself where extra line-breaks were inserted into the middle of paragraphs breaking them in two. I found these caused an instant disconnect from immersion in the world building and back to reality. Perhaps I'm overreacting, but I found these issues extremely frustrating in an edition like this... after all, I would have spent a fraction of the price on a paperback copy if I just wanted to read the book (and I already have an ancient paperback of the book).

I was torn on the art itself. The style was really nice, but the artist took a few liberties with the appearance of the Martians that just didn't fit the descriptions in the book.

I wonder if I'm just being too picky. Still, as I said, presentation wise this is a gorgeous book and I'm very happy to have it. And as I don't want to ruin it, I'll go back to my tattered paperback next time I wish to read the story!

January 4, 2020Report this review