An excellent short story that you can read online here: http://www.online-literature.com/wellshg/2865/

I've always thought orchids could be creepy.

Thanks to my fellow Bookliker, Books Hockey & a Bucketful of Snark for turning me on to this fun tale. ( )

Now THIS was a pleasant way to pass the time while driving! This edition was an audio book (2 cassettes) I got from my local Library. The five short stories contained on these cassettes are not necessarily Well’s best works, but I enjoyed every one of them. I won’t reveal much about any of these stories, but want to enumerate them, for the record. They were all written towards the end of the Victorian Era.

The Strange Orchid – The protagonist gets his wish; somewhat predictable, but suspenseful true to Wells’ style.
The Truth about Pyecraft – Wonderfully crafted tale; excellent plot twists. There were parts where I just laughed out loud.
The Man Who Could Work Miracles – Reminds me of a few episodes of Twilight Zone.
Aepyornis Island – The longest and best of the stories. Wells obviously researches his topics in great detail. Well crafted.
The Purple Pileus – This was the oddest of the five, and I actually had to listen to it twice. The more we change, the more we remain the same.

The stories were read by Ralph Cosham, who also narrates using the name Geoffrey Howard, and has had parts is a few movies. His used to be a British journalist, and his voice puts the right flavor in each story. By listening to his narration, I enjoyed them much more than if I had read them. Mr. Cosham’s vocal inflections were perfect in every instance.

Get these tapes and listen to them. ( )

Carnivorous plant.
Read Sept 2006 ( )