The World Set Free is a novel written in 1913 and published in 1914 by H. G. Wells. The book is based on a prediction of nuclear weapons of a more destructive and uncontrollable sort than the world has yet seen. It appeared first in serialised form with a different ending as "A Prophetic Trilogy," consisting of three books: A Trap to Catch the Sun, The Last War in the World and The World Set Free. Herbert George "H. G." Wells (21 September 1866 - 13 August 1946) was an English author, now best known for his work in the science fiction genre. He was also a prolific writer in many other genres, including contemporary novels, history, politics and social commentary, even writing textbooks and rules for war games. Together with Jules Verne, Wells has been referred to as "The Father of Science Fiction."