The History of Mr. Polly

H. G. Wells's 'The History of Mr. Polly,' a comic novel published in 1910, chronicles the life of Alfred Polly, a diffident and aimless man navigating the constraints of Edwardian England. Gifted with a knack for inventing humorous expressions, Mr. Polly finds himself trapped in an unhappy marriage and a failing draper's shop, leading him to yearn desperately for an escape from his stifling existence. His quest for freedom takes an unexpected turn, evolving from a dramatic, albeit botched, suicide attempt to an unforeseen act of heroism at a country inn. Through these trials and transformations, Mr. Polly ultimately discovers genuine contentment and self-determination, highlighting themes of personal liberation and the pursuit of happiness against societal expectations.

Reading ease score: 73.9 (7th grade). Fairly easy to read.