A collection of Bengali science fiction stories, including "The Inhumans," explores themes of anti-colonialism, myth, and science in early 20th-century India. The novella and short stories offer a unique perspective on science fiction with elements of satire, adventure, and cultural subversion.

"The Inhumans and Other Stories: A Selection of Bengali Science Fiction" is a groundbreaking collection that brings the rich and largely unexplored world of early 20th-century Bengali science fiction to English-speaking readers. Edited and translated by Bodhisattva Chattopadhyay, this anthology showcases the works of pioneering authors such as Hemendrakumar Roy, Jagadananda Ray, Nani Gopal Majumdar, and Manoranjan Bhattacharya, offering a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and intellectual milieu of late colonial Bengal.

The centerpiece of the collection is Hemendrakumar Roy's 1935 satirical novella, "The Inhumans," which has been a cult favorite in its original language but has never been translated into English until now. This enigmatic tale takes readers on a thrilling journey into the heart of Africa, where a hidden civilization of shapeshifting, barrel-rolling beings challenges the narrator's perceptions of humanity and progress. Roy's eclectic blend of adventure, satire, and social commentary makes for a truly unique reading experience that is sure to captivate fans of classic science fiction.

Complementing "The Inhumans" are three short stories that showcase the diversity and ingenuity of early Bengali science fiction. Jagadananda Ray's "Voyage to Venus" (1895) explores the tense relationship between inhabitants of the planet's light and dark sides, while Nani Gopal Majumdar's "The Mystery of the Giant" (1931) and Manoranjan Bhattacharya's "The Martian Purana" (1931) weave together elements of myth and science in intriguing and imaginative ways.

What sets this collection apart is its ability to adopt and subvert the prevalent imperialist biases of the era, offering a fresh perspective on the genre that is both culturally significant and historically intriguing. By bringing these stories to a wider audience, Chattopadhyay has made a valuable contribution to the world of science fiction, exposing readers to a vibrant and largely untapped wellspring of creativity and innovation.

While some readers may find the stories somewhat dated, "The Inhumans and Other Stories" remains a compelling and thought-provoking read that is sure to spark further interest in early Bengali science fiction. With its unique blend of adventure, satire, and social commentary, this collection is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich and diverse history of the genre.