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Science Fiction Books Stories

Since the publication of the first-ever sci-fi book—arguably Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel Frankenstein—the genre has been in constant dialogue with our present. Sci-fi books encourage readers to envision new realities, and often prove prescient, both in imagining tech that eventually becomes real, and predicting events that come to pass.

The breadth of the genre can make it seem intimidating to new readers, but we recommend 50 of the best sci-fi novels ever to start your reading voyage. Or, you can explore sci-fi’s eras in chronological order, from the early classics by authors such as Jules Verne and H.G Wells and the so-called Golden Age of Sci-Fi, to the New Wave, to more recent must-reads from the past few decades. 

Alternatively, it’s possible to break your sci-fi book exploration down into subgenres. Do you prefer interstellar epics with drama on a galactic scale? Consider space opera. Do you want your stories to be grounded in reality and natural sciences? Then hard sci-fi is probably for you.

Or perhaps you’re a veteran sci-fi reader whose shelves are heavy with staples of the genre. In that case, The Portalist recommends hidden gems and underrated books to complete your collection. 

Regardless of where you are on your sci-fi reading journey, The Portalist’s sci-fi book stories can guide you on your voyage among the stars 

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7 of the Best SFF Books by Jack Vance

George R.R. Martin once called Vance “our greatest living SF writer.”

9 Thrilling Books for Gamers and Fans of The Last of Us

These page-turners imagine worlds you won’t want to leave.

9 Star Wars Books Every Fan Needs to Read

If you love the Star Wars movies and TV shows, try exploring the galaxy far, far away through a medium made a long time ago: books.

Sci-Fi Spaceships That Contain Worlds Within Them

Sometimes the spaceship really is bigger on the inside.

Celebrating 50 Years of The Forever War With Joe Haldeman

Bestselling author Joe Haldeman looks back on one of his greatest works.

19 Exciting Cyberpunk Books Filled With High Tech and Low Life

Adjust your augmented-reality headsets and tune into these futuristic tales.

Classic Sci-Fi From the 19th Century

From mad scientists and aliens to travels into the far-flung future, classic sci-fi has it all. 

9 of Our Favorite LGBTQ+ Sci-Fi Books

These queer sci-fi picks are great reads all year round.

15 Transportive Ben Bova Books

Take a grand tour of the award-winning hard sci-fi author’s literary works.

19 of the Best Debut Sci-Fi and Fantasy Novels

These first books have launched extraordinary careers. 

Fun SFF Summer Adventures for Kids

Summer is a time for adventuring, and these sci-fi/fantasy books for young readers will lead the way.

Starting Off Strong: 8 of the Best Series-Starters in SFF

If you're looking to get into sci-fi and fantasy, start here. 

17 Fun Science Fiction and Fantasy Beach Reads

Try these sci-fi and fantasy books while you enjoy some sun at the pool or the beach.

11 Cozy LGBTQ+ SFF Reads to Curl Up With

Books that feel like your favorite fuzzy blanket. 

8 Dieselpunk SFF for Fans of Mad Max and Furiosa

If you want a book that reads like Furiosa, try these titles.

8 Young Adult Sci-Fi and Fantasy Series You Should Try

If the young adult in your life needs a new series to help them procrastinate on their homework, try one of these fantastic speculative options.