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
Explore pocket dimensions filled with awe and magic, enchantment, and terror.
Take a walk in someone else's shoes with these body-jumping science fiction stories.
By Jena Brown
These experimental and literary sci-fi classics are worth revisiting.
From Mesopotamian retellings to toxic vampires, you need to add these books to your TBR pile.
Everything is bigger, nastier, and more dangerous in these epic tales.
By Jena Brown
Finish that tricky draft with these books, resources, and tips.
By Jena Brown
Celebrate the best of the best with these timeless classics.
By Orrin Grey
Let's celebrate New Year's Eve with a look back at our favorite speculative releases of the year.
By Jena Brown
We've unlocked the Time Tombs and found these great reads.
Whether you're planning a party or just enjoying the snow, these great titles can help you make the most of the holiday season.
The Polish author has been celebrated around the world … and beyond.
By Orrin Grey
These incredible timey-wimey reads represent the sheer variety the genre offers.
By Mike Chen & Archita Mittra
Seek freedom and become captive of these sci-fi books like Dune.
The author of Jurassic Park had a robust literary and cinematic career both before and after that mega-hit.
By Orrin Grey
These books can help bring your imagination to the printed page.
The stakes are bigger and the the battles more epic in these science fiction stories.
By Jena Brown
Whether you're traveling on fall break or driving upstate for a family reunion, embark on an unforgettable journey with these speculative reads.
Say hi to ghosts, zombies, vampires and other spooky folks from the afterlife.
Undercover spies and double agents fill these books with backstabbing, intrigue, and impossible choices.
By Jena Brown
These artistic collaborations stand the test of time.