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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The Most Exciting and Anticipated Short-Story Collections of 2026

You can finish these spellbinding tales in a single sitting or two. 

Alien Abduction Books That Will Carry You Away

From conspiracy thrillers to horror stories delving into the human psyche, check out these science fiction books about alien life.

9 Science Fiction and Fantasy Books to Read Based on Your Favorite Disney Movie

Love Disney? These science fiction and fantasy picks offer a fresh take on the tropes and worlds you already adore.

8 Mind-Bending Simulation Books Where Nothing Is As It Seems

These books will make you question the fabric of your own reality.

Science Fiction and Fantasy Books You Can Read for $5 or Less

Looking for a great read at an even better price? Try one of these titles!

Stephen King's Favorites: Sci-Fi/Fantasy Recs From the Master of Horror

Here are eight must-read titles beloved by the author of The Dark Tower and other speculative classics.

Killer Bunnies and More Unlikely Monsters in Speculative Fiction

You wouldn't pick a quarrel with these magical beasts and alien species.

8 Thought-Provoking SFF Books That Explore Political Control

Beyond classics like 1984 and The Handmaid’s Tale, these speculative stories consider systems of power. 

19 High-Stakes Sci-Fi Books Like Project Hail Mary

Fans of Andy Weir's latest film adaptation are sure to enjoy these titles.

These Battle School Books Are Perfect for Fans of Ender's Game

If you love a good training montage, these titles are for you.

Our Favorite Sci-Fi/Fantasy Battle Royales and Competitions

These characters are forced to compete in brutal contests, often to the death.

10 of the Best SFF Novels of the 2020s So Far

More than half the decade is already gone, so it’s time to revisit the books we loved in the 2020s. 

18 of the Best Science Fiction Books for Kids

Befriend cute robots, unwind time, and explore alien fauna in these out-of-this-world tales.

New SFF Genres and Authors to Try in 2026

Start the new year off with something new!

Dive Into the Worlds of Adrian Tchaikovsky: 10 Books to Read Now

The essential reading list for the master of sci-fi, fantasy, and existential dread.