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
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.
If you want a book that combines the best of multiple genres, try these titles.
By Jena Brown
Dare to try these terrifying tales of other worlds.
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.
Go on a quest and get paid for your troubles.
These incredible worlds can't be contained in a single book.
George R.R. Martin once called Vance “our greatest living SF writer.”
By Jena Brown
Tired of books with bad endings? Make your own.
By Jena Brown
These page-turners imagine worlds you won’t want to leave.
Imagine all the people, living life in peace...
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.
By Orrin Grey
Sometimes the spaceship really is bigger on the inside.
Bestselling author Joe Haldeman looks back on one of his greatest works.