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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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Read an Excerpt From LeVar Burton's Sci-Fi Debut Novel Aftermath

America is sick—but Dr. Rene Reynolds could have the cure. 

Which Dune Character Are You, Based on Your Zodiac Sign?

Do the stars say you're the Emperor of the Known Universe, or a manipulative schemer who orchestrates destruction?

10 Exciting Sci-Fi Books That Explore Deep Space

Stellar stories that boldly go where no human has gone before. 

Excerpt: David Brin Explores the Inspiration Behind His Uplift Novels

Plus, see the brand-new covers for the latest editions of Brin's books!

Interview: Robb Pearlman on What Starfleet Means to Him

The Star Trek: Starfleet Is . . . author shares his relationship with the franchise and why Star Trek fans are the best.

42 Ways to Celebrate Towel Day on May 25th

Mostly harmless suggestions for honoring Douglas Adams and The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

13 Powerful Standalone Sci-Fi Books

These self-contained reads are just as epic as any series. 

Take a MasterClass from Award-Winning Author N.K. Jemisin 

Calling all aspiring science fiction and fantasy writers!

Samuel R. Delany Receives Lifetime Achievement Anisfield-Wolf Book Award

The award recognizes "important contributions to our understanding of racism and human diversity."

Alison Stine Wins the 2021 Philip K. Dick Award for Road Out of Winter

The environmental thriller follows a farmer through post-apocalyptic Appalachia.