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
Award-winning author Charlie Jane Anders explores how fiction encourages us to abandon assumptions.
We're celebrating the late author in honor of his August 22nd birthday.
A guide for Earthers, Belters, Martians, and more.
By Jena Brown
In this author's note for his novel Aftermath, Burton reflects on the legacies of slavery.
By Carolyn Cox
“It tasted like cinnamon.”
The talented multi-hyphenate continues to inspire generations of fans.
America is sick—but Dr. Rene Reynolds could have the cure.
By Carolyn Cox
Fill your tank with these action-packed reads.
By Orrin Grey
Craft the next great epic with these helpful tips.
Do the stars say you're the Emperor of the Known Universe, or a manipulative schemer who orchestrates destruction?
Stellar stories that boldly go where no human has gone before.
By Jena Brown
Who would you add to the list?
By Jena Brown
Plus, see the brand-new covers for the latest editions of Brin's books!
By Carolyn Cox
This pop-culture fueled fable is a comforting, quirky adventure.
By Carolyn Cox
The Star Trek: Starfleet Is . . . author shares his relationship with the franchise and why Star Trek fans are the best.
By Smart Pop
Mostly harmless suggestions for honoring Douglas Adams and The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.
Vital reminders from the prophet of the space age.
These self-contained reads are just as epic as any series.
By Jena Brown