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 

17886299aeac-spaceship.png

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. 

From Xanth and Beyond: 18 Piers Anthony Books

The author of the long-running Xanth series isn't afraid to be quirky, dark—or a little controversial.

15 Must-Read Books by SFWA Damon Knight Grand Masters

These books are truly the best of the best.

12 of the Best Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books of 2020

You'll want to add these books to your TBR today.

11 Hardboiled Sci-Fi Noir Books

Femme fatales, private eyes, and intergalactic intrigue around every corner...

In Memoriam: Influential Sci-Fi Author Ben Bova, 1932-2020

The iconic author behind the Grand Tour series has passed away at 88.

11 Adventure Books Like The Mandalorian to Show You the Way

These books have all the bounty hunters and babies you need.