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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Library of America to Honor Octavia E. Butler and Ursula K. Le Guin

The publisher will recognize two of America's most influential female sci-fi writers.

Interview: Neil Gaiman Talks the Timeless Appeal of Douglas Adams

Gaiman celebrates the March 11th birthday of his late mentor, Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy author Douglas Adams.

16 Alarming Books About Apocalyptic Plagues

These terrifyingly realistic books will make you want to live in a bubble—permanently.

22 of the Best Sci-Fi Movies on Netflix to Stream Right Now

These out-of-this-world sci-fi films are waiting for you to stream this month.

TV Adaptation of Octavia Butler’s Dawn Heading to Amazon

Ava DuVernay and Victoria Mahoney will bring the novel to the small screen.

Andre Norton: Remembering the Late Grand Master of Sci-Fi and Fantasy

In honor of her 108th birthday, celebrate the groundbreaking Grand Master with photos taken throughout her extraordinary life.

The 11 Most Exciting Sci-Fi Book-to-Movie Adaptations in the Works Right Now

Some of the best books in the genre are heading for the silver screen.

16 Octavia Butler Books: The Complete Canon

Octavia Butler's brilliant works continue to challenge and inspire.

The 10 Best Science Fiction and Fantasy Books of 2019

These were some of our favorites in SFF from the past year.

Explore Exciting Galaxies With These 15 Books for Fans of Mass Effect

Take a break from playing Mass Effect with these fifteen similar sci-fi books.

Allen Steele on the 30th Anniversary of His Hard Sci-Fi Novel Orbital Decay

Author Allen Steele shares his thoughts on the longevity of Orbital Decay.

16 Stirring Neil Gaiman Quotes About Life, Death, and Creativity

Celebrate Neil Gaiman's birthday on November 10th with these unforgettable words of wisdom.

Joe Haldeman: Exploring the Life and Work of The Forever War Author

Celebrate the work of Grand Master Joe Haldeman, and read one of his short stories for free!

8 Vital Sci-Fi Climate Change Books

These climate fiction books explore diverse visions of humanity's future.

Michael Crichton: Fun Facts About the Jurassic Park Author

Celebrate the late author's 77th birthday with these fascinating facts about the Jurassic Park author.

9 Essential Ursula K. Le Guin Books

One of speculative fiction's greatest would have turned 90 this year on October 21st. 

8 Chilling Sci-Fi Horror Movies to Watch This Halloween

We're counting down the top eight sci-fi horror films for your late-night viewing...if you dare.