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
Open your ears—and your heart—to these terrific tales.
By Carolyn Cox
Watch some of your favorite stories come alive on the big screen.
By Allison Wild
Read an excerpt from the first installment of an epic sci-fi saga.
Grab some Eggos and settle in for these 7 tales of supernatural sci-fi frights.
By Carolyn Cox
We're looking back at some of the lessons to be learned from Ursula K. Le Guin's brilliant Earthsea series.
By Chris Mahon
These punchy words of wisdom by the award-winning science fiction writer are as insightful as they are witty.
A celebration of the prolific writer, Grand Master, and “most contentious man on Earth.”
By Olivia Mason
On what would have been her 72nd birthday, we look back at some of the brilliant author's most timeless words of wisdom.
By Carolyn Cox
These compelling novels deserve acclaim not just in Pride Month, but the whole year through.
By Carolyn Cox
Craving more stories of technology run rampant? These series will chill and thrill you.
Wise words from a dry-sandwich-hater and deadline-avoider.
The Binti author discusses the powerful relationship at the heart of Wild Seed, and how the TV adaptation will defy expectations.
From the classics to modern works, these books represent the best of the best when it comes to sci-fi and fantasy.
These under-the-radar books will get under your skin.
By Olivia Mason
There’s something so satisfying about absorbing an entire narrative in one sitting. That's why we love these incredible tales.
Read an excerpt from Octavia E. Butler’s sci-fi novel—soon to be an Amazon TV series from Viola Davis and Nnedi Okorafor.
Great writers don't just get fan letters—sometimes they send them, too.
By Aliza Polkes
A creative team including Nnedi Okorafor and Viola Davis will bring the sci-fi novel to life.
Mary Robinette Kowal, Martha Wells, and John Krasinski are among this year's nominees.