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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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8 Scary Creatures from Sci-Fi Books

In space, no one can hear you scream—and if you're picking up one of these books, that might be for the better.

10 Riveting Facts About Stanislaw Lem

The late writer Stanislaw Lem lived a fascinating life, and left behind an influential legacy. 

Terry Brooks Talks Moving from Fantasy to the Future for His Novel Street Freaks

The author of the Shannara saga explains why he took a break from epic fantasy with a futuristic thriller set in dystopian L.A.

10 Exceptional David Gerrold Books

Action-packed & thought-provoking, these works represent the best of the Star Trek writer.

8 Epic Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books by Master Storyteller Dave Duncan

The late author wrote epic tales of magic, fantastical creatures, and fearless warriors that Game of Thrones fans are sure to love.

Read This Series If You Love Kim Stanley Robinson's Mars Trilogy

Hoping for a brighter future, humanity looks to terraform the brightest planet in the solar system: Venus.

10 Great Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books Featuring Multidimensional Women

These sci-fi and fantasy books prove that literary women can do—and be—it all!

Moonwar is a Thrilling Space Romp in Ben Bova's Grand Tour Series

The final installment of the two-part Moonbase Saga sees the leaders of a lunar colony fight for the nanotechnology they need to survive.

The Best Free & Discount Science Fiction Books to Download on Apple Books Right Now

Explore new worlds and alien civilizations with these incredible sci-fi adventures.

Interview: Sci-Fi Grand Master Joe Haldeman Talks Adaptation and Simulation

We spoke to the Forever War author about his new graphic novel, and the very nature of reality. 

Cover Reveal: See the Final Cover for Neil Gaiman's Don't Panic

You voted! Now it's time to take a peek at the winning final cover (as promised, we'll also reveal the meaning of life).

It's Aliens vs. Ninjas in This Rip-Roaring Space Adventure

In Timothy Zahn's Blackcollar series, a Resistance fighter teams up with space ninjas to defeat alien tyrants.

Here's What You Need to Know About Asimov's Foundation

Apple adapted Isaac Asimov's Foundation series into a TV show. Here's everything to know about Isaac Asimov's Foundation series. 

9 Moving Quotes from Sci-Fi Master Ursula K. Le Guin

Late novelist Ursula K. Le Guin was ahead of her time in every way.

Night Train to Rigel: Space Travel Has Never Been So Cool

When an ex-spy receives a ticket aboard a galactic train, he's tasked with preventing the outbreak of a devastating space war.

Counting Down the 10 Greatest Sci-Fi TV Series Ever

Which of these best sci-fi shows are your favorites?

Mirage: Somaiya Daud’s Diverse Debut Fantasy Novel

This Moroccan-inspired novel confronts prejudice and colonialism on another planet.

A Tale of Two Wastelands: Fallout and Harlan Ellison's "A Boy and His Dog" 

Many Fallout fans still don't know that the franchise was partially inspired by Harlan Ellison's seminal short story. 

The 5 Coolest Technologies from Hard Science Fiction

These are some of the most fascinating pieces of tech ever envisioned in hard science fiction — and they might become reality sooner than you'd think.