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
The weather outside is frightful, but these books look so delightful.
By Carolyn Cox
Seasoned sci-fi and fantasy editor Betsy Mitchell dives into Poul Anderson's urban paranormal duology for the first time.
Are you there, Hollywood? It's us, sci-fi and fantasy fans.
By Olivia Mason
In space, no one can hear you scream—and if you're picking up one of these books, that might be for the better.
By Carolyn Cox
The late writer Stanislaw Lem lived a fascinating life, and left behind an influential legacy.
The author of the Shannara saga explains why he took a break from epic fantasy with a futuristic thriller set in dystopian L.A.
Action-packed & thought-provoking, these works represent the best of the Star Trek writer.
The late author wrote epic tales of magic, fantastical creatures, and fearless warriors that Game of Thrones fans are sure to love.
By Olivia Mason
Hoping for a brighter future, humanity looks to terraform the brightest planet in the solar system: Venus.
By Olivia Mason
These sci-fi and fantasy books prove that literary women can do—and be—it all!
The final installment of the two-part Moonbase Saga sees the leaders of a lunar colony fight for the nanotechnology they need to survive.
By Olivia Mason
Explore new worlds and alien civilizations with these incredible sci-fi adventures.
By Carolyn Cox
Treat your ears to these out-of-this-world stories.
By Carolyn Cox
We spoke to the Forever War author about his new graphic novel, and the very nature of reality.
By Carolyn Cox
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).
In Timothy Zahn's Blackcollar series, a Resistance fighter teams up with space ninjas to defeat alien tyrants.
By Olivia Mason
Apple adapted Isaac Asimov's Foundation series into a TV show. Here's everything to know about Isaac Asimov's Foundation series.
By Chris Mahon
Late novelist Ursula K. Le Guin was ahead of her time in every way.
When an ex-spy receives a ticket aboard a galactic train, he's tasked with preventing the outbreak of a devastating space war.
By Olivia Mason
Which of these best sci-fi shows are your favorites?