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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What If Your Dreams Were Public Knowledge?

In this excerpt, iconic author Ursula K. Le Guin envisions a plane of existence where no one dreams alone.

Immortality Has a Steep Price in Joe Haldeman's Buying Time

From the award-winning author of "The Forever War" comes a sci-fi mystery set in a world where death is optional—as long as you can pay.

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Sci-Fi Legend Samuel R. Delany Doesn't Play Favorites

The award-winning writer talks sexuality, race, and letting readers experience his work without authorial interference.

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Reborn Fugitives Fight for Their Lives on the Planet Riverworld

After escaping from prison, three people from different centuries run from the religious zealot who pursues them.

What Happens When an Old Woman Steals Your Story?

In celebration of the re-release of "A Matter of Oaths," the author reveals how her space opera found an unexpected protagonist.

New A Wrinkle in Time Trailer Is Meg-nificent

The latest preview for the adaptation of Madeleine L'Engle's classic story doesn't disappoint.

Great Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books for Fans of Justice League

You can't save the world alone. Luckily, these books can help.

What If Music Were the Key to Another World?

In Greg Bear's "The Infinity Concerto," an infamous melody carries an aspiring poet into a place of magic and myth...

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This beautifully written space opera explores race, class, and history.

Stranger Things 2 Turned Its View of Authority Upside Down

In its second season, Netflix's runaway hit "Stranger Things" continued to challenge sci-fi and horror tropes.

Toshi Reagon on Adapting Parable of the Sower for the Stage and the Urgency of Butler's Work

The librettist, composer, and music director of the Parable of the Sower opera shares her thoughts on Octavia E. Butler's legacy and the potential of theater to activate change.

15 Cat Books in Sci-Fi and Fantasy for You to Read Right Meow

If you need a feline fix, we’ll help you find your purr-fect read.

Welcome to Night Vale's Jeffrey Cranor Reveals His Inspirations

The author and podcaster discusses the new novel "It Devours," the Denver International Airport, and the appeal of the inexplicable.

Triumphant Musical Adaptation Shows the Power of Butler's Parable of the Sower

One of Octavia E. Butler's editors shares how a new opera highlights the prescience and beauty of the late author's dystopian masterpiece.

9 Space Opera Books Featuring Powerful Heroines

Double the X chromosomes, double the badassery.