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
This beautifully written space opera explores race, class, and history.
In its second season, Netflix's runaway hit "Stranger Things" continued to challenge sci-fi and horror tropes.
With great power comes great responsibility.
By Olivia Mason
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.
By Carolyn Cox
If you need a feline fix, we’ll help you find your purr-fect read.
By Carolyn Cox
The author and podcaster discusses the new novel "It Devours," the Denver International Airport, and the appeal of the inexplicable.
By Carolyn Cox
One of Octavia E. Butler's editors shares how a new opera highlights the prescience and beauty of the late author's dystopian masterpiece.
Double the X chromosomes, double the badassery.
By Olivia Mason
"This is not going to go the way you think."
By Carolyn Cox
We partnered with award-winning science fiction author Greg Bear to create this special five-book collection. Get it for FREE when you sign up for The Portalist newsletter!
The adaptation of Jeff Vandermeer's sci-fi horror novel looks just as chilling and thought-provoking as its source material.
By Carolyn Cox
From dystopian fantasy worlds to apocalyptic science fiction, sometimes books give us a very disturbing look at a possible future.
In a galaxy far, far away...
By Olivia Mason
Although considered a classic today, "The Forever War" was at first deemed unpublishable—partially because it dared to include female characters.
By Chris Mahon
Thirty years after it first came out, Philip José Farmer's "Dayworld" continues to resonate with modern readers.
What are some of YOUR favorite geeky tunes?
By Carolyn Cox
Best-selling author Greg Bear on the genre’s new ‘golden age.'
Do you know the true identities of the authors penning your favorite science fiction and fantasy novels?
By Olivia Mason
Remembering the exceptional science fiction author.
By Carolyn Cox