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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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.

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.

[CLOSED] NYCC Fans: Download Your Free Book Here

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Shocking Depictions of the Future from Sci-Fi and Fantasy

From dystopian fantasy worlds to apocalyptic science fiction, sometimes books give us a very disturbing look at a possible future.

Legendary Author Joe Haldeman Shares the Story Behind The Forever War

Although considered a classic today, "The Forever War" was at first deemed unpublishable—partially because it dared to include female characters.