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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First Trailer for Annihilation Promises to Blow Our Minds

The adaptation of Jeff Vandermeer's sci-fi horror novel looks just as chilling and thought-provoking as its source material.

Shocking Depictions of the Future from Sci-Fi and Fantasy

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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.

Philip José Farmer's Books Are More Relevant Than Ever

Thirty years after it first came out, Philip José Farmer's "Dayworld" continues to resonate with modern readers.

Science Fiction Has Won the War

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10 Female SF/F Authors and the Stories Behind Their Pen Names

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Grand Master Brian W. Aldiss Passes Away at 92

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Free Ebook: Download the Dystopian Classic The Sleeper Awakes by H.G. Wells

All Graham wanted to do was get some rest. But while he was sleeping, the world changed forever.

The Patterns Around Octavia Butler

Over a decade after her death, a new fan anthology reveals how Butler's work continues to connect people and communities.

The Results Are In: 2017 Hugo Award Winners

Women swept almost every category at the ceremony held during Worldcon 75.

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Octavia Butler's Dawn to Be Adapted for TV

Ava DuVernay, director of the upcoming "A Wrinkle in Time" adaptation, is at the helm of the project.

8 Great Quotes from Sci-Fi Master Clifford D. Simak

The award-winning author certainly left his mark on the science fiction and fantasy community.

What If Wars Were Fought by Traveling Through Time? 

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The 13th Doctor Can Teach Us a Lot About Being Human

Doctor Who's first-ever female doctor has inspired controversy, but if we listen, there's a lot the she can reveal.

Science Fiction Predictions That Came True

Worlds that once seemed far off in the future have turned into our reality.