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
From Animorphs to Redwall, these stories starring lovable critters are heartwarming and full of adventure.
These reads show that family comes in all different forms.
These speculative books can help spark fascinating conversations and debates for your book club.
These edge-of-your-seat novels beat virtual reality any day.
Publishers Weekly calls this series of short stories by Wole Talabi “a jaw-dropping collection.... Beautiful, vibrant, and electrifying.”
Enjoy the frights without the nightmares.
Looking for a young-adult dystopia? You can't go wrong with these nine titles.
Discover this chilling tale from a Grand Master of Science Fiction and other great sci-fi thrillers.
For those who take their science fiction with a side of accuracy...
No matter whether you like sweet treats or heartier main courses, we have a rec for you.
By Jena Brown
Classic novels and modern titles populate this timeless and enduring subgenre.
If entering Area X sounds like your kind of adventure, here are some other stories you’ll want to explore.
These coffee table books delve into worlds both fantastic and far, far away.
By Jena Brown
Books within books, stories within stories. These sci-fi/fantasy novels are perfect for people who can never have enough books.
By Jena Brown
Extraterrestrial life is calling, whether you’re ready to pick up or not.
TJ Klune's cozy, queer sci-fi novel won the 2023 Goodreads Choice Award for Best Science Fiction Novel.
It's grim outside, and these books are even grimmer.
By Jena Brown
Explore the sci-fi Grand Master’s legendary tales.
Twenty winners will receive the seventh book in the bestselling series, The Murderbot Diaries.
Sci-fi and fantasy books are full of interesting tropes. Here are 10 of our favorites.
By Jena Brown