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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These great reads prove hard sci-fi isn't just a man's game.
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The 12th book in McGuire's bestselling InCryptid series finally reunites long lost sorcerer Thomas Price with his family.
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Get hooked on science fiction that's rooted in the facts.
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These books helped me learn about story structure, characterization, and the most important aspect of writing: persistence.
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These words hooked readers from the very beginning.
You can't judge a book by its cover, but sometimes you can judge it by the blurb.
These Achillean books combine male romances with sci-fi and fantasy themes.
These science fiction and fantasy books go beyond world-building: They build whole galaxies and multiverses with precise detail.
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The Portalist's readers have great taste.
These novels promise to be out of this world.
By Shealea Iral
These 2022 releases will transport you to new worlds.
By Shealea Iral
Get your preorder finger ready.
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When Octavia Butler turned to vampires, she redefined science fiction yet again.
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Some books deserve a second (or seventh) look.
From 2011 to 2020, science fiction grew by leaps and bounds.