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 

17886299aeac-spaceship.png

13 Mind-Bending Hard Science Fiction Books by Women

These great reads prove hard sci-fi isn't just a man's game.

Seanan McGuire's Backpacking Through Bedlam Turns 'Happily Ever After' on Its Head

The 12th book in McGuire's bestselling InCryptid series finally reunites long lost sorcerer Thomas Price with his family.

D. Eric Maikranz Self-Published His First Novel. His Fans Turned It Into a Major Motion Picture.

Book two of The Reincarnationist Papers series comes with new twists, new lives, and new expectations.

11 Books That Will Make You Fall for Hard Science Fiction

Get hooked on science fiction that's rooted in the facts.

3 Common Writing Mistakes New Sci-Fi/Fantasy Authors Make

These three common writing mistakes can keep your first novel from realizing its full potential.

Tips and Resources for Writing Your First Sci-Fi/Fantasy Novel

These books helped me learn about story structure, characterization, and the most important aspect of writing: persistence.

10 Gripping Books About Sci-Fi Soldiers

These extraordinary novels stand out in the galaxy of military sci-fi. 

Compelling Sci-Fi and Fantasy Book Blurbs That Draw You in Immediately

You can't judge a book by its cover, but sometimes you can judge it by the blurb.

11 Science Fiction and Fantasy Books With Expansive World-Building

These science fiction and fantasy books go beyond world-building: They build whole galaxies and multiverses with precise detail. 

The Very Best Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books of 2022

These 2022 releases will transport you to new worlds.

Octavia Butler's Final Work Will Suck You In

When Octavia Butler turned to vampires, she redefined science fiction yet again.

The Greatest Science Fiction Books of the 2010s

From 2011 to 2020, science fiction grew by leaps and bounds.

What Is the SFWA?

Explore the history, benefits, and community offered by the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Assocation.