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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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15 Clone Books That Will Have You Seeing Double

These thought-provoking reads ask what really makes us human.

28 Impactful Female Science Fiction and Fantasy Authors

These authors are just a few of the important voices in the sci-fi and fantasy community who have brought us strong, feminist characters.

The Books That Shaped Octavia E. Butler

From Fantastic Four comics to books on craft, Butler’s life was organized around reading. 

10 Introspective and Character-Driven SFF Books

SFF is about more than just action and adventure. 

Read the First Chapter of Ursula K. Le Guin's The Lathe of Heaven

The classic New Wave novel won the Locus Award in 1972.  

7 Thrilling Space Disaster Books Like Moonfall

Moon over these apocalyptic adventures.     

10 Challenged and Banned Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books

These SFF reads have been the subject of controversy and censorship. 

5 Purrfect Books About Cats in Space

Feline hungry for some sci-fi? Explore these stories of interstellar kitties. 

10 Books Like The Girl With the Silver Eyes

Tales of telekinesis, telepathy, and turbulent kids and teens. 

Saddle Up for These 9 Wild Sci-Fi Western Books

Tales of the good, the bad, and the out-of-this-world. 

11 Epic Sci-Fi Books Like The Expanse

These spectacular space adventures are filled with complex, interweaving narratives.

The Undying Legacy of Vonda N. McIntyre, Weaver of Community

McIntyre expanded the world of SFF, both in life and after her passing.