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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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26 Short Story Collections and Anthologies Every Sci-Fi & Fantasy Fan Should Read

These collections prove short stories can have the biggest impact.

Books Like Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

If you're excited for the TV adaptation of Blake Crouch's bestselling Dark Matter, be sure to try these great sci-fi thrillers.

17 Riveting Books Like Red Rising

Find your new sci-fi obsession with these out-of-this-world epics.

11 Mind-Bending Biopunk Books

These compelling reads form the DNA of this sci-fi subgenre. 

These Sad SFF Books Will Pull at Your Heartstrings

Sometimes a good cry is just what the doctor ordered.

Sports in Sci-Fi/Fantasy That Are Better Than March Madness

If you have a college hoops hangover, try diving into these spectacular races and contests.

7 Chinese Spec-Lit Novels for Fans of The Three-Body Problem

If you loved Cixin Liu's modern classic, consider more of these great speculative works.

16 of the Best Debut Sci-Fi and Fantasy Novels

These first books have launched extraordinary careers. 

Cozy SFF Books for TJ Klune Fans

Try these titles for a feel-good sci-fi/fantasy story.

Explore the Final Frontier With These Stunning Star Trek Books

These space adventures boldly go beyond the confines of onscreen Trek.

The Best Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books for Animal Lovers

From Animorphs to Redwall, these stories starring lovable critters are heartwarming and full of adventure.

12 Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books About Found Families

These reads show that family comes in all different forms. 

11 Literary SFF Novels You Can Proudly Choose for Book Club

These speculative books can help spark fascinating conversations and debates for your book club. 

9 Thrilling Sci-Fi/Fantasy Action and Adventure Books

These edge-of-your-seat novels beat virtual reality any day.

Wole Talabi's Convergence Problems Is Perfect for Fans of Dystopian Sci-Fi

Publishers Weekly calls this series of short stories by Wole Talabi “a jaw-dropping collection.... Beautiful, vibrant, and electrifying.”

25 Must-Read Space Opera Books

Take an adventure among the stars with these must-read sagas.