Top 32 Best Science Fiction Books, Novels, and Series (2024 Update): Must-Read Sci-Fi Classics and New Gems

Science fiction books serve as windows into the future, space, unknown realms, and new realms of imagination. As an avid fan of the genre, I conducted some research to compile a list of the best science fiction books and series. While it may not be an exhaustive list, it includes some of the most remarkable works to date. I welcome your suggestions in the comments if you believe any other books should be included. I'm also curious to learn about your favorite science fiction novels and book series.

Top 30 Best Science Fiction Books, Series, and Novels of All Time (2024 Edition): Ultimate Sci-Fi Reading List

2022 and 2023 Updates: Revisiting my previously compiled list from 2018, I felt compelled to conduct a more comprehensive and detailed research endeavor. With over 200 science fiction novels and book series considered, I carefully selected and refined the top 30 works for this updated list.

It's important to note that this list will remain dynamic as I continue to explore new additions and reassess existing entries. Subsequently, periodic updates will ensure its continued relevance and accuracy.

Previously consisting of 25 titles, this refreshed compilation features the addition of over 10 remarkable books while some previously listed works have been excluded. Thus, I present to you the meticulously updated selection of the greatest science fiction books and series of all time.

More book suggestions: 25 best fantasy books and book series of all time

2024 Update: In 2024, I've further enriched this list by adding a new section titled "Recent and Lesser-Known Gems in Science Fiction." This addition highlights exceptional works from the past decade and introduces readers to hidden treasures in the genre. These curated selections ensure that the list remains fresh, diverse, and reflective of the latest trends and voices in science fiction.

1. Dune by Frank Herbert (Dune series)

American author Frank Herbert's novel Dune is one of the best-selling science fiction novels in the world. Originated with the 1965 novel Dune. Frank Herbert’s original Dune series consists of 6 books. After Herbert’s death, his son  Brian Herbert and science fiction author Kevin J. Anderson continued the series and added more than 20 books. 

I consider Dune Series by Frank Herbert as a classic of the science fiction genre. Dune is set in the distant future. The series takes you to the desert planet Arrakis. People fight for this planet even if life on this planet is very hard. The main reason is that this planet is the only source of melange. A very unique and rare substance. It extends human youth, vitality, and lifespan. But life is very hard on this planet. Because of its desert climate and monstrous worms. The story explores interactions between politics, religion, ecology, technology, and human emotions.

List of books in the original Dune series:

• Dune (Book 1, 1965)
• Dune Messiah (Book 2, 1969)
• Children of Dune (Book 3, 1976)
• God Emperor of Dune (Book 4, 1981)
• Heretics of Dune (Book 5, 1984)
• Chapterhouse: Dune (Book 6, 1985)

2. Neuromancer by William Gibson (Sprawl Trilogy)

Neuromancer is the best-known and earliest work in the cyberpunk genre, a subgenre of science fiction. This book is the only novel to get the Philip K. Dick Award, the Hugo Award, and the Nebula Award.   American Canadian author William Gibson’s 1984 science fiction novel is the first book of the Sprawl Trilogy. Also known as Matrix Trilogy. The Matrix is the name of the virtual reality space in this book. 

The story is set in the future and follows hacker protagonist  Henry Case. He will be hired for one last job by a mysterious employer and has to encounter powerful artificial intelligence. 

Sprawl Trilogy books:

• Neuromancer (Book 1, 1984)
• Count Zero (Book 2, 1986)
• Mona Lisa Overdrive (Book 3, 1988)

3. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley (1818)

Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus is a book by English writer Mary Shelley. It was first published in 1818 anonymously. Shelley was 20 when it was first published. The second publication was made in 1821 and this time under her name. Some accept Frankenstein as the first true science fiction book.

It tells the story of a young scientist Victor Frankenstein, who creates a human creature with his new scientific experiment. 

4. The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin (1969)

Ursula K. Le Guin is one of the most popular writers in the science fiction genre. She gained popularity in this genre with her novel The Left Hand of Darkness. 

The Left Hand of Darkness is part of Ursula K. Le Guin's Hainish Cycle. But, you can read it as a stand-alone novel. This book will take you to a very strange and exciting world. Where ambisexual people (people with no fixed sex) live. And plus it is one of the coldest planets you can encounter in science fiction novels. I really enjoyed it and once you read it you will want to read other science fiction books by Ursula K. Le Guin.

Book recommendation: Book Review: Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer (Southern Reach Trilogy - Book 1)

5. Hyperion by Dan Simmons (Hyperion Cantos series)

Hyperion is a science fiction novel by American writer Dan Simmons published in 1989. It is the first book of his Hyperion Cantos, a science fiction book series. Hyperion won the Hugo Award for best novel. The story of the book features multiple characters and timelines. The story sets in the 29th century when hundreds of planets are connected to each other by portals. Hyperion Cantos includes four novels and some short stories.

List of books in the Hyperion Cantos series

• Hyperion (Book 1, 1989)
• The Fall of Hyperion (Book 2, 1990)
• Endymion (Book 3, 1996)
• The Rise of Endymion (Book 4, 1997)

6. The Time Machine by H. G. Wells (1895)

The Time Machine is a science fiction book by English writer H. G. Wells and first published in 1895. It is accepted as the first book to use the term time machine and make it popular until now. 

H.G. Wells is one of the founders of the science fiction genre. And The Time Machine novel is one of his best know works. Many science fiction readers would fantasize about time travel. Especially when that time travel is done by a machine where a traveler can go forward and backward in time. This way travelers can see what happened in past and what will happen in the future. Wells makes this imagination possible by letting his protagonist invent the time machine.

7. Foundation by Isaac Asimov (Foundation series)

Foundation is a science fiction book by Isaac Asimov and also the first book of the Foundation Trilogy. The trilogy was published between 1951 and 1953 and consists of novels  Foundation; Foundation and Empire; and Second Foundation. It won the one-time Hugo Award for "Best All-Time Series" in 1966. Later after 30 years Asimov added 4 more novels and made it a Foundation series. 

If you are a science fiction lover, then you must already have read some books by Asimov. In Foundation Series Asimov also make some connection to his Robot Series. The story sets in a Galactic Empire. Where a scientist predicts that the empire will collapse and suggest a way out to make the dark ages shorter after the collapse.

The Foundation Trilogy

• Foundation (Book 1, 1951)
• Foundation and Empire (Book 2, 1952)
• Second Foundation (Book 3, 1953)

Sequels and Prequels (Publication Order)

• Foundation's Edge (Sequel 1, 1982) - Book Review: Foundation’s Edge by Isaac Asimov (Foundation Series - Book 4)
• Foundation and Earth (Sequel 2, 1986) - Book Review: Foundation and Earth by Isaac Asimov (Foundation Series - Book 5)
• Prelude to Foundation (Prequel 1, 1988)
• Forward the Foundation (Prequel 2, 1993)

8. Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne

9. The Forever War by Joe Haldeman (The Forever War series)

The Forever War is a military science fiction book by American writer Joe Haldeman. It tells a story where human soldiers fight an interstellar war against an alien civilization. This alien civilization is known as the Taurans. The book has one sequel and with this sequel, it is informally known as the Forever War series. The Forever War novel won  Nebula, Hugo, and  Locus awards. 

Military science fiction suggestion: Book Review: Old Man's War by John Scalzi

List of The Forever War series books:

• The Forever War (Book 1, 1974)
• Forever Free (Book 2, 1999)

10. Solaris by Stanislaw Lem (1961)

Solaris is a science fiction book by Polish author Stanisław Lem published in 1961. It tells the story of a  group of scientists located at a  research station. This station is on the planet Solaris. The group of scientists tries to understand extraterrestrial intelligence on this planet. This extraterrestrial intelligence looks like a sea and covers most of the planet. And scientists will encounter very strange and extraordinary things while they are on this planet. In one way extraterrestrial intelligence is also playing with them or doing its own research on humans. 

Soviet science fiction: Book Review: Definitely Maybe by Arkady and Boris Strugatsky

11. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Series by Douglas Adams is a remarkable blend of comedy and science fiction, showcasing the boundless possibilities when different genres intersect. This beloved series follows the extraordinary adventures of the lone survivor after Earth's unexpected destruction. As he journeys through the vastness of outer space, he unravels the enigmatic truth behind the existence of our planet.

Douglas Adams masterfully intertwines elements of humor and science fiction, offering a unique and delightful reading experience. The series combines witty dialogue, clever satire, and imaginative world-building to create a narrative that keeps readers entertained and engrossed from beginning to end.

If you appreciate the fusion of comedy and science fiction, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Series is an absolute must-read. Prepare to embark on a journey that will tickle your funny bone while simultaneously sparking your imagination.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy list of novels

• The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (Book 1, 1979)
• The Restaurant at the End of the Universe (Book 2, 1980)
• Life, the Universe and Everything (Book 3, 1982)
• So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish (Book 4, 1984)
• Mostly Harmless (Book 5, 1992)

12. Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card (Ender's Game series)

Another military science fiction book on this list is Ender's Game novel by American writer Orson Scott Card, published in 1985. It sets in the future Earth which was attacked by an insectoid alien species. Humans called these alien species "the buggers". To fight the aliens, Earth's military force recruits young children and one of them is protagonist Ender. 

Ender will become a space army commander. He has a heavy burden on his shoulders: To save the Earth from the upcoming new alien invasion. This book is about space, military strategy, alien worlds, and races. 

Ender's Game series books

• Ender's Game (Book 1, 1985)
• Speaker for the Dead (Book 2, 1986)
• Xenocide (Book 3, 1991)
• Children of the Mind (Book 4, 1996)
• A War of Gifts (Book 5, novella, 2007)
• Ender in Exile (Book 6, 2008)

13. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle (Time Quintet)

A Wrinkle in Time is a science fantasy novel written by Madeleine L'Engle. Published in 1962, it is the first book in L'Engle's Time Quintet series. The story follows a young girl named Meg Murry and her younger brother Charles Wallace, along with their friend Calvin O'Keefe, as they embark on a cosmic adventure to rescue Meg and Charles Wallace's missing father.

The book combines elements of science fiction, fantasy, and spirituality, exploring themes such as the power of love, the battle between good and evil, and the concept of time travel. 

List of books in Time Quintet

• A Wrinkle in Time (Book 1)
• A Wind in the Door (Book 2)
• A Swiftly Tilting Planet (Book 3)
• Many Waters (Book 4)
• An Acceptable Time (Book 5)

14. The Martian by Andy Weir (2011)

The Martian by Andy Weir has an interesting publishing story. The novel was first self-published. A few years later got the attention of a publisher and was published a second time. And the success of the book made it into the movie. 

Book Review: The Martian by Andy Weir

15. Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick

“Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” is a 1968 dystopian science fiction novel by American author Philip K. Dick. The book served as bases for the 1982 cult movie Blade Runner. It tells the story of a bounty hunter Rick Deckard. Who has a task to find and "retire" (means killing) escaped Nexus-6 model androids.

Dick's friend K. W. Jeter later wrote three continuation novels as sequels to both the “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” novel and the Blade Runner movie.  These are official and authorized sequels and intend to reconcile many of the differences between the novel and the film.

Blade Runner series books

• Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? (1968)
• Blade Runner 2: The Edge of Human by K. W. Jeter (1995)
• Blade Runner 3: Replicant Night by K. W. Jeter (1996)
• Blade Runner 4: Eye and Talon K. W. Jeter (2000)

16. The Moon is a Harsh Mistress by Robert Heinlein (1966)

"The Moon is a Harsh Mistress" is a science fiction novel written by Robert Heinlein. It was published in 1966 and is considered one of Heinlein's most acclaimed works. The story is set in the future, where a lunar colony has been established on the Moon, known as Luna.

 Luna, primarily used as a penal colony and a source of resources for Earth, begins to fight for its freedom against Earth's authority. The novel explores various themes, including political philosophy, revolution, artificial intelligence, and the relationship between Earth and its lunar colony.

The Moon is a Harsh Mistress is praised for its thought-provoking ideas, engaging characters, and Heinlein's ability to blend science fiction with social and political commentary. It won the Hugo Award for Best Novel in 1967, solidifying its status as a classic of the genre.

17. The Stars My Destination by Alfred Bester (1957)

"The Stars My Destination" by Alfred Bester is a groundbreaking science fiction novel that takes readers on a thrilling and mind-bending journey. Set in a future where teleportation, known as "jaunting," has become a reality, the story follows the relentless quest for revenge by the protagonist, Gully Foyle. Left stranded on a derelict spaceship, Foyle becomes consumed by a burning desire to exact vengeance on those who abandoned him. As he traverses the solar system, he uncovers hidden powers within himself, ultimately transforming into a force to be reckoned with.

With its inventive blend of science fiction and psychological depth, "The Stars My Destination" remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate readers with its thought-provoking themes and exhilarating storytelling.

"The Stars My Destination" is the original title of the book written by Alfred Bester and published in 1956. However, when it was released in the United Kingdom, it was titled "Tiger! Tiger!"

18. Consider Phlebas by Iain M. Banks (The Culture Series)

Consider Phlebas is the opening novel of Iain M. Banks' Culture Series, a cornerstone of space opera and modern science fiction. This series is set in a distant future where the Culture — a highly advanced and utopian civilization — clashes with the warlike Idiran Empire. The novel introduces readers to a galaxy filled with artificial intelligence, vast starships, and philosophical dilemmas. The protagonist, Horza, a shape-shifting mercenary, is on a dangerous mission as he navigates the conflict between the Culture and the Idirans. The book blends thrilling action with deep social commentary, setting the tone for the expansive and thought-provoking series that follows.

The Culture Series books:

• Consider Phlebas (Book 1, 1987)
• The Player of Games (Book 2, 1988)
• Use of Weapons (Book 3, 1990)
• The State of the Art (Book 4, 1991) – A collection of short stories, including the novella "The State of the Art" which connects with the series.
• Excession (Book 5, 1996)
• Inversions (Book 6, 1998) – Though set in the same universe, this novel is more of a standalone story, with minimal direct reference to the Culture.
• Look to Windward (Book 7, 2000)
• Matter (Book 8, 2008)
• Surface Detail (Book 9, 2010)
• The Hydrogen Sonata (Book 10, 2012)

19. Red Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson (Mars Trilogy)

"Red Mars" by Kim Stanley Robinson is the first installment in the acclaimed "Mars Trilogy" that presents a compelling and meticulously researched vision of humanity's colonization and terraforming of the red planet. Set in the near future, the story follows a diverse group of scientists, engineers, and explorers who embark on a groundbreaking mission to transform Mars into a habitable environment.

Robinson's novel intricately explores the scientific, political, and social challenges involved in the terraforming process, presenting a richly detailed portrayal of the Martian landscape and the complexities of human interactions in a new frontier. 

"Red Mars" is renowned for its scientific accuracy and its deep exploration of the psychological and sociological impact of the colonization effort. With its blend of hard science fiction, political intrigue, and exploration of human nature, "Red Mars" serves as an engrossing entry point into the Mars Trilogy, offering a compelling and realistic portrayal of our potential future as a multi-planetary species.

List of books in the Mars Trilogy

• Red Mars (Book 1, 1992)
• Green Mars (Book 2, 1993)
• Blue Mars (Book 3, 1996)

20. 1984 by George Orwell (1949)

The dystopian novel 1984 by George Orwell is my personal favorite. It takes you to a dystopian world. It is fiction and a dystopia, but I can for sure say some part of this book one way or another happened and still happen in our real life, society, and world. I think everyone should read this book. One of the mind-opening novels.

Set in a totalitarian society, the story takes place in the year 1984, where the world is divided into three superstates: Oceania, Eurasia, and Eastasia. The novel follows the life of Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the ruling Party in Oceania.

"1984" is known for its chilling portrayal of a surveillance state, the concept of Big Brother, and many other literary lexicons. The novel has had a profound impact on literature and popular culture, and its themes and concepts continue to be referenced and discussed today. "1984" remains a significant work of dystopian fiction, highlighting the importance of critical thinking, individual freedom, and the preservation of truth.

21. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury (1953) 

We all love reading books. But imagine there is a fictional world where all books are forbidden. And if you have a book, firefighters will come and burn them. If they will find a house full of books, then they can even burn the whole house. So this is another dystopian science fiction. With this book, you will realize how important books are and the importance of reading. 

"Fahrenheit 451" by Ray Bradbury, published in 1953, is a timeless dystopian novel that paints a chilling picture of a future society consumed by censorship and intellectual oppression. "Fahrenheit 451" explores themes of censorship, the power of literature, and the importance of critical thinking. Bradbury's vivid prose and evocative imagery bring to life a world where the suppression of ideas threatens the very essence of humanity. Through protagonist Montag's personal awakening, the novel prompts readers to reflect on the dangers of an intellectually apathetic society and the profound impact of literature in shaping our perceptions and challenging the status quo.

22. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley (1932) 

Brave New World is a dystopian social science fiction novel. But the world order in this book is not as totalitarian as in George Orwell's 1984. Aldous Huxley's novel was always on my must-read dystonia list. So if you are also interested in dystopia books, you should also read Brave New World. We can say this is one of the classics of the dystopian book genre.

"Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley, first published in 1932, is a thought-provoking dystopian novel that presents a chilling vision of a future society governed by conformity, technology, and the suppression of individuality. Set in a world where genetic engineering, psychological conditioning, and the pursuit of pleasure are the norm, the story follows characters grappling with the dehumanizing effects of a highly controlled and stratified society.

Huxley's narrative explores themes of totalitarianism, consumerism, and the manipulation of human behavior. The novel paints a stark contrast between the superficial happiness enforced by the ruling elite and the underlying existential emptiness experienced by its citizens. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Bernard Marx, and the outsider John the Savage, readers witness the clash between the ideals of a dystopian society and the yearning for freedom, individuality, and meaningful human connections.

23. Robot Series by Isaac Asimov

The Robot Series by Isaac Asimov is a collection of science fiction novels and short stories that revolve around the concept of robots and their interaction with humans in a futuristic society. Asimov's Robot Series is set in a future where robots have become an integral part of everyday life, serving humanity in various capacities.

The series introduces the Three Laws of Robotics, a set of ethical guidelines programmed into robots to ensure their behavior aligns with human values and safety. These laws become a recurring theme throughout the series, exploring the complexities of human-robot relationships, artificial intelligence, and the moral implications of creating intelligent machines.

Robot series short stories

• I, Robot (1950) - Book Review: I, Robot by Isaac Asimov (Robot Series - Short Stories)
• The Complete Robot (1982)

Robot series novels

• The Caves of Steel (Book 1, 1954) - Book Review: Caves of Steel by Isaac Asimov (Robot Series - Novel 1)
• The Naked Sun (Book 2, 1957)
• The Robots of Dawn (Book 3, 1983)
• Robots and Empire (Book 4, 1987)

24. 2001: A Space Odyssey by Arthur C. Clarke (Space Odyssey series) 

"2001: A Space Odyssey" is a groundbreaking science fiction novel written by Arthur C. Clarke. It is the first installment in the Space Odyssey series, which explores humanity's encounters with advanced extraterrestrial civilizations. The story begins with the discovery of an alien monolith on the Moon, which triggers a mysterious signal directed toward Saturn. A team of astronauts embarks on a mission aboard the spaceship Discovery to investigate the origin and purpose of the monolith. As they journey through the depths of space, they encounter enigmatic phenomena and confront the limits of human understanding. With its thought-provoking exploration of human evolution, artificial intelligence, and the mysteries of the cosmos, "2001: A Space Odyssey" has captivated readers for decades. It is a seminal work in science fiction literature and a testament to Arthur C. Clarke's visionary imagination.

List of books in the Space Odyssey series

• 2001: A Space Odyssey (Book 1, 1968)
• 2010: Odyssey Two (Book 2, 1982)
• 2061: Odyssey Three (Book 3, 1989)
• 3001: The Final Odyssey (Book 4, 1999)

25. Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson (1992)

"Snow Crash" by Neal Stephenson is a groundbreaking science fiction novel that takes readers on a thrilling and mind-bending adventure. Set in a near-future world where virtual reality and the internet have merged into a sprawling metaverse, the story follows the exploits of Hiro Protagonist, a hacker, and sword-wielding pizza delivery driver.

When a new drug called Snow Crash emerges in this dystopian future, capable of infecting both the virtual and physical worlds, Hiro embarks on a mission to uncover the truth behind its origins and save humanity from impending doom. Blending elements of cyberpunk, mythology, linguistics, and philosophy, "Snow Crash" delivers a fast-paced narrative filled with high-tech thrills, fascinating world-building, and thought-provoking social commentary. 

"Snow Crash" has become a cult classic and a must-read for fans of science fiction and cyberpunk literature.

26. The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury (1950)

"The Martian Chronicles" by Ray Bradbury is a classic science fiction collection of interconnected stories that paints a vivid and haunting picture of humanity's colonization and exploration of Mars. Set in a future where Earth has become a troubled and desolate place, the book explores the dreams, hopes, and struggles of both the human colonizers and the enigmatic Martians.

Through a series of episodic tales, Bradbury weaves together themes of nostalgia, loneliness, and the yearning for a better world. Each story offers a unique perspective on the evolving relationship between humans and Martians, showcasing both the potential for understanding and the destructive consequences of fear and misunderstanding.

27. Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton (1990)

"Jurassic Park" by Michael Crichton is a thrilling science fiction novel that brings dinosaurs back to life through the wonders of genetic engineering. Set on the fictional island of Isla Nublar, the story follows a group of scientists, investors, and thrill-seekers who find themselves trapped in a prehistoric nightmare when the park's security systems fail and the dinosaurs run amok.

Crichton's masterful storytelling combines cutting-edge science, edge-of-your-seat suspense, and ethical dilemmas to create a cautionary tale about the dangers of playing god with nature. "Jurassic Park" explores themes of scientific ethics, the limits of control, and the inherent power of nature. 

The novel's success spawned a highly popular film franchise and cemented its place as a beloved classic in both the science fiction and adventure genres. 

Jurassic Park series book list

• Jurassic Park (Book 1, 1990)
• The Lost World (Book 2, 1995)

28. Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler (Earthseed series) 

"Parable of the Sower" by Octavia E. Butler is a powerful science fiction novel and the first book in the Earthseed series. Set in a dystopian future, the story follows the journey of a young woman named Lauren Olamina, who possesses a rare empathic ability. As society crumbles around her, Lauren develops a new belief system called Earthseed, which centers on the idea of change and adaptation as essential for survival.

Butler's writing delves deep into themes of religion, race, gender, and the human capacity for resilience in the face of adversity. Through Lauren's eyes, readers witness the struggles, dangers, and harsh realities of a world plagued by climate change, inequality, and violence. The novel presents a thought-provoking exploration of societal collapse and the search for hope and meaning amidst chaos.

List of Earthseed series books

• Parable of the Sower (Book 1, 1993)
• Parable of the Talents (Book 2, 1998)

29. Ringworld by Larry Niven (Ringworld series)

"Ringworld" by Larry Niven is a classic science fiction novel and the first book in the Ringworld series. Set in a distant future, the story takes readers on an awe-inspiring journey to a massive artificial ring-shaped structure surrounding a distant star. This engineering marvel, known as Ringworld, is home to diverse alien civilizations, breathtaking landscapes, and mysteries waiting to be unraveled.

Niven's imaginative world-building and scientific speculation are on full display as readers accompany a group of explorers on their quest to uncover the secrets of Ringworld. From encountering strange and fascinating alien species to navigating the vast and intricate terrain of the ring, the characters embark on an epic adventure that challenges their understanding of the universe.

"Ringworld" combines elements of hard science fiction, adventure, and exploration, creating a compelling narrative that captivates readers with its grand scale and intricate details. The book explores themes of alien civilizations, technological marvels, and the fragility of ecosystems, inviting readers to contemplate the wonders and dangers of exploring uncharted territories.

It has won numerous awards, including the prestigious Hugo, Nebula, and Locus Awards, cementing its status as a must-read for fans of imaginative and visionary storytelling.

Ringworld series

• Ringworld (Book 1, 1970)
• The Ringworld Engineers (Book 2, 1979)
• The Ringworld Throne (Book 3, 1996)
• Ringworld's Children (Book 4, 2004)
• Fate of Worlds (Book 5, 2012)

30. Contact by Carl Sagan

"Contact" by Carl Sagan is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that explores humanity's quest for extraterrestrial intelligence and our place in the vast universe. The story follows the journey of Dr. Ellie Arroway, a brilliant scientist who becomes involved in the search for intelligent life beyond Earth.

Sagan, known for his expertise in astronomy and astrophysics, brings his scientific knowledge and passion for exploration to the forefront in "Contact." The novel delves into the complexities of interstellar communication, the implications of encountering advanced civilizations, and the intertwining of science, faith, and politics.

31. The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin (The Broken Earth trilogy)

"The Fifth Season" by N.K. Jemisin is the first installment in the critically acclaimed "Broken Earth" trilogy. Set in a world plagued by frequent cataclysmic events known as "Fifth Seasons," the story unfolds in a land called Stillness, where survival is a constant struggle. The narrative follows three interconnected storylines, each centered around a different character, whose paths converge as they navigate the complexities of a world on the brink of destruction.

Jemisin's masterful storytelling weaves together elements of science fiction and fantasy. The novel explores themes of power, oppression, and resilience, delving into the lives of individuals with unique abilities known as orogeny, who can manipulate the Earth's energy. 

"The Fifth Season" garnered widespread acclaim, earning numerous awards, including the Hugo Award for Best Novel. 

List of The Broken Earth Trilogy Books in Order

• The Fifth Season (Book 1, 2015)
• The Obelisk Gate (Book 2, 2016)
• The Stone Sky (Book 3, 2017)

32. The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin (Remembrance of Earth's Past Trilogy)

The Three-Body Problem is a science fiction book written by the Chinese author Liu Cixin. It was first published in 2006. The book became one of the best Chinese science fiction novels. That's why it became the first Asian/Chinese novel ever to win a Hugo Award for Best Novel, and also was nominated for the Nebula Award for Best Novel. It is the first book of the Remembrance of Earth's Past Trilogy. But mostly known as The Three-Body Problem trilogy. 

The title of the first book comes from the three-body problem in physics. Story sets in three different times:  past, present, and future. Where Earth encounters an alien civilization that lives in a planet with three suns. Which has an unstable three-body system. 

Remembrance of Earth's Past (or The Three-Body Problem) trilogy books:

• The Three-Body Problem (Book 1, 2006)
• The Dark Forest (Book 2, 2008)
• Death's End (Book 3, 2010)

Recent and Lesser-Known Gems in Science Fiction

Science fiction is a genre that continually evolves, bringing forth new voices and imaginative worlds. In this section, we highlight recent and lesser-known gems from the last decade that have made significant contributions to the genre. These books offer fresh perspectives, innovative storytelling, and captivating narratives that are sure to intrigue and inspire. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to science fiction, these titles are worth exploring.

1. "Project Hail Mary" by Andy Weir: A lone astronaut wakes up with no memory on a spaceship light-years from Earth, tasked with saving humanity from an extinction-level threat. This gripping, science-driven thriller is full of suspense and humor.
2. "A Psalm for the Wild-Built" by Becky Chambers: In a world where robots gained self-awareness and left human society, a tea monk meets a robot on a pilgrimage, sparking a profound exploration of life's purpose and companionship.
3. "Children of Time" by Adrian Tchaikovsky: A gripping tale of human survival and evolution, as a terraforming project goes awry, leading to the rise of an intelligent spider civilization and humanity's struggle to reclaim the stars.
4. "The Space Between Worlds" by Micaiah Johnson: In a multiverse where only a few can travel between dimensions, a woman with a dangerous past discovers a conspiracy that could threaten the stability of her world and every other.
5. "All Systems Red" by Martha Wells: Part of the acclaimed Murderbot Diaries, this novella follows a security robot who hacks its own governor module, gaining autonomy and developing a sarcastic personality while uncovering corporate corruption.
6. "Gideon the Ninth" by Tamsyn Muir: Combining necromancy and space exploration, this novel features Gideon, a sword-wielding orphan, and Harrow, a bone-obsessed necromancer, as they navigate deadly trials to uncover dark secrets.
7. "This Is How You Lose the Time War" by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone: A beautifully written, epistolary novella about two rival time-traveling agents who fall in love across different timelines, blending poetic prose with intricate world-building.
8. "The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet" by Becky Chambers: Following the crew of a tunneling spaceship, this character-driven novel explores themes of family, identity, and cultural diversity in a vast, intricately imagined universe.
9. "The City We Became" by N.K. Jemisin: A speculative urban fantasy where New York City’s boroughs manifest as human avatars, who must unite to defend the city against a cosmic threat in this genre-bending narrative.
10. "Annihilation Aria" by Michael R. Underwood: An interstellar adventure featuring a treasure-hunting couple, a space opera diva, and a secret that could alter the fate of the galaxy, packed with humor, heart, and action.