13 Best Sci-Fi Books of All Time 2024

These best sci fi books of all time will transport you to new worlds and challenge your imagination like never before.
Dune coverNeuromancer cover

Prepare to embark on a mind-bending journey as we explore the 13 best sci fi books of all time. Our list includes stories that challenge reality, explore distant galaxies, and dive deep into the human mind. When selecting these gems, we focused on books that offer thrilling plots, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking themes. Whether you’re new to science fiction or a seasoned fan, our list has something for everyone.

On this list:

13 Dune by Frank Herbert

Dune cover

  • Genre: Science Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1965
  • Pages: 412

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We once tried to grow a spice plantation in our backyard after reading this. Trust us, sandworms are a handful!

12 Neuromancer by William Gibson

Neuromancer cover

  • Genre: Cyberpunk
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1984
  • Pages: 271

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We got hooked and ended up saying ‘cyberspace’ in casual conversation. Imagine our teenagers’ reactions!

11 Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card

  • Genre: Military Science Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1985
  • Pages: 324

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We tried playing strategy games after reading this, but realized we’re no Ender. Our cat, however, is a tactical genius.

10 The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin

The Left Hand of Darkness cover

  • Genre: Science Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1969
  • Pages: 304

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We learned about gender fluidity with this one. It led to a lively dinner table discussion – everyone had opinions!

9 Hyperion by Dan Simmons

Hyperion cover

  • Genre: Space Opera
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1989
  • Pages: 482

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We were confused initially, but by the end, we were shouting, ‘Shrike, take us!’ It’s that good.

8 Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson

Snow Crash cover

  • Genre: Cyberpunk
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1992
  • Pages: 470

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This made us reconsider delivering pizzas. But hey, a katana in the back seat isn’t practical.

7 The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells

The War of the Worlds cover

  • Genre: Alien Invasion
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1898
  • Pages: 192

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We often look to the sky and wonder, ‘what if?’ Thanks to this classic, our imagination knows no bounds.

6 Foundation by Isaac Asimov

Foundation cover

  • Genre: Science Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1951
  • Pages: 255

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We thought of starting our own Foundation. Then we remembered taxes and decided against it.

5 The Forever War by Joe Haldeman

The Forever War cover

  • Genre: Military Science Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1974
  • Pages: 236

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We sympathized with soldiers through time. Now we might think twice before complaining about traffic.

4 Starship Troopers by Robert A. Heinlein

Starship Troopers cover

  • Genre: Military Science Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1959
  • Pages: 263

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We wanted to enlist after this. Then remembered we’re too old. Still, it’s a blast!

3 The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

  • Genre: Comic Science Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1979
  • Pages: 193

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We keep a towel handy now. You just never know!

2 The Martian by Andy Weir

The Martian cover

  • Genre: Science Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 2011
  • Pages: 369

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We tried growing potatoes, but they didn’t turn out as well as Mark Watney’s. We did get dirt everywhere, though.

1 1984 by George Orwell

1984 cover

  • Genre: Dystopian
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
  • Year released: 1949
  • Pages: 328

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A classic that makes us look over our shoulder whenever we use our smart devices.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!