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50 Best Science Fiction Books for Kids

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Science Fiction (Sci-Fi) is a genre that includes science and technology that could possibly happen in the future and/or in space and/or in a different dimension. The best science fiction books for kids are engaging stories with cool scientific aspects and interesting characters. As for me, I love reading science fiction, and even more, I love recommending sci-fi books to my students, kids, and blog readers.

These science fiction  chapter books ,  middle grade books , and YA books for ages six to sixteen are excellent and will help your kids read more. I hear from publishers and librarians that many kids shy away from the sci-fi genre, but it’s actually the coolest. Science fiction just needs a kid to give it a chance! Which is why I am sharing my favorite picks for kids, plus reviews to keep you updated with what the books are about.

You might be familiar with sci-fi classics from your own high school days, such as Frankenstein by Mary Shelley or The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (my own high school favorite book series), or even the short stories from one of the most famous science fiction writers, Ray Bradbury. But the scope and depth of science fiction books have grown since those days into an impressive body of works from newer, interesting writers.

science fiction books

What will you read in a science fiction book?

These sci-fi stories will be about topics like artificial intelligence (AI), genetic engineering, post-apocalyptic times ( dystopian books being a subgenre), aliens, ahead-of-its-time inventions, space travel, time travel, portals, and the multiverse. Just to name a few. Some are adventurous, some are funny, and some are creative and clever worlds!

And please give all these people using and pushing AI a science fiction book or movie because spoiler alert: IT DOESN’T END WELL. Not to mention, AI is based on stolen art and writing. Boo.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into these great books. I know you’re going to find so many good books on this book list. (Incidentally, I have read and reviewed all of these books myself. This is NOT AI-generated content or copied text from publisher or Amazon descriptions.)

Happy reading!

best science fiction books

Best Science Fiction Books for Kids

fantasy science fiction children's books

Science Fiction Chapter Books for Ages 6 – 9

best science fiction books

Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke graphic novel (series) This is one of our favorite graphic novels! Zita the Spacegirl is a true friend who not only saves her best friend from kidnapping aliens but saves the galaxy!

fantasy science fiction children's books

Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot The Voodoo Vultures from Venus by Dav Pilkey, illustrated by Dan Santat (series) Kudos to Dav Pilkey and Dan Santat for creating such an action-packed, engaging new series for young readers. And the illustrations are marvelous. It’s not often you see a book in full color – love that!

fantasy science fiction children's books

Galaxy Zack Hello, Nebulon!   (series) An easy chapter book that’s simple, fun, and entertaining about a boy who moves to a new planet.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Diary of a Minecraft Zombie Book 1: A Scare of a Dare  by Herobrine Books  (series) Short sentences with witty observations on life from the perspective of a Minecraft zombie that will crack you up. I was surprised that this was such an entertaining, funny read. Nothing scary. Just fun. Especially for Minecraft enthusiasts. (These are FREE for Kindle Unlimited subscribers!)

fantasy science fiction children's books

Into the Game (Minecraft Woodsword Chronicles) by Nick Eliopulos  (series) First in one of the BEST Minecraft book series , this adventure follows five players who are transported inside the game — and it’s real, and they’ll have to use all their survival and problem-solving skills to stay alive. BOXED SET of Books 1 – 4 HERE .

fantasy science fiction children's books

Plants vs. Zombies by Paul Tobin and Ron Chan   graphic novel (series) If your child likes these graphic novels, there are TONS of books in this funny sci-fi zombie series.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Frank Einstein and the Antimatter Motor by Jon Scieszka, illustrated by Brian Biggs  (series) Frank invents things. Most of the time, those things don’t work. Recently, Frank has been trying to make a robot who can think for himself (like Frankenstein ) using old appliances and spare parts (toaster, keyboard, Shop-Vac). Frank doesn’t do it, but in a miracle of fictional science, the robot builds himself. This book is a bit slower-paced than I like, but I think it’s a decent read that will appeal to young tinkerers.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Doodle Adventures: The Search for Slimy Space Slugs! by Mike Lowery  (series) This book not only hooks the reader with its space-adventure plot and hilarious narrator Carl the Duckbut hopes you can find the missing priceless artifact, which requires bravery, heroism and drawing. Make sure that you’ve got a spacesuit, you’ve packed everything you need to bring, the rocket design is perfect, plus it has some silly extras, and lots more as the adventure ensues.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Hilo The Boy Who Crashed to Earth by Judd Winick  (series) Hilo can’t remember much before D.J. finds him crashed landed on Earth. But evil robots have followed Hilo to Earth, and it’s up to Hilo to protect it. This ends on a cliff-hanger but is worth it — it’s a great page-turning graphic novel adventure with more in the series.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Star Wars Jedi Academy by Jeffrey Brown  graphic novel (series) Engaging from the first page, this is a relatable graphic novel adventure story about a young boy, Roan, who dreams of becoming a pilot . . . but gets into Jedi school instead . He’s the oldest new student, everyone else started long before him. Roan has ups and downs, as one does at a new school, but finds his place at the school and new friends. Highly recommended!

fantasy science fiction children's books

Killer Species by Michael P. Spradlin  (series) A fast-paced adventure series about a mad scientist who creates a hybrid crocodile-dinosaur-bird killer creature to stop visitors from entering the Everglades. Emmet and his father arrive to investigate, but when his father is kidnapped, Emmet and his friend, Calvin, know it’s up to them to find where the kidnapper is holding Emmet’s father. GREAT for reluctant readers — and anyone who loves a crazy sci-fi who-done-it!

fantasy science fiction children's books

Albert Hopper Science Hero by John Himmelman (series) Albert Hopper and his niece and nephew use his wormlike ship to dig into the center of the earth…but the ship gets stuck! The story contains lots of science, particularly geology vocabulary, which makes me think it will be too hard for many beginning readers. Nevertheless, it’s an exciting science adventure with engaging black and green illustrations.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Jurassic Jeff: Space Invader by Royden Lepp graphic novel (series) review written by Jemma Taylor JURASSIC JEFF is a story about dinosaurs , aliens, and friendship . Jeff is a space alien picked on by the other remembers of the Intergalactic Cadets. He’s sent to conquer a planet called Earth, where the lifeforms are surprisingly unadvanced, but they’re able to teach him things he knew nothing of before: friendship, forgiveness, and not having to prove yourself. It’s a sweet story for anyone who has ever felt like an outcast — and also for anyone who likes dinosaurs!

Middle Grade Science Fiction Books for Ages 8 – 12

fantasy science fiction children's books

First Cat in Space by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Shawn Harris  graphic novels (series) Absurdly hysterical, this is a bizarrely perfect adventure in space with a cat and a toenail-clipping robot who journey to the moon to stop the rats from eating it all. Silly adventures ensue –like befriending a whale, becoming pirates, and answering a sphynx’s riddle. Then, the spaceship’s computer joins the Rat King’s side with revenge in mind and when the heroes arrive at the Rat King’s they GET CAPTURED. But, don’t worry — somehow they’ll escape. Right?

fantasy science fiction children's books

Trapped in a Video Game by Dustin Brady, illustrated by Brady Jessee  (series) Gamers and non-gamers alike who love exciting and dangerous stories won’t want to miss this excellent action-packed series. Jesse’s friend gets an early release of a video game — and it sucks both boys into the game. Inside the game, they meet a classmate who has been missing for weeks and is now a grown-up man in the game. They’re all trapped with no escape possible.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior by Cube Kid, illustrated by Saboten (series) Runt is a 12-year -ld with real problems. He doesn’t want to be a typical villager with the typical boring life. He wants to be a warrior like Steve . So he’s excited when his school finally agrees that the villagers might need warriors to fight back against the nightly attacks. When Steve loses everything and moves in with Runt’s family, Runt hopes that Steve will help with warrior training. But it’s a guy named Mike whose in the village jail that helps because Steve is too depressed. Runt’s a relatable, mostly serious, character who just wants a different life — like most kids his age and is competing for a dream opportunity.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Your Pal Fred by Michael Rex  Fred is a robot who brings kindness (and STICKERS!) to a dystopian world he makes better in this funny, warmhearted, and interesting story.  When Fred discovers that two warlords are capturing innocent people to fight as soldiers for them, Fred knows what he has to do–ask the two bad guys to try peace. He irritates and surprises everyone he meets with his cheerfulness and positive attitude, even when he’s caught and “tortured” with drumming, which, of course, he loves. His character oozes charm, you can’t help but love him–along with the other curious characters that he meets. Will Fred succeed on his seemingly impossible mission? 

fantasy science fiction children's books

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle (series) I’ve read this sci-fi time travel book so many times, I can’t count — many times with my classes as a read aloud — and every time it’s just as fantastic. (That doesn’t always happen with books.) A Wrinkle in Time is  a remarkable, well-written adventure in space that deals with the overarching theme of good vs. evil. Meg and her brother, Charles Wallace, and friend, Calvin, set off to find her scientist father who disappeared while researching tesseracts.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Space Case and Spaced Out by Stuart Gibbs (series) review written by my daughter, 11-year-old JJ This series was AMAZING! It was a murder mystery on the moon. I can never turn down a good, realistic sci-fi PLUS murder mystery. It has it all! It was placed in 2040 and their second-in-command had died. He had walked out the airlock (to the moon’s surface) with his space suit on wrong– he died in seconds. Everyone thought he had gone crazy, but Dashiel suspected differently. Murder. The first book is almost mirrored in the second –the base commander this time disappears. With just enough breaking the rules, they can figure out where she is and who did it.

the last kids on earth

The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier, illustrated by Douglas Colgate  (series) One of the best science fiction books on this list! In this story, the zombie apocalypse is kind of fun. At least that’s how Jack approaches life and zombie fights. He and his best friend, Quint, live in an upgraded, well-defended treehouse (which is SO COOL I totally want to live there) where they plan for rescuing his crush June (even though she doesn’t need rescuing being quite capable) and fighting zombies. Illustrations throughout make this even more appealing to read and imagine. I absolutely love this series.

fantasy science fiction children's books

The Last Gate of the Emperor by Kwame Mbalia and Prince Joel Makonnen  (series) Yared’s Uncle Moti moves them around frequently, so when Yared gives his real name during an augmented reality game, he doesn’t think the soldiers that arrive are after him. But they are. And everything he believed about his life turns out to be a lie…including his identity. Yared partners with another game player, the Ibis, to escape the troops and the giant monster and find the truth. The two clever, quick-witted kids face incredible danger, insurmountable odds, and a galaxy-spanning war but Yared has been trained for this and he is ready to fight. Set in a futuristic Ethiopian empire, this exciting adventure grabs your interest and keeps it through wild twists and turns that feature heroic main characters!

fantasy science fiction children's books

Hypnotists by Gordon Korman  (series) Mix the action-packed writing of Korman with a boy who can hypnotize others – and who is recruited to be in a “special” school to save the world. But is that really what the school does? And, unlike some series whose sequels disappoint, all the books in this series are excellent.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Explorer Academy: The Nebula Secret  by Trudi Trueit (series) This is National Geographic’s first fictional book series with full-color illustrations that hits the spot with an exciting mix of science, technology, adventure, and mystery. Newly accepted into the prestigious Explorer Academy for science and exploration, Cruz realizes that someone is trying to kill him ; someone who doesn’t want him finding out about his mother’s mysterious research and untimely death. I LOVE the cool tech, amazing friendships, plot twists, plus an intriguing premise with more books to follow.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Masterminds by Gordon Korman (series) My kids and I highly recommend this science fiction book series! Eli and his friends discover that his “father” is the leader of a group of scientists who are using the town and some of the kids in a secret and unapproved science experiment–cloned kids from evil masterminds . Will the kids escape, and will they be more than their DNA?

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fantasy science fiction children's books

Minrs by Kevin Sylvester  (series) Action & intrigue in outer space — this science fiction book will hook you right away. Christopher’s space colony home is attacked by pirates. He and many other children escape to the underground mines. Christopher’s determined to help the others find food, water, and the emergency beacon but first, they’ll have to work together and confront a terrible truth about the Melming Mining company. The third and final book in the trilogy is out now. This is a not-to-miss middle-grade sci-fi series.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Dead City  by James Ponti  (series) Okay, this is more paranormal than sci-fi, but it’s SO good I wanted to include it in this genre list, too.   Molly’s recruited to hunt zombies in New York City , just like her mother, who is dead. Or is mom actually a zombie? And why is she trying to contact Molly? This is a great action-adventure story with a mystery. I loved all the books in this zombie series.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Jinxed  by Amy McCulloch  (series) In this evolved society, the tech company MONCHA makes computerized pets called bakus that act like smartphones and computers. Lacey finds an unusual, half-destroyed cat baku and rebuilds it using a 3D printer and found parts. When her baku Jinx starts to work, he’s noticeably different than the other bakus– he can speak into her mind and think for himself! So when she starts competing with other kids at her prestigious school in the battle of the bakus, Jinx doesn’t follow the rules which lead to his capture and the discovery of a sinister truth about MONCHA.  Fantastic, fast-paced, and thought-provoking.

science fiction books for kids

The Ghost Network: Activate by I.I. Davidson (series) Jack and his friend are hackers who get taken to a top-secret tech school where all is not as it seems. Not only are the kids in danger, but there seems to be a computer implanted inside their brains!? The science fiction series intrigued me, the action was so fast-paced and suspenseful, I was totally hooked.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Edge of Extinction The Ark Plan by Laura Martin  (series) Action and excitement from the first page! This is a fantastic story about a dangerous world where cloned dinosaurs have taken over the world. Sky and her fellow humans live below ground in safety with “Noah” as their supreme ruler. When Sky discovers that her missing (maybe traitor?) father left her a secret note with cryptic instructions on how to be found, she decides to leave the underground city in order to find him. Barely outside a day, she and her friend Shawn are rescued from hungry dinosaurs by a boy who lives in a treetop enclave. Then, the boy’s enclave is attacked by Noah’s soldiers looking for her and Sky realizes that everything she believed about Noah is wrong. But can she escape the soldiers that are following her every move?

fantasy science fiction children's books

Bloom by Kenneth Oppel  (series) Get ready for a wild ride of suspense, action, adventure, science fiction, and coolness!! Bloom tells the story of three kids who are not affected by the strange-looking plants that appear out of nowhere and take over land all over the world, covering houses and streets, swallowing animals and people but doing nothing to these kids. Scientists figure out that the plants are an alien invasion…and think these kids may be the only chance they have to stop them. To avoid spoilers, I’ll just tell you that it’s an AWESOME story…and ends on a crazy cliff hanger.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Fuzzy Mud by Louis Sachar  They’re not supposed to be in the woods, but to avoid Chad the bully, Tamaya and Marshall go there anyway. Tamaya discovers the weird-looking “fuzzy mud” and throws it at Chad’s face who had followed them. When Chad goes missing and Tamaya’s hand gets a bloody rash, it’s clear that the mud is not just mud. Fast-paced and adventurous, kids won’t be able to put this book down. I couldn’t.

fantasy science fiction children's books

City of Thieves (Battle Dragons) by Alex London (series) In Drakopolis, gangs of kins clans run the neighborhoods with violence and crime, using dragons to fight each other and work as taxis and cargo carriers.  He’s devastated to learn that his best friend who happens to be non-binary is in a kin and never told him– and that his family is in danger if Abel doesn’t fight. In an exciting plot twist, Abel uses his strengths, his family, and his two 7th grade classmates to fight against ALL the kins to erase his family’s debt once and for all. Cool world-building with fantastic character development — this was a fun read!

fantasy science fiction children's books

Daughter of the Deep by Rick Riordan (series) Get ready for action, intrigue, plot twists, and super-cool technology! Ana’s freshman class at her specialized marine and naval academy are the only survivors when the academy is blown up. As the class races to board their field trip ship, their chaperone reveals several essential secrets…Jule Verne’s novels based on Captain Nemo are mostly true, Ana’s the only surviving relative of Captain Nemo, and they will be attacked by the land school if they don’t get to safety immediately.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Area 51 Interns: Alien Summer by James S. Murray and Carsen Smith (series) It’s the first day of summer vacation and Viv and her friends’ parents are “taking their kids to work”–at Area 51. It starts off boring and touristy but when aliens escape from their cells, the kids see the real facility and watch as the adults get captured by aliens.  Viv and her friends must find a way to get to the alien ship and save their parents and other kids.  It’s an exciting, fast-paced, kids-as-heroes alien adventure with a big twist…

fantasy science fiction children's books

Lion of Mars by Jennifer L. Holm Eleven-year-old Bell lives in an underground compound on Mars. His United States group is isolated from the other country’s settlements but when the grownups get a deadly rodent-borne illness, the kids leave and try to get help from the other colonies. An imaginative story of friendship and adventure…on Mars!

fantasy science fiction children's books

Atlantis: The Accidental Invasion by Gregory Mone (series) Lewis’s scientist dad believes that Atlantis still exists, and when Lewis sneaks off to find his dad’s lab, he ends up on a journey with his dad and his dad’s research assistant, Hanna, to find out the truth. Meanwhile, an Atlantian girl sneaks away from home and passes the guards to see if there could be life above the ocean. When their fates collide, the excitement at each other’s existence is short-lived because the Atlantian Eraser guards capture Lewis’s dad…and then Lewis and Hanna. Interesting, action-packed, and filled with cool tech!

fantasy science fiction children's books

Greystone Secrets: The Strangers by Margaret Peterson Haddix  (series) Exciting from the first page to the last! Why would the Greystone kids’ loving, wonderful mom leave the three of them just after hearing the news about a bizarre kidnapping involving a family with their EXACT same names and birthdays? And why is there a secret room in their basement that leads to another house in a different world? The kids, along with their new friend, Natalie, embark on a dangerous adventure to find their missing mom, travel to an alternate world, and save the kidnapped children.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Timeless Diego and the Rangers of the Vastlantic by Armand Baltazar  Lush, full-color illustrations (over 150!) fill this dramatic science fiction adventure in one of the most uniquely imagined worlds. 13-year-old Diego lives in New Chicago post-Time Collision. Now, in the present, the Steam Timers, the Mid Timers, the Elders, and other groups coexist peacefully after a terrible world war. But it’s a fragile peace. When Diego’s dad, the leading engineer for the territories, and his colleague are kidnapped by a splinter group, Diego and his friends set out on a rescue mission where they’re immediately captured by pirates. The action is non-stop, the plot is skillfully crafted, and the characters, both boys and girls, are interesting. Don’t miss this incredible, epic adventure!

fantasy science fiction children's books

The Giver  by Lois Lowry  (series) Set in a  dystopian  society, this Newbery medal winner grabs your attention and keeps it until the end. What is going on in this community? When Jonas is assigned his job as “Receiver of Memory” he learns just how much his hidden and controlled . Now, he’ll have to decide just what he’ll do with this horrifying information.

fantasy science fiction children's books

The Secret Deep  by Lindsay Galvin After their mother dies of cancer, Aster and her younger sister, Poppy, travel to New Zeland to live with their cancer researcher aunt. But Aster’s aunt has moved everyone and burned the village. She gasses everyone and Aster wakes up in the ocean alone. She will eventually find an island and two other teenagers from the village, but strangest of all is she meets a boy with gills who breathes water instead of air.  When danger arrives with Sam’s help, it’s a fight for survival and answers. Fascinating and hard to put down.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Sanity & Tallulah by Molly Brooks GRAPHIC NOVEL (series) Sanity and Tallulah are two good friends who live on a space station. Sanity is a brilliant inventor — but her newest (illegal) creation, a three-headed kitten named Princess Destroyer of Worlds has escaped and is living up to her name — destroyer. The friends look for their missing kitten but instead discover a big problem that will destroy the space station only it’s not caused by the kitten. While the station is evacuated, the friends work hard to stop the duct weasels and the engine from overheating. I love the space station setting, the super-smart problem-solving main characters, and the non-stop action.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Phenomena: The Golden City of Eyes by Brian Micahel Bendis and Andre Lima Araujo GRAPHIC NOVEL In a wildly unique world, this is a journey of a boy and a cyper named Spike who travel towards a mysterious city. They follow a deceitful girl who stole Spike’s blade. As they venture north, they experience new places, creatures, and methods of travel, including the girl’s flying abilities. When they arrive at the fallen Golden City, they fight the invaders which reveals Spike’s true purpose. Exceptional artwork and storytelling — a must-read!

fantasy science fiction children's books

5 Worlds: The Sand Warrior by Mark Siegel, Alexis Siegel, Xanthe Bouma, Matt Rockefeller, and Boya Sun GRAPHIC NOVEL (series) Gorgeous artwork sets the tone for an otherworldly graphic novel story. The five worlds are falling into chaos. When one world attacks another, Oona Lee, a girl who is a sand dancer, rescues two boys and the three work together to light the unlit Beacons and save the worlds. But, they face a dark force that comes with a devastating betrayal.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Star Scouts by Mike Lawrence GRAPHIC NOVEL (series) Not fitting in and finding your place in the world never was so out of this world! Avani hates her new school and the girls in her Flower Scouts troop who talk about makeup and boys. She’s accidentally abducted by a friendly alien named Mabel and joins Mabel’s Star Scout troop– a more crazy and adventurous group than her human troop. It’s always important to find your tribe of friends, even if they’re aliens. This is a fantastic romp through space with stunning illustrations.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Glitch by Laura Martin  In this world, some people have the genetic ability to time travel . Regan is one of those people. Like all kids with this ability, she’s required to train as a Glitcher so as teens and adults, they’ll be ready to stop the bad guys from interfering with historical events. She gets an illegal message from her future self that she could go to jail for— and starts to suspect that things aren’t as they seem. Then, she and her nemesis, another kid called Elliot, get sent to a secret partner program. They’re forced to work together clandestinely to stop a catastrophe that could destroy the entire Glitch program. Fast-paced, unique, and entertaining!

fantasy science fiction children's books

The Shape of Time (Rymworld Arcana) by Ryan Calejo (series) Our hero, Antares, is kidnapped and taken to a prison in another world. He meets two other prisoners who explain that his world is flat and surrounded by a world outside the edges called Rymworld. Rymworld is in peril from a group of mystics who seek to control time. Antares escapes prison with his friend, Magdavellía, but they’re almost immediately kidnapped AGAIN by space pirate aliens. Encountering one problem after another, the friends race to find the mysterious star artifact and, possibly, Antares’ missing parents. Detailed, creative world-building, this is a thrilling adventure that many kids will love.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Hana Hsu and the Ghost Crab Nation  by Sylvia Liu (series) This is an excellent and exciting sci-fi story about a world where corporations control the world and at age 13, kids get “meshed” into the multiweb.  Hana meets a mysterious hacker who makes her see that things aren’t always at they seem and that getting meshed might not be good. When Hana’s school friends get sicker and sicker, Hana discovers a conspiracy using kids as human experiments. Even worse, her mom is involved in it. With the help of a wise old man, two friends, and her sister, they work together to help the sick students and stop the corporation’s nefarious plans.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Beetle Boy  by M.G. Leonard  (series) Darkus Cuttle’s museum director dad mysteriously disappears from a locked room in the museum. Darkus learns that there’s something very strange going on . . . and it has to do with intelligent beetles and a cruel benefactress of the museum. This sci-fi chapter book took me by surprise; I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

fantasy science fiction children's books

The Jupiter Pirates Hunt for the Hydra  by Jason Fry  (series) This is a GREAT pirate adventure, only these pirates are in space and now supposed to be called the more politically correct term “privateers.” Tycho and his siblings are competing with- each other for who will be the next captain after their mom. When it’s Tycho’s turn to captain, he encounters a ship with a suspicious diplomat. Unable to seize the ship’s cargo because of the diplomat, Tycho’s family demands a court decide.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Under Their Skin  by Margaret Peterson Haddix  (series) In this sci-fi world, brother and sister twins discover a big and dangerous secret. Their parents are robots, and so are all the adults in the world! Mesmerizing.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Dark Life  by Kat Falls  (series) When the oceans swallowed much of the earth, humans either moved into stacked cities or the ocean floor. Ty lives in the ocean, but his way of life is threatened by murderous outlaws who steal and kill. He befriends a Topside girl named Gemma who is looking for her brother undersea. They learn that her brother is the leader of the outlaws, was a former medical experiment, and has Dark gifts just like Ty. This is action and intrigue from the get-go; you’ll love every minute of it. (Next in the series is  Rip Tide .)

fantasy science fiction children's books

Cleopatra in Space #1: Target Practice   by Mike Machack GRAPHIC NOVEL (series) Cleopatra is transported to the future on a different planet, where she learns she’s destined to save the world. To prepare, she attends school (sort of) and trains with a wise old cat. She’s sent on her first mission before she is fully ready. Can she do it or will her lack of preparation ruin the mission? My daughter loves the Cleopatra science fiction books. 

fantasy science fiction children's books

The Time Museum  by Matthew Loux GRAPHIC NOVEL (series) Delia interns at the Time Museum, a time travel museum where she and other kids her age compete for a permanent spot with the museum in this sci-fi graphic novel. A sinister time traveler forces the group to work together to stop permanent damage to the world and the time museum. My 11-year-old thought this book was awesome.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Finn and the Intergalactic Lunchbox  by Michael Buckley  A kooky but entertaining science fiction story involving good and bad aliens, a secret weapon to defeat the bug bad guys, and a malfunctioning robot. A secret weapon to defeat the bug bad guys gets stuck in a lunch box and partially attached to Finn. The robot wants to bring it back to the Resistance, but he’ll have to take Finn with him.  Wormholes, betrayal, and a fight to save the Earth will appeal to adventurous kids who love science fiction.

YA Science Fiction Books for Kids Ages 13+

fantasy science fiction children's books

Cinder   (Lunar Chronicles #1) by Marissa Meyer  (series) Cinder is a skilled mechanic cyborg, a human with machine parts, and lives with her step-mother and sisters. When Prince Kai asks her to fix something for him, she becomes entangled in a plot which puts her life at risk and the entire country’s fate is hanging in the balance.

fantasy science fiction children's books

I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore, et.al  (series) Because these books zip along with fast-paced adventure and action, you’ll be hard-pressed to stop reading! John isn’t a human teenager, he’s one of 9 Loric children who were sent to Earth when their planet was attacked by the evil Mogadorians. He moves around a lot with his guardian to escape these alien killers who can only kill the kids in numerical order…Now that he’s come of age, he develops his Legacies — powers that will help him survive. But one, two, and three have been killed already. John is next.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Red Rising   by Pierce Brown  (series) You will love, love this YA book series that takes place on Mars in a color-coded caste society. Darrow, a low-caste Red, infiltrates the ruling Gold caste’s special training school. His training is to kill or be killed, lead an army, or be enslaved. It’s better than The Hunger Games — especially for teens who don’t want to read about romance and who really get enthralled with battle strategy. Every book in this unique sci-fi series is addicting — I dare you to put it down. *some mature content — nudity and swearing

fantasy science fiction children's books

The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera  A mesmerizing, beautiful story. Petra is on a spaceship with her family, traveling to a new home after the Earth is destroyed. When Petra wakes up, her parents have been killed, her brother is missing, and all the other humans’ memories have been erased. Except her memory remains. Since she’s the only person who knows the truth and the past, Petra is determined to foil the sinister Collective’s plan to control everyone and every narrative. She plays the part of a mind-controlled teenager but shares Mexican cuentos / folktales with the other Zetas. Her determination will save not only the Zetas but possibly an entire civilization of settlers. Petra is a brave, fierce girl who shows us that we are less than human without art, music, and stories. Había una vez…

fantasy science fiction children's books

The Prisoner of Cell 25 (Michael Vey #1)  by Richard Paul Evans (series) A fantastic read about a boy with electrical powers, and an evil group who wants to control him and others like him.

fantasy science fiction children's books

The Maze Runner by James Dasher (series) I loved this series . . . mostly. I didn’t love the last books and how the story ended — but that often happens with series doesn’t it? Series are hard, especially when the first book starts out so strong. In this dystopian world, kids are either killed or must kill to survive. There are tons of plot twists which I loved.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Undertakers: The Rise of the Corpses by Ty Drago  (series) A great kids-must-save-the-world book with a unique zombie /alien twist. Aliens are taking over corpses and reanimating them. Only some kids can see the real zombie beneath the alien “masks” — our hero gets the zombie sight and is rescued by a group of zombie fighters called Undertakers. He convinces the Undertakers group to stop being defensive but to be more aggressive and determine how to kill the corpses. I liked this book a lot!! (Free on Kindle Unlimited.)

fantasy science fiction children's books

Steelheart by Brandon Sanderson  (series) Wow! I loved this adventure typical of Sanderson’s unique worlds with plot twists and turns. In this world, the Epics are super-powerful individuals with extraordinary powers and no goodness who control the cities. David’s father was killed by Chicago’s Epic, Steelheart, and David wants revenge.  He joins the Reckoners to assassinate Steelheart, all the while studying the Epics to know their weaknesses. This is a page-turner and completely entertaining.

Bot Wars

Bot Wars by J.V. Kade  Trout’s dad disappeared in The Bot Wars. When Trout makes a plea for his missing dad on a vid that goes viral, things go crazy FAST. Like the government trying to kidnap him. What do they know that he doesn’t know? A fast-paced, excellent adventure!

fantasy science fiction children's books

Eye of the Minds by James Dashner  (series) A totally compelling and unique plot (with the craziest plot twist at the end!) Imagine our world with more advanced technology that lets you “live” in a game world. Players hook up their bodies to the game, and while they’re in the game, food and bathroom breaks are taken care of. It’s crazy action and adventure that will keep you reading late into the night!

fantasy science fiction children's books

The Rig   by Joe Ducie  Oh, this was a deliciously good action story. I loved how the author wove in the science-fiction elements with a realistic story of incarcerated kids who are mistrusting, and find that there are a few people in the world that they can trust. This detention center is on an oil rig in the ocean. But Drake is determined to escape — especially after he discovers what the Rig is really doing.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Phoenix by S.F. Said, illustrated by Dave McKean Great writing and an amazing plot will hook you from the first moment in this science fiction adventure about dying stars, an imperial empire, cloven-hooved Aliens, and an unusual boy named Lucky who is far more than he seems. LOVED it!

fantasy science fiction children's books

Dangerous   by Shannon Hale  I’m a HUGE Shannon Hale fan so I was excited that she branched out to YA. I devoured this book! Maisie’s dream of attending the NASA-like summer camp turns into a nightmare when she’s exposed to alien technology that embeds in her body, giving her special powers. But powers for what? An alien invasion?

fantasy science fiction children's books

Lockdown (Escape from Furnace) by Alexander Smith Action and intrigue from the get-go, this is an amazing book because you, like our main character, have no idea what’s going on. Alex is framed and sent to the underground Furnace jail where the other prisoners are also under 18 and randomly killed or tortured by beast-like creatures. But Alex won’t listen to his cellmate and survive, he wants to escape.

fantasy science fiction children's books

Rot & Ruin   by Jonathan Mayberry (series) It’s a creepy, scary, and also somewhat bittersweet world of humanity who must survive in enclaves while the hoards of zombies roam the land — zombies who might have been family or friends. Mayberry does an amazing job at making the zombies pitiful and the zombie hunters’ job (so to speak) heartbreaking but necessary. At age 15, Benny must either fight zombies like his brother Tom or find a different job, or else his rations will be halved.  So many of the “zoms” are people he once knew – and loved – and soon Benny learns there are people in the world who are worse than the zombies.

Best science fiction books for kids

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Speculative Middle Grade Books

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Melissa Taylor, MA, is the creator of Imagination Soup. She's a mother, former teacher & literacy trainer, and freelance education writer. She writes Imagination Soup and freelances for publications online and in print, including Penguin Random House's Brightly website, USA Today Health, Adobe Education, Colorado Parent, and Parenting. She is passionate about matching kids with books that they'll love.

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Thank you for your recommendations! I’m sure these books are very interesting. My child is just now getting interested in reading, so I try to encourage him.

You’re amazing — sounds like your child has a valuable literacy cheerleader in you!

The 60 Best Fantasy Books for Kids

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Blog – Posted on Friday, May 17

The 60 best fantasy books for kids.

The 60 Best Fantasy Books for Kids

No matter how old you are, it’s never too early to start reading fantasy — especially with so many incredible works out there ! And of course, bolstered by a kid’s imagination, these stories can truly come to life… which arguably makes children the ideal audience for the genre. 😄 But we think there's something for everyone on this list of the 60 best fantasy books for kids. Even if you're an adult, you're sure to see some of your childhood classics here!

Fantasy books for toddlers and preschoolers

This section consists of picture books and other simple stories designed to introduce very young children to the world of fantasy. From talking animals to raining spaghetti, these books are sure to elicit delighted giggles from kids aged 2-5.

1. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi and Ron Barrett

In the town of Chewandswallow, nobody ever goes grocery shopping. All their food simply falls out of the sky — pizza, pasta, peanut butter, you name it. The citizens seem to have it made in the shade (of a meatball-filled cloud)... until some unfortunate weather patterns start to wreak havoc, and they wonder whether edible precipitation really is such a blessing after all.

2. Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin and Daniel Salmieri

fantasy science fiction children's books

We all know that humans love tacos, but you might be surprised to find that dragons love them even more ! Join these mythical Mexican food aficionados as they devour tacos of every shape and size, with every ingredient except one: spicy salsa . Which, naturally, causes tummy troubles (and fire-breathing hazards).

3. Fox in Socks by Dr. Seuss

“Look sir, look sir, Mr. Knox sir. Let’s do tricks with bricks and blocks, sir!” So begin the troubles of the long-suffering Mr. Knox at the hands of the Fox in Sox , who goads Knox into participating in his increasingly complicated tongue-twisters. Don’t worry, though — Knox gets the final (and very difficult-to-pronounce) word in this story by the erstwhile Mr. Theodor Geisel .

4. Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

Four-year-old Harold has a purple crayon and not much else. But with his artistic talents and a little imagination, he’s about to turn his world into a masterpiece worthy of Van Gogh.

5. If I Built a House… by Chris Van Dusen

If you could build your dream home, what would you put in it? Our narrator, Jack, has it all planned out, including — but not limited to — a flying room, a racing room, and an aquarium room. This tale of ultimate wish fulfillment will no doubt resonate with both inventive kids and their Extreme Home Makeover -loving parents.

6. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond

fantasy science fiction children's books

“One thing leads to another” has never been more true. A boy gives a mouse a cookie … which makes the mouse want a glass of milk… which makes him want a straw, then a mirror, and so on until he’s right back where he started with another cookie. And if that doesn’t sound like “fantasy” to you, then riddle me this: when was the last time you got a cookie request from a mouse?

7. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

One of the most iconic Christmas stories of all time, The Polar Express tells the tale of a young boy who steals away on the eponymous midnight train. But he has no idea what magic awaits him in the North Pole, where he’ll get the privilege of meeting Santa Claus himself. (Of course, if you’re a parent, maybe don’t mention that fact that this one’s on our “fantasy” list.)

8. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

fantasy science fiction children's books

This largely visual story, full of Mauric Sendak’s evocative illustrations, follows a young boy named Max who dares to venture “ where the Wild Things are .” After proving his own ferocity, Max becomes king of the Wild Things — but soon enough starts missing home, where a hot supper awaits him.

9. Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne

In the Hundred Acre Woods lives a bear called Winnie-the-Pooh, who enjoys an idyllic existence of honeypots and gentle adventures with his friends. This first volume of sweet stories by A.A. Milne is sure to bring a smile to your face whether you’re young or old.

10. Uni the Unicorn by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Brigette Barrager

fantasy science fiction children's books

Uni the Unicorn desperately wants to find that most elusive of mythical creatures : a little girl. Everyone keeps telling her that humans don’t exist, but they won’t stop Uni from dreaming. She knows that if she keeps imagining all the wonderful things they could do together, that this magical girl will come to her... and as it turns out, Uni's best friend isn't quite as far away as she thinks!

Fantasy books for elementary schoolers

These chapter books and novels involve more complex storylines and fantasy elements, such as systems of magic and backstory for major character and plot points, often expanded throughout series. Suitable for kids aged 6-10.

11. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin

Long before Harry Potter, there was Ged: a wizard of Earthsea . Earthsea is a world of islands where magic prevails, but darkness also threatens. Ged must learn to master his own innate powers and battle this darkness, which takes the form of a “shadow creature” that our hero accidentally unleashes during a duel. Le Guin’s rich worldbuilding and excellent characterization are simply unparalleled, and this first installment in the Earthsea series sets the reader up with high expectations for the rest of her hybrid fantasy/science fiction saga.

12. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle

fantasy science fiction children's books

A Wrinkle in Time revolutionized fantasy when it was first published in 1962, and continues to find many devoted readers today. Thirteen-year-old misfit Meg Murry’s life is turned upside down when a strange woman appears in her kitchen, claiming, “There is such a thing as a tesseract.” This seemingly simple statement sends Meg, her brother Charles Wallace, and their intrepid friend Calvin on the adventure of a lifetime. They must travel through time and space on a quest to find Meg’s lost father — who was studying tesseracts before he disappeared.

13. The Adventurers Guild by Zack Loran Clark and Nick Eliopulos

A brilliant new take on monsters and magic, The Adventurers Guild follows young residents of the land of Freestone, where people can join guilds according to their career aspirations. Our heroes, Zed and Brock, have concrete plans to join the Mages Guild and the Merchants Guild respectively. That is, until they’re pulled into the thrilling yet dangerous “Adventurers Guild” — whose purpose is to fight the otherworldly beasts that threaten Freestone and its citizens.

14. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

fantasy science fiction children's books

Down the rabbit hole! This classic by one of the first architects of modern fantasy ( the others being Tolkien and C.S. Lewis ) tells the tale of seven-year-old Alice, who follows a white rabbit to a land of strange biscuits, smoking caterpillars, mad tea parties, and of course, murderous queens. If you haven’t read it already, it’s a fantastic introduction for any child (or adult) to magical, nonsensical fantasy.

15. Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

For one of the most interesting hero’s journeys in YA, look no further than Artemis Fowl. This eponymous book introduces him as a rather unlikable character — a preteen supergenius who uses his talents to kidnap a fairy for ransom. But as the story delves into Fowl’s character and family history, the reader understands his proclivity for crime, and feels compelled to track his unorthodox narrative all the way to the end (of the eight-book series).

16. The BFG by Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake

fantasy science fiction children's books

When eight-year-old Sophie is kidnapped through her window by a giant, she thinks she’s done for. But by a miraculous stroke of good luck, she hasn’t been taken by just any old monster; she’s in the company of the “ Big Friendly Giant ,” who eats vegetables (namely, snozzcumbers) rather than people. As Sophie and the BFG get to know each other, they hatch a plan to thwart the other cruel, human-eating giants — with aid from none other than the Queen of England!

17. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake

Whether you prefer the Gene Wilder adaptation or the Johnny Depp remake, we can all agree that the original story is pretty superb. Young Charlie Bucket gets the chance to visit the sequestered Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory and see what really goes on inside its walls — and within the brain of the eccentric Wonka himself, who (in true Dahl fashion) has a rather dark sense of poetic justice.

18. Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George

fantasy science fiction children's books

Dragon Slippers centers on a peasant girl named Creel, whose family sacrifices her to a dragon in the hopes that a courageous knight will fight the dragon, marry Creel, and shower them all with riches. But our independent young lady has other ideas, specifically involving a pair of slippers and a political plot that could change her kingdom forever.

19. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

Another strong heroine features in this splendid Cinderella retelling . Cursed to be obedient, young Ella learns to manage her affliction until one day, her wicked stepsisters show up and force her to obey their every command. However, despite the presence of a handsome prince, no one can say this is a “damsel in distress” kind of tale. In the end, Ella saves herself, and therein lies the true enchantment of her story.

20. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

fantasy science fiction children's books

A witch lives in the forest near the village of Protectorate where, each year, the villagers leave an infant sacrifice to keep her at bay. Little do they know that the witch is actually benevolent… and that she feeds the babies starlight and delivers them to new families on the other side of the forest. That is, until she accidentally nurses one of them with moonlight , and must keep the girl (whom she christens Luna) in order to control the power within her — if she can .

21. Half Magic by Edward Eager and N. M. Bodecker

When siblings Katherine, Mark, Jane, and Martha find a strange-looking coin on the sidewalk, they don’t think too much of it. But an offhand remark soon leads them to realize that this is no ordinary coin, but a talisman, which will grant them exactly half of each wish they make. This, naturally, leads to some hilarious hijinks as they struggle to master its “ half magic. ”

22. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

fantasy science fiction children's books

Of course, in terms of children’s fantasy, you can’t do much better than the Boy Who Lived . Join Harry in Sorcerer’s Stone as he discovers his true identity as a wizard, begins attending Hogwarts, and grapples with the forces of ultimate evil, all at the tender age of eleven.

23. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

If boy wizards aren’t your thing, you can always try middle-aged hobbits. Bilbo Baggins and his dwarven compatriots journey “there and back again” in The Hobbit — bravely soldiering forward in the face of mortal peril, all in hopes of restoring the dwarves’ lost kingdom (which was taken long ago by the dragon Smaug).

24. Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones

fantasy science fiction children's books

Though the 2004 Miyazaki adaptation brings Howl’s Moving Castle to life with incredible vibrancy, you can’t miss this original work by Diana Wynne Jones. Sophie Hatter lives in a world of magic, yet can never seem to grasp it for herself. But that’s before a witch transforms Sophie into an old crone, and she must find a way to break the spell. From there she’s thrown headfirst into the mind-bending world the wizard Howl, his fire-demon Calcifer, and of course, his ever-unpredictable moving castle.

25. Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

Meggie and her father have always lived a quiet, ordinary life among their books. However, everything changes when a mysterious man named Dustfinger shows up. Meggie soon unearths a hidden family talent: both she and her father can bring characters to life simply by reading their stories aloud. Action and excitement ensues as the father-daughter team attempt to prevent fictional villains from harming their real world, and strive to recover Meggie’s mother, who was trapped in a book many years ago.

26. Isadora Moon by Harriet Muncaster

fantasy science fiction children's books

Great for the younger set, the Isadora Moon series is part spooky, part sparkly, and all spectacularly unique. Our heroine Isadora is a half-vampire, half-fairy who’s just trying to live her normal (well, paranormal) life. In the first book, Isadora Moon Goes to School , Isadora faces a very serious, identity-defining decision: should she go to the school for fairies, or for vampires?

27. James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake

Roald Dahl’s first full-length children’s fantasy book, James and the Giant Peach follows young James, a boy who’s mistreated by his evil Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker. But when an enigmatic stranger gives James a handful of enchanted seeds, James may finally find his means of escape — in the form of a magically grown giant peach, which he and his insect friends fly all the way to New York City!

28. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

fantasy science fiction children's books

Another absolute legend of fantasy , The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe introduces readers to Narnia, a glorious world under siege by the wicked White Witch. The Pevensie children, who unearth Narnia in the back of a wardrobe, must help the victims of the witch’s reign of terror. Luckily, they have help in the form of Aslan: a majestic lion, and Narnia’s true ruler.

29. The Magic Treehouse by Mary Pope Osbourne

Join Jack and Annie on their myriad adventures in the imaginative Magic Treehouse chapter books! Each installment sees the kids traveling to a different time and place in history, and having to complete a mission in order to get back home. And where better to start than with the Cretaceous period in the first book, Dinosaurs Before Dark ?

30. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

fantasy science fiction children's books

Jacob Portman has always loved his grandfather’s wild tales of monsters and strange children, but of course he’s never believed them… until he stumbles upon the titular home himself, and learns the truth about these “peculiars” and the danger that constantly looms in their world.

31. The Neverending Story by Michael Ende

Young outcast Bastian Balthazar Bux begins to read a book called The Neverending Story , which takes place in the magical land of Fantasia. As he grows increasingly absorbed by the characters’ exploits, Bastian realizes that he himself is becoming a character. He soon enters the realm of Fantasia, where he can imagine anything and it will come true. But will Bastian use his powers wisely — and can he ever return to his own world?

32. No Flying in the House by Betty Brock

fantasy science fiction children's books

Six-year-old Annabel Tippens lives a somewhat unusual life . For instance, rather than parents to take care of her, she has Gloria — a talking dog who’s just a few inches tall. Of course, Annabel doesn’t think of herself as unusual… until it’s revealed to her that she’s not just a girl, but a half-fairy! But with this knowledge comes great responsibility, and Annabel has to choose between two lives: fairy or human?

33. My Diary from the Edge of the World by Jodi Lynn Anderson

In Gracie Lockwood’s world, the mundane meets the mythical. Dragons burn down department stores, mermaids live along local beaches, and “Dark Clouds” consume people when they die. This diary begins when Gracie and her family set off for “The Extraordinary World,” where they believe they can keep her younger brother from being taken by a Cloud. Gracie records everything that happens on their journey, both ordinary and extraordinary.

34. The People in Pineapple Place by Anne Lindbergh

fantasy science fiction children's books

What if you met a group of people that only you could see? This is both the plight and the privilege of August Brown, who discovers the people of Pineapple Place — seven children who are invisible to everyone but him, and with whom he enjoys some fantastic (and time-traveling!) adventures .

35. Peter and Wendy by J.M. Barrie

Though most of us have enjoyed the tale of Peter Pan through Disney, this book ( a novelization of the original stage play ) continues to be a well-loved fantasy favorite today. If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to fly through Neverland, play with the Lost Boys, and narrowly escape Captain Hook, Peter and Wendy — which is now over a century old! — lays it all out in delightful detail.

36. The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster and Jules Feiffer

fantasy science fiction children's books

A young, bored boy named Milo goes through the “phantom tollbooth” and emerges in an exotic world of countless curiosities, which reignites his sense of wonder. Lovers of puns and wordplay, rejoice: if you haven’t already read The Phantom Tollbooth , the prose alone is sure to tickle your funny bone.

37. Rainbow Magic by Daisy Meadows

This prolific and popular beginning-reader series concerns a group of fairy friends who’ve gone missing, and a couple of human heroines who must recover them — lest Fairyland turn gray!

38. Secrets of Droon by Tony Abbott

fantasy science fiction children's books

Beginning with The Hidden Stairs and the Magic Carpet , the vividly imagined Secrets of Droon series follows a trio of friends — Eric, Julie, and Neal — who uncover the land of Droon in Eric’s basement. When they meet the princess of Droon and vow to help her rescue her mother, our heroes are set on the adventure of a lifetime, during which they’ll discover their own unique abilities and the paramount power of friendship.

39. Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar

From the author of Holes comes this gut-busting low-fantasy anthology about a school that’s more than a little topsy-turvy. Each chapter is titled after a different character and provides a brief vignette — and from a teacher who turns her students into apples to a girl who survives a 30-story fall, you certainly can’t say that Wayside School is ever boring.

40. The Spiderwick Chronicles by Holly Black

fantasy science fiction children's books

Similar to Narnia , the Spiderwick Chronicles series centers on a group of siblings who discover a society of fairies right in their own backyard. However, they soon realize that they’re in over their heads, especially as humans were never meant to find out about the fairy world.

41. The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo and Timothy Basil Ering

If you enjoyed DiCamillo’s quaint small-town novel Because of Winn-Dixie , you’ll love Despereaux ’s innovative fantasy premise even more. A mouse named Despereaux aspires to rescue the lovely Princess Pea from a rat called Roscuro, who has imprisoned her in her own castle’s dungeon. It’s a touching story of love, courage, and going after your dreams — even when everyone else thinks you’re too small to achieve them.

42. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

fantasy science fiction children's books

Would you want to live forever? This simple yet haunting question forms the premise of Tuck Everlasting , the tale of a family that becomes immortal after drinking from an enchanted spring. Ten-year-old Winnie Foster happens upon the Tucks in the woods and bonds with the youngest son, Jesse (who’s actually 104). But with a suspicious yellow-suited man on their heels, the Tucks can’t stay for long, and Winnie must make a choice: will she, too, drink the spring water and go to live with the Tucks… forever?

43. The Uncommoners by Jennifer Bell

Perfect for those with “a Hogwarts-shaped hole in their lives,” this series is sure to sweep you off your feet — and down into a secret underground city called “Lundinor.” This is where our young heroes Seb and Ivy will discover the truth about their family, and the irrepressible forces of evil with which they must now contend.

44. Watership Down by Richard Adams

fantasy science fiction children's books

An utterly unique hybrid of Beatrix Potter and Robinson Crusoe with just a pinch of fantasy, Watership Down revolves around an intrepid group of adventurers: rabbits traveling to their new home. If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of Hazel, Fiver, Blackberry and their epic odyssey to a hill called Watership Down, you’re in for an unforgettable treat.

45. Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

Her family may be poor, but young Minli is rich in imagination, and especially loves hearing her father’s imaginative stories. Little does she know that she’s about to live out a legend of her own — complete with a wise old sage, a dragon companion, and a treacherous green tiger, as she strives to bring good fortune and happiness to her impoverished village.

46. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

fantasy science fiction children's books

There’s no place like home… and for readers both young and old, the familiar-yet-fantastical adventures of Dorothy and her trusty friends in the land of Oz is a go-to literary home. From traversing the yellow brick road to melting the Wicked Witch of the West, the iconic scenes of Baum’s original masterpiece simply cannot be beat.

Fantasy books for middle schoolers and older

We’ve categorized these fantasy works as “for middle schoolers” and older based on their having slightly darker themes and more advanced language. However, note that elementary schoolers may enjoy them as well — it all depends on the reader!

47. The Chronicles of Prydain by Lloyd Alexander

An epic bildungsroman spanning five books total (including The Black Cauldron , which Disney infamously animated in 1985), the Chronicles of Prydain follow young pig-keeper Taran as he attempts to prove himself and fight the evil Lord Arawn and his army of the undead.

48. The Cloak Society by Jeramey Kraatz

fantasy science fiction children's books

49. Eragon by Christopher Paolini

Penned by Paolini when he was only 16, Eragon tells the story of a simple farm boy whose life changes forever after he finds a mysterious stone — which (spoiler alert) turns out to be the egg of a dragon.

50. The Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert

fantasy science fiction children's books

“Stay away from the Hazel Wood. ” So reads the message left by Alice’s mother, who otherwise disappears without a trace. Of course, Alice has no choice but to venture into that forbidden land to find her — encountering an array of strange creatures and inexplicable phenomena along the way, in a journey not unlike a twisted version of #14 on this list.

51. His Dark Materials by Phillip Pullman

Lyra Belacqua is the brilliant heroine of His Dark Materials , an elaborate supernatural and  religious fantasy in which she and her “daemon” familiar must defeat forces of supreme evil… including the first angel himself, who goes by the moniker “The Authority.”

52. The Dark Is Rising by Susan Cooper

fantasy science fiction children's books

On the day he turns eleven, Will Stanton discovers that he’s no ordinary boy, but an “Old One” destined to go up against the powers of The Dark. Which is — you guessed it — rising. If you love elaborate mythological fantasy featuring adolescent chosen ones , this is the series for you .

53. The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan and Matt Griffin

Speaking of adolescent chosen ones: Carter and Sadie Kane are descended from Egyptian magicians and pharaohs, but they only find out when their egyptologist father is taken by the god of mischief, Set. Now the siblings must harness powers they didn’t even know they had to rescue their father , and indeed all of North America, before Set annihilates them.

54. The Maze Runner by James Dashner

fantasy science fiction children's books

When Thomas wakes up in “the Glade,” he has no memory of who he is or how he got there. But as our hero quickly learns, his past doesn’t matter so much as his dire present. He and the other “Gladers” are trapped by a complex maze and lethal creatures called Grievers, which draw ever closer to them. And of course, the only way is through the maze ; luckily, Thomas's strange telepathic powers might just be able to help them.

55. Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan and John Rocco

Another fantastical series from the mind of Rick Riordan, Percy Jackson and the Olympians begins with The Lightning Thief , in which the eponymous Percy becomes aware of his true roots — namely, that he is the son of Poseidon. Percy begins attending “Camp Half Blood” for young demigods, and soon enough he and his friends (including a daughter of Athena and a satyr) must embark on a quest to prevent an all-out war among those deities they call Mom and Dad.

56. Redwall by Brian Jacques

fantasy science fiction children's books

In Mossflower Woods, the food chain works a little differently. Instead of being prey, mice work together with cats and owls to defeat their ultimate enemies: snakes and rats (obviously). Our hero in Redwall is Matthias the mouse, whose courage and cunning help him in his quest to find the legendary sword of Martin the Warrior (also a mouse) and defeat Cluny the Scourge, a diabolical rat who wishes to take the land of Redwall for himself.

57. The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel by Michael Scott

Based on legends surrounding the actual historical figure of Nicholas Flamel (i.e. not the Harry Potter character), this book follows teenage twins Sophie and Josh, who realize that Josh’s boss “Nick” is none other than the famous alchemist. They’re soon swept into a series of thrilling escapades around the globe, as they try to untangle a prophecy that could destroy them all.

58. Seraphina by Rachel Hartman

fantasy science fiction children's books

Seraphina is a young musician serving on the court of Goredd, where humans and dragons coexist diplomatically — if not entirely happily. But Seraphina has a secret: she herself is half-dragon. And when a member of the royal family is murdered, seemingly at the hands (talons?) of a dragon, Seraphina must protect herself while getting to the bottom of the mystery… before the killer strikes again.

59. Sabriel by Garth Nix

Another titular heroine, Sabriel also possesses an extraordinary (if slightly macabre) talent: she, along with her father, can communicate with the dead. And it’s her father’s job as the Abhorsen to make sure that they’ve all been laid to rest in a place called the “Old Kingdom.” Only one problem: Sabriel’s father has gone missing, and now Sabriel must venture into the Old Kingdom to find him and restore him to his balancing role as the Abhorsen… before Death can tip the scales too far.

60. Song of the Lioness by Tamora Pierce

fantasy science fiction children's books

What can we say? We just can’t resist all these awesome female protagonists. The Song of the Lioness series focuses on Alanna, a plucky young girl whose only wish is to become a knight. So she trades places, She’s The Man -style, with her twin brother Thom so she can attend knight school — and from there is launched into a sequence of super-cool medieval adventures, during which she proves her merit as a knight many times over.

Can't get enough? Check out 100 children's books to spark young imaginations or the 30 best YA fantasy books for teens!

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50 Must-Read Fantasy Books For Kids

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Margaret Kingsbury

Margaret Kingsbury grew up in a house so crammed with books she couldn’t open a closet door without a book stack tumbling, and she’s brought that same decorative energy to her adult life. Margaret has an MA in English with a concentration in writing and has worked as a bookseller and adjunct English professor. She’s currently a freelance writer and editor, and in addition to Book Riot, her pieces have appeared in School Library Journal, BuzzFeed News, The Lily, Parents, StarTrek.com, and more. She particularly loves children’s books, fantasy, science fiction, horror, graphic novels, and any books with disabled characters. You can read more about her bookish and parenting shenanigans in Book Riot’s twice-weekly The Kids Are All Right newsletter. You can also follow her kidlit bookstagram account @BabyLibrarians , or on Twitter @AReaderlyMom .

View All posts by Margaret Kingsbury

Fantasy is my jam so of course now that I have a child, I want her to have all the fantasy things. Thankfully, there are plenty of fantasy books for kids out there. But that can also be overwhelming. My time as the young adult and middle grade shelver at work and as a middle school reading tutor showed me how hard it is for parents to find age-appropriate material for their kids. And publishers are rarely helpful with their age delineations: 6–10 years, 1st grade–7th, etc. Those are pretty big age ranges for kids. So what I’ve done is organized books by age and grade. However, publishers give such broad ranges for a reason. A child’s reading level is as varied as the child. Thus, use the categories more as a flexible guide to reading levels vs a hard line.

Descriptions are from Goodreads.

50 Must-Read Fantasy Books For Kids

Fantasy Books For Babies and Toddlers (0–3)

My mom is magical by sabrina moyle, illustrated by eunice moyle.

“ My Mom Is Magical , featuring a magical unicorn, and My Dad Is Amazing , featuring a mythical yeti, are joyful tributes to just how amazing parents (and their kids!) are.”

Once Upon A World: The Little Mermaid by Hannah Eliot, Illustrated by Nivea Ortiz

“A classic fairy tale gets a fresh twist in this vibrant Caribbean spin on the Little Mermaid!

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The Little Mermaid longs to know about the world above the ocean. When she’s finally old enough to visit, she falls in love with a prince! A sea witch agrees to give the mermaid a potion that will make her human—but the spell will be broken if the prince doesn’t love her too! Set in the Caribbean, with beautiful illustrations by Puerto Rican illustrator Nivea Ortiz, this fifth book in the Once Upon a World series is the same beloved fairy tale but it’s totally reimagined.

Once Upon a World offers a multicultural take on the fairy tales we all know and love. Because these tales are for everyone, everywhere.”

Goodnight, Dragons By Judith L. Roth, Illustrated By Pascal Lemaitre

“Everyone needs a cuddle. Maybe dragons more than most. These fire breathers are no match for the daring dragon tamer who arrives at bedtime to put them to sleep. Destined to become a classic bedtime story, Goodnight, Dragons is as warm and comforting as a steaming mug of hot cocoa.”

If I Had A Gryphon By Vikki Vansickle, Illustrated By Cale Atkinson

“Sam just got a hamster for a pet. She’s not really impressed. The hamster isn’t very exciting—he mostly eats and sleeps and gets his shavings wet. BORING!

After reading a book about mythological creatures, Sam gets some ideas for more exciting pets. But she soon realizes that taking care of these magical beasts might not be as wonderful as she though. Unicorns are shy, gryphons scare the dogs at the dog park and having a fire extinguisher handy at all times makes dragons seem like an awful lot of work.

Maybe the hamster really is the best pet for her. A nice, safe pet…right?”

Where’s The Unicorn By Nosy Crow, Illustrated By Ingela P. Arrhenius

“Lift the felt flaps to discover four hidden magical creatures (a mermaid, a dragon, a fairy, and a unicorn), then find the mirror under the fifth and final flap! Parents love these books because they are stylish yet robust, and little readers adore them because they’re fun and easy to play with.”

Day Dreamers By Emily Winfield Martin

“Emily Winfield Martin shows readers that letting their imaginations run free will lead them into fantastical day dreams. Whether cloud-gazing or wandering through a museum, reading a book or playing in a tide-pool, the children in this picture book find themselves in places inhabited by magical creatures such as dragons, unicorns, griffins, and jackalopes. A whimsical rhyme accompanies the dream-worthy illustrations.”

Today I’ll Be a Unicorn by Dana Simpson

“In this charming, super-sparkly board book, the stars of Phoebe and Her Unicorn celebrate the magical and enchanting world of being a unicorn, along with reminding young readers that being yourself is pretty great, too.

Who wouldn’t want to be a unicorn? You get to trot majestically through meadows, perch high up on rainbows, and wear tiaras made of starlight. Phoebe lists all the wonderful things she’ll get to do and can hardly contain her excitement about having a tail and magic horn. That is, until she learns that unicorns like to eat hay instead of pizza. Maybe she’ll be a unicorn tomorrow instead!”

Fantasy Books For Preschoolers And Kindergartners

The dragon and the nibblesome knight by elli woollard.

“Can knights and dragons ever be friends?

When a strange-looking creature splash lands in the lake, a kind young boy rushes to the rescue. But this is no ordinary boy, he’s a knight in training! And the strange creature is a young dragon, on his very first hunt for a nibblesome knight…”

The Magician’s Hat By Malcolm Mitchell, Illustrated By Joanne Lew-Vriethoff

“Super Bowl champion and literacy crusader Malcolm Mitchell presents the story of a magician who reveals an awe-inspiring treasure from his bag of tricks—books that make every kid’s dream come true!

This is not your typical afternoon at the library—a magician invites kids to reach into his hat to pull out whatever they find when they dig down deep. Soon—poof!—each child comes away with something better than they could’ve imagined—a book that helps them become whatever they want to be, and makes their dreams come true through pages and words, and the adventures that follow. But each child can’t help but wonder, What’s really making the magic happen?”

Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima

“In the tradition of Uni the Unicorn and Gaston , this heartwarming and adorable debut picture book tells the story of a young unicorn who was born under the sea to a family of narwhals.

Growing up in the ocean, Kelp has always assumed that he was a narwhal like the rest of his family. Sure, he’s always been a little bit different—his tusk isn’t as long, he’s not as good of a swimmer, and he really doesn’t enjoy the cuisine. Then one night, an extra strong current sweeps Kelp to the surface, where he spots a mysterious creature that looks just like him! Kelp discovers that he and the creature are actually unicorns. The revelation leaves him torn: is he a land narwhal or a sea unicorn? But perhaps, if Kelp is clever, he may find a way to have the best of both worlds.

Told with heartwarming illustrations and spare, sweet text, Jessie Sima’s debut picture book is about fitting in, standing out, and the all-encompassing love of family.”

A Big Mooncake For Little Star By Grace Lin

“A gorgeous picture book that tells a whimsical origin story of the phases of the moon, from award-winning, bestselling author-illustrator Grace Lin

Pat, pat, pat…

Little Star’s soft feet tiptoed to the Big Mooncake.

Little Star loves the delicious Mooncake that she bakes with her mama. But she’s not supposed to eat any yet! What happens when she can’t resist a nibble?

In this stunning picture book that shines as bright as the stars in the sky, Newbery Honor author Grace Lin creates a heartwarming original story that explains phases of the moon.”

The Yin-Yang Sisters and the Dragon Frightful By Nancy Tupper Ling, Illustrated by Andrea Offerman

“Opposites Mei and Wei may be small, but when they work together they are mighty enough to face a dragon.

When a fearsome dragon takes over their village bridge, twin sisters Mei and Wei have opposing views of how to fix the problem. Wei wants nothing more than to confront that stinky old dragon head on, but Mei favors a more thoughtful approach. With Wei’s confidence and gumption plus Mei’s creativity and diligence, it’s only a matter of time before everyone can be happy again.

This empowering sibling story is about celebrating differences and finding that what makes us different is also what makes us a powerful team.”

Drawn Together by Minh Lê, Illustrated by Dan Santat

“When a young boy visits his grandfather, their lack of a common language leads to confusion, frustration, and silence. But as they sit down to draw together, something magical happens-with a shared love of art and storytelling, the two form a bond that goes beyond words.

With spare, direct text by Minh Lê and luminous illustrations by Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat, this stirring picture book about reaching across barriers will be cherished for years to come.”

Ta-Da! By Kathy Ellen Davis, Illustrated By Kaylani Juanita

“What makes a good story? One little girl thinks it’s a princess with magical powers that can—ta-da!—overcome any obstacle. Her friend thinks it’s—dun dun duh!—a combination of dragons, pirates, and fire that cause total chaos. But as their stories intertwine, these two young storytellers soon learn that a good story needs both conflict—dun dun duh!—and resolution—ta-da! An irresistible celebration of imaginary play, storytelling, and the joys of collaboration, this gorgeous picture book features two strong voices throughout, making it the perfect read-aloud.”

Franklin’s Flying Bookshop by Jen Campbell, Illustrated By Katie Harnett

“Franklin the dragon loves stories and loves reading stories to people too, but everyone is too scared to even talk to him. One day, he meets a girl named Luna who, rather than being afraid, is fascinated to meet Franklin, having recently read all about dragons in one of her books. They instantly become friends and talk nonstop about what they’ve read: books about roller-skating, King Arthur, spiders, and how to do kung fu. Together they hatch a plan to share their love of books with others by opening a bookshop―a flying bookshop, that is―right on Franklin’s back!

Franklin, a well-read and peace-loving dragon, and Luna, a young girl with an independent spirit and an insatiable love of reading, make fantastic role models for young children. Franklin’s Flying Bookshop brings the magic of classic fairy tales into the twenty-first century through exquisite illustrations, and will enchant children as well as anyone who loves books.”

I’m A Unicorn By Mallory Loehr, Illustrated By Joey Chou

“A magical Little Golden Book for little unicorn lovers!

I am moonlight white.  I have a magical horn. I look a lot like a horse, of course. . . 

So begins this charming Little Golden Book that introduces the magical unicorn to the littlest readers! In this sweet story, gorgeously illustrated by Disney artist Joey Chou, a unicorn tells the readers all about herself ( “My horn can make water clean, or heal a hurt” ) and her magical life ( “I frolic in the forest, I prance in the fields” ). Sure to delight little ones who love the magic of fairy tales and beautiful creatures!”

Fantasy Books For First Graders

How to trick the tooth fairy by erin danielle russell, illustrated by jennifer hansen rolli.

“Kaylee loves pulling pranks: from dropping water balloons on passers by to even tricking Santa Claus, she’s a prize-winning prankster!

But is she the Princess of Pranks? No! That title is held by none other than the Tooth Fairy. But when Kaylee loses a tooth and the Tooth Fairy goes about her usual tooth-taking business, Kaylee pranks her with a fake frog. As Kaylee and the Tooth Fairy try to out-prank one another, things get way out of hand, until the two finally see eye and eye and decide to share the crown!”

The Princess in Black By Shannon Hale And Dean Hale, Illustrated By LeUyen Pham

“Who says princesses don’t wear black? When trouble raises its blue monster head, Princess Magnolia ditches her flouncy dresses and becomes the Princess in Black!

Princess Magnolia is having hot chocolate and scones with Duchess Wigtower when… Brring! Brring!  The monster alarm! A big blue monster is threatening the goats! Stopping monsters is no job for dainty Princess Magnolia. But luckily Princess Magnolia has a secret—she’s also the Princess in Black, and stopping monsters is the perfect job for  her ! Can the princess sneak away, transform into her alter ego, and defeat the monster before the nosy duchess discovers her secret? From award-winning writing team of Shannon and Dean Hale and illustrator LeUyen Pham, here is the first in a humorous and action-packed chapter book series for young readers who like their princesses not only prim and perfect, but also dressed in black.”

Dear Dragon by Josh Funk, Illustrated By Rudolfo Montalvo

“A sweet and clever friendship story in rhyme, about looking past physical differences to appreciate the person (or dragon) underneath.

George and Blaise are pen pals, and they write letters to each other about everything: their pets, birthdays, favorite sports, and science fair projects. There’s just one thing that the two friends don’t know: George is a human, while Blaise is a dragon! What will happen when these pen pals finally meet face-to-face?”

The Fairy Dogmother By Maribeth Boelts

“Cinderella had a fairy godmother. Did you know that dogs have a fairy dogmother? From the author of Pupunzel and Dogerella comes another enchanting fractured fairy tale for beginning readers!

When a homeless little dog is adopted by Fairy Godmother, the scruffy pup gets to observe and learn magic firsthand! Before long, Ivy the dog is casting spells—with comical results. Something is missing…fairy dust! Once Fairy Godmother sprinkles fairy dust on her kindhearted dog, Ivy is able to help other dogs in need.”

Rise of the Earth Dragon: A Branches Book (Dragon Masters #1) By Tracey West, Illustrated By Graham Howells

“DRAGON MASTERS has it all! Dragons, a Dragon Stone, a king, a wizard, and magic! In the first book in this fully-illustrated series, 8-year old Drake is snatched up by King Roland’s soldier and taken to the castle. He is to be trained as a Dragon Master. At the castle, he is joined by three other young Dragon Masters-in-training: Ana, Rori, and Bo. The Dragon Masters must learn how to connect with and train their dragons—and they must also uncover their dragons’ special powers. Does Drake have what it takes to be a Dragon Master? What is his dragon’s special power?”

The Dragon’s Scales By Sarah Albee, Illustrated By John Manders

“When a hot-tempered dragon seizes the local bridge, the people of Berryville are cut off from their supply of beloved strawberries until they can correctly answer three questions related to weight. The grownups of the town are stumped, but one very smart little girl saves the day with some facts she learned in school.”

Fantasy Books For Second Graders

The magical animal adoption agency, book 1 clover’s luck by kalli george, illustrated by alexandre boiger.

“Despite her name, Clover has always felt decidedly unlucky. So when she stumbles upon a mysterious cottage in the Woods, she can hardly believe her good fortune. It’s the Magical Animal Adoption Agency, and it houses creatures of all kinds. Fairy horses, unicorns, and a fiery young dragon are just the beginning!

Mr. Jams, the Agency’s owner, agrees to hire her as summer helper and Clover hopes her luck has finally changed. But when she’s left alone to care for the Agency, a sneaky witch comes after the magical creatures! Will Clover outsmart her in time to protect the animals?

The first installment in a new illustrated chapter book series by Kallie George, featuring enchanting illustrations by Alexandra Boiger, will charm young readers as Clover learns that courage and heart can be even more powerful than good luck.”

The Magic of Unicorns by Gina L. Grandi, Illustrated By Ximena Jeria

“A celebration of all things unicorn!

Rare and majestic, unicorns are powerful, graceful, and mysterious. The Magic of Unicorns is a beautifully illustrated celebration of these peaceful mythological creatures. Part field guide, part folklore, this charming book includes traditional tales of unicorns helping lost princesses, dazzling images of unicorns from around the world, and lots of information about what they eat, where they live, and which magical powers they have. Plus, readers will get tips for spotting unicorns today!”

Rainbow Magic Series by Daisy Meadows

(synopsis for book 1, Ruby the Red Fairy )

“The seven Rainbow Fairies are missing! Rachel and Kirsty search for one in each RAINBOW MAGIC book. Read all seven books to help rescue the fairies and bring the sparkle back to Fairyland!

Fairyland is home to seven colorful sisters. Together, they are the Rainbow Fairies! They keep Fairyland dazzling and bright. But when evil Jack Frost sends them far away, the sisters are in big trouble. If they don’t return soon, Fairyland is doomed to be gray forever!

Rachel and Kirsty discover Ruby the Red Fairy in the pot at the end of the rainbow. Can they help find the rest of her Rainbow sisters…before it’s too late?”

Magic Tree House: Merlin Missions By Mary Pope Osborne

“Beyond the realms of time and space are lands that exist only in myths and legends. This is where the magic tree house is taking Jack and Annie on the mission of a lifetime! They will visit Camelot, a haunted castle, an island lost in mist, and the Land-Behind-the-Clouds. It is one unforgettable adventure!”

Lil’ Merl and the Dastardly Dragon By Liam Barrett

“The dastardly dragon burnt the castle to smithereens and it’s up to our little wizard friend, Lil’ Merl, to track him down. But sometimes the path is trickier than it seems. Through word puzzles, crosswords, coloring in, dot-to-dot, and mazes, we help Lil’ Merl draw closer to the fiendish villain and meet some fantastical creatures along the way.”

Dragons and Marshmallows (Zoey and Sassafras #1) By Asia Citro, Illustrated By Marion Lindsay

“With magical animals, science, mystery, and adventure—the brand new series Zoey and Sassafras has something for everyone! Easy-to-read language and illustrations on nearly every page make this series perfect for a wide range of ages.

In the first book of this series, Zoey discovers a glowing photo and learns an amazing secret. Injured magical animals come to their backyard barn for help! When a sick baby dragon appears, it’s up to Zoey and Sassafras to figure out what’s wrong. Will they be able to help little Marshmallow before it’s too late?”

Fantasy Books For Third Graders

Sisters of glass by naomi cyprus.

“Two girls. Two worlds. Only magic can bring them together, in this fantastical middle grade adventure for fans of the Descendants and School for Good and Evil series.

Halan is a powerless princess. She is heir to the Magi Kingdom, a blazing desert land ruled by ancient magic. But unlike every royal before her, Halan has no magical powers of her own.

Nalah is a powerful pauper. The glassblower’s daughter, she lives in the land of New Hadar, where magic is strictly outlawed. But Nalah has a powerful force growing within her—one she can’t always control.

One girl fears magic, one worships it. But when a legendary mirror connects them, Nalah and Halan finally meet—and must work together to save their two worlds, before everything they know is shattered forever.”

Dragonbreath by Ursula Vernon

“It’s not easy for Danny Dragonbreath to be the sole mythical creature in a school for reptiles and amphibians?especially because he can’t breathe fire like other dragons (as the school bully loves to remind him). But having a unique family comes in handy sometimes, like when his sea-serpent cousin takes Danny and his best iguana friend on a mindboggling underwater tour, complete with vomiting sea cucumbers and giant squid. It sure beats reading the encyclopedia to research his ocean report . . .Using a hybrid of comic-book panels and text, Ursula Vernon introduces an irresistible set of characters with a penchant for getting themselves into sticky situations. It’s perfect for both the classroom and fans of Wimpy Kid and Bad Kitty .”

Aquicorn Cove By K. O’Neill

“When Lana and her father return to their seaside hometown to help clear the debris of a storm, the last thing she expects is to discover a colony of Aquicorns—magical seahorse-like residents of the coral reef. As she explores the damaged town and the fabled undersea palace, Lana learns that while she cannot always count on adults to be the guardians she needs, she herself is capable of finding the strength to protect both the ocean, and her own happiness.”

A Dragon’s Guide to the Care and Feeding of Humans By Laurence Yep And Joanne Ryder

“Crusty dragon Miss Drake has a new pet human, precocious Winnie. Oddly enough, Winnie seems to think Miss Drake is her pet—a ridiculous notion!

Unknown to most of its inhabitants, the City by the Bay is home to many mysterious and fantastic creatures, hidden beneath the parks, among the clouds, and even in plain sight. And Winnie wants to draw every new creature she encounters: the good, the bad, and the ugly. But Winnie’s sketchbook is not what it seems. Somehow, her sketchlings have been set loose on the city streets! It will take Winnie and Miss Drake’s combined efforts to put an end to the mayhem…before it’s too late.”

Dragon Slayers’ Academy By Kate McMullan

“When a traveling minstrel foretells that he is to become a hero, Wiglaf sets out to fulfill his destiny: he signs up at the Dragon Slayers’ Academy. But how can he ever hope to be a dragon slayer when he can’t even stand the sight of blood?”

Upside-Down Magic By Sarah Mlynowski, Lauren Myracle, And Emily Jenkins

“From New York Times bestselling authors Sarah Mlynowski, Lauren Myracle, and Emily Jenkins comes the hilarious and heartfelt story of a group of magical misfits.

Nory Horace is nine years old. She’s resourceful, she’s brave, she likes peanut butter cookies. Also, she’s able to transform into many different animals. Unfortunately, Nory’s shape-shifting talent is a bit wonky. And when she flunks out of her own father’s magic academy, Nory’s forced to enter public school, where she meets a group of kids whose magic is, well, different.

This new, offbeat series from hit authors Sarah Mlynowski, Lauren Myracle, and Emily Jenkins chronicles the misadventures of Nory and her oddball friends, who prove that upside-down magic definitely beats right side up.”

The Creature of the Pines (The Unicorn Rescue Society) By Adam Gidwitz, Illustrated By Hatem Aly

“Are you ready to protect the creatures of myth and legend? Then you belong in The Unicorn Rescue Society. HURRY–THE CREATURES NEED YOU!

Elliot Eisner isn’t exactly thrilled with the first day at his new school. His class is going on a field trip to a creepy forest called the Pine Barrens. The trip is being led by Professor Fauna, the weirdest teacher Elliot has ever met. And the only kid who will talk to Elliot, Uchenna Devereaux, isn’t afraid of danger. She likes danger.

Elliot and Uchenna are about to become part of a secret group of adventurers, The Unicorn Rescue Society, whose goal is to protect and defend the world’s mythical creatures. Together with Professor Fauna, Elliot and Uchenna must help rescue a Jersey Devil from a duo of conniving, greedy billionaires, the Schmoke Brothers.

Join Elliot and Uchenna on their very first quest as members of the Unicorn Rescue Society in this brand-new fantasy-adventure series from Adam Gidwitz, the beloved bestselling and Newbery Honor-winning author of The Inquisitors Tale and A Tale Dark & Grimm. Illustrated throughout, this is the perfect fit for newly independent readers looking for a story full of adventure, fun, and friendship.”

Fantasy Books For Fourth Graders

Where the mountain meets the moon by grace lin.

“In the valley of Fruitless mountain, a young girl named Minli lives in a ramshackle hut with her parents. In the evenings, her father regales her with old folktales of the Jade Dragon and the Old Man on the Moon, who knows the answers to all of life’s questions. Inspired by these stories, Minli sets off on an extraordinary journey to find the Old Man on the Moon to ask him how she can change her family’s fortune. She encounters an assorted cast of characters and magical creatures along the way, including a dragon who accompanies her on her quest for the ultimate answer.

Grace Lin, author of the beloved Year of the Dog and Year of the Rat returns with a wondrous story of adventure, faith, and friendship. A fantasy crossed with Chinese folklore, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is a timeless story reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz and Kelly Barnhill’s The Girl Who Drank the Moon. Her beautiful illustrations, printed in full-color, accompany the text throughout. Once again, she has created a charming, engaging book for young readers.”

Encyclopedia Mythologica: Fairies and Magical Creatures Pop-Up by Matthew Reinhart, Illustrated by Robert Sabuda

“Open this entrancing book and meet Shakespeare’s Queen Titania, springing up with her silver wings aflutter. Further on, a crystalline elfin castle rises into the clouds, not far from some scary hobgoblins and trolls. And on a truly stunning spread, a humanoid magical tree spreads its branches to reveal a face within its foliage, while flowers unfold and rearrange their petals, turning into flower fairies. Visiting mythical beings around the world, from household brownies to the merfolk lurking deep below the sea, this breathtaking 3-D book, brimming with facts and fancy, will hold humans of all ages in its spell.”

The Gauntlet by Karuna Riazi

“A trio of friends from New York City find themselves trapped inside a mechanical board game that they must dismantle in order to save themselves and generations of other children in this action-packed debut that’s a steampunk Jumanji with a Middle Eastern flair.

When twelve-year-old Farah and her two best friends get sucked into a mechanical board game called The Gauntlet of Blood and Sand—a puzzle game akin to a large Rubik’s cube—they know it’s up to them to defeat the game’s diabolical architect in order to save themselves and those who are trapped inside, including her baby brother Ahmed. But first they have to figure out how.

Under the tutelage of a lizard guide named Henrietta Peel and an aeronaut Vijay, the Farah and her friends battle camel spiders, red scorpions, grease monkeys, and sand cats as they prepare to face off with the maniacal Lord Amari, the man behind the machine. Can they defeat Amari at his own game…or will they, like the children who came before them, become cogs in the machine?”

Dragons In A Bag By Zetta Elliott

“The dragon’s out of the bag in this diverse, young urban fantasy from an award-winning author!

When Jaxon is sent to spend the day with a mean old lady his mother calls Ma, he finds out she’s not his grandmother–but she is a witch! She needs his help delivering baby dragons to a magical world where they’ll be safe. There are two rules when it comes to the dragons: don’t let them out of the bag, and don’t feed them anything sweet. Before he knows it, Jax and his friends Vikram and Kavita have broken both rules! Will Jax get the baby dragons delivered safe and sound? Or will they be lost in Brooklyn forever?”

The School For Good And Evil By Soman Chainani

“ The first kidnappings happened two hundred years before. Some years it was two boys taken, some years two girls, sometimes one of each. But if at first the choices seemed random, soon the pattern became clear. One was always beautiful and good, the child every parent wanted as their own. The other was homely and odd, an outcast from birth. An opposing pair, plucked from youth and spirited away.

This year, best friends Sophie and Agatha are about to discover where all the lost children go: the fabled School for Good & Evil, where ordinary boys and girls are trained to be fairy tale heroes and villains. As the most beautiful girl in Gavaldon, Sophie has dreamed of being kidnapped into an enchanted world her whole life. With her pink dresses, glass slippers, and devotion to good deeds, she knows she’ll earn top marks at the School for Good and graduate a storybook princess. Meanwhile Agatha, with her shapeless black frocks, wicked pet cat, and dislike of nearly everyone, seems a natural fit for the School for Evil.

But when the two girls are swept into the Endless Woods, they find their fortunes reversed—Sophie’s dumped in the School for Evil to take Uglification, Death Curses, and Henchmen Training, while Agatha finds herself in the School For Good, thrust amongst handsome princes and fair maidens for classes in Princess Etiquette and Animal Communication.. But what if the mistake is actually the first clue to discovering who Sophie and Agatha really are…?”

Dragon Rider By Cornelia Funke

“With a lonely boy named Ben on board, the brave young dragon Firedrake sets out on a magical journey to find the mythical place where silver dragons can live in peace forever. Flying over moonlit lands and sparkling seas, they encounter fantastic creatures, summon up surprising courage — and cross the path of a ruthless villain with an ancient grudge who’s determined to end their quest. Only a secret destiny can save the dragons in this enchanting adventure about the true meaning of home.”

Lumberjanes: Unicorn Power! By Mariko Tamaki, Illustrated By Brooke Allen

“Welcome to Miss Qiunzella Thiskwin Penniquiqul Thistle Crumpet’s Camp for Hardcore Lady Types. The five scouts of Roanoke cabin—Jo, April, Molly, Mal, and Ripley—love their summers at camp. They get to hang out with their best friends, earn Lumberjane scout badges, annoy their no-nonsense counselor Jen…and go on supernatural adventures. That last one? A pretty normal occurrence at Miss Qiunzella’s, where the woods contain endless mysteries.

Today is no exception. When challenge-loving April leads the girls on a hike up the TALLEST mountain they’ve ever seen, things don’t go quite as planned. For one, they didn’t expect to trespass into the lands of the ancient Cloud People, and did anyone happen to read those ominous signs some unknown person posted at the bottom of the mountain? Also, unicorns.

This hilarious, rollicking adventure series brings the beloved Lumberjanes characters into a novel format with brand-new adventures.”

The Unicorn Quest By Kamilla Benko

“Claire Martinson still worries about her older sister Sophie, who battled a mysterious illness last year. But things are back to normal as they move into Windermere Manor…until the sisters climb a strange ladder in a fireplace and enter the magical land of Arden.

There, they find a world in turmoil. The four guilds of magic no longer trust each other. The beloved unicorns have gone, and terrible wraiths roam freely. Scared, the girls return home. But when Sophie vanishes, it will take all of Claire’s courage to climb back up the ladder, find her sister, and uncover the unicorns’ greatest secret.”

Fantasy Books For Fifth Graders

The arrival by shaun tan.

“In a heartbreaking parting, a man gives his wife and daughter a last kiss and boards a steamship to cross the ocean. He’s embarking on the most painful yet important journey of his life—he’s leaving home to build a better future for his family.

Shaun Tan evokes universal aspects of an immigrant’s experience through a singular work of the imagination. He does so using brilliantly clear and mesmerizing images. Because the main character can’t communicate in words, the book forgoes them too. But while the reader experiences the main character’s isolation, he also shares his ultimate joy.”

Witch Boy by Molly Knox Ostertag

“In thirteen-year-old Aster’s family, all the girls are raised to be witches, while boys grow up to be shapeshifters. Anyone who dares cross those lines is exiled. Unfortunately for Aster, he still hasn’t shifted…and he’s still fascinated by witchery, no matter how forbidden it might be.

When a mysterious danger threatens the other boys, Aster knows he can help—as a witch. It will take the encouragement of a new friend, the non-magical and non-conforming Charlie, to convince Aster to try practicing his skills. And it will require even more courage to save his family…and be truly himself.”

The Serpent’s Secret By Sayantani DasGupta

“MEET KIRANMALA:

INTERDIMENSIONAL DEMON SLAYER

(Only she doesn’t know it yet.)

On the morning of her twelfth birthday, Kiranmala is just a regular sixth grader living in Parsippany, New Jersey…until her parents mysteriously vanish and a drooling rakkhosh demon slams through her kitchen, determined to eat her alive. Turns out there might be some truth to her parents’ fantastical stories-like how Kiranmala is a real Indian princess and how she comes from a secret place not of this world.

To complicate matters, two crush-worthy princes ring her doorbell, insisting they’ve come to rescue her. Suddenly, Kiran is swept into another dimension full of magic, winged horses, moving maps, and annoying, talking birds. There she must solve riddles and battle demons all while avoiding the Serpent King of the underworld and the Rakkhoshi Queen in order to find her parents and basically save New Jersey, her entire world, and everything beyond it…”

Aru Shah and the End of Time By Roshani Chokshi

“Twelve-year-old Aru Shah has a tendency to stretch the truth in order to fit in at school. While her classmates are jetting off to family vacations in exotic locales, she’ll be spending her autumn break at home, in the Museum of Ancient Indian Art and Culture, waiting for her mom to return from her latest archeological trip. Is it any wonder that Aru makes up stories about being royalty, traveling to Paris, and having a chauffeur?

One day, three schoolmates show up at Aru’s doorstep to catch her in a lie. They don’t believe her claim that the museum’s Lamp of Bharata is cursed, and they dare Aru to prove it. Just a quick light, Aru thinks. Then she can get herself out of this mess and never ever fib again.

But lighting the lamp has dire consequences. She unwittingly frees the Sleeper, an ancient demon whose duty it is to awaken the God of Destruction. Her classmates and beloved mother are frozen in time, and it’s up to Aru to save them.

The only way to stop the demon is to find the reincarnations of the five legendary Pandava brothers, protagonists of the Hindu epic poem, the Mahabharata, and journey through the Kingdom of Death. But how is one girl in Spider-Man pajamas supposed to do all that?”

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland In A Ship Of Her Own Making By Catherynne M. Valente

“Twelve-year-old September lives in Omaha, and used to have an ordinary life, until her father went to war and her mother went to work. One day, September is met at her kitchen window by a Green Wind (taking the form of a gentleman in a green jacket), who invites her on an adventure, implying that her help is needed in Fairyland. The new Marquess is unpredictable and fickle, and also not much older than September. Only September can retrieve a talisman the Marquess wants from the enchanted woods, and if she doesn’t…then the Marquess will make life impossible for the inhabitants of Fairyland. September is already making new friends, including a book-loving Wyvern and a mysterious boy named Saturday.

With exquisite illustrations by acclaimed artist Ana Juan, Fairyland lives up to the sensation it created when the author first posted it online. For readers of all ages who love the charm of Alice in Wonderland and the soul of The Golden Compass, here is a reading experience unto itself: unforgettable, and so very beautiful.”

How Mirka Got Her Sword By Barry Deutsch

“Spunky, strong-willed eleven-year-old Mirka Herschberg isn’t interested in knitting lessons from her stepmother, or how-to-find-a-husband advice from her sister, or you-better-not warnings from her brother. There’s only one thing she does want: to fight dragons!

Granted, no dragons have been breathing fire around Hereville, the Orthodox Jewish community where Mirka lives, but that doesn’t stop the plucky girl from honing her skills. She fearlessly stands up to local bullies. She battles a very large, very menacing pig. And she boldly accepts a challenge from a mysterious witch, a challenge that could bring Mirka her heart’s desire: a dragon-slaying sword! All she has to do is find—and outwit—the giant troll who’s got it!

A delightful mix of fantasy, adventure, cultural traditions, and preteen commotion, Hereville will captivate middle-school readers with its exciting visuals and entertaining new heroine.”

Love Sugar Magic: A Dash of Trouble By Anna Meriano, Illustrated By Mirelle Ortega

“Leonora Logroño’s family owns the most beloved bakery in Rose Hill, Texas, spending their days conjuring delicious cookies and cakes for any occasion. And no occasion is more important than the annual Dia de los Muertos festival.

Leo hopes that this might be the year that she gets to help prepare for the big celebration—but, once again, she is told she’s too young. Sneaking out of school and down to the bakery, she discovers that her mother, aunt, and four older sisters have in fact been keeping a big secret: they’re brujas—witches of Mexican ancestry—who pour a little bit of sweet magic into everything that they bake.

Leo knows that she has magical ability as well and is more determined than ever to join the family business—even if she can’t let her mama and hermanas know about it yet.

And when her best friend, Caroline, has a problem that needs solving, Leo has the perfect opportunity to try out her craft. It’s just one little spell, after all…what could possibly go wrong?”

What are your favorite fantasy books for kids?

Whether you’re looking for fairytale retellings for kids, or big ol’ middle-grade fantasy lists , Book Riot has plenty of reading suggestions for  children .

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Fantasy & Science Fiction

Children's Fantasy novels and Science Fiction books are a great way to spark your imagination! We’ve got everything from Harry Potter, to The Phantom Tollbooth, to A Wrinkle in Time, so we know you’ll find your next favorite Sci-Fi and Fantasy books for kids here!

Bedtime & Dreams

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Fairy Tales & Folklore

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Fantasy & Magic

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Ghosts, Monsters, Zombies & Horror Stories

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Hi, I'm Sam Landgrover, the curator for the Fantasy & Science Fiction category.  

Check out my page  for more recommendations and to chat with me about my current faves.

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NPR Books Summer Poll 2021: A Decade Of Great Sci-Fi And Fantasy

We asked, you answered: your 50 favorite sci-fi and fantasy books of the past decade.

Petra Mayer at NPR headquarters in Washington, D.C., May 21, 2019. (photo by Allison Shelley)

Petra Mayer

Deborah Lee for NPR

The question at the heart of science fiction and fantasy is "what if?" What if gods were real, but you could kill them ? What if humans finally made it out among the stars — only to discover we're the shabby newcomers in a grand galactic alliance ? What if an asteroid destroyed the East Coast in 1952 and jump-started the space race years early?

Summer Reader Poll 2021: Meet Our Expert Judges

Summer Reader Poll 2021: Meet our expert judges

Click If You Dare: 100 Favorite Horror Stories

Summer Reader Poll 2018: Horror

Click if you dare: 100 favorite horror stories.

We Did It For The LOLs: 100 Favorite Funny Books

Summer Reader Poll 2019: Funny Books

We did it for the lols: 100 favorite funny books.

This year's summer reader poll was also shaped by a series of "what ifs" — most importantly, what if, instead of looking at the entire history of the field the way we did in our 2011 poll , we focused only on what has happened in the decade since? These past 10 years have brought seismic change to science fiction and fantasy (sometimes literally, in the case of N.K. Jemisin's Broken Earth series), and we wanted to celebrate the world-shaking rush of new voices, new perspectives, new styles and new stories. And though we limited ourselves to 50 books this time around, the result is a list that's truly stellar — as poll judge Tochi Onyebuchi put it, "Alive."

As always, a pretty extensive decision-making process went into the list, involving our fabulous panel of expert judges — but we know you eager readers want to get right to the books. So if you're inclined, follow these links to find out how we built the list (and what, sadly, didn't make it this year ). Otherwise, scroll on for the list!

We've broken it up into categories to help you find the reading experience you're looking for, and you can click on these links to go directly to each category:

Worlds To Get Lost In · Words To Get Lost In · Will Take You On A Journey · Will Mess With Your Head · Will Mess With Your Heart · Will Make You Feel Good

Worlds To Get Lost In

Are you (like me) a world-building fanatic? These authors have built worlds so real you can almost smell them.

The Imperial Radch Trilogy

Ancillary Justice, by Ann Leckie

Breq is a human now — but once she was a starship. Once she was an AI with a vast and ancient metal body and troops of ancillaries, barely animate bodies that all carried her consciousness. Poll judge Ann Leckie has created a massive yet intricate interstellar empire where twisty galactic intrigues and multiple clashing cultures form a brilliant backdrop for the story of a starship learning to be a human being. Your humble editor got a copy of Ancillary Justice when it came out and promptly forced her entire family to read it.

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The Dead Djinn Universe (series)

A Master of Djinn, by P. Djélì Clarke

What a wonderful world P. Djélì Clarke has created here — an Arab world never colonized, where magic-powered trams glide through a cosmopolitan Cairo and where djinns make mischief among humans. Clarke's novella Ring Shout also showed up on our semifinalists list, and it was hard to decide between them, but ultimately our judges felt the Dead Djinn Universe offered more to explore. But you should still read Ring Shout , a wild ride of a read where gun-toting demon-hunters go up against Ku Klux Klan members who are actual, pointy-headed white demons. Go on, go get a copy! We'll wait.

The Age of Madness Trilogy

A Little Hatred, by Joe Abercrombie

One of my pet peeves with fantasy novels is they sometimes don't allow for the progression of time and technology — but in Joe Abercrombie's Age of Madness series, the follow-up to his debut First Law trilogy, industrialization has come to the world of The Union, and it's brought no good in its wake. More than that — machines may be rising, but magic will not give way, and all over the world, those at the bottom of the heap are beginning to get really, really angry. This series works as a standalone — but you should also read the excellent First Law series (even though it's old enough to fall outside the scope of this list).

The Green Bone Saga

Jade City, by Fonda Lee

This sprawling saga of family, honor, blood and magical jade will suck you in from the very first page. Poll judge Fonda Lee's story works on every conceivable level, from minute but meaningful character beats to solid, elegantly conveyed world-building to political intrigue to big, overarching themes of clan, loyalty and identity. Plus, wow, the jade-powered martial arts sequences are as fine as anything the Shaw Brothers ever put on screen. "Reviewing books is my actual job," says fellow judge Amal El-Mohtar, "but I still have to fight my husband for the advance copies of Fonda's books, and we're both THIS CLOSE to learning actual martial arts to assist us in our dueling for dibs."

The Expanse (series)

Leviathan Wakes, by James S.A. Corey

Yes, sure, you've seen the TV show (you HAVE, right? Right?) about the ragtag crew of spacers caught up in a three-way power struggle between Earth, Mars and the society that's developed on far-off asteroid belts. But there's much, much more to explore in the books — other planets, other characters, storylines and concepts that didn't make it to the screen. Often, when a book gets adapted for film or TV, there's a clear argument about which version is better. With The Expanse , we can confidently say you should watch and read. The only downside? Book- Avasarala doesn't show up until a few volumes in.

The Daevabad Trilogy

The City of Brass, S.A. Chakraborty

Nahri is a con woman (with a mysteriously real healing talent) scraping a living in the alleys of 18th century Cairo — until she accidentally summons some true magic and discovers her fate is bound to a legendary city named Daevabad, far from human civilization, home of djinns and bloody intrigues. Author S.A. Chakraborty converted to Islam as a teenager and after college began writing what she describes as "historical fanfiction" about medieval Islam; then characters appeared, inspired by people she met at her mosque. "A sly heroine capable of saving herself, a dashing hero who'd break for the noon prayer," she told an interviewer . "I wanted to write a story for us, about us, with the grandeur and magic of a summer blockbuster."

Teixcalaan (series)

A Memory Called Empire, by Arkady Martine

The Aztecs meet the Byzantines in outer space in this intricately imagined story of diplomatic intrigue and fashionable poetic forms. Mahit Dzmare is an ambassador from a small space station clinging desperately to its independence in the face of the massive Teixcalaanli empire . But when she arrives in its glittering capital, her predecessor's dead, and she soon discovers she's been sabotaged herself. Luckily, it turns out she's incredibly good at her job, even without her guiding neural implant. "I'm a sucker for elegant worldbuilding that portrays all the finer nuances of society and culture in addition to the grandness of empire and the complexity of politics," says judge Fonda Lee. "Arkady Martine delivers all that in droves."

The Thessaly Trilogy

The Just City, by Jo Walton

Apollo, spurned by Daphne, is trying to understand free will and consent by living as a mortal. Athena is trying to create a utopia by plucking men and women from all across history and dropping them on an island to live according to Plato's Republic. Will it all go according to plan? Not likely. "Brilliant, compelling, and frankly unputdownable," wrote poll judge Amal El-Mohtar , "this will do what your Intro to Philosophy courses probably couldn't: make you want to read The Republic ."

Shades of Magic Trilogy

A Darker Shade of Magic, by V.E. Schwab

V.E. Schwab has created a world with four Londons lying atop one another : our own dull Grey, warm magic-suffused Red, tyrannical White, and dead, terrifying Black. Once, movement among them was easy, but now only a few have the ability — including our hero, Kell. So naturally, he's a smuggler, and the action kicks off when Grey London thief Lila steals a dangerous artifact from him, a stone that could upset the balance among the Londons. Rich world building, complex characters and really scary bad guys make Schwab's London a city — or cities — well worth spending time in.

The Divine Cities Trilogy

City of Stairs, by Robert Jackson Bennett

On the Continent, you must not, you cannot, talk about the gods — the gods are dead. Or are they? Robert Jackson Bennett's Divine Cities trilogy builds a fully, gloriously realized world where gods are the source of power, miracles and oppression, and gods can also be killed. But what happens next, when the gods are gone and the work of running the world is left to regular human men and women? What happens in that unsettled moment when divinity gives way to technology? This series spans a long timeline; the heroes of the first volume are old by the end. "And as ancient powers clash among gleaming, modern skyscrapers, those who have survived from the first page to these last have a heaviness about them," writes reviewer Jason Sheehan , "a sense that they have seen remarkable things, done deeds both heroic and terrible, and that they can see a far and final horizon in the distance, quickly approaching."

The Wormwood Trilogy

Rosewater, by Tade Thompson

Part of a recent wave of work celebrating and centering Nigerian culture, this trilogy is set in a future where a fungal alien invader has swallowed big global cities, America has shut itself away and gone dark, and a new city, Rosewater, has grown up around a mysterious alien dome in rural Nigeria. It's a wild mashup of alien invasion, cyberpunk, Afro-futurism and even a touch of zombie horror. "I started reading Rosewater on vacation and quickly set it down until I got home, because Tade Thompson's work is no light beach read," says judge Fonda Lee. "His writing demands your full attention — and amply rewards it."

Black Sun (series)

Black Sun, by Rebecca Roanhorse

Author Rebecca Roanhorse was tired of reading epic fantasy with quasi-European settings, so she decided to write her own . The result is Black Sun , set in a world influenced by pre-Columbian mythology and rich with storms, intrigue, giant bugs, mysterious sea people, ritual, myth and some very scary crows. (They hold grudges, did you know?) This is only Book 1 of a forthcoming series, but we felt it was so strong it deserved to be here, no matter where Roanhorse goes next.

Words To Get Lost In

If you're one of those people who thought genre fiction writing was workmanlike and uninspiring, these books will change your mind.

Piranesi, by Susanna Clarke

Susanna Clarke at last returns to our shelves with this mind-bendingly glorious story — that's a bit hard to describe without spoiling. So we'll say it's about a mysterious man and the House that he dearly loves, a marvelous place full of changing light and surging tides, statues and corridors and crossings, birds and old bones and passing days and one persistent visitor who brings strangely familiar gifts. Clarke "limns a magic far more intrinsic than the kind commanded through spells," wrote reviewer Vikki Valentine , "a magic that is seemingly part of the fabric of the universe and as powerful as a cosmic engine — yet fragile nonetheless."

Circe, by Madeline Miller

Imagine Circe, the fearsome witch of the Odyssey, as an awkward teenager, growing up lonely among scornful gods and falling for what we modern folks would call a f***boy, before coming into her own, using her exile on the island of Aiaia to hone her powers and build an independent life. Circe only shows up briefly in the Odyssey, but Madeline Miller gives her a lush, complex life in these pages. She has worked as a classics teacher, and as our reviewer Annalisa Quinn noted , Miller "extracts worlds of meaning from Homer's short phrases."

Mexican Gothic

Mexican Gothic, by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

A sharp young socialite in 1950s Mexico City travels to a creepy rural mansion to check on her cousin, who has fallen ill after marrying into a mysterious family of English landowners. What could possibly go wrong? Silvia Moreno-Garcia "makes you uneasy about invisible things by writing around them," said reviewer Jessica P. Wick. "Even when you think you know what lurks, the power to unsettle isn't diminished." Not to be too spoilery — but after reading this stylishly chilling novel, you'll never look at mushrooms the same way again.

The Paper Menagerie And Other Stories

The Paper Menagerie, by Ken Liu

"I taught Liu's 'The Man Who Ended History' in a graduate seminar one semester," says judge Tochi Onyebuchi, "and one of the toughest tasks I've ever faced in adulthood was crafting a lesson plan that went beyond me just going 'wtf wtf wtf wtf wtf' for the whole two hours. Some story collections are like those albums where the artist or record label just threw a bunch of songs together and said 'here,' and some collections arrive as a complete, cohesive, emotionally catholic whole. The Paper Menagerie is that."

Spinning Silver

Spinning Silver, by Naomi Novik

Judges had a hard time deciding between Spinning Silver and Uprooted , Novik's previous fairy tale retelling. Ultimately, we decided that this reclamation of "Rumpelstiltskin" has a chewier, more interesting project, with much to say about money, labor, debt and friendship, explored in unflinching yet tender ways. Judge Amal El-Mohtar reviewed Spinning Silver for NPR when it came out in 2018. "There are so many mathemagicians in this book, be they moneylenders turning silver into gold or knitters working to a pattern," she wrote at the time . "It's gold and silver all the way down."

Exhalation: Stories

Exhalation: Stories, by Ted Chiang

"I often get the same feeling reading a Ted Chiang story as I did listening to a Prince song while he was still with us," says judge Tochi Onyebuchi. "What a glorious privilege it is that we get to share a universe with this genius!" This poll can be a discovery tool for editors and judges as much as audience, so hearing that, your humble editor went straight to the library and downloaded a copy of this collection.

Olondria (series)

A Stranger in Olondria, by Sofia Samatar

In Olondria, you can smell the ocean wind coming off the page, soldiers ride birds, angels haunt humans, and written dreams are terribly dangerous. "Have you ever seen something so beautiful that you'd be content to just sit and watch the light around it change for a whole day because every passing moment reveals even more unbearable loveliness and transforms you in ways you can't articulate?" asks judge Amal El-Mohtar. "You will if you read these books."

Her Body And Other Parties: Stories

Her Body and Other Parties, by Carmen Maria Machado

These eight stories dance across the borders of fairy tale, horror, erotica and urban legend, spinning the familiar, lived experiences of women into something rich and strange. As the title suggests, Machado focuses on the unruly female body and all of its pleasures and risks (there's one story that's just increasingly bizarre rewrites of Law & Order: SVU episodes). At one point, a character implies that kind of writing is "tiresome and regressive," too much about stereotypical crazy lesbians and madwomen in the attic. But as our critic Annalisa Quinn wrote , "Machado seems to answer: The world makes madwomen, and the least you can do is make sure the attic is your own."

The Buried Giant

The Buried Giant, by Kazuo Ishiguro

Axl and Beatrice are an elderly couple, living in a fictional Britain just after Arthur's time, where everyone suffers from what they call "mist," a kind of amnesia that hits long-term memories. They believe, they vaguely remember that they once had a son, so they set out to find him — encountering an elderly Sir Gawain along the way, and long-forgotten connections to Arthur's court and the dark deeds the mist is hiding. Poll judge Ann Leckie loves Arthurian legends. What she does not love are authors who don't do them justice — but with The Buried Giant , she says, Kazuo Ishiguro gets it solidly right.

Radiance, by Catherynne M. Valente

Do you love space opera? Alternate history? Silent film? (OK, are you me?) Then you should pick up Catherynne M. Valente's Radiance , which mashes up all three in a gloriously surreal saga about spacefaring filmmakers in an alternate version of 1986, in which you might be able to go to Jupiter, but Thomas Edison's death grip on his patents means talkies are still a novelty. Yes, Space Opera did get more votes, but our judges genuinely felt that Radiance was the stronger book. Reviewing it in 2015, judge Amal El-Mohtar wrote , " Radiance is the sort of novel about which you have to speak for hours or hardly speak at all: either stop at 'it's magnificent' or roll on to talk about form, voice, ambition, originality, innovation for more thousands of words than are available to me here before even touching on the plot."

Will Take You On A Journey

Sure, all books are some kind of journey, but these reads really go the distance.

The Changeling

The Changeling, by Victor LaValle

It's easy(ish) to summarize The Changeling : Rare book dealer Apollo Kagwa has a baby son with his wife, Emma, but she's been acting strange — and when she vanishes after doing something unspeakable, he sets out to find her. But his journey loops through a New York you've never seen before: mysterious islands and haunted forests, strange characters and shifting rhythms. The Changeling is a modern urban fairy tale with one toe over the line into horror, and wherever it goes, it will draw you along with it.

Wayfarers (series)

Wayfarers (series), by Becky Chambers

Becky Chambers writes aliens like no one else — in fact, humans are the backward newcomers in her generous, peaceful galactic vision. The Wayfarers books are only loosely linked: They all take place in the same universe, but apart from that you'll meet a new set of characters, a new culture and a new world (or an old world transformed). Cranky space pacifists, questing AIs, fugitives, gravediggers and fluffy, multi-limbed aliens who love pudding — the only flaw in this series is you'll wish you could spend more time with all of them.

Binti (series)

Binti (series), by Nnedi Okorafor

Binti is the first of her people, the Himba, to be offered a place at the legendary Oomza University, finest institution of learning in the galaxy — and as if leaving Earth to live among the stars weren't enough, Binti finds herself caught between warring human and alien factions. Over and over again throughout these novellas, Binti makes peace, bridges cultures, brings home with her even as she leaves and returns, changed by her experiences. Our judges agreed that the first two Binti stories are the strongest — but even if the third stumbles, as judge and critic Amal El-Mohtar wrote, "Perhaps the point is just having a Black girl with tentacles for hair possessing the power and freedom to float among Saturn's rings."

Lady Astronaut (series)

Lady Astronaut (series), by Mary Robinette Kowal

What would America's space program have looked like if, say, a gigantic asteroid had wiped out the East Coast in 1952 — and started a countdown to destruction for the rest of the world? We'd have had to get into space much sooner. And all the female pilots who served in World War II and were unceremoniously dumped back at home might have had another chance to fly. Mary Robinette Kowal's Hugo Award-winning series plays that out with Elma York, a former WASP pilot and future Lady Astronaut whose skill and determination help all of humanity escape the bonds of Earth. Adds judge Amal El-Mohtar: "Audiobook readers are in for a special treat here in that Kowal narrates the books herself, and if you've never had the pleasure of attending one of her readings, you get to experience her wonderful performance with bonus production values. It's especially cool given that the seed for the series was an audio-first short story."

Children of Time (duology)

Children of Time (duology), by Adrian Tchaikovsky

Far in the future, the dregs of humanity escape a ruined Earth and find what they think is a new hope deep in space — a planet that past spacefarers terraformed and left for them. But the evolutionary virus that was supposed to jump-start a cargo of monkeys, creating ready-made workers, instead latched on to ... something else, and in the intervening years, something terrible has arisen there. Poll judge Ann Leckie says she can't stand spiders (BIG SAME), but even so, she was adamant that the Children of Time books deserve their spot here.

Wayward Children (series)

Wayward Children (series), by Seanan McGuire

Everyone loves a good portal fantasy. Who hasn't looked in the back of the closet hoping, faintly, to see snow and a street lamp? In the Wayward Children series, Seanan McGuire reminds us that portals go both ways: What happens to those children who get booted back through the door into the real world, starry-eyed and scarred? Well, a lot of them end up at Eleanor West's School for Wayward Children. The prolific McGuire turned up on our semifinalists list A Lot. We had a hard time deciding between this and her killer stand-alone Middlegame , but the Wayward Children won the day with their shimmering mix of fairy tale, fantasy and emotional heft — not to mention body positivity and solid queer and trans representation. (As with a lot of the also-rans, though, you should really read Middlegame too.)

The Space Between Worlds

The Space Between Worlds, by Micaiah Johnson

There are 382 parallel worlds in Micaiah Johnson's debut novel, and humanity can finally travel between them — but there's a deadly catch. You can visit only a world where the parallel version of you is already dead. And that makes Cara — whose marginal wastelands existence means only a few versions of her are left — valuable to the high and mighty of her own Earth. "They needed trash people," Cara says, to gather information from other worlds. But her existence, already precarious, is threatened when a powerful scientist figures out how to grab that information remotely. "At a time when I was really struggling with the cognitive demands of reading anything for work or pleasure, this book flooded me with oxygen and lit me on fire," says judge Amal El-Mohtar. "I can't say for certain that it enabled me to read again, but in its wake, I could."

Will Mess With Your Head

Do you love twisty tales, loopy logic, unsolved mysteries and cosmic weirdness? Scroll on!

Black Leopard, Red Wolf

Black Leopard, Red Wolf, by Marlon James

Poll judge Amal El-Mohtar once described Black Leopard, Red Wolf as " like being slowly eaten by a bear ." Fellow judge Tochi Onyebuchi chimes in: " Black Leopard, Red Wolf is a Slipknot album of a book. In all the best ways." Set in a dazzling, dangerous fantasy Africa, it is — at least on the surface — about a man named Tracker, in prison when we meet him and telling his life story to an inquisitor. Beyond that, it's fairly indescribable, full of roof-crawling demons, dust-cloud assassins, blood and (fair warning) sexual violence. A gnarly book, a difficult book, sometimes actively hostile to the reader — yet necessary, and stunning.

Southern Reach (series)

Southern Reach (series), Jeff VanderMeer

The Southern Reach books are, at least on the surface, a simple tale of a world gone wrong, of a mysterious "Area X" and the expeditions that have suffered and died trying to map it — and the strange government agency that keeps sending them in. But there's a lot seething under that surface: monsters, hauntings, a slowly building sense of wrong and terror that will twist your brain around sideways. "If the guys who wrote Lost had brought H.P. Lovecraft into the room as a script doctor in the first season," our critic Jason Sheehan wrote , "the Southern Reach trilogy is what they would've come up with."

The Echo Wife

The Echo Wife, by Sarah Gailey

Part sci-fi cautionary tale, part murder mystery, The Echo Wife is a twisty treat . At its center are a famed genetic researcher and her duplicitous husband, who uses her breakthrough technology to clone himself a sweeter, more compliant version of his wife before ending up dead. "As expertly constructed as a Patek Philippe watch," says poll judge Tochi Onyebuchi. "Seamlessly blends domestic thriller and science fiction," adds fellow judge Fonda Lee. "This book is going to haunt my thoughts for a long time."

The Locked Tomb (series)

The Locked Tomb (series), by Tamsyn Muir

This series is often described as "lesbian necromancers in space," but trust us, it's so much more than that. Wildly inventive, gruesome, emotional, twisty and funny as hell, the Locked Tomb books are like nothing you've ever read before. And we defy you to read them and not give serious consideration to corpse paint and mirror shades as a workable fashion statement. There are only two books out now, of a planned four-book series, but Gideon the Ninth alone is enough to earn Tamsyn Muir a place on this list: "Too funny to be horror, too gooey to be science fiction, has too many spaceships and autodoors to be fantasy, and has far more bloody dismemberings than your average parlor romance," says critic Jason Sheehan. "It is altogether its own thing."

Remembrance of Earth's Past (series)

Remembrance of Earth's Past (series), Liu Cixin

Liu Cixin became the first author from Asia to win a Hugo Award for Best Novel, for The Three-Body Problem , the first volume in this series about one of the oldest questions in science fiction: What will happen when we meet aliens? Liu is writing the hardest of hard sci-fi here, full of brain-twisting passages about quantum mechanics and artificial intelligence (if you didn't actually know what the three-body problem was, you will now), grafted onto the backbone of a high-stakes political thriller. Poll judge Tochi Onyebuchi says, "These books divided me by zero. And, yes, that is a compliment."

Machineries of Empire (series)

Machineries of Empire (series), by Yoon Ha Lee

In the Hexarchate, numbers are power: This interstellar empire draws its strength from rigidly enforced adherence to the imperial calendar, a system of numbers that can alter reality. But now, a "calendrical rot" is eating away at that structure, and it's up to a mathematically talented young soldier — and the ghost of an infamous traitor — to try to repair the rot while a war blazes across the stars around them. " Ninefox Gambit is a book with math in its heart, but also one which understands that even numbers can lie," our critic Jason Sheehan wrote . "That it's what you see in the numbers that matters most."

Will Mess With Your Heart

Books that'll make you cry, make you think — and sometimes make you want to hide under the bed.

The Broken Earth (series)

The Broken Earth (series), by N.K. Jemisin

In the world of the Stillness, geological convulsions cause upheavals that can last for centuries — and only the orogenes, despised yet essential to the status quo — can control them. N.K. Jemisin deservedly won three back-to-back Hugo awards for these books, which use magnificent world building and lapidary prose to smack you in the face about your own complicity in systems of oppression. "Jemisin is the first — and so far only — person ever to have won a Hugo Award for Best Novel for every single book in a series. These books upheaved the terrain of epic fantasy as surely and completely as Fifth Seasons transform the geography of the Stillness," says poll judge Amal El-Mohtar.

Station Eleven

Station Eleven, by Emily St. John Mandel

Author Emily St. John Mandel went on Twitter in 2020 and advised people not to read Station Eleven , not in the midst of the pandemic. But we beg to disagree. A story in which art (and particularly Shakespeare) helps humanity come back to itself after a pandemic wipes out the world as we know it might be just the thing we need. "Survival is insufficient," say Mandel's traveling players (a line she says she lifted from Star Trek ), and that's a solid motto any time.

This Is How You Lose the Time War

This Is How You Lose the Time War, Max Gladstone & Amal El-Mohtar

Enemies-to-lovers is a classic romance novel trope, and it's rarely been done with as much strange beauty as poll judge Amal El-Mohtar and co-author Max Gladstone pull off in this tale of Red and Blue, two agents on opposite sides of a war that's sprawled across time and space. "Most books I read are objects of study. And more often than not, I can figure out how the prose happened, how the character arcs are constructed, the story's architecture," says judge Tochi Onyebuchi. "But then along comes a thing so dazzling you can't help but stare at and ask 'how.' Amal and Max wrote a cheat code of a book. They unlocked all the power-ups, caught all the Chaos Emeralds, mastered all the jutsus, and honestly, I'd say it's downright unfair how much they flexed on us with Time War , except I'm so damn grateful they gave it to us in the first place." (As we noted above, having Time War on the list meant that Max Gladstone couldn't make a second appearance for his outstanding solo work with the Craft Sequence . But you should absolutely read those, too.)

The Poppy War Trilogy

The Poppy War Trilogy, by R.F. Kuang

What if Mao Zedong were a teenage girl? That's how author R.F. Kuang describes the central question in her Poppy War series . Fiery, ruthless war orphan Fang Runin grows up, attends an elite military academy, develops fire magic and wins a war — but finds herself becoming the kind of monster she once fought against. Kuang has turned her own rage and anger at historical atrocities into a gripping, award-winning story that will drag you along with it, all the way to the end. "If this were football, Kuang might be under investigation for PEDs," jokes judge Tochi Onyebuchi, referring to performance-enhancing drugs. "But, no, she's really just that good."

The Masquerade (series)

The Masquerade (series), by Seth Dickinson

Baru Cormorant was born to a free-living, free-loving nation, but all that changed when the repressive Empire of Masks swept in, tearing apart her family, yet singling her out for advancement through its new school system. Baru decides the only way to free her people is to claw her way up the ranks of Empire — but she risks becoming the monster she's fighting against. "I've loved every volume of this more than the one before it, and the first one was devastatingly strong," says judge Amal El-Mohtar — who said of that first volume, "This book is a tar pit, and I mean that as a compliment."

An Unkindness of Ghosts

An Unkindness of Ghosts, by Rivers Solomon

The Matilda is a generation ship, a vast repository of human life among the stars, cruelly organized like an antebellum plantation: Black and brown people on the lower decks, working under vicious overseers to provide the white upper-deck passengers with comfortable lives. Aster, an orphaned outsider, uses her late mother's medical knowledge to bring healing where she can and to solve the mystery of Matilda 's failing power source. Poll judge Amal El-Mohtar originally reviewed An Unkindness of Ghosts for us , writing "What Solomon achieves with this debut — the sharpness, the depth, the precision — puts me in mind of a syringe full of stars."

The Bird King

The Bird King, by G. Willow Wilson

G. Willow Wilson's beautiful novel, set during the last days of Muslim Granada, follows a royal concubine who yearns for freedom and the queer mapmaker who's her best friend. "It is really devastating to a critic to find that the only truly accurate way of describing an author's prose is the word 'luminous,' but here we are," says judge Amal El-Mohtar. "This book is luminous. It is full of light, in searing mirror-flashes and warm candleflame flickers and dappled twists of heart-breaking insight into empire, war and religion."

American War

American War, by Omar El Akkad

This was judge Tochi Onyebuchi's personal pick — a devastating portrait of a post-climate-apocalypse, post-Second Civil War America that's chosen to use its most terrifying and oppressive policies against its own people. "It despairs me how careless we are with the word 'prescient' these days, but when I finished American War , I truly felt that I'd glimpsed our future," Onyebuchi says. "Charred and scarred and shot through with shards of hope."

Riot Baby, by Tochi Onyebuchi

Poll judge Tochi Onyebuchi centers this story on the kind of person who's more often a statistic, rarely a fully rounded character: Kevin, who's young, Black and in prison . Born amid the upheaval around the Rodney King verdict, Kevin is hemmed in by structural and individual racism at every turn; meanwhile, his sister Ella has developed mysterious, frightening powers — but she still can't do the one thing she truly wants to do, which is to rescue her brother. This slim novella packs a punch with all the weight of history behind it; fellow judge Amal El-Mohtar says, "I've said it in reviews and I'll say it again here: This book reads like hot diamonds, as searing as it is precise."

On Fragile Waves

On Fragile Waves, by E. Lily Yu

Every year, we ask our judges to add some of their own favorites to the list, and this year, Amal El-Mohtar teared up talking about her passion for E. Lily Yu's haunted refugee story On Fragile Waves . "I need everyone to read this book," she says. "I wept throughout it and for a solid half-hour once I had finished it, and I know it's hard to recommend books that make you cry right now, but I have no chill about this one: It is so important, it is so beautiful, and I feel like maybe if everyone read it the world would be a slightly less terrible place."

Will Make You Feel Good

Maybe, after the year we've just had, you want to read a book where good things happen, eventually? We've got you.

The Goblin Emperor

The Goblin Emperor, by Katherine Addison

In a far corner of an elven empire, young half-goblin Maia learns that a mysterious accident has left him heir to the throne. But he has been in exile almost all his life — how can he possibly negotiate the intricate treacheries of the imperial court? Fairly well, as it turns out. Maia is a wonderful character, hesitant and shy at first, but deeply good and surprisingly adept at the whole being-an-emperor thing. The only thing wrong with The Goblin Emperor was that it was, for a long time, a stand-alone. But now there's a sequel, The Witness for the Dead — so if you love the world Katherine Addison has created, you've got a way back to it. "I just love this book utterly," says judge Amal El-Mohtar. "So warm, so kind, so generous."

Murderbot (series)

All Systems Red, by Martha Wells

Oh Murderbot — we know you just want to be left alone to watch your shows, but we can't quit you. Martha Wells' series about a murderous security robot that's hacked its own governing module and become self-aware is expansive, action-packed, funny and deeply human . Also, your humble poll editor deeply wishes that someone would write a fic in which Murderbot meets Ancillary Justice 's Breq and they swap tips about how to be human over tea (which Murderbot can't really drink).

The Interdependency (series)

The Collapsing Empire, by John Scalzi

John Scalzi didn't mean to be quite so prescient when he started this trilogy about a galactic empire facing destruction as its interstellar routes collapse — a problem the empire knew about but ignored for all the same reasons we punt our problems today. "Some of that was completely unintentional," he told Scott Simon . "But some of it was. I live in the world." The Interdependency series is funny, heartfelt and ultimately hopeful, and packed with fantastic characters. To the reader who said they voted "because of Kiva Lagos," we say, us too.

The Martian

The Martian, by Andy Weir.

You don't expect a hard sci-fi novel to start with the phrase "I'm pretty much f****d," but it definitely sets the tone for Andy Weir's massive hit. Astronaut Mark Watney, stranded alone on Mars after an accident, is a profane and engaging narrator who'll let you know just how f****d he is and then just how he plans to science his way out of it. If you've only seen the movie, there's so much more to dig into in the book (including, well, that very first line).

Sorcerer to the Crown/The True Queen

Sorcerer to the Crown/The True Queen, by Zen Cho

A Regency romp with squabbling magicians, romance and intrigue, with women and people of color center stage? Yes, please! These two books form a wonderful balance. Sorcerer to the Crown is more whimsical and occasionally riotously funny despite its serious underlying themes. The True Queen builds out from there, looking at the characters and events of the first book with a different, more serious perspective. But both volumes are charming, thoughtful and thoroughly enjoyable.

How We Built This

Wow, you're some dedicated readers! Thanks for coming all the way down here to find out more. As I said above, we decided to limit ourselves to 50 books this year instead of our usual 100, which made winnowing down the list a particular challenge. As you may know, this poll isn't a straight-up popularity contest, though, if it were, the Broken Earth books would have crushed all comers — y'all have good taste! Instead, we take your votes (over 16,000 this year) and pare them down to about 250 semifinalists, and then during a truly epic conference call, our panel of expert judges goes through those titles, cuts some, adds some and hammers out a final curated list.

What Didn't Make It — And Why

As always, there were works readers loved and voted for that didn't make our final list of 50 — it's not a favorites list if you can't argue about it, right? Sometimes, we left things out because we felt like the authors were well known enough not to need our help (farewell, The Ocean at the End of the Lane , Neil Gaiman, we hope you'll forgive us!), but mostly it happened because the books either came out before our cutoff date or already appeared on the original 2011 list. (Sorry, Brandon Sanderson! The first Mistborn book was actually on this year's list, until I looked more closely and realized it was a repeat from 2011.)

Some books didn't make it this year because we're almost positive they'll come around next year — next year being the 10th anniversary of our original 2012 YA poll, when (spoiler alert!) we're planning a similar redo. So we say "not farewell, but fare forward, voyagers" to the likes of Raybearer , Children of Blood and Bone and the Grishaverse books; if they don't show up on next year's list I'll, I don't know, I'll eat my kefta .

And this year, because we had only 50 titles to play with, we did not apply the famous Nora Roberts rule, which allows particularly beloved and prolific authors onto the list twice. So as much as it pains me, there's only one Seanan McGuire entry here, and Max Gladstone appears alongside poll judge Amal El-Mohtar for This Is How You Lose the Time War but not on his own for the excellent Craft Sequence . Which — as we said above — you should ABSOLUTELY read.

One Final Note

Usually, readers will vote at least some works by members of our judging panel onto the list, and usually, we let the judges themselves decide whether or not to include them. But this year, I put my editorial foot down — all four judges made it to the semifinals, and had we not included them, the final product would have been the less for it. So you'll find all four on the list. And we hope you enjoy going through it as much as we enjoyed putting it together!

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The Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of 2022

Pandemics, witchcraft, terrifying A.I.: speculative fiction that stood out in 2022.

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By Amal El-Mohtar

This illustration, done in shades of blue-gray, shows a Saturn-like ringed planet leaning on a bookshelf. Next to it is an otherworldly figure in a large gown and hat, a book floating at its side.

Completing a novel is a difficult feat in the best of times, and we haven’t had any of those in a while. Because publishing moves slowly, this year brought us several novels that were drafted or revised during the upheavals of 2020, only to be released into a very different world. I want to recognize and celebrate the many, many hands laboring to make books in the face of so many challenges: not only authors but editors, agents, artists, designers, typesetters, copy editors and publicists. Of all the books I read this year, the following stood out as the most accomplished, astonishing or a heady mix of both. They’re arranged in the order I read them.

THE VIOLENCE, by Delilah S. Dawson, takes place in a post-Covid Florida, in 2025, on the cusp of a very different pandemic. Chelsea Martin lives a seemingly idyllic life in a gated community with her wealthy husband, two daughters and small fashionable dog. But Chelsea’s husband is physically and emotionally abusive, and he has systematically cut her off from any friends or support systems apart from her cruel and self-absorbed mother. As a new disease called the Violence spreads — causing brief, individual episodes of amnesiac rage during which the infected beat the nearest living thing to death — Chelsea sees an opportunity to free herself and her daughters. The book is a dazzling piece of knife work.

Instantly immersive and deeply affecting, IN THE SERPENT’S WAKE, by Rachel Hartman, concludes an epic fantasy duology that began with “Tess of the Road.” Publicly, Tess is on a quest: to sail through the Archipelagos to the South Pole and find the Polar Serpent, for science and for her friend Pathka, who has an ailment only the Serpent can ease. Privately, Tess is on a mission for the queen of Goredd: to spy on the neighboring nation of Ninys’s activities in the Archipelagos and report any aggression against its Indigenous peoples. Complex, compassionate and challenging as all Hartman’s novels are, this one is more expansive and multivocal than her previous work.

Sarah Tolmie’s ALL THE HORSES OF ICELAND is a slim and beautiful chronicle in the tradition of Naomi Mitchison and Ursula K. Le Guin. In it, a medieval Christian scholar named Jor relates the adventures of a stoic Icelander, Eyvind of Eyri, who travels to Mongolia to make his fortune and returns with a nameless white mare from whom all of Iceland’s horses will descend. The result is a sorcerous journey through hospitality and enchantment.

Jo Harkin’s TELL ME AN ENDING is one of the most sophisticated works of science fiction that I’ve read recently. A British company called Nepenthe offers therapeutic memory removal to two kinds of clients: self-informed and self-confidential. “The self-informeds know that they’ve had a memory removed; the self-confidentials don’t.” But a court order forces the company to offer the latter the option of memory restoration — revealing that they’ve had memories deleted in the first place and, for some, throwing their lives and relationships into turmoil. Sharply written with wry, slanted asides, “Tell Me an Ending” follows five characters in alternating chapters and explores the threads binding them to one another.

THE IMPOSSIBLE US, by Sarah Lotz, is an utterly delightful epistolary romance between Nick, a grumpy failed novelist turned freelance editor, and Bee, a cheerful workaholic with commitment issues, who refashions her clients’ wedding dresses into new clothing. When Nick types up an angry message demanding payment from a client and accidentally sends it to Bee, the two begin a cheeky, charming correspondence that will change both their lives — in multiple universes.

In Juno Dawson’s HER MAJESTY’S ROYAL COVEN , Niamh, Helena, Leonie and Elle are modern-day British witches who were inducted into the titular coven when they were schoolchildren. In the 25 years since, their tightly knit group has loosened. Helena has become the high priestess of H.M.R.C.; Niamh has drifted away from it; Leonie has left decisively to start her own coven, Diaspora; and Elle has buried herself in mundane domesticity, hiding her witchy nature from her husband and children. But when a terrible prophecy rattles the witching community, the friends draw together again — only to find just how different they’ve become. Warm, funny and heartbreaking.

Robert Jackson Bennett’s LOCKLANDS concludes his “Founders” trilogy, an epic fantasy that blends Renaissance Italy aesthetics with the ingenuity of the industrial and computing revolutions, and that asks hard questions about late capitalism and its attendant technologies. Over the course of three books, Sancia Grado has gone from a petty thief with the ability to “hear” magical objects, to the leader of the last bastion of free people battling against a terrifying artificial intelligence. Called Tevanne, it turns people into unwilling hosts for its consciousness and fodder for its projects; Sancia and her wife, Berenice, wage guerrilla warfare against it, having developed their own magical and technological enhancements. Berenice thinks winning requires ever more clever technology; Sancia isn’t so sure. A worthy conclusion to a spectacular series.

R.F. Kuang’s BABEL is a tremendous achievement, imagining an alternate history for the British Empire in which languages are an exploitable magic resource, provided the children who speak them with native fluency are groomed and assimilated into the empire’s violent systems. In the 1840s, Oxford’s Royal Institute of Translation attracts or uproots students from foreign countries and teaches them to work translation magic on its behalf. Focused on one cohort of four brilliant students and viciously footnoted by a shrewd narratorial voice, “Babel” is an unflinching study of the cost of loving what’s destroying you.

Aimee Pokwatka’s SELF-PORTRAIT WITH NOTHING is tantalizing and elusive lacework, delicately balanced between the branches of fantasy, mystery and realism like a spider’s web. Pepper Rafferty is a forensic anthropologist who often treats the facts of her own life as a puzzle in need of solving; in particular, she wonders what kind of person she would be if she’d been raised by her birth mother, Ula Frost, a reclusive painter of strange portraits rumored to have sensational effects on the lives of their subjects. Ula goes missing, and Pepper is declared her heir — but Pepper isn’t certain Ula’s dead, and decides to become the kind of person who sets out to find her.

Teeming with music, magic, family and art, Alex Jennings’s THE BALLAD OF PERILOUS GRAVES is a feast for the senses, dazzling and inventive, with prose I wanted to eat off the page. In the marvelous city of Nola, graffiti can walk and swamp rats can talk — but the city’s magical existence depends on nine foundational songs that live inside Doctor Professor’s piano. When those songs escape, Doctor Professor recruits Perilous Graves; his little sister, Brendy; and their best friend, Peaches, to retrieve them.

THE SCRATCH DAUGHTERS , by H.A. Clarke, is a sequel to “The Scapegracers,” but it feels more like that book’s second half: fully as bold and bloody, visceral and fierce. In the first book, Sideways Pike, a solitary weirdo witch, found a coven but lost her magic; in the second, she fights to get it back. Along the way, she learns more about her friends and enemies, their shared histories and herself. Chaotically queer and helplessly loving, it’s a series I wish a long and celebrated life.

Amal El-Mohtar is a Hugo Award-winning writer and co-author, with Max Gladstone, of “This Is How You Lose the Time War.”

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Top 100 Science-Fiction, Fantasy Books

This is one of the 200 lists we use to generate our main The Greatest Books list.

The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien

Cover of 'The Lord of the Rings' by J. R. R. Tolkien

This epic high-fantasy novel centers around a modest hobbit who is entrusted with the task of destroying a powerful ring that could enable the dark lord to conquer the world. Accompanied by a diverse group of companions, the hobbit embarks on a perilous journey across Middle-earth, battling evil forces and facing numerous challenges. The narrative, rich in mythology and complex themes of good versus evil, friendship, and heroism, has had a profound influence on the fantasy genre.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

Cover of 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' by Douglas Adams

This comedic science fiction novel follows the intergalactic adventures of an unwitting human, Arthur Dent, who is rescued just before Earth's destruction by his friend Ford Prefect, a researcher for a galactic travel guide. Together, they hitch a ride on a stolen spaceship, encountering a range of bizarre characters, including a depressed robot and a two-headed ex-president of the galaxy. Through a series of satirical and absurd escapades, the book explores themes of existentialism, bureaucracy, and the absurdity of life, all while poking fun at the science fiction genre and offering witty commentary on the human condition.

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card

Cover of 'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card

A young prodigy is enlisted into a military academy in space, where he is trained through complex war games to combat an impending alien invasion. Despite his initial struggles with isolation and manipulation by the academy's leaders, he rises through the ranks due to his strategic genius and leadership skills. The protagonist grapples with the moral implications of war and the cost of his own humanity, as he is groomed to be the Earth's ultimate weapon against the alien threat.

Dune by Frank Herbert

Cover of 'Dune' by Frank Herbert

Set in a distant future, the novel follows Paul Atreides, whose family assumes control of the desert planet Arrakis. As the only producer of a highly valuable resource, jurisdiction over Arrakis is contested among competing noble families. After Paul and his family are betrayed, the story explores themes of politics, religion, and man’s relationship to nature, as Paul leads a rebellion to restore his family's reign.

A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin

Cover of 'A Game of Thrones' by George R. R. Martin

This epic fantasy novel is set in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, where 'summers span decades and winters can last a lifetime'. The story follows three main plot lines: the Stark family's struggle to control the North; the exiled Targaryen siblings' attempt to regain the throne; and the Night's Watch's fight against the supernatural beings beyond the Wall. As these stories intertwine, a game of power, politics, and survival unfolds, where you either win or you die.

Nineteen Eighty Four by George Orwell

Cover of 'Nineteen Eighty Four' by George Orwell

Set in a dystopian future, the novel presents a society under the total control of a totalitarian regime, led by the omnipresent Big Brother. The protagonist, a low-ranking member of 'the Party', begins to question the regime and falls in love with a woman, an act of rebellion in a world where independent thought, dissent, and love are prohibited. The novel explores themes of surveillance, censorship, and the manipulation of truth.

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Cover of 'Fahrenheit 451' by Ray Bradbury

In a dystopian future where books are banned and burned by the government to prevent dissenting ideas, a fireman named Guy Montag, whose job is to burn books, begins to question the society he serves. After a series of events, including meeting a free-thinking teenager and witnessing a woman choosing to die with her books, Montag begins to secretly collect and read books, leading to his eventual rebellion against the oppressive regime. The narrative serves as a critique of censorship, conformity, and the dangers of an illiterate society.

Foundation by Isaac Asimov

Cover of 'Foundation' by Isaac Asimov

This science fiction novel centers around Hari Seldon, a mathematician who has developed a branch of mathematics known as psychohistory. With it, he can predict the future on a large scale. Seldon foresees the imminent fall of the Galactic Empire, which encompasses the entire Milky Way, and a dark age lasting 30,000 years before a second great empire arises. To shorten this period of barbarism, he creates two Foundations at opposite ends of the galaxy. The book follows the first few centuries of the Foundation's existence, focusing on the scientists as they develop new technologies and negotiate with neighboring planets.

Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

Cover of 'Brave New World' by Aldous Huxley

Set in a dystopian future, the novel explores a society where human beings are genetically bred and pharmaceutically conditioned to serve in a ruling order. The society is divided into five castes, each with its specific roles. The narrative follows a savage who rejects the norms of this new world order and struggles to navigate the clash between the values of his upbringing and the reality of this technologically advanced, emotionless society. His resistance prompts a deep examination of the nature of freedom, individuality, and happiness.

American Gods by Neil Gaiman

Cover of 'American Gods' by Neil Gaiman

A recently released convict discovers that his wife and best friend died in a car accident. He then meets a mysterious stranger who hires him as a bodyguard. As they journey across America, it is revealed that the stranger is an old god, traveling to rally his fellow forgotten deities to wage a war against the new American gods born from society's modern obsessions with media, technology, drugs, celebrity, and more. The story blends elements of fantasy, mythology, and Americana to explore themes of faith, belief, and the nature of American identity.

The Princess Bride by William Goldman

Cover of 'The Princess Bride' by William Goldman

This book is an illustrated edition of a classic tale of true love and high adventure. It tells the story of a beautiful princess and her one true love. After he is reportedly killed, she agrees to marry a wicked prince instead, only to be kidnapped and face numerous dangers. The story is filled with humor, romance, and swashbuckling action, all brought to life by vivid illustrations.

The Wheel of Time Series by Robert Jordan

Cover of 'The Wheel of Time Series' by Robert Jordan

The Wheel of Time series is a high fantasy saga that follows a group of friends from a small village as they are thrust into a world teeming with magic, political intrigue, and ancient prophecies. The main protagonist, a young man destined to be the reincarnation of a powerful figure who could either save or destroy the world, must navigate complex alliances, face dark forces, and learn to control his own burgeoning powers. The series is renowned for its detailed world-building, complex plotlines, and large cast of characters.

Animal Farm by George Orwell

Cover of 'Animal Farm' by George Orwell

"Animal Farm" is a satirical fable set on a farm where the animals revolt, overthrow their human farmer, and take over the running of the farm for themselves. The story is an allegory of the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalin, and the tale is told by the animals that inhabit the farm, primarily pigs who become the ruling class. Despite their initial attempts at creating an equal society, corruption and power ultimately lead to a regime as oppressive as the one they overthrew.

Neuromancer by William Gibson

Cover of 'Neuromancer' by William Gibson

In this groundbreaking cyberpunk novel, a washed-up computer hacker is hired by a mysterious employer to pull off the ultimate hack. As he navigates a dystopian future filled with artificial intelligence, corporate espionage, and virtual reality, he must confront his own past and the dark realities of the digital world. The narrative explores themes of technology, identity, and consciousness, pushing the boundaries of science fiction literature.

Watchmen by Alan Moore

Cover of 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore

Set in an alternate history where superheroes emerged in the 1940s and 1980s, the story follows a group of retired superheroes who are brought out of retirement after the murder of one of their own. As they investigate, they uncover a plot that could change the course of history and the balance of world power. The book explores complex themes such as the morality of power, the definition of heroism, and the value of human life.

I, Robot by Isaac Asimov

Cover of 'I, Robot' by Isaac Asimov

The book is a collection of nine short stories that revolve around the interaction of humans and robots. The stories are tied together by a framing narrative featuring a reporter interviewing a retiring robopsychologist, Dr. Susan Calvin. The stories explore the three "Laws of Robotics" and how they are interpreted and manipulated by humans and robots. Throughout the stories, the robots often end up behaving in unexpected ways due to their interpretation of these laws, leading to thought-provoking and often ironic outcomes.

Stranger in a Strange Land by Robert A. Heinlein

Cover of 'Stranger in a Strange Land' by Robert A. Heinlein

The novel follows the life of Valentine Michael Smith, a human who was raised on Mars and returns to Earth in early adulthood. Smith struggles to understand human culture, norms, and conventions, while also possessing extraordinary psychic abilities. As he navigates Earth society, he begins to question many of its institutions and values, ultimately creating his own religion to pass on the wisdom he gained on Mars. The book explores themes of freedom, self-reliance, and the nature of humanity, and is considered a classic of science fiction literature.

The Name Of The Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

Cover of 'The Name Of The Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss

This fantasy novel follows the tale of a gifted young man who grows from a precocious child into a notorious wizard, known as the most notorious magician, musician, thief, and assassin. His life is one of hardship and danger, as he seeks knowledge and revenge following the tragic murder of his family by a group of supernatural beings. The story is told in retrospect as the protagonist recounts his past to a chronicler over the course of three days, revealing the truth behind the myths and legends that have come to surround his enigmatic persona.

Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut

Cover of 'Slaughterhouse-Five' by Kurt Vonnegut

The novel follows the life of Billy Pilgrim, a World War II veteran who has become "unstuck in time," experiencing his life events out of order. This includes his experiences as a prisoner of war in Dresden during the Allies' firebombing, his post-war life as a successful optometrist, his abduction by aliens from the planet Tralfamadore, and his eventual death. The book is a critique of war and a demonstration of the destructive nature of time, with a nonlinear narrative that reflects the chaos and unpredictability of life.

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Cover of 'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley

This classic novel tells the story of a young scientist who creates a grotesque but sentient creature in an unorthodox scientific experiment. The scientist, horrified by his creation, abandons it, leading the creature to seek revenge. The novel explores themes of ambition, responsibility, guilt, and the potential consequences of playing God.

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

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

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the novel presents a future where Earth's life has been greatly damaged by a nuclear global war, leaving most species extinct. The remaining human population has been encouraged to emigrate to off-world colonies to preserve the human race. Those who remain on Earth are tasked with maintaining the ecological balance by owning and caring for animals, replacing extinct species with mechanical replicas when necessary. The story revolves around a bounty hunter, who is tasked with "retiring" rogue androids that pose a threat to humans, and his emotional and moral struggles as he goes about his work.

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

Cover of 'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood

Set in a dystopian future, this novel presents a society where women are stripped of their rights and are classified into various roles based on their fertility and societal status. The protagonist is a handmaid, a class of women used solely for their reproductive capabilities by the ruling class. The story is a chilling exploration of the extreme end of misogyny, where women are reduced to their biological functions, and a critique of religious fundamentalism.

The Gunslinger by Stephen King

Cover of 'The Gunslinger' by Stephen King

In a desolate and archaic world that mirrors the Old West, a stoic and enigmatic gunslinger embarks on a relentless quest across a desolate landscape to find the mysterious figure known as the Man in Black. Along his journey, he encounters strange characters, reflects on his troubled past, and confronts both physical and metaphysical challenges. His ultimate goal is to reach the elusive Dark Tower, a place that is said to be the nexus of all universes, where he believes he can right the wrongs of his decaying world. The narrative blends elements of fantasy, horror, and Western genres, creating a unique and haunting tapestry that sets the stage for an epic series of interdimensional proportions.

2001: A Space Odyssey by Arthur C. Clarke

Cover of '2001: A Space Odyssey' by Arthur C. Clarke

This science fiction novel follows a voyage to Jupiter with the sentient computer HAL after the discovery of a mysterious black monolith affecting human evolution. Dealing with themes of existentialism, human evolution, technology, artificial intelligence and extraterrestrial life, it is a journey of discovery that takes a dangerous turn when the onboard computer begins to malfunction. The story is a complex mix of science, philosophy, and conjecture.

The Stand by Stephen King

Cover of 'The Stand' by Stephen King

This post-apocalyptic horror/fantasy novel presents a world devastated by a deadly plague, killing 99% of the population. The survivors, drawn together by dreams of a charismatic and benevolent figure, gather in Boulder, Colorado to form a new society. However, a malevolent figure also emerges, attracting a following of his own and setting the stage for a classic battle between good and evil. The story delves into themes of community, morality, and the capacity for both destruction and regeneration within humanity.

Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson

Cover of 'Snow Crash' by Neal Stephenson

In a future America where the federal government has largely collapsed and been replaced by corporate entities, a computer hacker and pizza delivery driver becomes embroiled in a plot involving a dangerous new drug and a computer virus called "Snow Crash". He is joined by a teenage skateboard courier and a host of other characters in a high-stakes race to uncover the truth behind the virus and its origins in ancient Sumerian culture. The narrative explores themes of linguistics, philosophy, computer science, religion, and cryptography.

The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury

Cover of 'The Martian Chronicles' by Ray Bradbury

This science fiction novel is a collection of intertwined short stories that depict the colonization of Mars by humans fleeing from a troubled Earth, and the conflict between aboriginal Martians and the new colonists. The book delves into issues such as nuclear war, racism, and censorship. As the human settlers arrive and begin to shape the Martian landscape to their needs, they face a series of strange and haunting encounters with the Martian civilization, leading to unexpected and often tragic outcomes.

Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut

Cover of 'Cat's Cradle' by Kurt Vonnegut

This novel is a satirical commentary on modern man and his madness, exploring issues of science, technology, and religion. The story revolves around a narrator who becomes involved with the children of a deceased scientist, who had developed a substance capable of freezing water at room temperature. This substance, if misused, has the potential to end all life on earth. The novel is filled with strange and twisted characters, and culminates in a cataclysmic event, highlighting the dangers of uncontrolled technological advancement.

Sandman by Neil Gaiman

Cover of 'Sandman' by Neil Gaiman

"Sandman" is a dark and fantastical series that follows the character Dream, also known as Morpheus, one of the seven Endless who personify certain universal concepts that transcend beyond gods. The narrative explores Dream's realm and responsibilities, his interactions with humans, gods, and his own family, as well as the consequences when he is captured and subsequently escapes after 70 years. The series is renowned for its blending of myth, history, and contemporary issues, creating a richly nuanced universe that delves into the nature of storytelling itself.

A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess

Cover of 'A Clockwork Orange' by Anthony Burgess

This novel follows the life of a violent young man named Alex, who is part of a youth subculture in a dystopian future England. Alex and his gang engage in a nightmarish spree of rape, assault, and robbery, until he is arrested and subjected to a psychological experiment by the government to "cure" him of his violent tendencies. The novel explores themes of free will, morality, and the nature of evil, while using a unique slang language invented by the author.

Starship Troopers by Robert A. Heinlein

Cover of 'Starship Troopers' by Robert A. Heinlein

The book is a military science fiction novel set in the future, where humanity is engaged in an interstellar war against an alien species known as the Arachnids or "Bugs." It follows the story of Juan "Johnny" Rico, a young infantryman in the Mobile Infantry, a futuristic military unit equipped with powered armor suits. The narrative delves into Rico's experiences and growth from a naïve recruit to a seasoned officer, exploring themes of citizenship, duty, and the moral complexities of war. Through Rico's eyes, the novel examines the structure of a militaristic society where full citizenship and the right to vote are earned through military service, presenting a society that values sacrifice and responsibility in a perpetual struggle for survival against a hostile universe.

Watership Down by Richard Adams

Cover of 'Watership Down' by Richard Adams

This novel follows a group of rabbits as they flee their warren due to a foreseen catastrophe. The rabbits, led by Hazel and his psychic brother Fiver, face numerous challenges and adventures as they search for a new home. They encounter predators, hostile rabbit communities, and human threats. The book explores themes of leadership, survival, and freedom, all set within the natural world and its inherent dangers.

Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey

Cover of 'Dragonflight' by Anne McCaffrey

In a world where telepathic dragons and their riders protect the land from the destructive Thread that rains down from the sky, a young woman unexpectedly becomes the new Weyrwoman, bonding with the last queen dragon. As the traditional ways of the past clash with the urgent need to defend their world, she and her enigmatic dragonrider ally must rediscover ancient secrets and take to the skies in a perilous quest to unite the dragonriders and save their planet from annihilation. Their journey is fraught with challenges, both political and personal, as they strive to harness the full power of the dragons and ensure the survival of their way of life.

The Moon is a Harsh Mistress by Robert A. Heinlein

Cover of 'The Moon is a Harsh Mistress' by Robert A. Heinlein

In the late 21st century, the moon has become a penal colony where the inhabitants, known as "Loonies", live under harsh conditions and are exploited by the Earth's government. A supercomputer named Mike, a one-armed computer technician named Mannie, and a revolutionary named Wyoming Knott lead an uprising against the Earth's oppressive rule. With Mike's intelligence, Mannie's technical skills, and Wyoming's charisma, they successfully instigate a rebellion, navigating political intrigue, military strategy, and complex human relationships along the way.

A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller

Cover of 'A Canticle for Leibowitz' by Walter M. Miller

"A Canticle for Leibowitz" is a post-apocalyptic science fiction novel that explores the cyclical nature of history through the lens of a Catholic monastery in the American Southwest. After a devastating nuclear war, the monks of the Albertian Order of Leibowitz work to preserve the remnants of mankind's scientific knowledge until the world is again ready for it. Over the course of centuries, civilization rises and falls, wars are fought, and scientific advancements are rediscovered and then lost again. The novel is a poignant commentary on the potential for humanity to repeat its mistakes.

The Time Machine by H. G. Wells

Cover of 'The Time Machine' by H. G. Wells

A Victorian-era scientist invents a machine that allows him to travel through time. He first journeys to the year 802,701 A.D., where he encounters the Eloi, a society of small, elegant, childlike adults who live in harmony but lack curiosity and drive. He later discovers the Morlocks, a nocturnal, subterranean species who prey on the Eloi. After rescuing an Eloi named Weena, the protagonist loses his time machine and must devise a plan to recover it and return to his own time, all while exploring the social and evolutionary implications of the two distinct societies.

Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne

Cover of 'Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea' by Jules Verne

This classic science fiction novel follows the adventures of Professor Aronnax, his servant Conseil, and harpooner Ned Land as they are captured by the enigmatic Captain Nemo aboard the Nautilus, a technologically advanced submarine. As they journey 20,000 leagues under the sea, they encounter a variety of sea creatures and underwater phenomena. The narrative explores themes of exploration, scientific discovery, and man's relationship with nature.

Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes

Cover of 'Flowers for Algernon' by Daniel Keyes

The book is a poignant science fiction narrative that follows the life of Charlie Gordon, a man with an IQ of 68, who undergoes an experimental surgical procedure intended to increase his intelligence. The story is told through Charlie's progress reports, which initially showcase his limited comprehension and writing ability. As the treatment takes effect, Charlie's intelligence surpasses that of the average person, leading to a dramatic increase in his understanding of the world, relationships, and his own past. However, the transformation is not without its pitfalls, as Charlie grapples with the emotional and social implications of his newfound abilities, and the impermanence of the experiment's success becomes a haunting reality. The novel explores themes of intellect, human dignity, and the ethics of scientific experimentation.

War of the Worlds by H. G. Wells

Cover of 'War of the Worlds' by H. G. Wells

This classic science fiction novel tells the story of a Martian invasion of Earth, as experienced by an unnamed protagonist and his brother. The Martians, who are technologically far superior to humans, cause widespread devastation with their heat-ray weapons and towering tripods. Despite humanity's best efforts to resist, they seem unstoppable. The novel is a commentary on British imperialism and explores themes of human survival and evolution.

The Chronicles Of Amber by Roger Zelazny

Cover of 'The Chronicles Of Amber' by Roger Zelazny

The series unfolds the complex tale of a royal family from Amber, the only true world, with the rest of reality being mere shadows of it. The protagonist, suffering from amnesia, discovers his identity as a prince of Amber and becomes embroiled in intricate family politics, magical battles, and the manipulation of different realities. As he regains his memory and navigates the treacherous landscapes of Amber and its shadow worlds, he uncovers dark secrets about his family and the nature of their universe, all while contending with the machinations of his ambitious siblings who vie for the throne of Amber.

The Belgariad by David Eddings

Cover of 'The Belgariad' by David Eddings

The series follows the journey of a young farm boy who discovers his extraordinary destiny as the heir to a powerful artifact that must be retrieved to prevent a dark god from dominating the world. Raised in a rural village, he is initially unaware of his royal lineage and the prophecy that foretells his role in an epic battle between good and evil. As he travels across diverse lands with a group of companions, including a wise old sorcerer, a fierce knight, a cunning thief, and a beautiful princess, he learns about his true heritage and the magical powers he possesses. Together, they face numerous challenges and adversaries, all while the fate of the world hangs in the balance, culminating in a climactic confrontation with the forces of darkness.

The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley

Cover of 'The Mists of Avalon' by Marion Zimmer Bradley

This novel reimagines the Arthurian legends from the perspectives of the women involved. It centers around Morgaine, Arthur's half-sister, who is a priestess of Avalon, and Gwenhwyfar, Arthur's queen. The story explores their roles in the political and spiritual conflicts that arise as Christianity begins to replace the old pagan ways. It delves into themes of love, loyalty, and power, while offering a fresh take on a classic tale.

Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson

Cover of 'Mistborn' by Brandon Sanderson

In a grim, ash-covered world ruled by the immortal Lord Ruler, a young street urchin discovers she possesses unique magical abilities—Allomancy, the power to ingest and burn metals to enhance physical and mental capabilities. She joins a group of rebel skaa, the oppressed class, led by a charismatic criminal mastermind, to overthrow the centuries-old tyranny. Together, they devise an elaborate heist to infiltrate the noble houses and spark a revolution, uncovering dark secrets and unexpected truths about their world and the origins of the Lord Ruler's power along the way.

Ringworld by Larry Niven

Cover of 'Ringworld' by Larry Niven

In this science fiction novel, a motley crew of explorers, including a 200-year-old human, a young woman with lucky genes, a cat-like alien, and a two-headed alien guide, embark on a journey to investigate an artificial ring orbiting a star. This colossal structure, known as the Ringworld, has the surface area of millions of Earths and harbors many mysteries. As the team explores the vast, enigmatic world, they encounter a variety of advanced technologies and alien species, while also grappling with the physics and dangers of the ring's environment. Their mission becomes a struggle for survival and a quest to uncover the origins and purpose of the Ringworld.

The Left Hand Of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin

Cover of 'The Left Hand Of Darkness' by Ursula K. Le Guin

The novel is a groundbreaking work of science fiction that explores themes of gender, politics, and identity. Set on a planet called Gethen, where the inhabitants are ambisexual, shifting between male and female, the story follows an envoy from Earth who struggles to understand this alien society. As he navigates the complex political landscape of Gethen, he must also grapple with his own preconceptions about gender and sexuality. The book is a profound exploration of difference, otherness, and what it means to be human.

The Silmarillion by J. R. R. Tolkien

Cover of 'The Silmarillion' by J. R. R. Tolkien

The book is a collection of mythopoeic stories that form the prelude to a well-known fantasy saga, detailing the creation of the world and the history of its early ages. It encompasses the tragic tale of the quest for the titular jewels, which imbue their creators with great power and beauty. The narrative follows the rebellion of a group of elves against the gods, the subsequent wars and the downfall of noble houses, interwoven with themes of heroism, fate, and the struggle against the ultimate evil. The work is rich with languages, cultures, and epic poetry, setting the stage for the later adventures in the renowned fantasy realm.

The Once and Future King by T. H. White

Cover of 'The Once and Future King' by T. H. White

This novel is a retelling of the Arthurian legend, from Arthur's childhood tutelage under the wizard Merlyn to his eventual death. The story follows Arthur's journey from a naive boy to a wise and just king, his establishment of the Round Table, his marriage to Guinevere, and his complex relationship with his illegitimate son, Mordred. The narrative explores themes of power, justice, war, and human nature, offering a nuanced and humanizing portrayal of a well-known mythical figure.

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

Cover of 'Neverwhere' by Neil Gaiman

In this dark and imaginative fantasy, a young Londoner named Richard Mayhew finds his mundane life turned upside down when he stumbles upon a young woman named Door, bleeding on the sidewalk. After aiding her, he is thrust into the shadowy, parallel world of London Below, a realm of magic, danger, and intrigue that exists beneath the streets of London Above. As Richard journeys through this eerie underworld with a cast of bizarre and fantastical characters, he must confront malevolent forces and unravel a complex conspiracy to help Door discover why her family was murdered, all while trying to find a way back to his old life.

Childhood's End by Arthur C. Clarke

Cover of 'Childhood's End' by Arthur C. Clarke

"Childhood's End" is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that explores the evolution of humanity under the guidance of mysterious extraterrestrial beings known as the Overlords. Set in the near future, the book follows the transformation of society as the Overlords bring peace, prosperity, and advanced technology to Earth. However, as the human race reaches a new level of enlightenment, questions arise about the true intentions of the Overlords and the future of humanity itself.

Contact by Carl Sagan

Cover of 'Contact' by Carl Sagan

The book is a science fiction novel that explores the concept of human contact with extraterrestrial life. The protagonist, a scientist, deciphers a radio signal from a distant star system that contains plans for a complex machine. After building and entering the machine, she and her team are transported to a distant star system where they meet an alien species. The novel delves into philosophical discussions about religion, science, and the nature of human existence.

Hyperion by Dan Simmons

Cover of 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons

The book is a science fiction narrative that weaves together the tales of seven pilgrims as they journey to the distant world of Hyperion on the eve of interstellar war. Each pilgrim has their own reason for undertaking this pilgrimage to the Shrike, a mysterious and feared creature that resides in the Time Tombs, which are moving backwards through time. As they travel, they share their stories, revealing personal quests, humanity's complex relationship with technology, and the overarching mystery of the Shrike and Hyperion itself. The novel combines elements of space opera with a frame story structure reminiscent of "The Canterbury Tales," exploring themes of love, religion, politics, and art, all set against the backdrop of an impending catastrophe.

Stardust by Neil Gaiman

Cover of 'Stardust' by Neil Gaiman

"Stardust" by Neil Gaiman is a fairy tale adventure set in the land of Faerie. The story follows the journey of a young man named Tristran Thorn, who sets out to capture a fallen star in order to win the heart of his true love. Along the way, he encounters a variety of magical creatures and characters, including witches, unicorns, and a ruthless prince. As Tristran navigates the dangers and wonders of Faerie, he learns valuable lessons about love, sacrifice, and the power of destiny.

Cryptonomicon by Neal Stephenson

Cover of 'Cryptonomicon' by Neal Stephenson

The book is a sprawling narrative that intertwines two timelines: the first during World War II, focusing on the efforts of cryptographers and mathematicians working to break Axis codes, and the second in the late 20th century, following a group of entrepreneurs and hackers establishing a data haven in Southeast Asia. The novel explores themes of cryptography, mathematics, and the history of computing, weaving together real historical figures with fictional characters. As the plot unfolds across different continents and eras, it delves into the impact of information technology on society and the perpetual conflict between governments and individuals over the control of information and privacy.

World War Z by Max Brooks

Cover of 'World War Z' by Max Brooks

The book is an apocalyptic horror novel presented as a collection of individual accounts in the aftermath of a global pandemic that leads to a catastrophic zombie outbreak. Through interviews with survivors from various countries and walks of life, the narrative unfolds the social, political, cultural, and environmental implications of the zombie crisis, known as World War Z. The personal stories explore the widespread panic, the collapse and resurgence of governments, military strategies employed to combat the undead, and the human resilience in the face of a decimated world. The novel serves as a critique of societal responses to disasters and a commentary on the human condition.

The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle

Cover of 'The Last Unicorn' by Peter S. Beagle

In this enchanting fantasy tale, a solitary unicorn, believing she is the last of her kind, embarks on a poignant journey to discover what has become of the other unicorns. Along the way, she is joined by a bumbling magician and a tough yet tender-hearted woman. Together, they face trials and confront an evil king to unravel the mystery of the missing unicorns. The unicorn must also grapple with the complexities of love, the loss of innocence, and the painful beauty of existence, as she seeks to restore her kind and witness the return of magic to the world.

The Forever War by Joe Haldeman

Cover of 'The Forever War' by Joe Haldeman

This science fiction novel follows the story of a soldier conscripted to fight in an interstellar war against an alien species known as the Taurans. Due to the time dilation effects of space travel at near-light speeds, the soldier experiences only months of combat, while centuries pass on Earth. Each time he returns from a mission, he finds an unrecognizable society with new technologies and altered social norms. The narrative explores the psychological and emotional impact of war, time displacement, and the soldier's struggle to find a sense of belonging in a constantly changing world. As the conflict drags on through the eons, the soldier begins to question the purpose of the war and the high cost of human life in the face of such temporal vastness.

Small Gods by Terry Pratchett

Cover of 'Small Gods' by Terry Pratchett

In a satirical fantasy world, a once-powerful god finds himself nearly forgotten, his power diminished to almost nothing as he's left with a single believer, a novice monk. This unlikely duo embarks on a journey to confront the corrupt religious institution that has lost sight of true faith, challenging dogma and hypocrisy. Along the way, they encounter a host of quirky characters and navigate philosophical quandaries, ultimately seeking to restore genuine belief and the god's rightful place in the hearts of the people. The narrative cleverly explores themes of religion, belief, and the nature of power through a humorous and thought-provoking lens.

The Chronicles Of Thomas Covenant The Unbeliever by Stephen R. Donaldson

Cover of 'The Chronicles Of Thomas Covenant The Unbeliever' by Stephen R. Donaldson

The series follows Thomas Covenant, a cynical writer who is transported to a magical realm called "The Land" after a tragic accident leaves him a leper and an outcast in his own world. In "The Land," he is mistaken for a reincarnated hero and is reluctantly drawn into a struggle against an evil entity known as Lord Foul, who seeks to escape the metaphysical barriers of the realm and wreak havoc. Despite his disbelief in the reality of this other world and his own role as a savior, Covenant's actions have profound consequences for both "The Land" and his personal redemption, as he grapples with power, responsibility, and the possibility of hope amidst despair.

Falling Free by Lois McMaster Bujold

Cover of 'Falling Free' by Lois McMaster Bujold

In this science fiction narrative, the story revolves around an engineer who is assigned to a space station where genetically engineered humans, designed with four arms and no legs for zero-gravity work, are being bred by a corporation for economic gain. When the company decides to abandon the project, viewing these beings, known as "quaddies," as obsolete and a liability, the engineer faces a moral dilemma. He must choose between his own safety and career or the welfare of the quaddies. Ultimately, he decides to rebel against the corporation, leading a daring escape plan to save the quaddies from being decommissioned and to find them a new home where they can live free.

Going Postal by Terry Pratchett

Cover of 'Going Postal' by Terry Pratchett

In this satirical fantasy novel, a notorious con artist is given a second chance at life by being forced to revive the defunct Ankh-Morpork Post Office. As the new Postmaster, he must contend with outdated mail systems, a haunted post office, and the competition from a powerful, unscrupulous clacks communication company. Using his wits and a motley crew of postal employees, he embarks on a madcap journey to restore the postal service, outmaneuver the corporate villains, and ultimately redefine the meaning of communication in a city teeming with magic and mayhem.

The Mote In God's Eye by Larry Niven , Jerry Pournelle

Cover of 'The Mote In God's Eye' by Larry Niven, Jerry Pournelle

"The Mote In God's Eye" is a gripping science fiction novel set in the distant future, where humanity has expanded its reach to the stars. When a mysterious alien race, known as the Moties, is discovered, a team of human scientists and diplomats embark on a mission to establish contact and learn more about their civilization. However, as they delve deeper into the Moties' society, they uncover dark secrets and hidden agendas that could have catastrophic consequences for both species. Filled with political intrigue, moral dilemmas, and thought-provoking themes, this book explores the complexities of interstellar relations and the potential dangers of encountering an unknown extraterrestrial civilization.

The Sword Of Truth by Terry Goodkind

Cover of 'The Sword Of Truth' by Terry Goodkind

In this epic fantasy novel, a young woods guide named Richard Cypher embarks on a quest to stop the sinister spread of the dark magic that threatens his world. After the brutal murder of his father, Richard's life is turned upside down when he discovers his own hidden destiny and the powerful artifact known as the Sword of Truth. Guided by a mysterious woman named Kahlan and a wizard named Zedd, Richard must navigate a world of dangerous magic and political intrigue, confronting his own fears and moral dilemmas while fighting to prevent a tyrannical ruler from unleashing an ancient and malevolent power.

The Road by Cormac McCarthy

Cover of 'The Road' by Cormac McCarthy

In a post-apocalyptic world, a father and his young son journey through a desolate landscape, struggling to survive. They face numerous threats including starvation, extreme weather, and dangerous encounters with other survivors. The father, who is terminally ill, is driven by his love and concern for his son, and is determined to protect him at all costs. The story is a haunting exploration of the depths of human resilience, the power of love, and the instinct to survive against all odds.

Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke

Cover of 'Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell' by Susanna Clarke

Set in a parallel 19th-century England, this novel tells the story of two practicing magicians, Mr. Norrell and Jonathan Strange. Norrell, who aims to restore magic to respectability in England, is initially thrilled by Strange's natural aptitude for magic, and the two form a student-teacher relationship. However, their partnership soon deteriorates into rivalry as Strange, driven by the loss of his wife to the fairy realm, seeks to reintroduce the old, wilder forms of magic that Norrell disdains. Their conflict escalates, culminating in a magical duel that has profound consequences for the future of magic in England.

I Am Legend by Richard Matheson

Cover of 'I Am Legend' by Richard Matheson

The novel is a post-apocalyptic horror story that centers around a solitary man who may be the last human alive on earth after a pandemic has turned the rest of humanity into vampire-like creatures. He spends his days fortifying his home, hunting for food, and killing these creatures while they sleep. At night, he is tormented by their attempts to break into his home and kill him. His isolation drives him to the brink of insanity, and the novel explores themes of loneliness, survival, and the human capacity for hope in the face of utter despair.

Magician by Raymond E. Feist

Cover of 'Magician' by Raymond E. Feist

The book is a fantasy epic that follows the journey of a young boy named Pug, who rises from humble beginnings as an orphaned kitchen boy to become a powerful magician in the Kingdom of the Isles. His life takes a dramatic turn when he and his friend Tomas are swept into a conflict against an ancient enemy from another world, threatening not only their homeland but also the very fabric of reality. As Pug masters the arts of magic under the tutelage of the enigmatic magician Kulgan, he must navigate a path fraught with danger, political intrigue, and war. Alongside a diverse cast of characters, Pug's destiny unfolds as he becomes a key player in the struggle to save his world from destruction.

The Sword Of Shannara by Terry Brooks

Cover of 'The Sword Of Shannara' by Terry Brooks

In a classic epic fantasy tale, a young man named Shea Ohmsford discovers his royal heritage and embarks on a perilous quest to retrieve the legendary Sword of Shannara. With the guidance of the mysterious druid Allanon, Shea and a diverse group of companions must navigate treacherous lands filled with malevolent creatures and dark magic. Their mission is critical: to use the Sword's power to vanquish the fearsome Warlock Lord and prevent his dominion over the Four Lands. The journey tests their courage and bonds, as they confront the darkness both around them and within themselves.

Conan The Barbarian by R.E. Howard

Cover of 'Conan The Barbarian' by R.E. Howard

The book follows the epic tales of a formidable warrior from the ancient, mythical land of Cimmeria. Known for his exceptional strength, courage, and swordsmanship, the protagonist embarks on a series of adventures across treacherous lands filled with sorcery, fierce creatures, and ruthless enemies. His journey is marked by battles for power, the quest for treasure, and encounters with a diverse cast of characters, both friend and foe. Throughout his exploits, the barbarian hero confronts the dark forces of civilization and the mysteries of an age-old world, all while forging his own legend in a savage, untamed world.

Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb

Cover of 'Assassin's Apprentice' by Robin Hobb

The novel follows the journey of Fitz, the bastard son of a noble prince, who is taken into the royal household of the Six Duchies and secretly trained in the art of assassination. As he grows, Fitz is caught between his loyalty to the throne and his own moral compass. He must navigate a court rife with political intrigue, magic, and treachery, all while grappling with his own identity and the magical Skill that he possesses. His quest for acceptance and purpose is further complicated by the kingdom's need for his unique talents to protect the realm from internal and external threats.

The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Cover of 'The Time Traveler's Wife' by Audrey Niffenegger

The novel tells the story of a man with a genetic disorder that causes him to time travel unpredictably, and his wife, an artist who has to cope with his frequent absences and dangerous experiences. Their love story endures many separations and dangerous experiences due to his condition. The story's central theme is the effects of time travel on their marriage and their passionate love for each other.

The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson

Cover of 'The Way of Kings' by Brandon Sanderson

In a world ravaged by ferocious storms and embroiled in war, three main characters navigate their own paths. Kaladin, a skilled soldier turned slave, struggles to protect his fellow slaves while grappling with his own inner demons. Shallan, a brilliant and ambitious scholar, is on a dangerous quest to steal a powerful artifact to save her family from ruin. Dalinar, a high-ranking military leader, is plagued by visions of ancient times and a mysterious warning. As their lives intertwine, they must confront their own truths and fight for survival in a world on the brink of destruction.

Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne

Cover of 'Journey to the Center of the Earth' by Jules Verne

This science fiction novel revolves around a German professor who believes there are volcanic tubes leading to the center of the Earth. He, his nephew, and their guide embark on an adventurous expedition down an Icelandic volcano into the Earth's core. They encounter prehistoric animals, natural disasters, and otherworldly phenomena along their journey. The expedition is both thrilling and dangerous, testing the limits of their courage and survival skills.

The Crystal Shard by R.A. Salvatore

Cover of 'The Crystal Shard' by R.A. Salvatore

In the icy realm of Icewind Dale, a young barbarian named Wulfgar seeks to prove his worth, while the cunning dark elf Drizzt Do'Urden, an outcast from his own people, strives to find his place in the world. Their lives are thrown into chaos when a powerful mage discovers a magical crystal shard with the ability to dominate the minds of others. As the shard's dark influence spreads, the two unlikely heroes must join forces with a dwarf named Bruenor and a halfling, Regis, to prevent the malevolent artifact from unleashing an ancient evil upon their land, facing a host of dangerous creatures and treacherous enemies in their quest to keep the shard from the clutches of those who would use its power for domination.

Old Man's War by John Scalzi

Cover of 'Old Man's War' by John Scalzi

In this science fiction novel, elderly citizens of Earth are given a chance to join an interstellar army, trading their decrepit bodies for rejuvenated, genetically enhanced versions to fight in a seemingly endless war across the galaxy. The protagonist, a widower who enlists on his 75th birthday, navigates the complexities of his new existence, including the physical and emotional challenges of being young again, the camaraderie and loss within the ranks, and the ethical quandaries posed by the conflict with various alien species. As he rises through the military's ranks, he confronts the harsh realities of this expansive and deadly cosmic battlefield.

The Diamond Age by Neal Stephenson

Cover of 'The Diamond Age' by Neal Stephenson

Set in a future where nanotechnology has revolutionized society, the narrative revolves around a young girl named Nell who comes into possession of a powerful, interactive book called "A Young Lady's Illustrated Primer." This book, designed to educate and guide a young girl to a more enlightened state, was originally intended for an elite clientele but falls into Nell's hands by chance. As Nell uses the primer to navigate her complex, cyberpunk world, the story explores themes of education, social class, and the impact of technology on society. The book weaves together the lives of various characters across different strata of a stratified culture, examining how access to technology can both empower and divide.

Rendezvous with Rama by Arthur C. Clarke

Cover of 'Rendezvous with Rama' by Arthur C. Clarke

In this science fiction classic, humanity encounters an enigmatic alien starship that enters the solar system. Named after the Hindu god, the cylindrical vessel is initially thought to be an asteroid but is soon revealed to be a spacecraft. A team of astronauts is dispatched to intercept and explore the mysterious object, embarking on a high-stakes mission to unlock its secrets. As they journey through the ship's interior, they discover a world of astonishing complexity, artificial landscapes, and advanced technology, all of which challenge their understanding of life and intelligence in the universe. The explorers must race against time to learn as much as possible before the ship, indifferent to their presence, continues on its voyage through the cosmos.

Kushiel's Dart by Jacqueline Carey

Cover of 'Kushiel's Dart' by Jacqueline Carey

In a world where political intrigue and divine destinies intertwine, a young woman born with a scarlet mote in her eye is marked by the gods for a unique destiny. Trained in the arts of love and espionage, she navigates the complex web of courtly life in a realm where sensuality and pain are intertwined. As a pawn and a player in the game of thrones, she uses her unique gifts to uncover secrets and protect her homeland, all while serving a mysterious patron whose motives are as enigmatic as the unfolding divine plan. Her journey is one of self-discovery, loyalty, and betrayal, set against a backdrop of opulence, ritual, and power struggles, where love can be both a weakness and a formidable weapon.

The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin

Cover of 'The Dispossessed' by Ursula K. Le Guin

The novel is a profound exploration of two vastly different societies on twin planets, Urras and Anarres. The protagonist is a brilliant physicist from Anarres, a planet with an anarchist society, who travels to Urras, a planet with a capitalist and authoritarian regime. The book explores his struggle to reconcile his anarchist beliefs with the stark realities of a different socio-political system. It's a thought-provoking investigation of human nature, power structures, and the idea of utopia.

Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury

Cover of 'Something Wicked This Way Comes' by Ray Bradbury

In this dark fantasy novel, two thirteen-year-old friends, Jim Nightshade and William Halloway, encounter a sinister traveling carnival that arrives in their small Midwestern town just before Halloween. The carnival's malevolent proprietor, Mr. Dark, possesses the power to grant the townspeople's deepest desires, but at a terrible cost. As the boys uncover the nightmarish truth behind the carnival's attractions, they must confront their own fears and temptations. A battle between good and evil ensues, with the fate of their souls and the soul of the town hanging in the balance. The story is a coming-of-age tale that explores the struggle between youth and maturity, and the recognition that every individual harbors both darkness and light within them.

Wicked by Gregory Maguire

Cover of 'Wicked' by Gregory Maguire

This novel reimagines the land of Oz, telling the story from the perspective of the misunderstood green-skinned witch Elphaba. It explores her early life, education, and complex relationship with Glinda, the Good Witch, as well as her eventual transformation into the infamous Wicked Witch of the West. The book delves into themes of good versus evil, the nature of wickedness, and the societal structures that label and ostracize individuals. It provides a rich backstory to a classic tale, challenging readers to reconsider their preconceived notions about villainy and the true cost of standing against injustice.

Gardens Of The Moon by Steven Erikson

Cover of 'Gardens Of The Moon' by Steven Erikson

In a dark and complex fantasy world, an elite group of soldiers known as the Bridgeburners navigate political intrigue and ancient magic as part of a vast empire's expansionist wars. The city of Darujhistan becomes the focal point of conflict, where gods, mages, and various factions vie for power. Amidst the chaos, an ancient force is awakening, threatening to change the balance of power. The soldiers and citizens alike must contend with betrayal, ancient prophecies, and their own personal demons in a struggle that blurs the lines between heroism and ambition, with the fate of the empire and the world itself hanging in the balance.

The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde

Cover of 'The Eyre Affair' by Jasper Fforde

In a parallel 1985 where literature is taken to extremes, a literary detective named Thursday Next navigates a world where the boundaries between reality and fiction are blurred. When a criminal mastermind begins kidnapping characters from classic novels, Thursday must enter the pages of Charlotte Brontë's "Jane Eyre" to pursue the villain and restore the beloved story to its rightful course. Her journey is fraught with danger, wit, and a touch of romance, as she contends with a time-traveling father, a pet dodo, and the complexities of her own life entwined with the fictional landscapes she protects.

Consider Phlebas by Iain Banks

Cover of 'Consider Phlebas' by Iain Banks

"Consider Phlebas" is a science fiction novel set in a vast and chaotic universe where different civilizations and species clash. The story follows a protagonist named Bora Horza Gobuchul, a shape-shifting mercenary who becomes entangled in a dangerous mission to retrieve a powerful artifact from a religious cult. As Horza navigates treacherous alliances and battles, he also grapples with questions of identity, loyalty, and the nature of humanity. With its epic scope and thought-provoking themes, the novel explores the complexities of war, morality, and the search for meaning in a universe teetering on the brink of destruction.

The Crystal Cave by Mary Stewart

Cover of 'The Crystal Cave' by Mary Stewart

"The Crystal Cave" is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of Merlin, the legendary wizard of King Arthur's court. The book follows Merlin's early life, from his birth as the illegitimate son of a Welsh princess to his discovery of his magical powers and his journey to become a wise and powerful advisor to the future King Arthur. Set against the backdrop of early medieval Britain, the novel explores themes of destiny, power, and the struggle between pagan and Christian beliefs.

Anathem by Neal Stephenson

Cover of 'Anathem' by Neal Stephenson

In a parallel world where intellectuals and scientists are cloistered in monastic communities called "concents," the story follows a young monk named Erasmas, who is drawn out of his secluded life by the discovery of an alien spacecraft orbiting his planet. As he and his companions are selected to interact with these extraterrestrial visitors, they are thrust into a complex web of political intrigue, philosophical debate, and existential risk. The narrative weaves together themes of mathematics, quantum mechanics, and multiple world theory, challenging the characters to question the nature of reality and their place within it as they strive to avert global catastrophe.

Furies Of Calderon by Jim Butcher

Cover of 'Furies Of Calderon' by Jim Butcher

In a fantasy realm where humans bond with elemental forces known as furies, a young shepherd named Tavi struggles with his apparent lack of this magical connection. As his homeland, the Calderon Valley, faces an invasion by a savage tribe, Tavi finds himself embroiled in a desperate conflict. Without the aid of his own fury, he must rely on his wits and courage to help defend his people and uncover a deeper, sinister plot that threatens not only Calderon but the entire realm. Alongside a diverse cast of characters, including a powerful female Cursor and a steadfast warrior, Tavi's journey is one of growth, bravery, and the discovery of his own unique strengths.

The Book of the New Sun by Gene Wolfe

Cover of 'The Book of the New Sun' by Gene Wolfe

"The Book of the New Sun" is a four-volume science fiction series set in a far future, post-apocalyptic Earth, known as Urth. The story follows a journeyman torturer named Severian who is exiled for showing mercy to one of his victims. As he navigates through a world filled with strange and mythical creatures, political intrigue, and ancient technology often perceived as magic, Severian discovers his destiny is far greater than he could have ever imagined. The narrative is dense and complex, filled with allegory and symbolism, making it a challenging yet rewarding read.

Heir To The Empire by Timothy Zahn

Cover of 'Heir To The Empire' by Timothy Zahn

Set five years after the fall of the Galactic Empire, the book follows the New Republic as it struggles to maintain peace in the galaxy. The remnants of the Empire, under the strategic command of Grand Admiral Thrawn, are regrouping and pose a new threat. Thrawn's tactical genius and his discovery of a hidden cache of Emperor Palpatine's warships give him the tools to challenge the New Republic. Meanwhile, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo face personal challenges and the burden of leadership as they fight to protect the fledgling democracy from both external and internal turmoil. The story weaves a complex tapestry of intrigue, betrayal, and battles, setting the stage for a new chapter in the Star Wars saga.

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Cover of 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon

The novel follows a World War II nurse who accidentally time travels back to 18th century Scotland. There, she meets a handsome and brave Scottish warrior and is torn between her loyalty to her husband in her own time and her growing love for the warrior. As she becomes more entwined in the past, she must navigate the dangers of a time not her own, including political unrest and violence, while trying to find a way back home.

Elric Of Melniboné by Michael Moorcock

Cover of 'Elric Of Melniboné' by Michael Moorcock

The book follows the tale of a brooding albino emperor with a frail constitution who wields a soul-drinking sword, Stormbringer. As the ruler of the ancient island of Melniboné, he is a sorcerer of considerable power, yet he is an atypical leader, filled with introspective doubt and conflicting emotions. His story is one of tragic heroism, as he navigates political intrigue, eldritch threats, and cosmic battles, all while grappling with his own moral compass and the dark destiny that his sword seems to bring. The narrative is steeped in dark fantasy, exploring themes of fate, power, and the struggle for personal identity against the backdrop of a decaying, once-mighty empire.

The Illustrated Man by Ray Bradbury

Cover of 'The Illustrated Man' by Ray Bradbury

"The Illustrated Man" is a collection of eighteen science fiction short stories that revolve around the mysterious figure of the illustrated man, whose body is covered in moving tattoos that predict the future. Each story explores themes of technology, humanity, and the consequences of our actions, taking readers on a thought-provoking journey through dystopian worlds, alien encounters, and the depths of human imagination. With vivid imagery and compelling narratives, the book delves into the complexities of human nature and the potential dangers of our own creations.

Sunshine by Robin McKinley

Cover of 'Sunshine' by Robin McKinley

"Sunshine" is a dark fantasy novel by Robin McKinley that follows the story of a young woman named Rae "Sunshine" Seddon, who works as a baker in a small town. One night, she is kidnapped by a group of vampires and taken to an abandoned mansion where she is held captive with a vampire named Constantine. As they work together to escape, Sunshine discovers her own hidden powers and becomes entangled in a dangerous world of magic and supernatural beings. The novel explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of love and friendship.

A Fire Upon the Deep by Vernor Vinge

Cover of 'A Fire Upon the Deep' by Vernor Vinge

In this science fiction epic, a human expedition inadvertently unleashes a malevolent superintelligence in the far reaches of the galaxy. As the entity spreads destruction across civilizations, a diverse group of characters, including a family stranded on a planet with a medieval-level society of dog-like aliens, must navigate complex political landscapes and the vast scales of a universe with zones of thought that dictate the level of technological and cognitive potential. The novel intertwines multiple narratives, exploring themes of consciousness, technology, and communication, while a desperate race against time unfolds to stop the spreading menace before it can reach the High Beyond, where even more advanced societies are vulnerable to its insatiable hunger for power and control.

The Caves Of Steel by Isaac Asimov

Cover of 'The Caves Of Steel' by Isaac Asimov

"The Caves of Steel" is a science fiction novel set in a future where Earth is heavily populated and humans live in massive enclosed cities. The story follows a detective and his robot partner as they investigate a murder that could potentially spark a conflict between Earth's human population and the Spacers, a group of humans who live on other planets. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover a complex conspiracy that challenges their beliefs about robots, humanity, and the future of their world.

Red Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson

Cover of 'Red Mars' by Kim Stanley Robinson

The book is a science fiction narrative that chronicles the initial efforts to colonize Mars. It delves into the complex dynamics among the first group of settlers, who come from diverse cultural and scientific backgrounds, as they confront the challenges of terraforming the hostile Martian environment. The story explores themes of ecological transformation, political struggle, and the ethical implications of altering an alien world, while also examining the personal lives and evolving relationships of the colonists. As the settlers work to create a new society on the red planet, their actions set the stage for future generations and the emergence of Mars as a new frontier for humanity.

Lucifer's Hammer by Larry Niven , Jerry Pournelle

Cover of 'Lucifer's Hammer' by Larry Niven, Jerry Pournelle

In this science fiction novel, humanity faces an apocalyptic threat when a comet, initially an awe-inspiring celestial event, collides with Earth, unleashing catastrophic destruction. As civilization crumbles, survivors are plunged into a brutal struggle for existence. The story follows a diverse group of characters, including a television scientist, an astronaut, and a senator, who must navigate the chaos and lawlessness of a drastically changed world. Amidst the backdrop of natural disasters and societal breakdown, these survivors must band together to rebuild society while contending with dangerous factions and the harsh realities of a new world order.

Doomsday Book by Connie Willis

Cover of 'Doomsday Book' by Connie Willis

In this science fiction novel, a young historian undertakes a time-travel journey to the 14th century for academic research, only to find herself stranded amidst the onset of the Black Death. As she navigates the challenges of medieval England, her colleagues in the 21st century grapple with a deadly influenza pandemic, complicating efforts to retrieve her. The narrative weaves between the past and the present, exploring themes of human resilience, the universality of suffering across time, and the ethical implications of time travel, all while the historian and her contemporaries confront mortality, history, and their own personal crises.

Perdido Street Station by China Mieville

Cover of 'Perdido Street Station' by China Mieville

In a sprawling steampunk metropolis teeming with bizarre creatures and arcane technologies, a gifted scientist unwittingly unleashes a nightmare upon the city. When his experiment with a rare caterpillar goes awry, monstrous, dream-eating moths are set loose, preying upon the citizens' minds and plunging the city into terror. As the scientist grapples with the consequences of his actions, a motley group of individuals, including a renegade artist, a wingless bird-man, and other outcasts, come together in a desperate attempt to save their city from the eldritch horrors that now haunt its shadowy streets. Their journey takes them through the city's various layers, from the opulent heights to the grimy depths, revealing the complex tapestry of cultures and conflicts that define this urban labyrinth.

A Spell For Chameleon by Piers Anthony

Cover of 'A Spell For Chameleon' by Piers Anthony

In this fantasy novel, we follow the adventures of Bink, a young man from the magical land of Xanth, who lacks his own magic in a realm where magic is the norm. Facing exile for his deficiency, Bink embarks on a quest to discover his true magical talent. Along the way, he encounters a variety of creatures, challenges, and a mysterious woman named Chameleon, whose beauty and intelligence shift with the phases of the moon. Bink's journey reveals not only the secret of his own latent magic but also addresses themes of self-discovery, the value of nonconformity, and the nature of love and loyalty in a world where everything and everyone is more than they seem.

Out Of The Silent Planet by C. S. Lewis

Cover of 'Out Of The Silent Planet' by C. S. Lewis

In this science fiction novel, a man named Dr. Elwin Ransom finds himself transported to another planet called Malacandra. As he explores this strange new world, he encounters various intelligent beings and learns about their unique cultures and languages. Ransom soon realizes that he has been brought to Malacandra as a sacrifice, but he manages to escape and embarks on a thrilling journey to return home. Along the way, he grapples with themes of good versus evil, the nature of humanity, and the existence of a higher power.

NPR , 100 Books

NPR did a readers survey of the Top 100 Science Fiction and Fantasy books in 2011. More than 60,000 ballots were cast in our annual summer reader's survey — click here to see the full list of 100 books, complete with links and descriptions. Below is a list of the top 100 winners.

This list has a weight of 1% . To learn more about what this means please visit the Rankings page .

Here is a list of what is decreasing the importance of this list:

  • voted on by the general public
  • List is genre specific (covers only 1 genre)
  • voters are mostly from 1 location or country

If you think this is incorrect please e-mail us at [email protected] .

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The best recent science fiction and fantasy – reviews roundup

The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown; Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon by Wole Talabi; Red Side Story by Jasper Fforde; Past Crimes by Jason Pinter; The City of Stardust by Georgia Summers

Cover image of the Book of Doors by Gareth Brown

The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown (Bantam, £16.99 ) When Cassie receives the gift of a small leatherbound book, her life is transformed. It has the power to make “any door every door”, allowing her to walk out of her New York apartment on to a street in Paris, Venice, Prague – anywhere she’s been, or seen a picture of. Her best friend, Izzy, worries about how criminals could use it, while Cassie thinks they should just enjoy this amazing freedom. But Izzy was right to worry: the Book of Doors is just one of a small number of magical books, each with a different power, and although not many know they exist, some collectors won’t stop at murder to get what they want. What begins like a joyous daydream soon becomes a suspenseful thriller. It’s a truly magical book: exciting, intricately plotted and emotionally compelling.

Cover image of Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon by Wole Talabi

Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon by Wole Talabi (Gollancz, £2 2) The first novel from the Nigerian author of award-winning short stories is set in two worlds: ours, and the spirit side, where ancient gods have modernised into corporate board members who employ lesser spirits to deal with prayers and petitions. Shigidi, a minor god of nightmares, falls in love with the sexy, mysterious Nneoma, a succubus who feeds on human souls, and convinces him to be her partner in the freelance life. But his employer, the Orisha Spirit Company, won’t release him unless he steals back a precious sacred object from the British Museum. With their supernatural powers, the partners expect it to be an easy heist – until they tangle with London’s own spirit guardians. Moving back and forth in time, and between Lagos, London, Singapore and Algeria, this is a vivid, entertaining tale of love, power and revenge.

Cover image of Red Side Story by Jasper Fforde

Red Side Story by Jasper Fforde ( Hodder & Stoughton , £ 20 ) The long-awaited sequel to 2010’s Shades of Grey continues the story set in a country that used to be Britain – before Something Happened. Society now operates on a hierarchical, colour-based system, where everyone’s place and role are determined by the range of colours they are able to see. Eddie and Jane belong to hues of red and green: strictly prohibited from marriage, and now awaiting trial for a murder they did not commit. No one is allowed to question the many strict rules , no matter how absurd. But Eddie and Jane are in love, smart and curious, willing to run any risk to find out the truth about their world. Cleverly constructed, with engaging characters and lots of good jokes, this sparkling Wizard of Oz-inspired fantasy is the second book in an intended trilogy, and one of the quirkiest dystopias ever imagined.

Cover image of Past Crimes by Jason Pinter

Past Crimes by Jason Pinter ( Severn House, £21.99 ) The first venture into science fiction by a well-regarded crime writer is set in the 2040s, when Americans are spending most of their waking hours in an immersive virtual reality network known as Earth+. The popularity of true crime as entertainment has grown exponentially, with new tech allowing total sensory engagement. Subscribers to the simulations produced by entertainment company Past Crimes have the option of being not merely observers but players in famous historic crimes. Cassie West, the widow of the man held responsible for an outbreak of mass suicides and murders known as the Blight, is probably the only person in the world who believes the real culprit got away with it. She thinks she’s found evidence that he’s planning to strike again, with a massacre timed to coincide with the release of the highly anticipated Blight simulation. But will anyone believe her? A tense, unputdownable near-future thriller, chillingly believable about some of the drawbacks of life lived increasingly in non-physical spaces.

Cover image of The City of Stardust by Georgia Summers

The City of Stardust by Georgia Summers ( Hodderscape, £20 ) The Everly family is cursed: for generations, their youngest has been taken by the terrifying, ageless Penelope in payment of a long-ago debt. Violet is the last of the line, since her mother vanished on a quest to break the curse; unless she returns, Violet will be sacrificed instead. As the deadline approaches, newly adult Violet goes on her own quest. She looks to Penelope’s assistant, Aleksander, for help, knowing she shouldn’t trust him, but tempted by his stories of another world, where he lives in a city of scholar-magicians. Things soon turn very dark in an ambitious debut that doesn’t live up to its initial promise, flawed by an overly complicated, confusing plot and thin characterisations.

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30 Most Anticipated Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books of 2024

With a few notable horror picks, too.

a collage of various fantasy and scifi books

FANTASY, SCI-FI, AND horror are among the most popular book genre every year, and for good reason: there's a vast amount of creativity and variety within each of them. They're the perfect books to turn to when you need an escape from the world, but also exactly where to go when you want commentary on the real world through the lens of aliens, fairies, and all kinds of monsters.

In case you didn't already have a pile of books stacked up to your ceiling to read, here are all the books in 2024 that we can't wait to crack open.

Faebound: A Novel

Faebound: A Novel

The first in an exciting new trilogy, Faebound follows a warrior in an elven army alongside her sister, a diviner. When the two are ousted from the Elven Lands, they have to fend for themselves in the wilderness, only to come up against the Fae Court.

Release Date: January 23

The Tainted Cup

The Tainted Cup

If you love Sherlock Holmes but want a bit of a fantasy twist, check out The Tainted Cup . The book follows Ana Dolabra, who's known as the Empire's greatest detective. She's joined by her assistant, who at first finds her grating, but soon learns to appreciate her skill. The two investigate the death of an imperial officer, whose body sprouts a tree upon his demise. It's a strange and seemingly impossible case.

Release Date: February 6

The Book of Doors: A Novel

The Book of Doors: A Novel

Fans of The Midnight Library and The Night Circus will enjoy The Book of Doors . When a bookseller's favorite customer dies, she only has a strange book to remember him by: The Book of Doors. She soon learns the book is actually a powerful tome, and there's a number of collectors who are willing to do anything to get it...

Release Date: February 13

The Book of Love: A Novel

The Book of Love: A Novel

With a release date (the day before Valentine's Day) that feels particularly fitting for the title, Kelly Link's highly-anticipated The Book of Love follows three high school students who disappeared years ago. They suddenly return and find their music teacher waiting for them with a series of tasks he claims will help them to reclaim their lives. While they work to complete the magical tasks, they find themselves in opposition to other supernatural beings, and the teens must also grapple with how to stop the paranormal activity from threatening their town.

Medea: A Novel

Medea: A Novel

For fans of Madeline Miller, Medea is an expanded tale of the much aligned Medea, a famous character from an Ancient Greek play. She's known for killing her children in defiance of her husband, Jason of the Argonauts. But what if that wasn't the whole story? What if there was more to the character? That's what Eilish Quin's book provides.

Blackstone Publishing Exit Black

Exit Black

Exit Black, a spaceship thriller from author Joe PItkin, follows the resident biologist of a space hotel, who has to protect the lives of wealthy tourists who are suddenly held hostage by a global terrorist group.

Release Date: February 20

Redsight

Redsight is a space opera following Korina, a blind priestess with the power to manipulate space-time. She learns she's been raised to be a weapon for the ship she inhabits, but her fate changes when a space pirate attacks the ship, and Korina finds herself inexplicably drawn to her.

Release Date: February 27

The Other Valley: A Novel

The Other Valley: A Novel

The Other Valley has a fascinating premise that's sure to make you teary-eyed. The book centers on two sides of the same town: one is 20 years in the past, and the other is 20 years in the future. When 16-year-old Odile learns her closest friend is dead in the future side of the village, she decides to do everything she can to change what the future holds.

Baby X: A Thriller

Baby X: A Thriller

In a world where anyone can create an egg or sperm from anyone's cells, black market groups look to steal celebrity's DNA. That means people like Ember—security personnel who ensure no one gets unauthorized DNA from the rich and famous—are needed. But when she's tasked with protecting a famed singer's DNA, not only does she end up falling for him, but her entire job is in jeopardy when a woman claims she's pregnant by him.

Release Date: March 5

The Haunting of Velkwood

The Haunting of Velkwood

Fans of Yellowjackets (or at least stories of young people grappling with survivor's guilt) may enjoy The Haunting of Velkwood , which follows three teens who managed to live through the night the rest of the town turned into ghosts. Twenty years later, the three have to grapple with their pasts and return to the place that brought them nothing but pain. Release Date: March 5

Jumpnauts: A Novel (Folding Universe)

Jumpnauts: A Novel (Folding Universe)

Translated by Ken Liu (who is a celebrated writer in his own right and known for translating books in the The Three-Body Problem trilogy), Jumpnauts follows two major factions of Earth as they simultaneously discover extraterrestrial life. To solve their stalemate (and see if they can potentially overtake the other faction), both groups race to make contact before the other.

Release Date: March 12

The Day Tripper: A Novel

The Day Tripper: A Novel

This time-traveling mystery follows a college kid from 1995 who goes to Cambridge University and is with the love of his life. But one night, after a fight, he wakes up and it's 2010. The next day? It's 2019. To get back to his rightful time, he has to unravel his past, present, and future. Release Date: March 19

The Woods All Black

The Woods All Black

This queer historical horror is set in 1920s Appalachia, where Leslie Bruin is assigned to the small religious town of Spar Creek. The congregation is focused on a young person they believe to be an unruly tomboy, but Leslie must act fast if he wants to stop the violence of the townspeople and their mysterious lands.

Release Date: March 19

Floating Hotel

Floating Hotel

If you liked Station Eleven , check out Floating Hotel . It follows a hotel that flies through space, all year moving to different planets and systems and providing guests with a delightful stay. While the hotel itself is intriguing (no one knows who is driving the ship), there's also much to learn about the various guests and staff who stay there. And the hotel's manager specifically has his own personal conflicts, about when to stay at this lovely hotel, or when to leave.

Cascade Failure: A Novel (Ambit's Run, 1)

Cascade Failure: A Novel (Ambit's Run, 1)

This sci-fi adventure follows the crew of a Guild ship called the Ambit and reminds us of Guardians of the Galaxy . When the ship responds to a distress call and finds a mass grave, they learn a corporate power called The Trust is responsible. Who's going to stop them from killing more planets? Looks like the Ambit will have to come to the rescue.

Sound Effect Infinity: A Novel of Mind Control, Altered States, and Music

Sound Effect Infinity: A Novel of Mind Control, Altered States, and Music

This paranormal mystery follows a police sergeant who handles ghosts who haunt people in Columbia, Missouri. Also going on in Missouri at the same time? A paranormal scientist hears a voice telling him to find the disciple of a psychedelic guru, and a defense contractor believes the disciple has the key to mind control.

Sounds like a book that'll make your head spin.

Release Date: March 25

A View from the Stars

A View from the Stars

Now known in the states for his epic trilogy The Three-Body Problem , Chinese author Cixin Liu has a short story and non-fiction essay collection out in 2024 that could be the perfect gift for a sci-fi fan.

Release Date: April 2

Road to Ruin (Magebike Courier)

Road to Ruin (Magebike Courier)

Jin-Lu braves the wastelands on her magic motorbike to deliver her wares. But Jin-Lu is one day thrust into chaos when she helps the princess escape her abusive family, and must protect her from her father, a determined bounty hunter, and her betrothed.

Release Date: May 14

How to Become the Dark Lord and Die Trying

How to Become the Dark Lord and Die Trying

A young woman is trapped in a frustrating (and amusing) time loop where she tries–and always fails–to defeat a villainous figure known as the Dark Lord. After trying everything she can think of, it's time for her to switch sides. Maybe becoming the Dark Lord is the way to stop the loop?

Release Date: May 21

Goddess of the River

Goddess of the River

Goddess of the River reimagines the story of Ganga. Ganga takes care of mischievous godlings. When they anger a sage, Ganga is punished with mortality. She marries a king and has a child. But when she is freed from her curse, she must leave her son behind.

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Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of 2022

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MAY 3, 2022

by Kelly Barnhill

This novel’s magic goes far beyond the dragons. Full review >

fantasy science fiction children's books

AUG. 9, 2022

SCIENCE FICTION & FANTASY

by Wesley Chu

Dramatic, fun, thoughtful, clever, and (literally) punchy. Full review >

SAINT DEATH'S DAUGHTER

APRIL 12, 2022

by C.S.E. Cooney

Grisly, dark, lovely, funny, heartfelt. Full review >

THE PARADOX HOTEL

FEB. 22, 2022

THRILLER & SUSPENSE

by Rob Hart

Funny, thrilling, poignant, and profound. Full review >

MOON WITCH, SPIDER KING

FEB. 15, 2022

by Marlon James

The second part of this trilogy is darker and, in many ways, more moving than its predecessor. Full review >

THE WORLD WE MAKE

NOV. 1, 2022

by N.K. Jemisin

A ray of hope in a dark time. Full review >

THE SPEAR CUTS THROUGH WATER

AUG. 30, 2022

by Simon Jimenez

Lyrical, evocative, part poem, part prose—not to be missed by anyone, especially fans of historical fantasy and folktale. Full review >

BABEL

AUG. 23, 2022

by R.F. Kuang

Dark academia as it should be. Full review >

NONA THE NINTH

SEPT. 13, 2022

by Tamsyn Muir

A deceptively quiet beginning rockets to a thrilling finish, preparing us for the next volume’s undoubtedly explosive finale. Full review >

A TASTE OF GOLD AND IRON

by Alexandra Rowland

An engaging fantasy/romance set in a large, lush, and inclusive world. Full review >

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fantasy science fiction children's books

The Conversation

Sci-fi books are rare in school even though they help kids better understand science

S cience fiction can lead people to be more cautious about the potential consequences of innovations . It can help people think critically about the ethics of science . Researchers have also found that sci-fi serves as a positive influence on how people view science . Science fiction scholar Istvan Csicsery-Ronay calls this “ science-fictional habits of mind .”

Scientists and engineers have reported that their childhood encounters with science fiction framed their thinking about the sciences. Thinking critically about science and technology is an important part of education in STEM – or science, technology, engineering and mathematics .

Complicated content?

Despite the potential benefits of an early introduction to science fiction, my own research on science fiction for readers under age 12 has revealed that librarians and teachers in elementary schools treat science fiction as a genre that works best for certain cases, like reluctant readers or kids who like what they called “weird,” “freaky” or “funky” books.

Of the 59 elementary teachers and librarians whom I surveyed, almost a quarter of them identified themselves as science fiction fans, and nearly all of them expressed that science fiction is just as valuable as any other genre. Nevertheless, most of them indicated that while they recommend science fiction books to individual readers, they do not choose science fiction for activities or group readings.

The teachers and librarians explained that they saw two related problems with science fiction for their youngest readers: low availability and complicated content.

Why sci-fi books are scarce in schools

Several respondents said that there simply are not as many science fiction books available for elementary school students. To investigate further, I counted the number of science fiction books available in 10 randomly selected elementary school libraries from across the United States. Only 3% of the books in each library were science fiction. The rest of the books were: 49% nonfiction, 25% fantasy, 19% realistic fiction and 5% historical fiction. While historical fiction also seems to be in low supply, science fiction stands out as the smallest group.

When I spoke to a small publisher and several authors, they confirmed that science fiction for young readers is not considered a profitable genre, and so those books are rarely acquired. Due to the perception that many young readers do not like science fiction, it is not written, published and distributed as often.

With fewer books to choose from, the teachers and librarians said that they have difficulty finding options that are not too long and complicated for group readings. One explained: “I have to appeal to broad ability levels in chapter book read-aloud selections. These books typically have to be shorter, with more simple plots.” Another respondent explained that they believe “the kind of suppositions sci-fi is based on to be difficult for younger children to grasp. We do read some sci-fi in our middle grade book club.”

A question of maturity

Waiting for students to get older before introducing them to science fiction is a fairly common approach. Susan Fichtelberg – a longtime librarian – wrote a guide to teen fantasy and science fiction . In it, she recommends age 12 as the prime time to start. Other children’s literature experts have speculated whether children under 12 have sufficient knowledge to comprehend science fiction .

Reading researchers agree that comprehending complex texts is easier when the reader has more background knowledge . Yet, when I read some science fiction picture books with elementary school students, none of the children struggled to understand the stories. The most active child in my study often used his knowledge of “Star Wars” to interpret the books. While background knowledge can mean children’s knowledge of science, it also includes exposure to a genre. The more a reader is exposed to science fiction stories, the better they understand how to read them .

A matter of choice

Science fiction does not need to include detailed science or outlandish premises to offer valuable ideas. Simple picture books like “Farm Fresh Cats” by Scott Santoro rely on familiar ideas like farms and cats to help readers reconsider what is familiar and what is alien. “The Barnabus Project” by the Fan Brothers is both a simple escape adventure story and a story about the ethics of genetic experimentation on animals.

The good news is that elementary school students are choosing science fiction regardless of what adults might think they can or cannot understand. I found that the science fiction books in those 10 elementary school libraries were checked out at a higher rate per book than all of the other genres. Science fiction had 1-2 more checkouts per book, on average, than the other genres.

Using the lending data from these libraries, I built a statistical model that predicted that it is 58% more likely for one of the science fiction books to be checked out in these libraries than one of the fantasy books. The model predicted that a science fiction book is over twice as likely to be checked out than books in any of the other genres. In other words, since the children did not have nearly as many science fiction books to choose from, their readership was heavily concentrated on a few titles .

Children may discover science fiction on their own, but adults can do more to normalize the genre and provide opportunities for whole classes to become familiar with it. Encouraging children to explore science fiction may not guarantee science careers, but children deserve to learn from science fiction to help them navigate their increasingly high-tech world.

This article is republished from The Conversation , a nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts.

  • A solution to America’s K-12 STEM teacher shortage: Endowed chairs
  • Sci-fi books for young readers often omit children of color from the future

Emily Midkiff does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Sci-fi books are popular choices.

IMAGES

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  5. The Best Science Fiction (Sci-Fi) Books for Kids Ages 6

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  6. 30+ Science Fiction Books for Kids (Ages 8–12)

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  2. Fantasy & Science Fiction @ Storynory Live Stream

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  6. Cartoon Pizza/Lucasfilm Ltd./Nickelodeon (2008-2009)

COMMENTS

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    Science Fiction & Fantasy, Kids' Books | Barnes & Noble® Home Kids' Books Science Fiction & Fantasy 1- 20 of 1858 results Show: 20 Sort by: Best Sellers Grid List Get it today with Buy Online, Pick up in Store Find My Store Buy 1, Get 1 50% Off QUICK ADD Harry Potter and the Chamber… by J. K. Rowling, MinaLima Design (Illustrator) #2 in Series

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    Listopia Best Children's Science Fiction Books Vote for your favourite Children's SF books (novels, novellas, anthologies). For children between 8 and 12. CLEAN & SAFE books only. No sexuality. Books parents can comfortably read to their children (without omitting any parts). Books everyone can recommend to their little sister/brother.

  4. 50 Best Science Fiction Books for Kids

    You might be familiar with sci-fi classics from your own high school days, such as Frankenstein by Mary Shelley or The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (my own high school favorite book series), or even the short stories from one of the most famous science fiction writers, Ray Bradbury.

  5. 8 Best Sci-Fi/Fantasy Books for Kids in 2022

    8 Best Sci-Fi/Fantasy Books for Kids in 2022 | B&N Reads B&N Reads, Young Readers Awaken Your Inner Hero with These Young Reader Sci-Fi/Fantasy Books By Brittany Bunzey / July 25, 2022 at 6:00 am Share Young readers and fantasy stories have gone together for as long as we can remember.

  6. The 60 Best Fantasy Books for Kids

    Fantasy books for toddlers and preschoolers This section consists of picture books and other simple stories designed to introduce very young children to the world of fantasy. From talking animals to raining spaghetti, these books are sure to elicit delighted giggles from kids aged 2-5. 1. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi and Ron Barrett

  7. 50 Must-Read Fantasy Books For Kids By Age And Grade Level

    My Mom Is Magical by Sabrina Moyle, Illustrated by Eunice Moyle " My Mom Is Magical, featuring a magical unicorn, and My Dad Is Amazing, featuring a mythical yeti, are joyful tributes to just how amazing parents (and their kids!) are." Once Upon A World: The Little Mermaid by Hannah Eliot, Illustrated by Nivea Ortiz

  8. Recommended & Curated Fantasy & Science Fiction Kids Books

    Fantasy & Science Fiction. Children's Fantasy novels and Science Fiction books are a great way to spark your imagination! We've got everything from Harry Potter, to The Phantom Tollbooth, to A Wrinkle in Time, so we know you'll find your next favorite Sci-Fi and Fantasy books for kids here!

  9. Amazon.com: Ages 9 To 12

    Amazon.com: Ages 9 To 12 - Children's Science Fiction & Fantasy / Children's Books: Books 1-16 of over 50,000 results Results Best Seller Harry Potter Paperback Box Set (Books 1-7) by J. K. Rowling and Mary GrandPré | Jul 1, 2009 102,528 Paperback $4544 List: $100.00 FREE delivery Wed, Dec 6 More Buying Choices $34.95 (71 used & new offers)

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    Amazon.com: Science Fiction & Fantasy: Books: Fantasy & Magic, Science Fiction, Spine-Chilling Horror & More Skip to main content Quick look in Teen & Young Adult Humorous Fiction 4.9 out of 5 stars 4.8 out of 5 stars 4.7 out of 5 stars in Class Records & Lesson Books 4.9 out of 5 stars Teachers' pick

  11. Best Middle-Grade Fantasy & Science Fiction of 2020

    This middle-grade fantasy deftly and compellingly centers Indigenous culture. Magically mesmerizing and moving. One of the most coveted designations in the book industry, the Kirkus Star marks books of exceptional merit. The Kirkus Prize is among the richest literary awards in America, awarding $50,000 in three categories annually.

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    Science Fiction & Fantasy Nonfiction Biography & Memoir History. Current Events & Social Issues Graphic Novels & Comics Teens & Young Adult Children's. ... Featuring 325 industry-first reviews of fiction, nonfiction, children's and YA books; also in this special Graphic Lit issue: interviews with Deena Mohamed, Darrin Bell, Dan Santat, and SJ ...

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    Utterly believable, this bittersweet story, complete with an author's note identifying the real Ivan, will inspire a new... Schlitz's prose is perfect in every stitch, and readers will savor each word. Bangers! (Fantasy. 8-12) Light on explicit grue but well endowed with macabre detail and leavening dashes of humor.

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    Best Children's Fantasy (947 books) Discover new books on Goodreads Meet your next favorite book Join Goodreads Listopia Best Children's Fantasy Best fantasy for children 10 and under. (When adding books, please only list fantasy books that are suitable for children under the age of ten) flag All Votes Add Books To This List

  15. 10 Great Science Fiction and Fantasy Books for Kids

    10 Great Science Fiction and Fantasy Books for Kids Posted on August 6, 2019 by Megan M We hope your kids enjoy the variety of selections in this blog post perfect for kids who love imaginative science fiction and fantasy stories. Imaginative Stories for Children Dear Dragon by Josh Funk Audience: Grades PreK-3 | Ages 4-8

  16. The 50 best science fiction and fantasy books of the past decade

    Shades of Magic Trilogy. Tor Books. V.E. Schwab has created a world with four Londons lying atop one another: our own dull Grey, warm magic-suffused Red, tyrannical White, and dead, terrifying ...

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    Instantly immersive and deeply affecting, IN THE SERPENT'S WAKE, by Rachel Hartman, concludes an epic fantasy duology that began with "Tess of the Road.". Publicly, Tess is on a quest: to ...

  18. The Greatest Books: Top 100 Science-Fiction, Fantasy Books from NPR

    All the books on the list "Top 100 Science-Fiction, Fantasy Books" from NPR. NPR did a readers survey of the Top 100 Science Fiction and Fantasy books in 2011. More than 60,000 ballots were cast in our annual summer reader's survey — click here to see the full list of 100 books, complete with links and descriptions. Below is a list of the top 100 winners.

  19. 2010 Best Children's Books: Fantasy & Science Fiction

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  25. 30 Most Anticipated Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books of 2024

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  26. Best Science Fiction and Fantasy of 2022

    This novel's magic goes far beyond the dragons. Dramatic, fun, thoughtful, clever, and (literally) punchy. Grisly, dark, lovely, funny, heartfelt. Funny, thrilling, poignant, and profound. The second part of this trilogy is darker and, in many ways, more moving than its predecessor. A ray of hope in a dark time.

  27. Sci-fi books are rare in school even though they help kids better ...

    The rest of the books were: 49% nonfiction, 25% fantasy, 19% realistic fiction and 5% historical fiction. While historical fiction also seems to be in low supply, science fiction stands out as the ...