It’s a new year, which is the perfect time to broaden your horizons. For new readers who want to explore the sci-fi genre, and for older ones with enough experience to list their favorite tropes, here are some book recommendations you’re bound(pun intended) to enjoy.
Slow River by Nicola Griffith
As a story published in 1995, this book does an amazing job with its use of ‘slates’, which are the author’s version of iPads and tablets. Since they didn’t exist yet, it’s cool to see how accurate they are! We also have a queer woman main character, as well as a cast that’s 95% female.
The Illustrated Man by Ray Bradbury
For readers who don’t have a lot of patience or time on their hands, this is a perfect read. It’s a collection of 18 short stories that show the conflict between people and technology. Black Mirror fans, this is for you. My personal favorite in this collection is The Veldt, a horror story set around a children’s nursery.
The Left Hand Of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin
If you only ever read one sci-fi book in your entire life, make sure it’s this one. It was relevant when it came out in 1969, and in the midst of gender-related discussions taking place today, it remains just as relevant. There is no convenient Chosen One in the war depicted in this story, and it will redefine your view of science. Good luck and enjoy the oncoming crisis.