Introduction to science fiction: The best sci-fi books for newbies to the genre
Science fiction doesn’t have to be intimidating. Whether you usually read literary fiction or crime thrillers, here’s our edit of the best science fiction books for readers who are new to the genre.

If you’re new to reading science fiction, all the talk of wormholes, advanced technology and space warfare can be daunting. But science fiction offers plenty of accessible, immersive writing for every type of reader. Here Petrik Leo, reviewer at Novel Notions, guides us through the genre and shares his recommendations for the best science fiction books for readers new to sci-fi.
Can't get enough science fiction? Discover our edit of the best sci-fi books.
Science fiction is one of my favourite genres. It delves into the implications – both good and bad – of progress and technology, extraordinary adventures, fascinating world-building, relatable social commentaries, vivid action sequences and well-developed characters that you can really root for . . . Sci-fi offers true escapism while also encouraging introspection regarding our society. However, this can be an intimidating genre for those unfamiliar with it; I was in a similar situation a few years ago. Plus, With thousands of sci-fi novels and many sub-genres, choosing which book to begin your adventure with can be a daunting task. Here are several magnificent but accessible sci-fi books that are sure to spark your passion for the form.
Before I get to the recommendations though, let me explain what sci-fi is.
What is science fiction?
Personally, I classify sci-fi as a genre of speculative fiction that focuses on science, technology and futuristic premises or concepts. It’s not always the case, but a sci-fi story often takes place in our universe or galaxy. It is a genre brimming with narratives that usually combine several if not all of the following: advanced technologies, weaponry, space exploration, space warfare, extraterrestrial beings (aliens), artificial intelligence, time travel and parallel universes. At the same time, sci-fi can offer deep present-day social commentary and a study of the human condition, be it in the future or in an alternate world that has been changed or influenced by science. As you’ve probably guessed, science fiction is a vast genre. To make things easier to categorize, it is divided into multiple sub-genres. Here are some of the most popular:
Soft science fiction
The rules of how science and technologies are used in soft science fiction are often flexible. The story and characters in a soft sci-fi novel usually have a wider focus than scientific concepts.
An example of popular soft sci-fi is Star Wars.
Hard science fiction
The opposite of soft sci-fi. The basis of how technology and advancement work relies heavily on scientific rules and/or mathematics. Most of the time, hard sci-fi places a lot of emphasis on scientific concepts and theory; science and technology are very important in the narrative and are explained in great detail.
An example of popular hard sci-fi is Interstellar.
Military science fiction
This sub-genre usually involves main characters who are enlisted in an army. Space warfare using advanced weaponry or technology are the basis of this type of fiction.
An example of popular military sci-fi is Edge of Tomorrow.
Space opera
The name of this sub-genre says it all. There’s been a lot of debate over the definition of this sub-genre, but personally, as long as either space travel, space warfare or intergalactic conflicts are in the narrative, I classify it as space opera.
Some examples of popular space-opera are Star Wars, Star Trek, The Expanse and Mass Effect.
Cyberpunk
Usually taking place in a dystopian future, cyberpunk often features cybernetics, virtual reality and artificial intelligence as key points of the narrative.
Two examples of popular cyberpunk are Blade Runner and Altered Carbon.
The best science fiction books for readers new to the genre
The Doors of Eden
by Adrian Tchaikovsky

To say that Tchaikovsky is prolific is an understatement. He has more than thirty novels under his belt, and by the time you’ve finished reading this article he’s probably already finished writing another novella. Reading his backlist of books could be a mission on its own, so where to start? I highly recommend Tchaikovsky’s most recent novel, The Doors of Eden, as the gateway to his works, for three reasons. First, The Doors of Eden is a grand adventure brimming with scientific concepts that are much easier to access than his previous sci-fi novels. Secondly, the main characters – Lee, Mal and Kay Amal Khan – are effortlessly easy to empathize with. Finally, this is a satisfying standalone: there’s no cliffhanger and you don’t have to commit to reading a whole series.
Reasons you’ll like it: Wonderful world-building, or to be more precise, multiverse-building. Diverse characters. Bizarre creatures. Filled with great ideas. Imaginative and cracking adventures. Standalone novel.
Children of Time
by Adrian Tchaikovsky

Although The Doors of Eden is my favourite of Tchaikovsky’s books, this list would not be complete without recommending one of his most critically acclaimed novels, Children of Time. This is space opera and hard sci-fi in one. Intelligently crafted, Children of Time focuses on biological evolution, space travel, survival and cooperation. The climactic sequences are action-packed and memorable.
Reasons you’ll like it: "Brilliant science fiction and far-out world-building.” That’s what James McAvoy said about this book. If Professor X said so, I think it would be wise for us to listen.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to Galaxy
by Douglas Adams
