Science fiction is one of the most incredible genres in books, taking players throughout other worlds, cultures, and galaxies. Though there are some rightfully popular sci-fi books like Dune and Ender’s Game, there are also some hidden gems in the mix. These 10 most underrated sci-fi books rival the giants of the genre in terms of storytelling, world-building, characters, lore, and more.
10. Beggars in Spain
Nancy Kress crafted this disturbing look at the future of genetic modification with a series revolving around the “Sleepless.” These Sleepless are modified to not need sleep, allowing them to put the otherwise wasted time into learning and working. Discrimination, inequality, and other familiar factors play into this fascinating sci-fi take on the year 2020.
9. Hospital Station
The entire Sector General series, beginning with Hospital Station, doesn’t get nearly as much love as it deserves. It has one of the most unique takes on first contact with aliens compared to most science fiction books, centering around the medically-focused space station. Rather than war or hostility, this Hospital Station acts as humanity’s peaceful attempt to connect with aliens. This leads to a refreshingly light-hearted and often funny take on sci-fi.
8. Off Armageddon Reef
Few sci-fi novels capture the depth of religion and humanity as well as Off Armageddon Reef. The story starts after the near-extinction of humanity in the far future at the hands of an alien race, leading the survivors to create a religious-centric society devoid of technology. The connections between the lead characters and the rich look at the effects of manipulation on the human mind is thought-provoking.
7. Hollow World
So many great science fiction novels expand into numerous different sequels and spin-offs, but Hollow World stands out with its standalone structure. You can read this one book and have a complete, outstanding time. The story revolves around a terminally ill man who builds a time machine to cure his sickness and ends up in a futuristic utopian society. His exploration of himself and his new land is surprisingly heartwarming and character-driven.
6. Engine Summer
Engine Summer is the type of sci-fi novel to read that has a slow burn but envelops the reader in its unbelievably detailed world and characters. The story is told in four seemingly separate chapters from the lens of its protagonist in the midst of a post-apocalyptic world. The four sections of the protagonist’s life seem so disconnected initially but come together in a beautiful way in the finale.
5. Eifelheim
This novel presents one of the most original stories of alien discovery, revolving around a small German town in the 14th century. The townsfolk encounter aliens amidst the raging Black Death in Europe, which leads to deep science and even some intriguing ideas about how religion and aliens mix together. The more medieval-style sci-fi vibe is unmatched.
4. You Feel It Just Below the Ribs
Set in the far future, this novel focuses on Miriam, a researcher who survives a decades-long war that almost wipes out humanity. Greatly affected by the loss of everyone she knows, she helps to craft a new society where everyone is detached from one another. This odd system ends up much more problematic than Miriam intended. The story of Miriam trying to fight back against her own society is riveting and reflective of the modern society we have today.
3. In the Garden of Iden
The first book in this series from Kage Baker is deceptive in its setting, taking place mostly in the 16th century. However, this hides its sci-fi premise, which revolves around a 24th century corporation that finally invents time travel. The catch is it’s a one-way trip back into the past for time travelers, which leads to the invention of immortal cyborgs. These cyborgs recruit other ill-fated children to become immortal, leading to a dark, deep, and often engrossing tale.
2. Hellspark
Hellspark is equal parts science fiction and riveting murder mystery. Lassti is a new planet with a race of birdlike humanoids. But when someone kills one of the key survey team members, it is up to a trader in the wrong place at the wrong time to solve the mystery. There are many layers to the core murder whodunnit and the protagonist’s often goofy mannerisms help to liven the otherwise intense story.
1. Moderan
Moderan from author David R. Bunch is the progenitor of many cyberpunk and sci-fi novels today, but it remains somewhat obscure in the genre. The 1971 novel revolves around the titular city of Moderan and various short stories throughout it. The wars between the cyborgs and their fortresses feel reminiscent of modern society, leading to some excellent storytelling and introspection.
