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Best Science Fiction Book Series

Open to discover realms of cosmic endlessness and futuristic mechanisms shaped within these best science fiction book series.

By Salvador LorenzPublished 6 years ago 5 min read
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Artwork by Henrik Sahlstrom

It doesn't take a rocket science to know how gargantuan and unlimited our galaxy really is whenever presented by the beauties of imagination. Sci-fi writers like Arthur C. Clarke and George R.R. Martin, celestial beings of writing in their own rights, have helped to broaden our literary scope on scientific fantasy. They, however, are only two of many authors whose series of books have been considered must reads.

With such a vast compilation of books out there pertaining to the genre of sci-fi, it's often difficult and time consuming when trying to find the best science fiction book series. From the stars to you, I willingly give this list not only to help broaden your minds, but to also show you the undeniable vastness so associated within the genre itself. Take a peak beyond time, traverse through nebulas, and even tap dance on the strings of reality by reading these tried and true best sci-fi book series.

Based on Stanley Kubrick's 1968 film of the same name, 2001: A Space Odyssey holds a range of concepts, like cosmic exploration, artificial intelligence and human existence, concealed under one immersive plot.

Clarke is a mastermind when it comes to the genre, and as such, it should come as no surprise that his Odyssey is one of the best science fiction book series that will continue to awe our imaginations. Even The New York Times wrote a piece, "Outward Bound," which considers it a must-read for sci-fi fans everywhere.

The Foundation series, written by Isaac Asimov, is one of the—if not simply the—best science fiction book series, for you can pick up any of its various entries and still be able to understand the plot.

Though Prelude may be considered the first book, I actually started reading from Foundation, which was the first one published. Detailing the expansion of a galactic archive on science, free thought, and political disinterest, this series examines a spanning cosmic realm in turmoil as one group of the universe's most intelligent beings devise an eons-long plan to conserve the peace and order of the cosmos.

It begins on Hyperion, a planet whereupon the creature known solely as the Shrike resides. To man, this unknown being is either vilified, praised, or wanted dead. As the universe tumults into anarchy, with Armageddon on the horizon, seven adventures embark to Hyperion. There they hope to find the saving grace for the galaxy, yet darker secrets lurk under the surface of these seven unknown crew members.

Dan Simmons is a legend of a sci-fi writer, and his Hyperion Cantos series is only a testament to this fact. Simmons' masterpiece is one of his absolute best novels, hence why it's also one of the best science fiction book series.

Blending both novels and short stories into a massive plot that stands as one of the best science fiction book series can only be said of the Vorkosigan Saga. Initiated by Shards of Honor, this epic series utilizes themes of technology, contemporary politics, hierarchal societies and militaristic concepts.

Louis McMaster Bujold's otherwise most famous work is often overlooked and should be picked up by anyone in love with science fiction that plays on the modern roles so apparent within our world.

Among the more recent of publications on this list of the best science fiction book series, Schwab's A Darker Shade of Magic, first in the Shade of Magic continuation, steals the genre away.

He blends science fiction and fantasy so well it works beautifully. See the world of London, which is separated by three entirely different realms, as the blood magic master Kell attempts to resolve the perils that challenge him from all sides.

Another legendary writer of the space opera, Victor Vinge paints a glorious storyline that delves into the realities of intergalactic war and debates still seem to rile over which novel to read first.

I recommend A Fire Upon the Deep, but in actuality they're all a singular component among the best science fiction series. Time travel between books as you immerse yourself in the warring galaxy of Vinge's Zones of Thought.

One of the most influential and yet controversial sci-fi novels is none other than Dune. Here's some sci-fi movies influenced by Dune, in case you weren't aware of how amazing this title truly is, crediting its addition among the best science fiction book series in history.

Frank Herbert's Dune takes a look at the sand-filled world of Arrakis, where Paul Atreides, soon to be called Muad'Dib, takes action against the people who set up his noble family. Of course it doesn't stop there, and the more one dives into the quicksand of Dune's plot, the less able you will be of putting it down.

Ever wanted to time travel? Connie Willis will give you that ability in her thrilling Oxford Time Travel series, which starts with The Doomsday Book. It's a spectacular novel alone, but together it's one of the best science fiction book series for traversing the tendrils of time.

Join the young Kivrin on her voyages through temporal rifts, as she is accidentally marooned in a time of savage indecency. There, she may be the only hope of savior for that dark time's inhabitants, but the ultimate question still remains: can return to the 21st century in one piece?

Initiating one of the best science fiction book series,Neuromancer is Gibson's first among the Sprawl Trilogy. In it, he describes a world within a world, much like a matrix upon which the cyberspace lives and breathes with valuable points of data.

Being one of the most intelligent data-thieves in the business, Henry Dorsett Case never believed he'd get caught and beaten by previously unhappy employers. In his newly crippled state, an unlikely job presents itself: one that may be his most daring data heist yet. The target? The sinister artificial intelligence on am orbital trajectory above earth.

Each labeled in colors, beginning with red, followed by green and finished on blue, the Mars Trilogy by Kim Stanley Robinson is one of the best science fiction book series for showcasing the brilliant wonders of one beautiful planet in our solar system.

Much like our own modern plans of interplanetary colonization, the Mars Trilogy portrays a group of Earthlings as they embark upon a mission to lay settlements across Mars. As you would expect, things don't go as planned, but you must read to find out what happens!

You'd be surprised to hear that Ursula K. Le Guin, a highly influential and fantastic science fiction writer, is actually one of the most underrated sci-fi authors. In fact, her Hainish Cycle is one of the best science fiction book series, for it includes her most noteworthy story: The Dispossessed.

Each story, though canonical between the others, tell separate tales involving intergalactic foes, political tyranny, enslaving planets, and suppressed societies. It goes without saying, Le Guin is a master-weaver of the science fiction genre, and her Hainish Cycle cannot be missed.

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About the Creator

Salvador Lorenz

Thinking in nodes of progress, futurism, science, culture, and existence. I experience life in a number of ways, pertaining to mathematical concepts mixed with rich flavors of art.

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