Last collection of books

Madeline

1939, Ludwig Bemelmans

The book is a classic children's story about a brave and spirited little girl living in a Parisian boarding school. Despite being the smallest girl in the group, Madeline is fearless, full of mischief, and the leader of her peers. The tale is especially known for its rhythmic text and distinctive il

Love and Rockets

1982, Gilbert Hernandez

The graphic novel series presents a richly woven tapestry of life, intertwining two primary narratives: one follows the adventures of a young, ambitious Latina mechanic named Maggie and her best friend and sometimes lover Hopey, as they navigate the punk scene, complex relationships, and personal gr

Harold and the Purple Crayon

1955, Crockett Johnson

In this classic children's book, a young boy named Harold embarks on a whimsical adventure using nothing but his imagination and a purple crayon. With the crayon in hand, Harold draws his own world, creating landscapes, obstacles, and companions as he goes. His journey is a testament to creativity a

The City in the Middle of the Night

2019, Charlie Jane Anders

Set on a tidally locked planet where one side perpetually faces the sun while the other is shrouded in endless night, this novel follows the intertwined lives of two young women. One, a working-class student, is exiled into the night after a rebellious act, where she discovers a city thriving in the

The Collapsing Empire

2017, John Scalzi

In "The Collapsing Empire," humanity has spread across the galaxy thanks to a network of extradimensional pathways known as the Flow, which makes interstellar travel possible. The Flow is controlled by the powerful Interdependency, a quasi-feudal empire that relies on the pathways to maintain its po

Death's End

2010, Cixin Liu

In this science fiction epic, humanity confronts an uncertain future as the universe teeters on the brink of destruction. The narrative weaves through time and space, following a complex tapestry of characters and civilizations as they grapple with advanced alien technologies, cosmic dilemmas, and p

Ancillary Mercy

2015, Ann Leckie

In the final installment of a science fiction trilogy, the protagonist, a human-form AI once linked to a starship and its ancillary soldiers, continues her quest for vengeance and justice. Now in command of a small ship, she faces the complexities of political intrigue and the challenges of leadersh

Ancillary Sword

2014, Ann Leckie

In this science fiction novel, the protagonist, a former starship AI now housed in a human body, is sent on a mission to secure a star system as a fleet captain. Amidst political intrigue and social unrest, she must navigate complex relationships with her crew and the system's inhabitants while conf

Abaddon's Gate

2013, James S. A. Corey

In this science fiction novel, humanity is faced with a new frontier when a mysterious alien artifact known as the Ring appears near the edge of the solar system. Various factions, including Earth's government, Martian military, and the Outer Planets Alliance, converge on the Ring, each with their o

The Baroque Cycle

2003, Neal Stephenson

The Baroque Cycle is an expansive historical fiction series that weaves together a rich tapestry of themes including science, politics, philosophy, and adventure during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The narrative follows an eclectic cast of characters, ranging from natural philosophers and

Ilium

2003, Dan Simmons

In this science fiction epic, classical literature and futuristic technology collide as scholars from a distant future resurrect the events of Homer's "Iliad" on an alternate Mars. The narrative intertwines the lives of ancient Greek heroes, sentient robots from Jupiter's moons, and the last remnant

The Years of Rice and Salt

2002, Kim Stanley Robinson

The book is an alternate history novel that explores a world in which the Black Death plague of the 14th century was far more lethal to Europeans, nearly wiping them out. As a result, world history is dramatically reshaped: Islamic and Buddhist societies emerge as the dominant global powers, leading

The Telling

2000, Ursula K. Le Guin

In this science fiction narrative, a woman from Earth travels to a distant planet that has recently joined an interstellar collective. Upon arrival, she discovers that the planet's unique culture, which is deeply rooted in storytelling and oral tradition, is being systematically eradicated by a repr

Cryptonomicon

1999, 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

The Rise of Endymion

1997, Dan Simmons

In this science fiction epic, the final installment of a series, the narrative follows the journey of a man tasked with protecting a young girl who has the potential to influence the fate of humanity. Set in a far-future universe where the Catholic Church has become a dominant spacefaring entity, th

The Fall of Hyperion

1990, Dan Simmons

In this sequel to a science fiction saga, the story continues as a group of pilgrims trapped on the planet Hyperion face the looming threat of the Time Tombs, which are traveling backward through time. Meanwhile, the interstellar Hegemony they once belonged to is on the brink of war with the Ousters

The Postman

1985, David Brin

In a post-apocalyptic America, where civilization has collapsed and survival is a daily struggle, a lone wanderer accidentally becomes a symbol of hope. Taking on the identity of a postal worker from the long-defunct United States Postal Service, he dons an old uniform and begins delivering mail, in

The Integral Trees

1984, Larry Niven

In a distant future, humans inhabit a gas torus, a ring of breathable atmosphere around a neutron star, where they have adapted to life in free fall within this unique environment. The story follows a group of these humans who live among the "Integral Trees," gigantic, sky-spanning plants with their

Titan

1979, John Varley

"Titan" is a science fiction novel that follows the journey of a crew aboard a spacecraft sent to explore Saturn's moon, Titan. The mission takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a massive, wheel-shaped space station that orbits the moon, which they name "Gaea." Upon entering, the crew discove

Farmer in the Sky

1950, Robert A. Heinlein

The book is a science fiction novel that follows the story of a teenage boy who emigrates with his family from an overcrowded Earth to Ganymede, one of Jupiter's moons, which is in the process of being terraformed into a habitable environment. The narrative explores the challenges of pioneering on a

The Mule

1945, Isaac Asimov

In this science fiction narrative, a mysterious and enigmatic figure known only as the Mule rises to power, disrupting the established order of a vast galactic empire that had been predicted to endure for thousands of years. The Mule possesses unprecedented psychic abilities, allowing him to manipul

Shadow Over Mars

1944, Leigh Brackett

Set on a colonized Mars, the story unfolds in a future where the planet is ruled by a tyrannical government and the powerful Inner Planets corporation. The protagonist, a rugged individualist and outlaw, becomes embroiled in a rebellion against the oppressive regime. As he navigates the complex poli

Conjure Wife

1943, Fritz Leiber

In this dark fantasy novel, a college professor discovers that his wife, along with other women in his social circle, practices witchcraft, using their powers to manipulate events and protect their loved ones. Initially skeptical, the professor is forced to confront the reality of magic when he beco

Beyond This Horizon

1942, Robert A. Heinlein

In a future society where genetic engineering has eradicated disease and the economy is managed to ensure abundance for all, the protagonist navigates a world where personal fulfillment and societal contribution are paramount. Citizens are armed and duels are a common means of settling disputes, whi

Slan

1940, A. E. van Vogt

The book is a science fiction tale set in a future where humanity is at odds with a genetically advanced subspecies known as Slans, who possess telepathic abilities and are persecuted by the fearful human majority. The story follows a young Slan named Jommy Cross as he navigates a world filled with

The Sword in the Stone

1938, T. H. White

The book is a magical coming-of-age story set in medieval England, following the adventures of a young boy named Wart who is tutored by the eccentric wizard Merlyn. Through a series of fantastical transformations and experiences, Wart learns valuable lessons about life, leadership, and the world aro

A Memory Called Empire

2019, Arkady Martine

In this science fiction novel, an ambassador from a small, independent space station is sent to the heart of a vast interstellar empire to serve as her predecessor's replacement after his mysterious death. As she navigates the complex political landscape of the imperial court, she discovers that her

Redshirts

2012, John Scalzi

In this satirical science fiction novel, the story follows the adventures of a group of ensigns aboard the Universal Union's flagship Intrepid. They quickly realize that their ship's officers are frequently embroiled in dramatic and dangerous missions, while the lower-ranked crew members—often clad

Rainbows End

2006, Vernor Vinge

Set in the near future, the novel explores a world transformed by technological advancements in communication, security, and augmented reality. The protagonist, a man who has recovered from Alzheimer's thanks to new medical technology, struggles to adapt to the fast-paced changes and reconnect with

Spin

2005, Robert Charles Wilson

The novel centers on a mysterious event in which the Earth is encapsulated by an alien barrier that drastically slows down time on the planet's surface compared to the rest of the universe. As stars disappear from the night sky, three childhood friends confront an altered reality where humanity must

Hominids

2002, Robert J. Sawyer

In this science fiction novel, a parallel universe is the backdrop for an extraordinary encounter between two different versions of humanity. The story unfolds as a Neanderthal physicist accidentally crosses over from his Earth, where Neanderthals became the dominant intelligent species, into our wo

A Deepness in the Sky

1999, Vernor Vinge

In this science fiction epic, two rival human spacefaring factions encounter the enigmatic Spider civilization on a distant planet orbiting a variable star. As the humans vie for control over the advanced technology and knowledge of the Spiders, they must also contend with their own political intrig

To Say Nothing of the Dog

1997, Connie Willis

In this comedic science fiction novel, a time-traveling historian is sent back to Victorian England to recover a missing artifact and correct a temporal anomaly that threatens to alter history. Amidst the chaos of trying to adhere to the peculiarities of the era, he must also deal with an eccentric

Blue Mars

1996, Kim Stanley Robinson

The novel concludes a trilogy that chronicles the colonization and terraforming of Mars, exploring the complex interactions between politics, science, and ecology in the process. As the Martian society stabilizes after a period of revolution and unrest, the inhabitants of the red planet grapple with

The Diamond Age

1995, 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 sta

Mirror Dance

1994, Lois McMaster Bujold

In this science fiction novel, a young man with a desire to prove himself and find his place in the universe impersonates his clone brother, a high-ranking noble and military commander. His reckless attempt to undertake a mercenary mission goes disastrously wrong, leading to his capture and torture

Green Mars

1993, Kim Stanley Robinson

In the sequel to the epic tale of Martian colonization, the narrative continues to follow the struggles and developments of the settlers as they advance their terraforming efforts on the Red Planet. The second installment delves deeper into the political, social, and ecological challenges faced by t

Barrayar

1991, Lois McMaster Bujold

In this science fiction novel, a woman finds herself navigating the complex political landscape of a recently rediscovered planet with a feudal society. As the wife of the Regent, she must protect her unborn child from various threats, including a deadly political coup. With her quick wit and strate

The Vor Game

1990, Lois McMaster Bujold

In this science fiction novel, a young military officer graduates from the academy and is assigned to a remote arctic base, where his leadership skills are quickly put to the test. After navigating the complexities of his first command, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous interstellar mission involv

Cyteen

1988, C. J. Cherryh

The book is a complex tale of political intrigue, identity, and psychological manipulation set in a distant future where humanity has colonized space. At the heart of the story is a brilliant young scientist who is a clone of a powerful political leader, raised to replicate her predecessor's talents

The Uplift War

1987, David Brin

In a science fiction universe where a galactic civilization is built on the patronage and "uplift" of pre-sentient species into intelligence, a human colony on a distant planet finds itself embroiled in an interstellar war. The planet's inhabitants, including humans, their uplifted chimpanzee allies

Foundation's Edge

1982, Isaac Asimov

In this science fiction novel, the protagonist, Golan Trevize, is sent on a quest to discover the origins of the Foundation, a society established to preserve knowledge and culture in the galaxy. Alongside a scholar, Janov Pelorat, and a telepathic woman, Bliss, Trevize's journey leads them beyond t

Downbelow Station

1981, C. J. Cherryh

Set in the midst of interstellar conflict, the novel unfolds against the backdrop of a space station that serves as a key strategic asset in the war between Earth and its far-flung colonial star systems. As the station, located above the planet Pell, becomes a refuge for people fleeing the war-torn

Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang

1976, Kate Wilhelm

In a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by environmental collapse and infertility, a surviving community turns to cloning to preserve humanity. As generations of clones are produced, they form a collective consciousness that values conformity over individuality. The story explores the complex relationsh

To Your Scattered Bodies Go

1971, Philip José Farmer

In this science fiction novel, every human who has ever lived is resurrected along the banks of an enigmatic river on an unknown planet. The protagonist, a 19th-century explorer, awakens in this afterlife and quickly discovers that he is not alone. Surrounded by historical figures and ordinary peopl

Stand on Zanzibar

1968, John Brunner

The novel is a dystopian vision of the year 2010, where the world grapples with overpopulation, ecological disasters, and widespread social unrest. It follows a multitude of characters, including a high-level executive and a data analyst, as they navigate a society dominated by multinational corpora

...And Call Me Conrad

1965, Roger Zelazny

The novel follows the story of a man who, after Earth has been devastated by a nuclear war, possesses the ability to alter reality and travel through time. He embarks on a quest for vengeance against the alien race that he blames for the Earth's destruction. Along the way, he grapples with his own i

The Wanderer

1964, Fritz Leiber

"The Wanderer" is a science fiction novel that explores the chaos and wonder that ensues when a mysterious, planet-sized object appears in Earth's orbit, causing widespread destruction through tidal effects and societal upheaval. As the celestial visitor, dubbed "The Wanderer," reveals its patchwork

Here Gather the Stars

1963, Clifford D. Simak

In "Here Gather the Stars," a science fiction novel, the protagonist is a space-faring trader who comes across an ancient, abandoned alien library that holds the knowledge of countless civilizations. As he delves into the library's secrets, he discovers that it offers not only advanced technology bu

The Big Time

1958, Fritz Leiber

"The Big Time" is a science fiction novel that delves into the concept of a temporal war, where two factions, the Spiders and the Snakes, battle across history to shape the future to their design. The story unfolds in a rest-and-recreation station outside of normal time and space, known as The Place

They'd Rather Be Right

1954, Mark Clifton

The book explores the consequences of creating a supercomputer with the ability to enhance human intelligence and extend life indefinitely. The machine, known as Bossy, becomes the center of controversy and fear, as it requires individuals to completely surrender their prejudices and preconceived no

A Master of Djinn

2021, P. Djèlí Clark

Set in an alternate Cairo at the turn of the 20th century, where magic and steampunk technology infuse the air, the story follows Fatma el-Sha’arawi, the youngest woman working for the Ministry of Alchemy, Enchantments and Supernatural Entities. When someone claiming to be al-Jahiz, the famed Sufi m

Network Effect

2020, Martha Wells

In this science fiction novel, the protagonist, an artificial intelligence with a sarcastic personality and a penchant for self-preservation, finds itself and its human companions embroiled in a complex mystery. The AI, which typically inhabits a humanoid robot body, must navigate treacherous politi

A Song for a New Day

2019, Sarah Pinsker

In a future where public gatherings are illegal due to terrorist attacks and a pandemic, society has adapted to isolation, with virtual reality concerts replacing live events. The story follows a musician who once thrived on the energy of live performances and a talent scout for a corporate entertai

The Calculating Stars

2018, Mary Robinette Kowal

In this alternate history novel, a cataclysmic meteorite strike in the 1950s accelerates the space race due to fears of Earth becoming uninhabitable. The story follows a brilliant mathematician and former WASP pilot who battles the era's sexism and racism to become an astronaut. She and her diverse

The Stone Sky

2017, N. K. Jemisin

In this concluding volume of a groundbreaking fantasy trilogy, the fate of a world hangs in the balance as a mother and daughter find themselves on opposite sides of an apocalyptic war. The mother, an orogene with the power to control seismic activity, embarks on a quest to end the perpetual disaste

All the Birds in the Sky

2016, Charlie Jane Anders

This novel blends science fiction and fantasy, telling the story of two outcasts, a witch and a tech genius, who meet as children and then part ways, only to reunite as adults in a world teetering on the brink of catastrophe. As the planet faces environmental collapse and the threat of war, the pair

Annihilation

2014, Jeff VanderMeer

In the novel, a team of four women—an anthropologist, a surveyor, a psychologist, and a biologist—embark on an expedition into Area X, a mysterious and remote region cut off from civilization. The area is known for its strange occurrences and the disappearance of previous expedition members. As the

Ancillary Justice

2013, Ann Leckie

The book is a science fiction novel that follows the story of Breq, who was once a powerful starship AI controlling many bodies, but is now trapped in a single human body and driven by a quest for vengeance. Set in a vast interstellar empire where ships and stations are inhabited by ancillary AIs, t

2312

2012, Kim Stanley Robinson

Set in the 24th century, the novel explores a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, transforming various planets and moons to support life. The story follows Swan Er Hong, a resident of Mercury, who becomes embroiled in a complex conspiracy after the death of her grandmother, a promi