David Brin

David Brin is an American scientist and award-winning author of science fiction. He has received several Hugo, Locus, and Nebula awards. Brin is best known for his Uplift series, which explores the concept of genetically uplifting animals to sapience. His works often explore themes of transparency, privacy, and the influence of technological advancements on society.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Startide Rising

    In this science fiction novel, a spaceship crewed by a unique ensemble of genetically enhanced dolphins, a few humans, and a chimpanzee, finds itself stranded on a water world after a disastrous first contact with an alien fleet. The crew, aboard their vessel designed for interspecies cooperation, must navigate complex social dynamics and external threats as they repair their ship. Meanwhile, they are caught in the crossfire of a galactic conflict, with various alien races eager to capture the ship's secrets, including the knowledge of a long-lost fleet of starships from a mysterious and powerful race. The crew's survival hinges on their ability to work together and utilize their combined intelligence, while they also grapple with the implications of their evolutionary advancements and the responsibilities that come with them.

    The 6616th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Uplift War

    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, and other indigenous species, must navigate the complex politics and military strategies of various alien races. As they struggle to defend their home and assert their place in the cosmos, they uncover deeper mysteries about the origins of intelligence and the true nature of uplift, challenging the established order of their star-spanning society.

    The 7143rd Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Postman

    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, initially as a means to scavenge for food and shelter. However, his actions inspire others, and what starts as a deception evolves into a movement. The protagonist's journey transforms him into a leader who inadvertently unites disparate communities and reignites a sense of unity and purpose, becoming a catalyst for the reconstruction of society amidst the chaos and desolation of a fallen world.

    The 8951st Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Sundiver

    In a future where humanity has made contact with other intelligent species, a team of scientists embarks on a groundbreaking mission to study the sun. Led by a skilled and enigmatic astronaut, they travel to the sun's surface aboard a ship called the Sundiver. As they navigate the treacherous and unpredictable environment, they uncover shocking secrets about the sun's nature and its potential to reshape the destiny of all life in the universe. "Sundiver" is a thrilling and thought-provoking science fiction novel that explores the mysteries of the cosmos and the complexities of human existence.

    The 10029th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Earth

    In this thought-provoking novel, a diverse group of scientists and astronauts come together to face an impending disaster that threatens the future of Earth. As they navigate political intrigue, technological advancements, and personal relationships, they must find a way to save their planet from destruction. With its rich world-building and complex characters, this book explores the delicate balance between humanity's impact on the environment and the potential for scientific advancements to both harm and save us.

    The 10316th Greatest Book of All Time