The Greatest British "Science fiction" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Science fiction

Science fiction is a genre of literature that explores the potential consequences of scientific and other innovations on society and individuals. It often features futuristic or imaginary settings, advanced technologies, and scientific concepts that are not yet fully understood or realized. Science fiction can encompass a wide range of themes, including space exploration, time travel, artificial intelligence, and alternate realities. It is a genre that allows authors to speculate on the future of humanity and the impact of scientific progress on our lives.

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  1. 51. Hello Summer, Goodbye by Michael G. Coney

    This science fiction novel explores the poignant tale of young love set against the backdrop of an alien world with unique seasonal cycles. The story follows the life of a young protagonist who experiences the complexities of love, societal expectations, and the impending doom of an environmental catastrophe. As the planet prepares for a long, harsh winter that comes once every few years, the characters must navigate their personal relationships while dealing with the broader implications of their world's changing climate. The novel masterfully combines elements of romance, coming-of-age, and speculative fiction, offering a rich narrative that examines the interplay between human emotions and the natural world.

    The 4405th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 52. Light by M. John Harrison

    "Light" is a science fiction novel that intertwines three narrative threads, two set in 2400 AD and one in 1999. The story follows a scientist who discovers the principles of faster-than-light travel, a space pilot genetically modified to interact with a strange alien artifact, and a serial killer who sees a strange pattern in everything. As the narratives unfold, they eventually converge in a distant part of the galaxy, revealing a universe filled with strange life forms and advanced technologies.

    The 4499th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 53. A Storm Of Wings by M. John Harrison

    In this science fiction novel, the second installment of a series, humanity grapples with the aftermath of a catastrophic event known as the Biotic Crisis. As reality itself begins to warp, the protagonist and a group of disparate characters navigate a world where the boundaries between human and alien, real and surreal, are increasingly blurred. They face the challenge of understanding and confronting the "Swarm," a mysterious and possibly sentient cloud of particles that threatens to engulf the planet. The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of themes including identity, transformation, and the struggle to maintain sanity in an environment that defies comprehension.

    The 4526th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 54. Perdido Street Station by China Mieville

    In a sprawling steampunk metropolis teeming with bizarre creatures and arcane technologies, a gifted scientist unwittingly unleashes a nightmare upon the city. When his experiment with a rare caterpillar goes awry, monstrous, dream-eating moths are set loose, preying upon the citizens' minds and plunging the city into terror. As the scientist grapples with the consequences of his actions, a motley group of individuals, including a renegade artist, a wingless bird-man, and other outcasts, come together in a desperate attempt to save their city from the eldritch horrors that now haunt its shadowy streets. Their journey takes them through the city's various layers, from the opulent heights to the grimy depths, revealing the complex tapestry of cultures and conflicts that define this urban labyrinth.

    The 4540th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 55. The Night Land by William Hope Hodgson

    The book is a dark and imaginative science fiction tale set in a distant future where the sun has died, and the remnants of humanity reside within a colossal metal pyramid known as the Last Redoubt, shielded from the monstrous and supernatural creatures that roam the eternal night of the surrounding wasteland. The story follows the journey of a lone protagonist, who, driven by a telepathic connection with his beloved, embarks on a perilous quest across the desolate and horror-filled landscape to rescue her from a similar refuge far across the land, confronting not only the physical dangers of the Night Land but also the limits of human endurance and the power of love and hope in the face of overwhelming darkness.

    The 4610th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 56. Profiles Of The Future : An Inquiry Into The Limits Of The Possible by Arthur C. Clarke

    "Profiles of the Future: An Inquiry into the Limits of the Possible" explores the boundaries of scientific and technological advancements, examining what might be achievable in the future based on the laws of nature as understood at the time of writing. The book delves into a variety of potential developments across different fields, from space travel and teleportation to the possibility of immortality, discussing not only the technological hurdles but also the philosophical and ethical implications of such advancements. The author uses a combination of scientific principles, speculative reasoning, and imaginative scenarios to challenge readers to think about the evolution of technology and its impact on human society.

    The 4671st Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 57. Rats And Gargoyles by Mary Gentle

    In a world where humans coexist with magical beings and the gods themselves walk the earth, "Rats and Gargoyles" unfolds an intricate tale of power, intrigue, and revolution. At the heart of this richly detailed universe is a city dominated by the Thirty-Six Decans, godlike beings who rule over humans and the enigmatic White Crow, a woman of many secrets with the knowledge to manipulate the very fabric of reality. Amidst a backdrop of looming architectural marvels and a society where alchemy and technology intertwine, the story weaves together the lives of diverse characters caught in a web of destiny and dark magic. As plots unravel, the balance of power shifts, leading to a struggle that challenges the foundations of the world itself.

    The 4736th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 58. The Power by Naomi Alderman

    "The Power" by Naomi Alderman is a speculative fiction novel that imagines a world where women develop the ability to produce electrical shocks from their bodies, giving them a newfound physical power over men. The novel follows the lives of four characters as they navigate this new reality and the societal and political upheaval that comes with it. Through their experiences, the book explores themes of gender, power, and the corrupting nature of authority.

    The 4892nd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 59. That Hideous Strength by C. S. Lewis

    The novel explores the moral and spiritual struggles faced by its characters as they contend with a sinister scientific organization aiming to control humanity. Set in a quiet English university town, the story follows a sociologist and his wife as they become entangled with the National Institute for Co-ordinated Experiments, which seeks to manipulate human life through advanced technology and ruthless tactics. As the couple is drawn deeper into this morally corrupt world, they must decide where they stand in the cosmic battle between good and evil, with the help of a mysterious company that aligns with divine forces.

    The 4916th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 60. The End Of The World News by Anthony Burgess

    This novel is an ambitious and unconventional triptych that interweaves three distinct narratives: the psychoanalytic adventures of Sigmund Freud, the escapades of Leon Trotsky aboard a ship to New York, and a science fiction tale about the impending collision of Earth with a rogue planet. Through a daring blend of historical fiction, political drama, and speculative storytelling, the book explores themes of human desire, societal upheaval, and the existential threats facing civilization. Its innovative structure and the juxtaposition of seemingly disparate stories challenge readers to consider the interconnectedness of personal, political, and cosmic destinies.

    The 4992nd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 61. The Day Of Creation by J. G. Ballard

    In this novel, a restless scientist, driven by the desire to bring change to a parched, war-torn African country, inadvertently discovers a vast river where there was none before. His initial hopes for this miraculous waterway to become a force for good quickly sour as various factions vie for control, and the river itself becomes a source of chaos and destruction. As the protagonist becomes increasingly obsessed with the river, his journey turns into a surreal and perilous adventure, reflecting on the destructive impact of human ambition and the unpredictable power of nature.

    The 5090th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 62. Out Of The Silent Planet by C. S. Lewis

    In this science fiction novel, a man named Dr. Elwin Ransom finds himself transported to another planet called Malacandra. As he explores this strange new world, he encounters various intelligent beings and learns about their unique cultures and languages. Ransom soon realizes that he has been brought to Malacandra as a sacrifice, but he manages to escape and embarks on a thrilling journey to return home. Along the way, he grapples with themes of good versus evil, the nature of humanity, and the existence of a higher power.

    The 5397th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 63. Trillion Year Spree by Brian W. Aldiss

    "Trillion Year Spree" is a comprehensive history of science fiction literature, tracing its origins from ancient times through to the modern era. The book explores the evolution of the genre, highlighting key authors, works, and thematic developments. It delves into how science fiction reflects and addresses fundamental human concerns and societal issues, using speculative scenarios to explore possible futures. The narrative also examines the impact of technological advancements on the genre and its increasing popularity and legitimacy as a significant form of literary expression.

    The 5495th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 64. Only Forward by Michael Marshall Smith

    This novel is a captivating blend of science fiction and noir detective genres, set in a future where society is divided into specialized neighborhoods reflecting the inhabitants' personalities and desires. The protagonist, a witty and resourceful problem-solver with a mysterious past, is tasked with finding a missing person, a seemingly straightforward job that spirals into a surreal and dangerous adventure. As he navigates through bizarre and vividly imagined environments, confronting his own fears and memories, the story delves into themes of identity, memory, and the nature of reality itself, all while maintaining a sharp, humorous edge.

    The 5725th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 65. The Time Ships by Stephen Baxter

    This novel is a sequel to H.G. Wells' classic "The Time Machine," expanding on the original story with a grand exploration of time and space. The protagonist, the Time Traveler, embarks on another journey, only to find his actions have altered the future. He navigates through a series of alternate realities and timelines, including a world dominated by Morlocks, a post-human solar system, and a universe at the brink of its end. Throughout his adventures, he confronts philosophical and moral dilemmas, including the nature of humanity, the concept of time, and the impact of his own interventions. This ambitious narrative combines hard science fiction with deep philosophical questions, offering a complex and thought-provoking continuation of the original tale.

    The 5842nd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 66. The First Men In The Moon by H. G. Wells

    "The First Men In The Moon" is a science fiction novel that follows two adventurers, a businessman and a scientist, who build a spaceship and travel to the moon. Once there, they encounter a strange civilization of insect-like creatures called Selenites and become embroiled in a dangerous and thrilling adventure as they try to survive and find a way back to Earth. The story explores themes of exploration, colonialism, and the limits of human knowledge, all within Wells' imaginative and thought-provoking narrative.

    The 5927th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 67. Bold As Love by Gwyneth Jones

    "Bold As Love" by Gwyneth Jones is a science fiction novel set in a near-future Britain that has been ravaged by climate change and political unrest. The story follows a rock band called Bold As Love, led by charismatic and enigmatic Ax Preston, as they navigate through a post-apocalyptic world. With themes of love, revolution, and the power of music, the book explores the band's journey to bring hope and change to a society on the brink of collapse.

    The 6099th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 68. Best Science Fiction Stories of H. G. Wells by H. G. Wells

    This book is a collection of the best science fiction stories by a renowned British author, known for his pioneering work in the genre. The anthology contains a variety of tales that explore themes such as time travel, alien invasion, evolution, and dystopian futures. The author's vivid imagination, combined with his scientific knowledge, results in stories that are both fantastical and eerily plausible, solidifying his status as a master of science fiction.

    The 6169th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 69. The Scar by China Miéville

    This novel transports readers to a fantastical world of piracy, politics, and magic on the high seas. Set in the same universe as its predecessor, it follows a linguist who, after fleeing her war-torn city, becomes embroiled in the complex society of Armada, a city made of pirated ships. The narrative weaves together themes of power, identity, and rebellion, as the inhabitants of Armada embark on a perilous quest to harness the power of a mythical sea creature. Rich in imaginative detail and populated with a diverse cast of characters, the story explores the depths of human ambition and the lengths to which people will go to achieve their desires.

    The 6545th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 70. Revelation Space by Alastair Reynolds

    This science fiction novel unfolds in a universe where humanity has spread across the stars but is haunted by the remnants of ancient, advanced civilizations. The story follows a scientist who unearths a deadly secret on a distant, archaeologically rich planet, a former soldier turned pilot with a mysterious past, and an assassin who is part machine. Their paths converge around an impending catastrophe that threatens not just humanity but the very fabric of the universe. Set against a backdrop of deep space, ancient mysteries, and futuristic technology, the narrative weaves together themes of discovery, survival, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge at any cost.

    The 6553rd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 71. The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell

    This novel weaves together the lives of diverse characters through a narrative that spans decades, centering on a teenage runaway with psychic abilities. As she becomes embroiled in a covert war between immortal factions, the story explores themes of mortality, power, and the interconnectedness of human lives. The intricate plot moves through different times and places, revealing a hidden world of mysticism and a looming apocalyptic crisis, all while examining the impact of our actions on the future of the planet.

    The 6585th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 72. Klara And The Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro

    The novel centers around Klara, an Artificial Friend with keen observational qualities, who, from her place in the store, watches the behavior of those who come in to browse, and those who pass on the street outside. She remains hopeful that a customer will soon choose her, but when the possibility emerges that her circumstances may change forever, Klara is warned not to invest too much in the promises of humans. Set in a dystopian future, the story explores complex themes such as the nature of love, the ethics of artificial intelligence, and what it truly means to be human, all through the eyes of an AI protagonist yearning to understand the people she is meant to serve.

    The 6862nd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 73. Children Of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky

    "Children of Time" by Adrian Tchaikovsky is a science fiction novel that explores the evolution of two species, humans and spiders, on different planets. When Earth faces destruction, a group of humans embarks on a mission to terraform a new planet and create a new civilization. However, an experiment involving a virus meant to accelerate the evolution of monkeys goes wrong, leading to the unintended uplift of spiders. The story follows the parallel development of both species, highlighting their struggles, conflicts, and eventual convergence as they vie for dominance in a rapidly changing world.

    The 6924th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 74. The Inverted World by Christopher Priest

    "The Inverted World" is a science fiction novel set in a future world where a city called "Earth" is constantly on the move, with the aim of staying ahead of a mysterious and dangerous force known as "the slowing." The story follows a young apprentice named Helward Mann, who discovers unsettling truths about the city's true nature and its inhabitants. As he delves deeper into the secrets of the city, he must confront the ethical dilemmas and existential challenges that arise, ultimately questioning the very fabric of his reality.

    The 6976th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 75. Ascent by Jed Mercurio

    This novel is a gripping tale of ambition, sacrifice, and the human spirit's relentless pursuit of greatness. Set against the backdrop of the Cold War space race, it follows the life of Yefgenii Yeremin, an orphan from the streets of post-war Russia, who rises through the ranks of the Soviet Air Force to become a top pilot. Despite his exceptional skills, Yeremin is shunned by his peers and superiors, leading him to undertake a perilous mission that could alter the course of history. Through his journey, the book explores themes of isolation, the cost of ambition, and the quest for recognition, culminating in a dramatic climax that questions the very essence of heroism and sacrifice.

    The 7145th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download