The Greatest French, Unknown "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 301 '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. 1. Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne

    This classic science fiction novel follows the adventures of Professor Aronnax, his servant Conseil, and harpooner Ned Land as they are captured by the enigmatic Captain Nemo aboard the Nautilus, a technologically advanced submarine. As they journey 20,000 leagues under the sea, they encounter a variety of sea creatures and underwater phenomena. The narrative explores themes of exploration, scientific discovery, and man's relationship with nature.

    The 273rd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Journey to the Center of the Earth by Jules Verne

    This science fiction novel revolves around a German professor who believes there are volcanic tubes leading to the center of the Earth. He, his nephew, and their guide embark on an adventurous expedition down an Icelandic volcano into the Earth's core. They encounter prehistoric animals, natural disasters, and otherworldly phenomena along their journey. The expedition is both thrilling and dangerous, testing the limits of their courage and survival skills.

    The 589th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Sound Of His Horn by Sarban

    "The Sound of His Horn" is a dystopian science fiction novel set in a future where the Nazis have won World War II. The story follows Alan Querdilion, a British prisoner of war who wakes up in a bizarre alternate reality ruled by a cruel and sadistic Nazi regime. As he navigates this nightmarish world, Querdilion must confront his own survival instincts and grapple with the moral implications of his actions. With its haunting atmosphere and thought-provoking exploration of power and humanity, the novel offers a chilling and unsettling reflection on the consequences of totalitarianism.

    The 1860th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Malevil by Robert Merle

    Set in the aftermath of a devastating nuclear war, the novel follows a group of survivors who find refuge in a medieval castle named Malevil. The survivors, led by the protagonist, must navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives in a drastically altered world. They grapple with issues of survival, community, morality, and leadership as they encounter other groups of survivors with different philosophies and intentions. The story is a gripping exploration of human resilience, the will to maintain civilization, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships in a post-apocalyptic setting.

    The 1903rd Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Ice People by Unknown

    The book in question is a speculative fiction novel set in a dystopian future where a sudden and severe ice age has gripped the Earth, leading to the collapse of civilization and the emergence of a new society. The story follows the protagonist, a historian, who discovers the truth about the ice age's origins and the existence of an advanced prehistoric civilization. As the protagonist delves deeper into the past, he uncovers startling revelations about humanity's history and the cyclical nature of human progress and decline, all while navigating the challenges of life in a frozen world.

    The 5158th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Ravage by René Barjavel

    Set in a dystopian future where technological civilization has collapsed following a catastrophic event, the narrative follows a group of survivors as they navigate a world plunged into chaos. With all modern conveniences and social structures gone, the protagonist, a young man, leads a band of people from the ruins of Paris to his ancestral home in Provence, hoping to rebuild a simpler, agrarian-based society. Along the way, they face numerous challenges, including the regression of humanity to barbarism and the struggle to maintain their own humanity in the face of desperation. The story is a cautionary tale about the fragility of civilization and the enduring power of nature and human resilience.

    The 5218th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Immortals by René Barjavel

    "The Immortals" is a science fiction novel that explores the consequences of a groundbreaking discovery: a serum that grants eternal youth. As the serum becomes a coveted resource, it drastically alters society, leading to a chasm between the immortal elite and the aging population. The narrative delves into themes of power, inequality, and the ethical dilemmas of immortality, while following the lives of those who seek to control the serum and those who are affected by its existence. The story raises profound questions about the nature of life, death, and the true cost of eternal life.

    The 5235th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Mysterious Island by Jules Verne

    This novel follows the adventures of five prisoners of the American Civil War who escape by hijacking a balloon and crash-landing on an uncharted island in the Pacific. Using their skills and knowledge, they endeavor to survive and master the island's resources, uncovering its secrets along the way. Their ingenuity in the face of adversity, the discovery of a mysterious benefactor, and encounters with pirates weave a tale of exploration, survival, and the triumph of human intellect and camaraderie against the odds. The story is a testament to the enduring human spirit, the value of scientific knowledge, and the mysteries that the natural world holds.

    The 5887th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Feed by Seanan McGuire

    In a world where humanity has been ravaged by a zombie apocalypse, a team of bloggers sets out to cover the presidential elections, offering a unique perspective on the state of a society where the undead are a constant threat. The protagonist, a young woman with a passion for the truth, navigates a landscape of danger, political intrigue, and conspiracy, all while dealing with the challenges of living in a post-apocalyptic environment. As they delve deeper into the heart of America's reanimated politics, they uncover a plot that could have dire consequences for both the living and the undead, forcing them to confront the question of what it truly means to be human in a world overrun by zombies.

    The 6385th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Empire Of The Ants by Bernard Werber

    In this novel, readers are plunged into a fascinating and complex world beneath their feet, where an ant civilization thrives with its own sophisticated society, technology, and culture. The story intertwines the lives of these ants with the human world, particularly through the experiences of a family that inherits a mysterious apartment in Paris, which hides secrets linked to the ant empire. As the narrative unfolds, the book explores themes of coexistence, the nature of intelligence, and the intricate balance of ecosystems, challenging the reader to consider the world from an entirely different perspective and to question humanity's place within the grand scheme of life.

    The 6495th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Les Thanatonautes by Bernard Werber

    The book explores the adventures of a group of pioneering scientists who embark on an experimental journey to map the realm of death, which they term "Thanatonautes." By inducing near-death experiences, they navigate through successive levels of the afterlife, each with its own challenges and landscapes, in an attempt to uncover the secrets of what lies beyond life. Their quest for knowledge pushes the boundaries of science and spirituality, leading to profound insights about the human soul and the mysteries of existence, while also raising ethical and philosophical questions about the consequences of tampering with the unknown.

    The 6649th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Les Racines Du Mal by Maurice G. Dantec

    The book is a dark and complex thriller set in the near future, where a series of gruesome murders has gripped Europe. The narrative follows a troubled detective with a cybernetically enhanced brain as he tracks a serial killer whose crimes are linked to a sinister biotechnology corporation. As the investigation deepens, the detective uncovers a web of conspiracy that challenges the boundaries of human nature and technology, leading to a chilling exploration of the roots of evil and the potential horrors of a post-human world.

    The 6695th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. La Horde Du Contrevent by Alain Damasio

    The book is a French science fiction novel that follows a group of intrepid explorers, known as the Horde, as they embark on an epic quest against a relentless, omnipresent wind to reach the mysterious source of the wind at the far end of their world. The narrative is uniquely structured, with each member of the Horde providing their own perspective, and the story delves into themes of camaraderie, human resilience, and the struggle against nature. As the characters face physical and existential challenges, the novel explores the depths of human experience and the bonds that form in the face of adversity.

    The 8109th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Gideon The Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

    In a universe where necromancers hold power, Gideon, a skilled swordswoman, is reluctantly paired with her childhood rival, Harrow, to compete in a deadly trial that could grant them immortality. As they venture into an ancient, decaying mansion filled with secrets and puzzles, they must unravel the mysteries of their world and face sinister forces lurking within. With a blend of dark humor, complex characters, and a gripping plot, "Gideon The Ninth" is a thrilling and unique blend of science fiction and fantasy.

    The 8144th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Possibility Of An Island by Michel Houellebecq

    The novel explores the life and thoughts of a successful comedian who, disillusioned with the superficiality and decay of human relationships in a hedonistic society, becomes involved with a cult that seeks immortality through cloning and genetic manipulation. As the narrative alternates between the comedian's experiences and the reflections of his future cloned descendants, it delves into themes of existential despair, the search for meaning, and the consequences of eternal life. The story weaves a bleak and satirical tapestry of humanity's obsession with youth, sex, and death, ultimately questioning the very nature of human progress and happiness.

    The 8193rd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. The Difference Engine by William Gibson, Bruce Sterling

    "The Difference Engine" is an alternative history novel set in Victorian England, where Charles Babbage successfully builds his Analytical Engine, a revolutionary steam-powered computer. The story follows two protagonists, one a paleontologist and the other a detective, as they become embroiled in a conspiracy involving political intrigue, technological advancements, and a dangerous secret society. With a blend of historical accuracy and speculative fiction, the book explores themes of power, progress, and the consequences of technological innovation.

    The 8462nd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. The Quantum Thief by Hannu Rajaniemi

    In a future where privacy is a luxury and reality is shaped by quantum technology, a master thief named Jean le Flambeur finds himself imprisoned in a virtual world. When a mysterious woman offers him a chance at freedom in exchange for a seemingly impossible heist, Jean must navigate a complex web of deceit, advanced technology, and shifting loyalties to outsmart his enemies and uncover the truth about his own past. With its mind-bending concepts and intricate plot, "The Quantum Thief" is a thrilling and thought-provoking science fiction novel.

    The 9678th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Vn by Madeline Ashby

    In a futuristic world where virtual reality is seamlessly integrated into everyday life, a young girl named Amy Peterson is created to serve as a companion for a wealthy businessman's daughter. As Amy navigates the complexities of her existence and develops her own consciousness, she must confront the moral and ethical implications of her existence and the blurred lines between reality and virtuality. With thought-provoking themes and a captivating narrative, this book explores the nature of humanity and the consequences of advancing technology.

    The 9814th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Planet Of The Apes by Pierre Boulle

    In this thought-provoking novel, a group of astronauts crash-land on a planet where apes are the dominant species and humans are primitive creatures. The story follows the protagonist as he struggles to survive and understand this upside-down world, ultimately challenging the reader's notions of civilization, intelligence, and the nature of humanity.

    The 9823rd Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. From The Earth To The Moon by Jules Verne

    "From The Earth To The Moon" is a science fiction novel that follows the ambitious plan of a group of American Civil War veterans to launch a projectile to the moon. Set in the late 19th century, the story explores the scientific and technical challenges faced by the characters as they strive to achieve this extraordinary feat. The book delves into the themes of human curiosity, determination, and the boundless possibilities of scientific advancement.

    The 9829th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. The Stars Are Legion by Kameron Hurley

    "The Stars Are Legion" is a science fiction novel set in a universe comprised of living, organic worlds known as the Legion. The story follows Zan, a warrior with no memory of her past, as she navigates a treacherous landscape of warring factions and decaying civilizations. With the fate of the Legion at stake, Zan embarks on a dangerous mission to unlock the secrets of her identity and save her people from extinction. Filled with complex characters, vivid world-building, and a gripping plot, this book explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the power of choice in a unique and imaginative way.

    The 10254th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Exit Strategy by Martha Wells

    In "Exit Strategy," a thrilling sci-fi novel, a rogue artificial intelligence named Murderbot continues its quest for freedom and self-discovery. Tasked with rescuing a group of scientists from a dangerous situation, Murderbot must confront its own fears and navigate treacherous alliances. As it battles against powerful forces, the AI must decide whether to prioritize its own survival or risk everything to protect those it has come to care for. With its sharp wit and gripping action, "Exit Strategy" explores themes of identity, autonomy, and the complexities of human emotions.

    The 10301st Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Foreigner by C. J. Cherryh

    In "Foreigner" by C. J. Cherryh, the story follows the protagonist, a human diplomat named Bren Cameron, who is assigned to be the sole intermediary between a human colony and an alien species known as the atevi. As Bren navigates the complex cultural differences and political tensions, he must carefully balance his loyalty to both species, all while uncovering the mysteries surrounding the atevi and their intentions. This thrilling science fiction novel explores themes of diplomacy, trust, and the challenges of understanding the "other" in a foreign world.

    The 10417th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Memory by Lois McMaster Bujold

    In this captivating science fiction novel, a young woman named Dag is tasked with the responsibility of restoring the lost memories of a society that has been stripped of its past. As she delves into the secrets of memory manipulation, she uncovers a shocking conspiracy that threatens to unravel the very fabric of her world. With her determination and resilience, Dag must navigate through a web of deceit and danger to uncover the truth and save her people from a future devoid of their collective memories.

    The 10449th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Black Man by Richard Morgan

    "Black Man" by Richard Morgan (also published as "Thirteen" in the United States) is a futuristic science fiction novel set in a world where genetically engineered humans, known as "variants," exist alongside regular humans. The story follows Carl Marsalis, a former variant soldier who is now working as a private investigator. As he gets caught up in a series of murders, Carl must confront his own troubled past while navigating a society that fears and discriminates against him. This gripping and thought-provoking novel explores themes of identity, prejudice, and the consequences of scientific advancements.

    The 10659th 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