China Miéville is well - regarded in this genre. His books like 'Perdido Street Station' have a unique blend of strange creatures and complex urban settings. Kim Stanley Robinson is known for his detailed and often ecological - themed science fiction, such as the 'Mars' trilogy. And Paolo Bacigalupi writes about environmental and social issues in a science - fictional context, for example in 'The Windup Girl'.
Jeff VanderMeer is a name in contemporary science fiction. His 'Southern Reach' trilogy is full of strange and otherworldly concepts. Cory Doctorow is also famous. He writes about digital rights and how technology impacts society in works like 'Little Brother'. And of course, there's Octavia Butler, who was a pioneer in exploring themes of race, gender, and power in science fiction with works like 'Kindred' and 'Parable of the Sower'.
Octavia E. Butler is another important figure. Her works, like 'Kindred', often blend science fiction elements with issues of race, gender, and power. She has a unique ability to make readers think about these social issues through the lens of science fiction.
One of the notable contemporary French science - fiction authors is Philippe Curval. His novels usually deal with complex themes such as time travel and its implications. There's also Régis Loisel, who is famous for his detailed and visually - rich storytelling. Additionally, Serge Brussolo has made a name for himself with his dark and thought - provoking science - fiction works.
Isaac Asimov is a well - known author in 'best of science fiction'. He wrote many important works like the 'Foundation' series. His ideas about robotics and future societies are very thought - provoking. Another is Arthur C. Clarke. He's famous for works such as '2001: A Space Odyssey'. His vision of space exploration and the relationship between humanity and advanced technology is remarkable.
One well - known contemporary fiction author is Haruki Murakami. His works, like 'Norwegian Wood' and 'Kafka on the Shore', are known for their dreamy and surreal elements. Another is Margaret Atwood. Her novels such as 'The Handmaid's Tale' are very popular and often deal with feminist and dystopian themes. J.K. Rowling is also a significant figure, mainly known for the 'Harry Potter' series which has a huge global following.
J. R. R. Tolkien is a very well - known author. His works in 'the best of fantasy and science fiction' are highly regarded. He created Middle - earth, a world full of magic and adventure. Isaac Asimov is also famous. His Foundation series is a masterpiece. Another one is Philip K. Dick. His works often explore complex themes like reality and identity.
Ken Liu is highly regarded. He has a knack for weaving complex cultural elements into his science fiction short stories. His works often bridge different cultures and time periods, creating a rich tapestry of ideas. His translations of Chinese science fiction also contribute to the diversity of contemporary science fiction short stories.
Jonathan Safran Foer is also prominent. His works, such as 'Everything Is Illuminated', use unique narrative styles to explore his own Jewish identity as well as broader themes related to family, history, and the human condition in the context of the Jewish experience.
Toni Morrison is a very well - known author in contemporary black fiction. Her works like 'Beloved' are highly regarded. Another is Ta - Nehisi Coates, who has written powerful books exploring race and identity.
George Saunders is a popular figure in contemporary short fiction. His stories are known for their unique blend of humor and poignant social commentary. He often uses surreal elements to tell stories about modern - day America.
One well - known author is J.K. Rowling. Her 'Harry Potter' series, while having elements of fantasy, is also set in a contemporary Western - like world and has had a huge impact on modern literature. Another is Stephen King. He is famous for his horror and suspense novels that often deal with contemporary fears and issues in a Western context.