The 'Foundation' series by Isaac Asimov is also great. It's about a mathematician Hari Seldon who predicts the fall of the Galactic Empire and starts the Foundation to shorten the coming dark age.
The 'Hyperion Cantos' by Dan Simmons is a remarkable series. It combines elements of space exploration, mystery, and a group of pilgrims' stories. Each character's tale is unique and adds to the overall epic narrative.
The 'Dune' series by Frank Herbert is also outstanding. It has a richly detailed universe with political intrigue, religious elements, and a unique desert planet setting. The story of Paul Atreides and his journey is captivating.
One of the best is 'The Expanse' series. It has great world - building, with a complex political and military landscape in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system. The characters are well - developed, and the military aspects like space battles and strategic maneuvers are really engaging.
The 'Hyperion Cantos' by Dan Simmons is among the top science fiction series. It combines elements of space exploration, advanced technology, and complex characters. 'The Expanse' series by James S. A. Corey is also excellent. It presents a believable future of human expansion in the solar system, with great character development and exciting plotlines. And 'Ender's Game' series by Orson Scott Card, which delves into military strategy, ethics, and the psychology of a child prodigy in a future world.
The 'Dune' series by Frank Herbert is also a classic in modern science fiction. It features a complex universe with different factions vying for power over the spice, a valuable resource. The books explore themes like ecology, religion, and politics in a really deep and engaging way.
Library associations and awards can also point you in the right direction. The Hugo Awards and Nebula Awards are two of the most prestigious in the science fiction genre. Books that have won or been nominated for these awards are likely to be among the best - ranked. You can search for these award - winning series in your local library or bookstore.
One of the highly ranked science fiction series is 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. It has complex world - building, political intrigue, and a deep exploration of human and environmental themes.
One of the best is 'The Foundation Series' by Isaac Asimov. It presents a grand vision of a future galactic empire and its decline and rebirth. The complex ideas about psychohistory and the various characters' attempts to shape the future make it a classic.
For beginners, 'The Chronicles of Narnia' by C.S. Lewis is a great start. It's easy to read and has a wonderful sense of wonder and magic. The story of the children entering the magical world of Narnia through the wardrobe is iconic. Another good one is 'Percy Jackson & The Olympians' series. It combines modern - day settings with Greek mythology in a really fun way. The characters are relatable and the adventures are exciting.
One of the best new science fiction series is 'The Expanse' series by James S.A. Corey. It has great world - building, complex characters, and exciting plots that deal with politics, space exploration, and survival in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system.
One of the best science fiction series is 'Star Trek'. It has created a vast and complex universe with different species, advanced technologies, and thought - provoking storylines about exploration, diplomacy, and the human condition. The various spin - offs have also contributed to its long - lasting popularity.