What are the characteristics of good space fiction books?

One characteristic is the ability to make the reader feel like they are truly in space. This can be achieved through vivid descriptions of zero - gravity, the coldness of the void, and the beauty of the stars. Another is the creation of complex characters. These characters are often facing extraordinary situations in space, and their growth and decisions drive the story forward. Additionally, good space sci - fi books often incorporate scientific principles, even if they are speculative, which gives the story a sense of authenticity.

In 'Seveneves', a major characteristic is the high - concept scientific ideas. It's not just about the story but also about making you think about the implications of a major astronomical event. And it has a large - scale view of humanity's struggle for survival. For example, the different ways people adapt to the new situation after the moon's destruction are really thought - provoking.

These books usually use space as a fantastical backdrop. They might have elements like magic or mythical creatures in space. Like in some fairy - tale - like stories where a princess lives on a moon - shaped planet. It's not about how the planet exists scientifically but more about the story it can tell. Another characteristic is that they may not follow the typical rules of physics in science fiction. They can bend the rules for the sake of the story, such as characters flying through space without any technological aids just by the power of magic or some other non - scientific means.

In books about space disasters fiction, one characteristic is the high - stakes environment. Since space is a hostile place, any small mistake can lead to a huge disaster. For example, in 'The Martian', a simple equipment malfunction almost kills the main character. Another characteristic is the isolation of the characters. They are often far from Earth and help, like in '2001: A Space Odyssey'. The third characteristic is the unknown elements. There are always new and unexpected things in space that can cause disasters, such as strange alien phenomena.

They often have a large - scale setting, usually spanning across galaxies or at least a large part of a galaxy. For example, in 'Dune', the entire desert planet of Arrakis and the galactic political structure are important settings. Another characteristic is the presence of advanced technology like faster - than - light travel, as seen in many space opera books. They also tend to have complex characters with different motives and backstories.

Complex characters are also a big part. These characters come from different backgrounds and cultures. In 'Light of the Jedi', the Jedi have their own set of values and beliefs which are different from the other characters in the story. And there are often moral and ethical dilemmas that the characters have to face. They might have to make difficult choices between the good of their own people and the greater good of the galaxy.

Space opera science fiction books often feature a hero or a group of heroes on a grand adventure. They might have to save the galaxy or a particular civilization. The technology is often central, with things like huge starships, energy weapons, and advanced communication devices. Also, the books tend to explore social and political structures on a galactic level, with different races having their own cultures and power dynamics. For example, in 'Dune', the political struggle for control of the spice is a major part of the story, and it involves multiple noble houses and alien species. The technology in 'Dune' like the personal shields and the ability to predict the future through the spice also adds to the space opera feel.

One characteristic is the unknown setting. In space, there are so many uncertainties. Authors use this to create suspense. For example, in a lot of these books, the characters might encounter strange alien species or unexplained phenomena in space. Another is the high - stakes nature. Since space is so unforgiving, any mistake can be deadly, like in 'The Martian'. Also, the technology in these books often adds to the suspense. It can be both a tool for the characters and a source of danger, like in 'Altered Carbon' where the technology of consciousness transfer has many implications and risks.

One characteristic is the innovative use of science concepts. For example, in 'Project Hail Mary', the scientific explanations about space travel and survival are really engaging. Another is the creation of unique alien species or civilizations, like in 'The Three - Body Problem'. Also, complex characters who grow and change in the context of space exploration, as seen in 'A Memory Called Empire' are common in these books.

Many of the books in 'good books 2020 fiction' tend to have complex characters. For example, in 'The Vanishing Half', the characters are grappling with issues of race and identity which makes them multi - faceted.