The best sci-fi novels depended on one's personal preferences. People would have different answers. However, here are some highly acclaimed science fiction novels that might suit some people's tastes:
1 Galactic Empire series by Isaac Asimov.
2. The Three-Body Problem series.
3. The Wandering Earth series.
4. Star Trek series, George Lucas.
5. Avalanche and Dark Domain.
These novels were classics of science fiction literature, with a wide readership and high praise. Of course, there were many other excellent science fiction novels to choose from.
Alien planets are ideal. They can have unique terrains like purple deserts, oceans made of liquid methane, and strange biomes. The native alien species can have very different cultures and physiologies from humans, leading to all sorts of interactions and conflicts.
Outer space is a great location. It's filled with countless stars, planets, and mysterious phenomena like black holes. There could be alien races on different planets, and space battles could take place among various starships.
The best ones usually have engaging characters, even in a short space. These characters face extraordinary situations that are typical of the sci - fi genre, like alien encounters or time - travel paradoxes. Moreover, they often play with the readers' expectations. A good sci - fi short story can start in a seemingly ordinary way and then take you on a wild ride into the unknown, full of unexpected twists and turns. They also tend to explore deep philosophical or moral questions related to science and technology.
Make them outsiders. For example, in a world of genetically enhanced humans, your character could be the one unaltered human, struggling to fit in. Or give them a unique skill related to the sci - fi setting, like a hacker in a cybernetic future who can break into any system. Another way is to give them a strong moral code that clashes with the norms of the sci - fi society they are in.
I think 'The Best of Isaac Asimov' is also a great collection. Asimov was a master of sci - fi short stories, and this collection showcases his incredible range and creativity. His stories often explore complex scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging way.
One of the best is 'The Cold Equations' by Tom Godwin. It's a gripping tale about a spaceship pilot who has to make a tough decision when he discovers a stowaway on his ship, as the ship's resources are calculated precisely for its mission. Another great one is 'Flowers for Algernon' by Daniel Keyes. It tells the story of Charlie, a man with a low IQ who undergoes an experiment to increase his intelligence. The story explores themes of intelligence, humanity, and the consequences of playing with nature.
The best short sci - fi novels often have a really unique concept. For example, they might introduce a new technology or a strange alien species in a very concise way. They also usually have a strong message or theme, like exploring the nature of humanity in a future setting. A good short sci - fi novel can make you think deeply even in just a few pages.
One of the best is 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. It's a thought - provoking story that seems to be set in a normal small town but has a dark and unexpected ending. Another great one is 'Flowers for Algernon' by Daniel Keyes. It tells the story of a man with an intellectual disability who undergoes an experiment to increase his intelligence. Then there's 'The Veldt' by Ray Bradbury which explores the relationship between technology and family in a very interesting way.
Some of the great ones could be 'The Paper Menagerie' by Ken Liu. It beautifully blends science fiction elements with a very touching family story. Another might be 'The Girl with All the Gifts' by M. R. Carey which has a unique take on a post - apocalyptic world with a scientific twist on zombies.