The Foundation series is Isaac Asimov’s iconic masterpiece. Unfolding against the backdrop of a crumbling Galactic Empire, the story of Hari Seldon’s two Foundations is a lasting testament to an extraordinary imagination, one that shaped science fiction as we know it today. The Galactic Empire has prospered for twelve thousand years. Nobody suspects that the heart of the thriving Empire is rotten, until psychohistorian Hari Seldon uses his new science to foresee its terrible fate. Exiled to the desolate planet Terminus, Seldon establishes a colony of the greatest minds in the Empire, a Foundation which holds the key to changing the fate of the galaxy. However, the death throes of the Empire breed hostile new enemies, and the young Foundation’s fate will be threatened first.
A landmark science fiction saga, Foundation begins with mathematician Hari Seldon, who predicts the fall of a galactic empire using psychohistory. To preserve knowledge and shorten the dark age to follow, he establishes the Foundation. Spanning centuries and multiple protagonists, the series explores politics, philosophy, and the tension between determinism and free will. Asimov’s visionary universe laid the groundwork for generations of sci-fi and remains an intellectual epic of civilization’s rise and fall.
A prolific and influential Russian-born American science fiction writer and biochemist. Asimov was known for his "hard science fiction," emphasizing scientific accuracy and logical extrapolation. His iconic works include the Foundation series and the I, Robot stories, which explored the ethics of artificial intelligence and the future of humanity in space. Asimov's clear writing and imaginative ideas made him one of the "Big Three" of science fiction.
by Joe Haldeman
Joe Haldeman's "The Forever War" is a seminal piece of science fiction that delves into the harrowing experiences of interstellar warfare, juxtaposed against the passage of time. The novel follows William Mandella, a soldier drafted to fight in an endless war against an alien species known as the Taurans. As Mandella battles across the universe, time dilation effects result in decades passing on Earth, leaving him disconnected from humanity and culture. The book explores themes of isolation, the futility of war, and the struggles of returning soldiers. Haldeman, drawing on his own experiences in the Vietnam War, crafts a powerful narrative that remains a poignant and thought-provoking commentary on conflict and human perseverance. Through its reflections on the relentless passage of time and changing societies, "The Forever War" challenges readers to consider the impact of war on the soldier's psyche and the societal changes they must face upon returning home.
by Ann Leckie
Series: Imperial Radch (#1)
Ann Leckie's 'Ancillary Justice' is a groundbreaking science fiction novel that follows Breq, a former spaceship AI now occupying a human body, seeking vengeance against the ruler who betrayed her. The story unfolds in a vast interstellar empire where gender is irrelevant and power dynamics are complex. Leckie expertly explores themes of identity, power, and colonialism through a unique narrative structure that challenges traditional storytelling conventions. With its intricate world-building and gripping plot full of political intrigue and moral dilemmas, 'Ancillary Justice' captivates readers from start to finish, offering a thought-provoking reflection on what it means to be human.
Series: Teixcalaan (#2)
In this gripping sequel to A Memory Called Empire, the Teixcalaanli Empire faces a mysterious and deadly alien threat. Ambassador Mahit Dzmare and cultural liaison Three Seagrass are drawn into a war that tests diplomacy, loyalty, and identity. As battles rage and secrets emerge, the lines between empire and outsider blur. Martine’s rich prose and political insight deepen the stakes, offering a compelling exploration of language, colonialism, and connection. A Desolation Called Peace is a cerebral, emotionally resonant space opera that balances thrilling action with philosophical depth.
Series: The Unincorporated Man (#2)
The Unincorporated War by Dani Kollin is an exhilarating continuation of the saga that began with The Unincorporated Man. Set in a future where individuals can be 'incorporated' (i.e., having shares sold of themselves), the book focuses on the life-or-death struggle for freedom and self-determination. In this sequel, the protagonist Justin Cord leads a fierce rebellion against the powerful corporations that control Earth. The novel delves deeper into themes of capitalism, personal autonomy, and what it truly means to be free within a highly controlled society. Rich with political intrigue and adrenaline-pumping action, the story poses thought-provoking questions about our own world and the nature of governance. The Kollin brothers have crafted a compelling narrative that keeps readers hooked with its complex characters and intricate plotting. The book stands out not only for its imaginative setting but also for its piercing social commentary.