The 23 best about aliens books

1. The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin

What is this book about?

In Ursula K. Le Guin's "The Left Hand of Darkness" Genly Ai, a human emissary from a federation of planets, arrives on the icy world of Gethen. Tasked with persuading Gethen to join the federation, Genly struggles to navigate the planet's complex culture and social structures, particularly its unique system of "kemmer," a cyclical biological state where individuals can manifest as either male or female. As Genly travels across the unforgiving landscape, facing political intrigue, cultural misunderstandings, and perilous journeys, he develops a profound bond with Estraven, a Gethenian politician initially wary of Genly's mission. Through their experiences, the novel explores themes of gender identity, loyalty, and the nature of human connection, ultimately questioning the very definition of what it means to be human.

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2. Dune by Frank Herbert

What is this book about?

"Dune" by Frank Herbert transports readers to the harsh desert planet of Arrakis, the only source of the invaluable spice melange, a substance that grants enhanced mental abilities and interstellar travel. The story follows young Paul Atreides, heir to House Atreides, as his family takes control of Arrakis's spice production, only to be betrayed and thrust into a deadly power struggle with the cruel Harkonnen dynasty and the mysterious Fremen, the native people of Arrakis. As Paul navigates political machinations, ecological disaster, and ancient prophecies, he must confront his destiny and his potential to become a messianic figure for the Fremen, forever altering the fate of Arrakis and the entire galaxy.

Awards

• Hugo Award
• Nebula Award
• Seiun Award 星雲賞

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3. The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells, Arthur C. Clarke

What is this book about?

"The War of the Worlds" by H.G. Wells (not Arthur C. Clarke) tells the terrifying story of an alien invasion of Earth by technologically advanced Martians. As massive tripods armed with heat rays lay waste to the English countryside, a nameless narrator recounts the unfolding chaos and destruction. Forced to flee for their lives, the narrator and other survivors witness the horrifying power of the Martian invaders and the collapse of human civilization in the face of an overwhelming enemy. Amidst the terror and despair, the story explores themes of human vulnerability, the limits of technology, and the potential for hope even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

4. Area X: The Southern Reach Trilogy by Jeff VanderMeer

What is this book about?

"Area X: The Southern Reach Trilogy" by Jeff VanderMeer plunges readers into a realm of surreal mystery and ecological horror. When a remote and enigmatic coastal region known as Area X is cordoned off by a secretive government agency called the Southern Reach, teams of scientists and explorers are sent to investigate its strange phenomena. As each expedition ventures deeper into Area X, they encounter bizarre transformations of nature, unsettling psychological disturbances, and the lingering presence of something both ancient and alien. Through the perspectives of multiple narrators, including the biologist from the twelfth expedition, the trilogy gradually unravels the mysteries of Area X, revealing a profound meditation on the power of nature, the limits of human understanding, and the terrifying beauty of the unknown.

Who should read this book?

Fans of:

• Science fiction
• Horror
• Mystery
• Weird fiction
• Environmental themes
• Unreliable narrators
• Atmospheric prose

Awards

• World Fantasy Award
• John W. Campbell Memorial Award

5. The Tao Novels by Wesley Chu

What is this book about?

'The Tao Novels' by Wesley Chu tell the story of Cameron Jake, a Taiwanese-American con artist living in Chicago who inadvertently gets caught in a supernatural war between ancient Chinese secret societies. These societies wield powerful magic called "Tao," and Cameron finds himself entangled with them after a heist gone wrong leads to him being possessed by the spirit of his legendary ancestor. Now imbued with incredible Tao abilities, Cameron is forced to navigate a treacherous world of loyalty, betrayal, and ancient power struggles, all while trying to protect himself and his loved ones from the deadly forces that seek to control him and his newfound abilities.

6. A Fire Upon the Deep by Vernor Vinge

What is this book about?

'A Fire Upon the Deep' by Vernor Vinge plunges readers into a universe where technology and its capabilities are stratified by an enigmatic force known as the Zones. In the vast expanse beyond the Slow Zone, where faster-than-light travel is possible, a scientific expedition accidentally awakens a powerful, malevolent intelligence. This ancient entity, the Blight, threatens to engulf the galaxy in chaos and destruction. As civilizations grapple with the imminent threat, a disparate group of heroes emerges: Pham Nuwen, an infamous programmer facing his troubled past; Ravna Bergsndot, a young woman separated from her family; and even a pack of dog-like aliens called Tines, all thrust together to combat the Blight and save the galaxy from unimaginable darkness.

7. Ringworld by Larry Niven

What is this book about?

'Ringworld' by Larry Niven follows the expedition of Louis Wu, a bored human celebrating his 200th birthday, who is recruited by the enigmatic Pierson's Puppeteer for a mysterious mission. Joined by the adventurous Speaker-to-Animals and the fierce Kzin warrior, they journey to the Ringworld, a colossal artificial structure encircling a distant star. This habitat, with its astonishing size and gravity generated by centrifugal force, holds the secrets of an unknown and long-vanished alien race. As they explore the wonders and dangers of this vast, unknown world, the crew uncovers clues about the Ringworld's creators, its precarious state, and the potential threat it poses to their own civilizations.

Who should read this book?

• Sci-fi fans
• Readers who enjoy grand-scale settings
• People who like alien encounters and unique cultures
• Anyone seeking thought-provoking hard sci-fi concepts

Awards

• Hugo Award
• Nebula Award
• Locus Award
• Seiun Award 星雲賞

8. Rendezvous with Rama by Arthur C. Clarke

What is this book about?

'Rendezvous with Rama' by Arthur C. Clarke chronicles humanity's first encounter with an alien artifact: a colossal, cylindrical spacecraft named Rama, hurtling through our solar system. A team of astronauts is dispatched to intercept and investigate the enigmatic vessel. As they venture inside, they discover a vast, seemingly lifeless world filled with technological marvels and mysteries far beyond human comprehension. Tasked with unraveling the secrets of Rama before it vanishes from reach, the crew grapples with the awe-inspiring scale of alien technology and the philosophical implications of encountering a civilization so advanced.

9. The Gods Themselves by Isaac Asimov

What is this book about?

In Isaac Asimov's "The Gods Themselves" humanity has solved its energy crisis through an exchange with a parallel universe. However, this seemingly perfect solution unravels when radiochemist Frederick Hallam discovers the energy exchange is slowly changing the laws of physics, threatening both Earth and the alien civilization. Meanwhile, on the alien planet, a being named Dua struggles within their triune life form to warn humanity of the impending disaster, facing resistance from their own kind. As Hallam seeks evidence to expose the truth, he crosses paths with an unconventional researcher, sparking an unexpected romance amidst the looming cosmic threat. The fate of two universes rests on the courage of a few individuals who dare to challenge accepted truths and fight for the survival of both worlds.

Who should read this book?

• Science fiction fans
• Readers who enjoy thought-provoking concepts
• People who like complex characters and relationships
• Anyone looking for a classic work by a master of science fiction

Awards

• Hugo Award
• Nebula Award
• Locus Award
• Ditmar Award

10. Starship Troopers by Robert A. Heinlein

What is this book about?

'Starship Troopers' follows the story of Juan "Johnny" Rico, a young man from a future Earth dominated by the Terran Federation, a society where full citizenship is earned through military service. Driven by a mix of youthful ambition and a desire to please his father, Rico enlists in the Mobile Infantry, the Federation's elite fighting force. The story chronicles his grueling training, his experiences in combat against the arachnid-like "Bugs," and his personal growth from a naive recruit to a hardened veteran and officer. Through Rico's journey, Heinlein explores themes of duty, sacrifice, the nature of war, and the responsibilities of citizenship in a militaristic society.

Awards

• Hugo Award

11. Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer

What is this book about?

"Annihilation" follows the enigmatic biologist, the narrator, as she joins the twelfth expedition into Area X, a mysterious quarantined zone reclaimed by nature and shrouded in secrecy. Years earlier, Area X appeared, transforming the landscape and defying explanation. Inside its shimmering border, the biologist and her team - an anthropologist, a surveyor, and a psychologist - encounter an environment both beautiful and menacing, where the natural world has taken on unsettling and uncanny qualities. As they venture deeper, confronting their own personal demons and the expedition's history of tragedy, they uncover evidence of previous expeditions and confront the true, terrifying nature of Area X's transformation.

Awards

• Nebula Award
• Locus Award
• Warwick Prize for Writing
• Shirley Jackson Award
• Tähtivaeltaja Award

12. Authority by Jeff VanderMeer

What is this book about?

"Authority" shifts the narrative from the surreal landscape of Area X to the sterile confines of the Southern Reach, the secretive government agency tasked with investigating it. The story follows John Rodriguez, a former covert operative who takes on the role of the new director, only to find himself ensnared in a web of bureaucracy, paranoia, and conflicting agendas. As he delves into the agency's archives, searching for clues about Area X and the fate of previous expeditions, including that of his own mother, he uncovers a history of cover-ups, manipulation, and the disturbing influence of the enigmatic entity known only as "the Voice." Torn between his duty to the agency and his growing suspicion of its true motives, Control must confront the unsettling reality that the true nature of the threat may lie not within Area X, but within the very organization he now leads.

Who should read this book?

Fans of the Southern Reach trilogy, science fiction readers, and people who enjoy complex narratives.

13. Acceptance by Jeff VanderMeer

What is this book about?

"Acceptance" serves as both a prequel and a sequel, weaving together multiple perspectives and timelines to provide a more comprehensive understanding of Area X. We witness the origins of the mysterious border and the early days of the Southern Reach's investigation, marred by tragedy and missteps. The biologist's husband, who returns transformed from Area X as the eleventh expedition's sole survivor, grapples with his warped memories and uncontrollable urges. Meanwhile, Ghost Bird, a former assistant director of the Southern Reach, embarks on a perilous journey into the heart of Area X, seeking answers about her past and the true nature of the entity controlling it. As the narratives converge, the lines between reality and transformation blur, and the characters must confront the inevitable acceptance of Area X's power and the profound changes it brings to all who encounter it.

14. The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin, Ken Liu, Cixin Liu

What is this book about?

"The Three-Body Problem" tells the story of humanity's first contact with an alien civilization, the Trisolarans, who reside on a distant planet with a chaotic three-sun system. When astrophysicist Ye Wenjie, disillusioned by humanity's violence and betrayal, sends a message into space, she unwittingly invites the Trisolarans, a technologically advanced yet dying civilization, to Earth. As the Trisolaran fleet travels toward Earth over centuries, humanity grapples with the impending invasion, forming factions that either prepare for war or embrace the perceived superiority of the alien civilization. The book follows Ye Wenjie's life, the enigmatic Trisolaran game that simulates their invasion, and the growing global tension as humanity faces an uncertain future under the threat of alien conquest.

Who should read this book?

Sci-fi fans, history buffs, anyone interested in Chinese culture, and readers who enjoy complex narratives.

15. The Dark Forest by Liu Cixin, Joel Martinsen

What is this book about?

Following the events of "The Three-Body Problem," "The Dark Forest" sees humanity grappling with the impending threat of invasion by the technologically superior Trisolarans, who are fleeing their dying planet. As the Trisolaran fleet draws nearer, Earth's population is split between those who believe in appeasement and those who advocate for resistance. Amidst this global crisis, Luo Ji, a cynical but brilliant sociologist, is tasked with uncovering the motives behind the Trisolaran invasion and developing a strategy for humanity's survival. His investigations lead him to the chilling "dark forest theory," which posits that the vastness of space conceals countless civilizations, each locked in a deadly game of survival, where any civilization that reveals its existence risks immediate annihilation. As Luo Ji grapples with the implications of this theory, he devises a desperate gamble to deter the Trisolarans and secure humanity's future.

Awards

• Goodreads Choice Award

16. Death's End by Liu Cixin, Ken Liu

What is this book about?

"Death's End" concludes the "Remembrance of Earth's Past" trilogy with humanity facing ultimate extinction as the Trisolaran fleet arrives. As the invasion unfolds, humanity's defenses crumble, and a mass exodus into space begins. Amidst this chaos, different factions emerge, each with their own vision for the future. Cheng Xin, an aerospace engineer awakened from hibernation centuries later, finds herself thrust into a position of power and must make impossible choices that will determine the fate of humanity and its place in the universe. As dimensions collide, civilizations clash, and the very fabric of reality unravels, Cheng Xin confronts the true meaning of survival and the ultimate price of existence in a universe governed by the chilling laws of the dark forest.

Who should read this book?

Science fiction fans, readers who enjoy complex narratives, and those who like hard sci-fi concepts.

Awards

• Hugo Award
• Locus Award
• Kurd-Laßwitz-Preis
• Tähtivaeltaja Award
• Goodreads Choice Award

17. The Forever War by Joe Haldeman

What is this book about?

"The Forever War" follows the experiences of William Mandella, a soldier conscripted to fight in an interstellar war against an enigmatic alien species known as the Taurans. As Mandella endures brutal combat and witnesses the horrors of war, he also grapples with the disorienting effects of time dilation caused by interstellar travel. Each mission throws him centuries into Earth's future, where he returns to find a society radically different from the one he left behind. As the war drags on and Mandella becomes increasingly alienated from the world he is fighting for, he begins to question the purpose of the conflict and the very nature of humanity itself.

18. Hyperion by Dan Simmons

Who should read this book?

• Science fiction fans
• Readers who enjoy complex plots
• Lovers of epic adventures
• Anyone seeking thought-provoking themes

Awards

• Hugo Award
• Locus Award
• Arthur C. Clarke Award
• British Science Fiction Association Award
• Premio Ignotus

19. The Fall of Hyperion by Dan Simmons

What is this book about?

Picking up where Hyperion left off, The Fall of Hyperion delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding the Shrike, the Time Tombs, and the fate of the pilgrims. As the universe teeters on the brink of a catastrophic war, the poet Martin Silenus grapples with his newfound prophetic powers, unraveling cryptic verses that hint at a terrifying truth. Meanwhile, on the planet Hyperion, the pilgrims face their destinies, their individual stories intertwining with the grand cosmic tapestry woven by powerful beings known as the TechnoCore.

Awards

• Hugo Award
• Nebula Award
• Locus Award
• British Science Fiction Association Award
• SF Chronicle Award

20. The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress by Robert A. Heinlein

What is this book about?

In a future where the Moon serves as a penal colony for Earth, a ragtag group of revolutionaries, including a computer technician, a sharp-tongued professor, and a self-aware computer named Mike, band together to fight for lunar independence. Facing overwhelming odds against Earth's powerful forces, they utilize guerrilla tactics, cunning strategies, and the support of the lunar population to launch a rebellion, forever altering the balance of power between Earth and its former prisoner.

Who should read this book?

• Science fiction enthusiasts
• Fans of political thrillers
• Readers who enjoy stories about rebellion and revolution
• Anyone interested in thought-provoking explorations of freedom and societal structures

21. Contact by Carl Sagan

What is this book about?

'Contact' by Carl Sagan tells the story of Dr. Eleanor Arroway, a brilliant but skeptical astronomer, who discovers a powerful signal emanating from the star Vega. The signal contains instructions for building a complex machine that promises to transport a single human passenger to a distant part of the universe. Despite intense global scrutiny and religious, political, and scientific debates, the machine is built. Ellie is chosen for the journey, and her experience challenges her beliefs and humanity's understanding of its place in the cosmos. She encounters advanced extraterrestrial beings and receives profound insights about the universe and the nature of existence, though upon her return to Earth, she faces disbelief and accusations of fabrication, leaving her with the burden of proof and the profound impact of her journey.

Who should read this book?

• Fans of science fiction
• People interested in astronomy and astrophysics
• Readers who enjoy philosophical themes in their novels
• Anyone who likes thought-provoking stories

Awards

• Locus Award

22. Blindsight by Peter Watts

What is this book about?

'Blindsight' follows a crew of augmented humans aboard the spaceship Theseus, on a desperate mission to investigate a mysterious alien transmission emanating from the Oort Cloud. Led by the linguist Siri Keeton, whose brain has been surgically altered for enhanced pattern recognition, the crew encounters a vast, enigmatic artifact and its seemingly unintelligent but incredibly lethal inhabitants. As they grapple with the alien technology and the limitations of their own perceptions, Siri and the crew are forced to confront the terrifying possibility that consciousness may not be a prerequisite for intelligence, and that humanity's place in the universe might be far more precarious than they ever imagined.

Who should read this book?

• Science fiction fans
• Horror fans
• People interested in consciousness and perception
• Readers who enjoy philosophical challenges
• Fans of hard sci-fi with a focus on biology

23. The Andromeda Strain by Michael Crichton

What is this book about?

A deadly extraterrestrial microorganism, brought to Earth by a crashed satellite, throws a small Arizona town into chaos as it rapidly kills every living thing within its vicinity. The government scrambles to contain the outbreak, sending a team of specialized scientists to a secret underground laboratory to study the organism, nicknamed "Andromeda", and find a way to stop it before it can trigger a global catastrophe.

Awards

• Seiun Award 星雲賞