Character development is key. In 'The Martian', we see Mark Watney grow from a stranded astronaut to a resourceful survivor. Another aspect is the ability to blend different genres. 'Snow Crash' combines cyberpunk with elements of adventure and mystery. And excellent science fiction books often create a new vocabulary or use existing words in new ways, as seen in 'Hyperion' with its complex and imaginative language.
One characteristic is complex world - building. For example, in 'Dune', the detailed description of the desert planet Arrakis and its unique ecology and culture makes the story immersive. Another is deep exploration of ideas. In 'Neuromancer', it delves into concepts like artificial intelligence and the relationship between humans and technology. Also, complex characters are common. In 'Hyperion', each of the pilgrims has a rich backstory and complex motives.
I would recommend 'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card. It's about a young boy, Ender, who is trained in military strategy in a future where Earth is preparing for an alien invasion. The book delves deep into themes of morality, leadership, and the cost of war. 'Neuromancer' by William Gibson is also really good. It's a cyberpunk classic that introduced many concepts related to virtual reality and hacking long before they became mainstream. And then there's 'Foundation' by Isaac Asimov. It presents a grand vision of a galactic empire in decline and the efforts to preserve knowledge through a series of Foundations.
Well, first of all, they have accurate historical settings. For example, in 'The Other Boleyn Girl', the details of the Tudor court are well - researched. Secondly, strong characters are crucial. In 'Cold Mountain', the main characters' stories are deeply intertwined with the historical backdrop of the American Civil War. And thirdly, they often have a compelling plot that keeps readers engaged, like in 'The Help' which shows the racial situation in the American South in the 1960s.
The books in this list may also show the anxieties of the era. With the Cold War going on, there could be themes related to the fear of nuclear war or the power struggles between different superpowers. At the same time, they might be exploring new ideas in biology and medicine as science was advancing in those fields at that time. For instance, some books could be speculating about genetic engineering or new ways of treating diseases in a science - fiction context.
Many science fiction books often have advanced technology concepts. For example, in books like 'Dune', there are ideas about unique ecological systems and advanced weaponry. Another characteristic could be the exploration of different social structures. In 'Ender's Game', the military - based society for training children has a very distinct structure. And in 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy', there is a lot of humor and absurdity, which is also a common trait in some science fiction works.
One characteristic is the use of futuristic settings. For example, in 'Blade Runner', the cityscape is a dark and gritty future Los Angeles filled with flying cars and replicants. Another is the exploration of scientific concepts. In 'Ender's Game', the idea of military strategy in a zero - gravity environment is explored.
Science fiction books often feature imaginative concepts like advanced technologies, space exploration, and alternate realities. They usually have complex plots and characters dealing with futuristic challenges.
One really good science fiction book is 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. It has a richly detailed universe, complex characters, and explores themes like politics, religion, and ecology in a science - fictional setting.
Some of the books in the list could feature advanced technology that impacts the relationships of gay characters. Maybe there are stories where a new form of communication or transportation affects how gay characters interact with each other and the world around them. Also, the stories may vary in terms of their tone, from dark and gritty to more light - hearted and hopeful, but all within the framework of science - fiction and with a focus on gay experiences.
They usually have unique world - building. For example, some might create societies where homosexuality is the norm or is treated very differently from our own world. This can lead to interesting power dynamics and social structures within the story.