Margaret Atwood's 'The Handmaid's Tale' can also be considered. It shows a future where women are subjugated and used solely for reproductive purposes. The main character endures so much oppression and the overall atmosphere of the book is one of despair and the loss of basic human rights.
One of the most depressing fiction books is 'The Catcher in the Rye'. It portrays the alienation and disillusionment of the main character, Holden Caulfield. His experiences in a world he sees as 'phony' are quite sad. Another is 'A Little Life' by Hanya Yanagihara. It follows the lives of four friends, especially Jude, who endures unspeakable traumas throughout his life. The book is filled with his pain and the often-bleak existence of the characters.
Well, 'The Road' by Cormac McCarthy, while not strictly pure science fiction but has some elements of post - apocalyptic world which can be related to the genre. It shows a father and son struggling to survive in a desolate world. The constant threat of starvation, violence from other survivors, and the overall bleakness of the landscape make it a very depressing read. There seems to be no hope for a better future in that world.
You should consider 'Annihilation' by Jeff VanderMeer. It has a really creepy and mysterious atmosphere. The story of a group exploring an area known as Area X is full of strange happenings and mind - bending concepts.
I'd recommend starting with 'Fahrenheit 451' by Ray Bradbury. It's not only a great science - fiction story but also has a lot to say about society, censorship, and the importance of books. It's very accessible and will draw you into the world of science fiction quickly. Another good one to start with could be 'I, Robot' by Isaac Asimov. It has a series of short stories that introduce different ideas about robots and artificial intelligence in an engaging way.
Definitely don't miss 'A'. It has a really cool concept of a world where technology has both advanced and become a double - edged sword. The story is fast - paced and filled with exciting twists and turns.
One great starting point is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It's a classic in the fantasy genre with an incredibly detailed world, complex characters, and an epic adventure. Another good one is 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. It combines science fiction elements like advanced technology and political intrigue in a unique desert - planet setting.
For those interested in exploring ideas about society and control, '1984' is a great start. It's a short but powerful read that will make you question a lot of things.
I'd recommend starting with 'Project Hail Mary'. It has a really exciting and fast - paced plot that will draw you in right away.
One of the top magic science fiction books is 'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' by Susanna Clarke. It combines the world of magic with a historical setting in a really engaging way. The characters are well - developed and the story is full of mystery and wonder.
Some great ones to start with could be 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. It has a richly detailed universe, complex politics and a hero's journey. Another is '1984' by George Orwell, which, while more dystopian, is a classic that warns about totalitarianism in a future society. And 'Brave New World' by Aldous Huxley also offers a thought - provoking view on a future with extreme social engineering.