One great non - English science fiction book is 'The Three - Body Problem' by Liu Cixin. It presents a complex and fascinating view of the universe, with alien civilizations and scientific concepts that are both mind - boggling and thought - provoking.
Some of the best English science fiction books include '1984' by George Orwell. It presents a dystopian future where the government has extreme control over people. Another great one is 'Brave New World' by Aldous Huxley, which explores a society where people are genetically engineered and conditioned for their roles. 'Dune' by Frank Herbert is also highly regarded, with its complex world - building and political intrigue in a desert planet setting.
A very good non - English science fiction book is 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons. Wait, sorry, that's in English. Well, then 'Hard - Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World' by Haruki Murakami. It has elements of science fiction with its strange parallel worlds and mind - bending concepts that are very unique.
Well, 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' by Douglas Adams is definitely among the best. It's a hilarious and absurd take on space travel and the universe. Then there's 'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card. It tells the story of a child prodigy in a military - like space training program. Also, 'Foundation' by Isaac Asimov is a must - read. It's about a scientist who tries to shorten the period of darkness in a galactic empire's fall through the use of psychohistory.
For beginners, I'd recommend 'I, Robot' by Isaac Asimov. It consists of short stories that are easy to follow and introduce some basic ideas about robotics and artificial intelligence. 'The Hunger Games' by Suzanne Collins can also be considered. Although it's more of a dystopian YA novel, it has elements of science fiction. Also, 'The Martian' by Andy Weir is a fun read, as it focuses on a man's struggle to survive on Mars.
Well, one characteristic is the exploration of future societies. For example, in '1984', it shows a totalitarian future. Another is the use of advanced technology concepts. In 'Dune', there are things like sandworms and spice which are unique technological - like elements. Also, they often question human nature. In 'Fahrenheit 451', it makes you think about the importance of knowledge and freedom.
Some of the best English historical fiction books include 'Wolf Hall' by Hilary Mantel. It offers a vivid portrayal of the court of Henry VIII. Another great one is 'Pride and Prejudice' which, while also a love story, gives a good look at the social mores of the early 19th - century England. 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco is also excellent. It's set in a medieval monastery and is full of mystery and historical details.
One of the best - selling science fiction books is 'The Hunger Games' trilogy by Suzanne Collins. It became a huge phenomenon with its post - apocalyptic setting and strong female lead. Another is 'Harry Potter' series which has strong science - fiction and fantasy elements. It's about a boy wizard in a magical world which has elements of alternate reality. 'Star Wars' tie - in novels also sell a great deal as they expand on the popular movie franchise's universe.
I think 'To Kill a Mockingbird' is also among the best. Harper Lee's novel deals with racial injustice in the American South. It's told from the perspective of a young girl, Scout Finch, and her father, Atticus, who defends a black man wrongly accused of a crime. It's a powerful and moving story.