best sci fi fantasy 2016 short stories

Some of the great ones could be 'The Paper Menagerie' by Ken Liu. It beautifully blends science fiction elements with a very touching family story. Another might be 'The Girl with All the Gifts' by M. R. Carey which has a unique take on a post - apocalyptic world with a scientific twist on zombies.

They often have unique settings. For example, they might be set in a far - off future galaxy or a magical realm. Good ones also have interesting characters. These characters usually face some sort of conflict, like a battle against an alien race or trying to break a magic spell. And they make you think. They can explore deep themes such as the meaning of humanity, the consequences of technology, or the nature of power.

One characteristic is the unique world - building. In these stories, like in 'The Star' by H. G. Wells, the authors create new and often strange settings. Another is the exploration of big ideas. For example, in 'The Machine Stops' by E. M. Forster, it delves into the over - reliance on technology. Also, they often have unexpected twists. Just as in 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry, where the ending is not what you expect, but in a sci - fi/fantasy context, it can be even more mind - boggling.

You can start by researching literary magazines or online platforms that accept submissions in this genre. Then, follow their specific submission guidelines carefully, which usually include formatting requirements and submission methods.

One of the best is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It has a richly detailed fantasy world filled with different races like hobbits, elves, and dwarves. The story follows Frodo's journey to destroy the One Ring. Another great one is 'Dune' by Frank Herbert. It combines science fiction elements like interstellar travel and complex political systems on a desert planet. 'Star Wars' also belongs in this category. It has a vast galaxy, the Force, and epic battles between the Jedi and the Sith.

Sure. 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson is a great one. It seems like a normal small - town story at first, but then takes a dark and unexpected turn. Another is 'The Veldt' by Ray Bradbury. It shows a future where technology in the home has some really disturbing consequences. And 'Flowers for Algernon' by Daniel Keyes is also excellent. It tells the story of a man with an intellectual disability who undergoes an experiment to increase his intelligence.

Sure. 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson is a great one. It combines elements of a small town's strange ritual with a sense of mystery and horror that has sci - fi/fantasy undertones. Another is 'The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas' by Ursula K. Le Guin. It presents a utopian - like city but with a dark secret at its core, making readers question the nature of society and sacrifice in a very thought - provoking way.

The best ones usually have engaging characters, even in a short space. These characters face extraordinary situations that are typical of the sci - fi genre, like alien encounters or time - travel paradoxes. Moreover, they often play with the readers' expectations. A good sci - fi short story can start in a seemingly ordinary way and then take you on a wild ride into the unknown, full of unexpected twists and turns. They also tend to explore deep philosophical or moral questions related to science and technology.

I think 'The Best of Isaac Asimov' is also a great collection. Asimov was a master of sci - fi short stories, and this collection showcases his incredible range and creativity. His stories often explore complex scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging way.

One of the best is 'The Cold Equations' by Tom Godwin. It's a gripping tale about a spaceship pilot who has to make a tough decision when he discovers a stowaway on his ship, as the ship's resources are calculated precisely for its mission. Another great one is 'Flowers for Algernon' by Daniel Keyes. It tells the story of Charlie, a man with a low IQ who undergoes an experiment to increase his intelligence. The story explores themes of intelligence, humanity, and the consequences of playing with nature.