Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created at The Broke and the Bookish.
Each week we will post a new Top Ten list complete with one of our bloggers’ answers. Everyone is welcome to join. If you can’t come up with ten, don’t worry about it—post as many as you can!
Today's class is all about introduction to science fiction. Have you wanted to dive into the science fiction world but found yourself hesitating? Did talk of Asimov or Clarke scare you? Never fear, here are 10 great books to dip your toe into the science fiction world. After wading in a bit, you may even become a huge scifi fan like myself.
1. The Time Machine by H.G. Wells -- A bit old fashioned at times, but look past it to see how science and fantasy are often intertwined. And if you're going to watch a movie version, please only watch the 1960 one.
2. Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card -- My 12-year-old loved this book for the great storyline and action. I love it for the characters and the philosophical questions about dealing with other species.
3. The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury -- Also known for his fantasy novels, this slim novel of connecting stories tells a great story and brings out some great questions.
4. The Martian by Andy Weir -- A science heavy story released just this year. Don't let the science bog you down, it's a great look at the realities and risks of space travel and the main character has a great voice. I flew through this one in just a few days. After reading, you can compare to the movie they are making set to be released in November.
5. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams -- My favorite book on the syllabus (so much so that my son is named after the main character!). The first book is slim, but packed full of comedy and adventure. You can't go wrong with any of Adams' work, but this one is my favorite.
6. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury -- I'm not what to say about this book other than everyone should read it! It's a classic for a reason. Amazing look at a dystopian society that could be our future.
7. Ringworld by Larry Niven -- Another slim novel packed with interesting questions and adventure.
8. Brave New World by Aldous Huxley -- Another great dystopian classic. A must read for great discussions about society, structure, and government.
9. Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson -- I am not a computer geek, but I found this novel fascinating. I learned a lot about computers and philosophy. A must read!
10. Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick -- I loved this thin volume so much. Dick crafts a masterful look at what is means to be human. (While Blade Runner is amazing, the two are not the same story. Make sure to also read this book!)