FallenKingdomReads’ list of the 10 Must-Read Queer Science Fiction Books.
Science fiction has always been a genre that explores the unknown and challenges our understanding of the world. As society becomes more inclusive, it’s important that the stories we tell reflect a diverse range of experiences and perspectives.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 10 must-read queer science fiction books that offer unique and engaging explorations of sexuality, gender identity, and relationships.
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin
This groundbreaking novel by Ursula K. Le Guin imagines a world where individuals are genderless for most of their lives, until they enter a reproductive cycle and become male or female for a short period of time. It’s a nuanced exploration of gender identity and fluidity.
An Unkindness of Ghosts by Rivers Solomon
Set on a spaceship where the remnants of humanity are fleeing a dying planet, this novel explores themes of race, gender, and class. The protagonist, Aster, is a queer woman of color who discovers a dark secret about the ship’s society.
The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gomez
This novel tells the story of a black lesbian vampire who travels through time and space, encountering different communities of marginalized people. It’s a haunting and lyrical exploration of identity, power, and belonging.
The Fifth Sacred Thing by Starhawk
This post-apocalyptic novel envisions a world where a coalition of social justice activists and spiritual practitioners have created a utopian society in the ruins of San Francisco. The novel explores themes of community, resistance, and alternative forms of governance.
The Windup Girl by Paolo Bacigalupi
Set in a future where biotechnology has transformed the world, this novel features a diverse cast of characters, including a gender-fluid genetically engineered servant who rebels against their programming. The novel raises questions about power, exploitation, and resistance in a world where corporations hold immense sway.
Amberlough by Lara Elena Donnelly
Set in a decadent, pre-World War II-inspired city, this novel follows a spy, a smuggler, and a dancer as they navigate a world of political intrigue and shifting loyalties. The novel features queer characters and explores themes of identity, loyalty, and resistance.
The Space Between Worlds by Micaiah Johnson
This debut novel imagines a multiverse where people can travel between parallel worlds, but only if their alternate selves are dead. The novel’s protagonist, Cara, is a bisexual woman from a low-income world who finds herself embroiled in a political conspiracy that spans multiple realities.
The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin
In this novel by N. K. Jemisin, the city of New York comes to life as a set of avatars, each embodying a different aspect of the city’s identity. The novel features queer characters and explores themes of gentrification, cultural heritage, and community resistance.
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers
This novel follows a diverse crew of space travelers as they journey through the galaxy, encountering new worlds and cultures. The novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the importance of chosen families.
The Memory of Trees by F.G. Cottam
This novel features a lesbian protagonist who inherits an old estate with a dark past. As she begins to uncover the estate’s secrets, she discovers a world of magic and danger. The novel explores themes of family, legacy, and the power of nature.
These 10 must-read queer science fiction novels offer a wide range of stories and perspectives that are sure to engage and inspire readers. Whether you’re interested in exploring themes of gender identity, sexuality, or community resistance, these novels offer a thought-provoking and entertaining journey into the unknown.
