During the global pandemic, some need comfort and positivity, worn down by all the chaos. Others, however, gravitate towards the horror that they are feeling and may find that sci-fi books hit the spot. After all, there’s only so much Black Mirror one can digest. Check out the following sci-fi books from 2020 for some thrilling stories that are bound to have you questioning and reflecting on human nature.
Riot Baby
Riot Baby, by Tochi Onyebuchi, is a dystopian narrative that takes place during the Rodney King riots in Los Angeles. The main characters, Ella and Kev, have spent their lives enduring systemic racism and injustices. However, they have both been gifted with supernatural powers; potentially, these powers could change America’s future. This story focuses on the detrimental Black experience in America and urges readers to question our very real societal issues.
Docile
Docile, written by K.M. Szpara, is a dark dystopian story that explores the issues that arise from wealth, capitalism, and inheritance. This raw narrative reveals a potential future for America and pushes readers to reflect on their values and roles within society.
Chosen Ones
In a thriller meets sci-fi meets fantasy, Chosen Ones tells the story of five ordinary teenagers under a prophecy which has ordered them to take down a powerful entity that is destroying North America. On one hand, this book is perfect for anyone craving fantasy; on the other hand, Veronica Roth thoughtfully covers topics such as mental health and racism, incorporating elements of culturally-relevant realism.
The Space Between Worlds
The Space Between Worlds, by Micaiah Johnson, presents a world where multiverse travel is possible. Fusing elements of sci-fi and romance, this eye-opening story addresses contemporary social issues such as privilege and identity.
The Bear
Set in an ominous post-apocalyptic period, The Bear introduces a time where humankind has been destroyed with the exception of two survivors, our protagonists. During the end of civilization, the two learn about companionship, love, and survival. Andrew Krivak inspires us to question human actions and reflect on the power of nature.
Between Earth and Sky
Between Earth and Sky, is a story within two time periods: the 1880s and the early 1900s. This story uses historic elements to explore the treatment of the Native Americans during the late 19th century when they were forced to assimilate to white culture. Through her thoughtful and genuine storytelling, Amanda Skenandore sheds light on a time period we often neglect to examine.
Devolution
Devolution takes readers into a remote village in the Pacific Northwest, where there has been a horrifying encounter with Bigfoot. Max Brooks uses journal entries, interviews, and news reports to produce a journalistic tone while exploring the Greenloop massacre upon the village.
The Book of Koli
In a post-apocalyptic narrative, The Book of Koli tells a futuristic story in which humans are endangered by genetically modified plants and must fight to survive. Nature is the enemy, while humans are forced to keep their guards up. M.R. Carey explores topics concerning survival, extinction, and the powerful force of technology.
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