Looking for books that will take you on a thrilling space adventure, similar to the hit novel and movie The Martian? Look no further. This article will provide a list of books that will keep you on the edge of your seat, with plots that are out-of-this-world.
Whether you’re a fan of science fiction or just looking for a new read, these books are sure to satisfy your craving for adventure. Keep reading to discover even more books like The Martian.
1. The Fifth Season by N.K Jemisin
The Fifth Season is a novel by N.K Jemisin that takes place in a world where natural disasters are common and the earth’s power is used as a weapon. The story begins with a great red rift across the heart of the world’s sole continent, spewing ash that blots out the sun.
Death, betrayal, and long dormant wounds rising up to fester are also part of the story. The novel is set in a land called Stillness, where there is no mercy. The book is available for purchase on Amazon or for listening on Libro, and supports local bookstores.
2. Spin by Robert Charles Wilson
In the novel “Spin” by Robert Charles Wilson, Tyler witnesses a strange event one night in October where all the stars disappear, leaving the moon and tides behind.
Years later, Tyler becomes a scientist and dedicates his life to saving the world from the slow apocalypse that is occurring. The book explores whether Tyler can save the world with the time he has left.
3. Artemis by Andy Weir
Artemis is a captivating heist story that takes place on the moon. The protagonist, Jasmine, seizes the opportunity to fulfill her desires, despite the possibility of endangering her hometown.
As the only lunar colony, Artemis faces a precarious situation, and Jasmine must come up with a flawless plan to save the city and herself. The story is full of suspense and action, making it an exciting read for science fiction fans. Readers can purchase the book on Amazon or listen to it on Libro and support local bookstores.
4. Illuminae by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff
In Illuminae, Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff create a thrilling sci-fi adventure set in the year 2575. The story follows Kady and Ezra, two teenagers who are forced to confront the reality of an alien invasion that threatens their lives and the lives of everyone on board the ship.
The book is unique in that it is told through a series of documents, including emails, chat logs, and surveillance footage. This format adds to the suspense and keeps the reader engaged throughout the story.
One of the standout features of Illuminae is the audiobook version. The full cast brings the story to life in a way that is truly spectacular. The audiobook is highly recommended for anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in the world of Illuminae.
As the story progresses, Kady and Ezra must unravel the secrets of the invasion and a deadly plague that is spreading among the ship’s crew. With twists and turns at every corner, Illuminae is a must-read for fans of sci-fi and adventure.
5. The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet is a space novel that follows the journey of Rosemary Harper, a reserved woman who joins the crew of the spaceship Wayfarer. The book is known for its unique and eccentric characters that make the story enjoyable.
The crew is offered a dangerous mission that puts their trust and loyalty to the test. The novel takes the reader on a thrilling adventure through the depths of space. With a compelling plot and well-developed characters, The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet is a must-read for space enthusiasts and science fiction fans alike.
6. Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
Ready Player One is a science fiction novel by Ernest Cline that centers around a virtual world called the Oasis. The protagonist, Wade Watts, spends most of his time in the Oasis, which is a place where people would rather live virtually than in reality.
The story takes place after the creator of the Oasis has passed away and has left all Oasis players clues to complete a quest for total control of Oasis. The prize for completing the quest is the control of Oasis.
As Wade cracks the first clue, he realizes that he is not the only one after this prize. He is up against rivals who want control of the game for the wrong reasons. The novel has gained popularity and has been compared to other science fiction novels like The Martian.
7. Dune by Frank Herbert
Dune is a science fiction novel set on the desert planet Arrakis. It follows the journey of Paul, a boy who is tasked with ruling the inhospitable world. Betrayed by his house, Paul embarks on a remarkable journey towards a destiny beyond his wildest dreams. The novel has gained a cult following and is available for purchase on Amazon.
8. Armada by Ernest Cline
Ernest Cline’s novel, Armada, is a science fiction adventure that takes readers on a journey through virtual reality. The story follows Zack Lightman, a young man who prefers the world of video games and sci-fi movies to reality. However, when he witnesses a flying saucer that he believes is from his favorite video game, Zack is thrown into an adventure that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy.
As Zack begins to unravel the truth behind the flying saucer and the world he has escaped into, he discovers shocking revelations that connect his virtual reality experiences to the real world. Armada is a thrilling and thought-provoking novel that explores the relationship between technology, imagination, and reality.
9. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, by Douglas Adams
Arthur Dent’s life takes an unexpected turn when his house is destroyed and he discovers that his best friend is an alien. However, things get worse when he finds himself stranded in a hostile universe with only a towel, a small yellow fish, and a book called “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” to guide him.
The book, written by Douglas Adams, is a humorous and satirical take on science fiction, providing readers with a guide to the galaxy that is both unreliable and entertaining. With its quirky characters and off-beat humor, “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” has become a beloved classic in the science fiction genre.
10. Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
Ender’s Game is a science fiction novel written by Orson Scott Card. The story revolves around Andrew “Ender” Wiggin, a child soldier who is being trained to lead the defense against an alien race that threatens Earth.
Ender’s exceptional skills and intelligence make him a respected leader among his peers, but his upbringing in a military environment has caused him to struggle with isolation and fear of the alien invaders.
The novel explores themes of leadership, morality, and the consequences of war. It has been praised for its complex characters and thought-provoking plot.
11. Arkwright by Allen Steele
Arkwright by Allen Steele is a science fiction novel that follows the story of Nathan Arkwright, a famous author who believes that humanity cannot survive on Earth any longer.
In order to ensure the survival of the human race, Nathan creates the Arkwright Foundation, which is dedicated to establishing a colony on an Earth-like planet located several light years away.
The novel explores Nathan’s legacy and the challenges faced by the Arkwright Foundation in achieving its goals. If you enjoyed reading The Martian, this book is a must-read. You can purchase it on Amazon.
12. Binti by Nnedi Okorafor
Binti, the first Himba person to be offered a place at Oozma University, embarks on a journey to a new world that is at war with an alien race. In order to gain knowledge that her people have never possessed, Binti must navigate a potentially deadly adventure.
Her mission is to survive and bring back the gifts to her people. This science fiction novella by Nnedi Okorafor is an exciting and thought-provoking read that explores themes of identity, culture, and the consequences of seeking knowledge.
13. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
Project Hail Mary is a science fiction novel by Andy Weir, author of the bestseller The Martian. The book tells the story of Ryland Grace, who wakes up from a nap to find himself on a spaceship hurtling through space on a last-minute mission to save humanity. As the sole survivor, Ryland must figure out the mystery behind the extinction of humanity and how to save it all alone.
The novel is a thrilling adventure that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Weir’s writing style is clear, concise, and engaging, making it easy for readers to follow the plot and understand the science behind it. The book is available on Amazon and can also be listened to on Libro, where listeners can support local bookstores.
For fans of The Martian, Project Hail Mary is a must-read. Weir’s ability to create a believable and immersive world in space is unmatched, and his attention to detail is impressive. The book is a testament to Weir’s talent as a writer and his passion for science fiction.
14. Station Eleven, by Emily St. John Mandell
Station Eleven is a fictional novel that tells the story of a small group of individuals who move between settlements in a world that has been nearly abandoned due to a pandemic known as the “Georgia Flu.” The book explores themes of friendship, love, and resilience in the face of adversity.
It is a captivating read that takes readers on a journey through a post-apocalyptic world where survival is not guaranteed. Whether you’re a fan of science fiction or simply looking for a thought-provoking read, Station Eleven is a book that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
15. The Book of M by Peng Shepard
In “The Book of M” by Peng Shepard, the story begins with an unusual phenomenon where a man’s shadow disappears. This strange happening soon becomes a common occurrence, and Max, the wife of Ory, also loses her shadow.
Ory and Max have been hiding in an abandoned hotel deep in the woods to escape the Forgetting, but Max’s disappearance reminds them that their new life is not entirely safe.
Max runs away, knowing that the more she forgets, the more dangerous she will become. Ory sets out on a journey to find Max before she forgets him completely. The book tells a beautiful story about the journey to find each other and oneself before everything is forgotten.
Summary
This article explores 15 science fiction books that are similar to “The Martian.” Each book offers a unique perspective on space exploration, survival, and human ingenuity. From classic novels like “Dune” and “Ender’s Game” to modern hits like “Artemis” and “Red Rising,” these books are sure to satisfy any science fiction fan looking for their next adventure.