Science fiction series range from dead-simple publication order to Byzantine multi-trilogy universes with prequel novels that spoil the originals. This guide ranks the best sci-fi series and gives you the quick reading order list for each — so you never pick up the wrong book next.
Quick Reference: Best Sci-Fi Series — Start Here
- Dune by Frank Herbert — Start: Dune (1965)
- The Expanse by James S.A. Corey — Start: Leviathan Wakes (2011)
- Michael Crichton — Start: Jurassic Park (1990) or Prey (2002)
1. Dune by Frank Herbert
Reading order complexity: Medium. The original 6-novel series is straightforward. The confusion comes from 20+ prequel/sequel novels written by Brian Herbert — which many readers attempt first by mistake.
Correct order:
- Dune (1965) — Start here, full stop
- Dune Messiah (1969)
- Children of Dune (1976)
- God Emperor of Dune (1981)
- Heretics of Dune (1984)
- Chapterhouse: Dune (1986)
The verdict: Read Frank Herbert's 6 novels first. Do not start with Brian Herbert's prequels — they reduce the impact of reveals in the original series. View our complete Dune reading order and Frank Herbert author page.
2. The Expanse by James S.A. Corey
Reading order complexity: Low. Nine novels in strict publication order, no prequels, no parallel timelines. The cleanest reading order of any major sci-fi series.
Correct order:
- Leviathan Wakes (2011)
- Caliban's War (2012)
- Abaddon's Gate (2013)
- Cibola Burn (2014)
- Nemesis Games (2015)
- Babylon's Ashes (2016)
- Persepolis Rising (2017)
- Tiamat's Wrath (2019)
- Leviathan Falls (2021)
Where do the novellas fit? The Expanse also includes 9 novellas (the Drive, The Butcher of Anderson Station, etc.), one published between each main novel. They expand side characters and are best read at the point they were published — but none are plot-critical for understanding the main series. View our complete Expanse reading order and James S.A. Corey author page.
3. Michael Crichton
Reading order complexity: None. Crichton's novels are almost entirely standalone — no series continuity required between books. The one exception is Jurassic Park and its sequel The Lost World.
Best starting points:
- Jurassic Park (1990) — The most accessible entry and one of the best science thrillers ever written
- Prey (2002) — For readers interested in nanotechnology and emergent AI behavior
- Andromeda Strain (1969) — For hard sci-fi purists
View our Michael Crichton reading order and author page.
The Verdict: Best Sci-Fi Series for New Readers
If you want the easiest entry point: Start with The Expanse. The reading order is simple, the science is rigorous, and the first book (Leviathan Wakes) reads like a thriller. If you want the greatest sci-fi novel ever written: Start with Dune. Browse our complete science fiction catalog for reading orders on every major sci-fi series.