Recs if you like A Closed and Common Orbit...

Not all science fiction is laser battles and intergalactic warfare! This list is aiming for the softer side of sci-fi. The kind where the stars hum quietly, the characters pause to breathe, and discoveries are found within. ✨

I’m attempting to cultivate a collection of books that are low stakes, cozy sci-fi, filled with found family, gentle exploration, and quiet wonder. 😌

If you have recommendations, please leave them in the comments! 📝

“We have no clear definition of consciousness—even though it must be the most important element of our own experience on the planet.

Why do we fear so much in the other this thing we so little understand in ourselves?”

books that explore and grapple with the nature of human and non-human consciousness (animal, machine, or otherwise alien).

mostly science non-fiction, speculative fiction and literary fiction.

recs very much welcome :)

main or side characters

Books that either directly involve gaming as part of the story or have strong appeal for gamers (like litRPG)

Books with prominent non-human characters who are confused, horrified, fascinated, or delighted by human behavior!

Please add suggestions in the comments because I need more books like these 💜

Queer sci-fi 💫 (Not always in space, I think I've covered most sci-fi subgenres)

In honour of the 2026 nominations, this list compiles all the nominees for the Hugo Award for Best Novel from 2010 - 2026.

a book collection dedicated to the future, a future in which the bounds of what we know to be possible bloom into flowers. gender norms and science rules don't know what's coming!

(reccs very welcome!!)

There will be a time after big tech

sff books that include sapphic couples

Inspired by @fivepines who made a list for books with main or side characters who use neopronouns 💗

This is just something I'm working on because I've decided this is my favorite trope. I'll be collecting here, so don't expect it to be amazing right now 😅. These are characters that stray far from being human but still contain an edge of humanity that makes me feel okay to be delightfully weird. Suggestions welcome!

alternatively: robots and androids murderbot would begrudgingly and unintentionally befriend.

OR

robots and androids who teach us a little more about humanity, friendship, and the human condition. and also sarcasm and sardonic humour, on occasion.

Like it says on the tin. Good books with sentient robots/androids/AIs.

Books with female main characters that have to do with space travel in some form.

Recs based on the 2025 prompts

Books that feature queer found or chosen families. For when you need that ragtag chaotic queer family energy

Disability in SFF dreadfully underrepresented. Open to reccs