Staff Recommendations: Val

Some of Val’s favorite science-fiction and fantasy novels.

“I’ve loved science fiction and fantasy since I was a teenager. I like the classics by Bradbury, Asimov, etc., but am especially excited by new writers who are pushing the envelope about just what “sci-fi” and “fantasy” could be. I hope my choices will lead you to explore new worlds!” – Val

 
 

Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood

A post-apocalyptic novel starring a lone human named Snowman and the strange creatures that accompany him. His story before the catastrophe, when he was known as "Jimmy", is told in flashbacks and addresses the consequences of genetic engineering in the wrong hands.

Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

Galaxy Stern is an unlikely Yale student tasked with monitoring the mysterious, reclusive Societies during rituals where the veil between worlds is thin. Not all are pleased by her presence or abilities.

Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi

A long-passed-down recipe for gingerbread transports its consumers into another world. Part fairytale, part family saga.

Starless by Jacqueline Carey

Khai is a warrior born to protect the princess Zariya, his "soul's twin", in this middle-eastern inspired fantasy in a world where gods walk the world. Toys with themes of gender roles and disability.

Palimpsest by Catherynne M. Valente

In this gorgeously written novel, four strangers find themselves connected through their visits to Palimpsest, a sexually-transmitted city unlike anything they've seen.

A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine

When a diplomat's "imago-machine" containing the memories of her predecessor fails her on a mission to another world, she finds herself caught in the middle of conspiracy. The way this book plays with the intricacies of language is incredible.

Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer

After their predecessors fell to disaster, four women compose the twelfth expedition to a zone known only as "Area X". I like to describe this one as "ecological horror."

Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier

Sorcha and her family are cursed by the sorceress Oonagh; her brothers turned into swans, Sorcha must rescue them, all while remaining mute. Inspired by Irish mythology.

Do You Dream of Terra-Two? by Temi Oh

Six teenagers act as the backup crew on a 23-year exploration to an Earth-like planet. On their journey, they're confronted with issues of isolation, mental illness, and wanting to belong.

Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

"In the myriadic year of our Lord - the ten thousandth year of the King Undying, the kindly Prince of Death! - Gideon Nav packed her sword, her shoes, and her dirty magazines, and she escaped from the House of the Ninth." This fantastic line opens the story of a snarky swordswoman and her charge as they make their way through a haunted mansion in the middle of space.

Have you signed up for our 2021 Reading Challenge? Join the adventure at any time by emailing ncinnater@clamsnet.org and signing up on our Reading Challenge Facebook Group for ongoing discussions.