Science Fiction & Fantasy

The genres of science fiction and fantasy are most commonly associated with space travel and magic, respectively. Both types of fiction feature created worlds where societal concepts, such as morals, laws, social hierarchy, and family structure, fit together logically within that world. Where they differ is the basis for these created worlds. Science fiction, as the term implies, has scientific elements that are based on the current technology. Fantasy is grounded in irrational and illogical phenomena, such as magical worlds and myths, where events and surroundings have are not considered to have a scientific basis. The Bloomington Public Library has a collection of these works of fiction. They are shelved in their own area.

Click on the author's name to find books the library owns. Some science fiction authors you might enjoy are:

• Kevin Anderson
• Greg Bear
• Orson Scott Card
• Arthur C. Clarke
• Eric Flint
• Robert Heinlein
• Brian Herbert
• Jack McDevitt
• John Ringo
• John Scalzi
• David Weber

Some fantasy authors you might try are:

• Terry Brooks
• Jim Butcher
• Sara Douglass
• Laurell K. Hamilton
• Mercedes Lackey
• George R. R. Martin
• Terry Pratchett
• R.A. Salvatore
• J.R.R. Tolkien

Looking for more suggestions? Try these books located in the Readers’ Corner collection.

Barron, Neil, ed. Anatomy of Wonder: A Critical Guide to Science Fiction.
Barron, Neil, ed. Fantasy Literature: A Reader’s Guide.
Burgess, Michael. Reference Guide to Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror.
Herald, Diana Tixier. Fluent in Fantasy: A Guide to Reading Interests.
Herald, Diana Tixier. Strictly Science Fiction: A Guide to Reading Interests.

Looking for award winners for science fiction or fantasy?
Try these web sites:

• The Hugo Award
  This award, also known as the Science Fiction Achievement Award, is awarded by the World Science Fiction Society and is based on nominations and popular vote of the organization’s membership
• The Nebula Awards
  Voted by the members of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America, Inc., this award has been given each year for the best novel, novella, novelette, and short story since 1965.
• Good Reads Online Form
  If you still can't find what you're looking for get personal suggestions from a librarian! Simply fill out the form for recommendations within 24 business hours.