Don’t think you like sci fi? You’ve never truly experienced science fiction if you haven’t read any classic short stories. Here are the 9 greatest science fiction short stories from our special guest, a science fiction expert, who happens to be one of my favorite people.
I have a real treat for you today. Instead of hearing from me, today I have a special guest post … from my dad!
Growing up, my dad fed us a steady diet of science fiction. I grew up watching Star Trek, The Outer Limits, and Lost in Space. Even today, whenever he visits, he always brings old black and white sci fi movies to show his grandkids. Think gigantic tarantulas.
Who better than my dad to share the best science fiction short stories of all time!
While you might be picturing aliens and spaceships at the mere mention of science fiction short stories, science fiction is much more than that.
Arthur C. Clarke once said, “Science Fiction is something that could happen – but usually you wouldn’t want it to. Fantasy is something that couldn’t happen – though often you only wish that it could.”
If you truly want a taste for science fiction, try out these classic science fiction short stories. They don’t take long to read, but, oh, how well they tell a story in such a short space. You really can’t say you don’t like sci fi until you’ve tried some of these science fiction short stories.
The Top 9 Science Fiction Short Stories
Science Fiction is a genre unto itself. It combines humor, wonderment, inspiration, hope, and entertainment; opening our eyes towards new horizons and personal introspection in a wondrous and believable way.
In 1966, the Science Fiction Writers of America (SFWA) instituted the Annual Nebula Award for the year’s best science fiction short stories. However, the SFWA also recognized the immense contributions in the field prior to 1965, and convened a special one-time convention and vote for the greatest science fiction short stories of all time written prior to 1965 (the classics), compiled in “The Science Fiction Hall of Fame” Vol. I. This must-own book for all sci-fi lovers contains the very best stories as voted by the authors themselves.
Science fiction short stories (as opposed to novella’s and novels) were limited to 15,000 words or less. The following sci fi short stories are my all-time favorites, including stories not contained in the Hall of Fame final vote.
#1 NIGHTFALL by Isaac Asimov (1941)
Voted by the SFWA as the greatest sci-fi short story of all time. A classic tale of wonderment, paranoia, insanity, and introspection. It masterfully dives into one’s deepest fears and opens the mind to the wonderous possibilities just outside our view. There is also a novel version of this classic; how-ever I would recommend the short story over the novel. Do not miss this one! Asimov is a wonderful writer and this story brings together the very best spirit of sci-fi.
#2 MIMSY WERE THE BOROGROVES by Lewis Padgett (1943)
A top ten finisher in the SFWA vote, this marvelous, very believable story takes one back into the excitement and puzzlement of childhood. The angst, fears, and concern of the parents is something every parent has experienced. With a special ending that absolutely tugs at the heartstrings, this is one story not to be missed.
#3 ARENA by Frederic Brown (1944)
The original “kill or be killed”, man versus alien contest. The storyline was the prototype for many follow-on movies and TV episodes in the 1950’s/60’s. The ultimate guys’ action tale, with twists and turns and a very satisfying ending. Another top ten entry in the SFWA vote.
#4 THE WEAPON SHOP by A.E. van Vogt (1942)
A classic tale of pride, tradition, introspection, tyranny, and freedom. Fara’s journey from obstinate believer to doubter to enlightened awareness is something we all can connect with. The ending is special and engenders the sweet feeling of freedom from oppression. This story was also a top ten entry in the SFWA hall of fame.
#5 THE MILLION YEAR PICNIC by Ray Bradbury (1948)
Bradbury’s “The Martian Chronicles” is a classic compendium of marvelous sci-fi short stories. Although his short story “Mars is Heaven (The Third Expedition)” made the top twenty in the SWFA vote, I would highly recommend the final story “The Million Year Picnic”. Bradbury has a unique writing style; with absolute moments of sheer verbal artistry. Take the time to read “The Martian Chronicles” in its entirety and you will more fully appreciate the superb and poignant ending in the final story.
#6 THE LAST QUESTION by Isaac Asimov (1956)
This very short story is classic Asimov, with an interesting storyline and a powerful thought-provoking ending. Although not contained in the SFWA Hall of Fame compendium, you can find this story in another old release “Nine Tomorrows” by Asimov, which is in itself a very fine collection of short stories by the master writer. This particular short story was supposedly his favorite and one of the very best sci-fi has to offer.
#7 A WALK IN THE DARK by Arthur C. Clarke (1950)
The very popular Arthur C. Clarke has legions of followers and placed two stories in the top fifteen of all time (“The Star” and “The Nine Billion Names of God”). With an interesting, whimsical style, coupled with a knack for making the technical seem understandable, he is one of the icons of science fiction. His short story “A Walk in the Dark” is a classic “bump in the night” scary story with an ironic ending. You can find this and other stories in the compendium “The Collected Stories of Arthur C. Clarke”, also a must-have for your library.
#8 MICROCOSMIC GOD by Theodore Sturgeon (1941)
Pure old fashion sci-fi is the name of the game in this story. A classic villain versus unwitting hero tale; highly entertaining with first-rate sci-fi imagination. This story was a top-five entry in the SFWA hall of fame.
#9 RESCUE PARTY by Arthur C. Clarke (1946)
A very appealing story that highlights the indomitable spirit of mankind in the face of enormous challenge. The ending is very satisfying. This story is also available in the “Collected Works of Arthur C. Clarke”.
Last Words on Science Fiction Short Stories
Those with a background in science fiction will probably disagree with my choices. That’s OK. The beauty of science fiction is the wonder and sheer delight of having your understanding expanded into new, thought-provoking areas. Hence, there are no best stories, only those stories which most appeal to you, the reader. For those not familiar with these works by the “icons” of the genre, welcome aboard and prepare to enjoy many hours of enjoyment and satisfaction.
Special thanks to my dad for the list. This book mentioned is one of my favorites. A great addition to any sci fi lover’s library. And to round out the list to the top 10 science fiction short stories, I just want to add The Nine Billion Names of God by Arthur C. Clarke to the list. It’s short and sweet but extremely memorable.
What are Your Favorite Science Fiction Short Stories?
What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with my dad’s list of the best classic science fiction short stories? As always, let me know in the comments!
More Science Fiction and Fantasy Reading Lists:
grant carrington says
Any list of great short sf that doesn’t include Tom Godwin’s “The Cold Equations” isn’t worth the paper or the electrons it’s written on. Did Sam Goldwyn say that?
Odessa Wood says
I am looking for a short story that I read in 1975 that I think was title The Bard. If was about a time when books were not read, and all story were told by a machine. Two children find a book and wonder what it is, and they ask the Bard.
I cannot find this anywhere. Have you heard of it?
wice says
Odessa:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Someday_(short_story)
there is a link to the public domain scan of the story in the article.
Natalie says
I always have trouble finding that one because Asimov also has a story titled “The Immortal Bard” that I always get it mixed up with (if I remember right this one is about Shakespeare flunking a modern day writing class)
Vishweshwer Mangalapalli says
There is a Asimov story called “All The Fun They Had”…. Very similar. We read it in our reading club…
Elizabeth Lane says
I am looking for a story published in Fantasy & Science Fiction named “When Winter Ends”. I tore it out of the magazine many years ago, and lost the first few pages. I don’t know who wrote it. It’s about a nuclear winter – the last few months before, and the aftermath. Very good story. Any ideas?
Thanks.
Rachael says
I assume this is what you are looking for. Not sure where you can get a copy, though.
“When Winter Ends”, Michael P. Kube-McDowell (F&SF Jul 1985)
Elizabeth Lane says
That sounds like it. At least now I know what I’m looking for!
Thanks
Rick Badman says
Astonishing list! The great book collections of all time.
Larry says
Yes fascinating
Larry says
I wonder if you have read Beatrice C Snipp.
Her book Sands of Time a collection of thought provoking stories.
I found in a charity shop for 50 cents.
It was so reminiscent of early 60s Twilight Zone .
I looked her up and appears to have died in 1963.
I think ? but I am still looking.
A must for any Rod Serling fan.
Larry
Ron Stephens says
50 years ago, as a teen, I was into reading sci fi. In a two volume sci fi compendium there was a short story approx 30 pages long involving a man in a mental hospital playing chess. The entire story was the intersaction of the doctors, who were trying to maintain that the patient was crazy, and the patient, who was onto their tricks, while they were trying to fool him, and the intense mind games and discussions therein. At the very end, we are led to step back from the whole scene, and we find out the doctors are aliens, who are continuously repositioning reality behind the scenes (like moving worlds, the sun, etc) so that they can maintain the fake reality so that the patient will continue to be fooled.
Can someone help with the name of the story and author?
Thank you
Barry Jensen says
The short story was Time Fighter. But who was the author? I’ve moved and I lost my copy of the book Time Fighter was in.
Rachael says
Most likely you are thinking of “Time Fighter” by Fritz Lieber published in 1957.
C.J. Stoddard says
One correction, one question:
#7 – Clarke is misspelled.
I’m looking for a short story about scientists studying communication. One takes an experimental drug which, to everyone else, renders him unintelligible; but to him, he is enlightened and far beyond their comprehension. He is relegated to an asylum. Another scientist takes the drug, and the same thing happens. The remaining scientists discontinue the experiments. Meanwhile, the two “insane” scientists have glorious conversations. May be titled “Discontinuity.” Anyone??
Rachael says
Oh, good catch! Typos are so embarrassing.
As to your short story, I haven’t heard of it, but hopefully some one else will be able to pinpoint it.
Rich says
“Frederic” Brown is also misspelled
Rachael says
Thanks!
Larry says
I know this may not be relevant in a list of the best science fiction stories ever written.
I have come across a small book by an unknown writer.
To say that a couple of the stories are compelling is a complete understatement.
Looking at its sales on Amazon, I doubt if it has sold many at all.
I happened across it by accident.
I am glad that I did as I have thought about the stories since I first read the book almost a month ago.
If you happen to come across the author try to read her work.
She has a very perceptive manner of writing.
Beatrice C Snipp
Sands of Time a collection of thought provoking stories
Gary Hartman says
“The Sands of Time ” is also a time travel story by P Schuyler Miller from the late 30’s I believe. A story I always thought could make a great movie.
Connie Flint says
Your list has given me something to read, watch and discuss with my husband, who loves sci-fi. Generally, I am not a fan of science fiction, but there was a short story that I read in a high school class called “Literature of the Mysterious.” I can’t remember the author or the title, but I would like to read it again, because it seems that it might be applicable to contemporary times. It was set in a boarding school (I think), and the students were not allowed to think. When they caught themselves in thought, they were to chant to themselves “mind blank, mind blank.” Have you (or your father) read this, or know the title and author?
Thank you!
Jim Nolan says
Rachael, until I read my first Philip K. Dick short story, I’d named JG Ballard, Jorge Luis Borges and Isaac Bashevis Singer as my favourite short story writers (Ballard, of course, being the only sci-fi author among them).
Having now read 4 Dick short stories, I’m already considering him a contender.
Incidentally, I recently acquired an anthology of Arthur C Clarke short stories and, while I LOVE his novel ‘Childhood’s End’, scanning the pages of the anthology suggested he might not be a major rival to Ballard/Dick
(I’ve yet to read any of the chosen stories.)
Dennis D'Asaro says
Right offa the top o’ me head:
Who Goes There? John Campbell —- Existential horror story in a gritty nuts ‘n’ bolts reality at a South Pole base. It spawned “The Thing from Another World,” a really fun 50’s movie barely similar to the story. And the over-the-top shape-shifting later movies.
Flowers for Algernon Daniel Keyes —Such a sensitive, painful, sweet tale; tour de force telling by a changing first person.
E for Effort, T.L. Sherred —-I admit I read it decades ago and don’t remember the story ‘cept it’s about trying to save the world and failing. I remember the feeling it engendered and that in my memory it was well written and caught my emotions.
Algernon and WGT have topped other lists; I seem to be alone in EfE!
I think there ought to be more Bradbury and at least a Heinlein, but I’d have to look over and remember a bunch of stories.
Mark Kennedy says
Even taking into account the somewhat elastic criteria employed for defining ‘science fiction,’ Ray Bradbury’s sf writer status is somewhat equivocal, as anyone will know who’s read him. I sometimes think he qualifies because people are otherwise at a loss how to classify him. In style and sensibility he more closely resembles Sherwood Anderson than he does Wells, Verne, Heinlein, Asimov, Clarke, Dick, Zelazny, etc. (anyone who picks up Anderson’s Winesburg, Ohio after having first read Bradbury will be astonished and wonder if he/she is reading Bradbury).
I say this because my favourite short story of all time is Bradbury’s The Shoreline at Sunset, though it has little chance of making this list because it would connote what most of us regard as science fiction to almost no one (certainly it doesn’t to me). Nevertheless, it features an improbable (impossible?) happening, and I highly recommend the story to anyone here.
webbles says
short story or novel about house that changes in some way. the surrounds change or it floats out to sea. canot recall more
Terry says
Looking for the name of a short story I read many years ago while in high school. Story has a child that finds(?) a box with a small hole in it. When he/she looks in the hole there is a spinning ball in the center. Child is fascinated by the spinning ball and frequently looks in the box observing the ball. After several days child sees a small spark from the ball and something is shot into the child’s eye that causes intense burning and blinds the eye. Furious, the child grabs a pencil and shoves it into the hole in the box to destroy the spinning ball. Story shifts to suddenly a giant eye appears in the shy above earth…
LOVED the story when I read it and would love to read it once more but have no idea the name of the story or the author. Any ideas what this story may be? TIA