Science Fiction / Fantasy / Horror at MSU: Welcome

Hard Science Fiction

These books are speculative in nature, with an emphasis on using accurate scientific or technical details.

Social Science Fiction (a.k.a., Soft Science Fiction) 

Books in this category speculate about human behavior, with a focus on the anthopological or sociological implications of human societies.

Space Opera

Books in this category are mainly set in outer space, have melodramatic or romantic themes, and feature advanced technologies and abilities that may or may not have a plausible scientific explanation. (Think Star Wars.)

Fantasy

Books in this category use supernatural phenemona as a major element in developing the plot and the setting. They generally do not try to explain events scientifically and frequently take place in fictional worlds.

Urban Fantasy

Books in this category use supernatural phenemona as a major element in developing the plot and are set in an urban environment. They generally do not try to explain events scientifically and frequently take place in magical versions of this world.

Alternate History

Books in this category feature events in which the speculated history differs from actual history. This category includes Steampunk, a sub-genre which features technology, fashion, architecture and other elements as may have been envisioned by those of the Victorian era.

Horror

Books in this category feature events which are designed to frighten or startle the reader. They frequently use supernatural phenomena to explore concepts related to death, morality, the afterlife, and reality.

More Reading Ideas

For more recommendations of Science Fiction and Fantasy books, see the SF Signals blog hosted by Kirkus Reviews. Note: if we don't have a particular book in our collection, we can probably get it for you! Just ask a Reference librarian for help.