Science fiction writers often use futuristic settings to explore humanity's present and past, offering a blend of cautionary tales and social commentary. While some sci-fi delves into dense explanations of technology or complex political systems, the genre also boasts lighter fare filled with humor and adventure. For those seeking laughs alongside their explorations of artificial intelligence, alien encounters, and galaxy-spanning wars, several entertaining sci-fi books from the 21st century tackle modern issues with wit.
Redshirts by John Scalzi (2012)
John Scalzi is renowned for his comedic science fiction. His Hugo Award-winning novel Redshirts follows a group of new ensigns on a starship where away missions are dangerously lethal. The crew begins to investigate the alarming casualty rate, uncovering a reality far stranger than they imagined as they seek a way to survive.
The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers (2014)
Becky Chambers' debut novel is a character-driven story about found family. Rosemary Harper joins the crew of a ship tasked with tunneling wormholes, escaping her past on Mars. She learns a great deal from her diverse alien crewmates aboard the ship, creating a cozy narrative that appeals to fans of shows like Firefly or Farscape.
Artificial Condition by Martha Wells (2018)
The second book in Martha Wells' The Murderbot Diaries series features the titular rogue cyborg security unit who would rather watch entertainment than protect humans. Artificial Condition introduces a compelling foil in an advanced ship AI, while Murderbot investigates its own past. The series is slated for an Apple TV adaptation.
Space Opera by Catherynne M. Valente (2018)
Catherynne M. Valente's Space Opera literalizes the genre with a story about humanity competing in a Eurovision-like galactic music contest. The book offers over-the-top humor and serves as a glam rock tribute to The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. The band Decibel Jones and the Absolute Zeroes must prove humanity's sentience through song to avoid extinction.
Chilling Effect by Valerie Valdes (2019)
Valerie Valdes' novel Chilling Effect features a unique ensemble aboard the ship La Sirena Negra. Captain Eva Innocente leads her crew on dangerous jobs to pay a ransom for her kidnapped sister, all while withholding the true stakes. The book satirizes video games and pop culture, incorporating elements like psychic cats and the unwanted attention of an alien emperor.
Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir (2019)
Tamsyn Muir's Gideon the Ninth, the first in The Locked Tomb series, blends science fiction and fantasy with a dark, humorous tone. Gideon is tasked with protecting the necromancer Harrow as various house heirs undergo trials for immortality. Despite their constant bickering, Gideon and Harrow must cooperate to survive the deadly challenges and uncover the truth behind the murders of other competitors.
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir (2021)
Andy Weir's Project Hail Mary applies his signature wit and scientific explanations to a buddy comedy adventure. Ryland Grace, a science teacher suffering from amnesia, awakens on a spaceship orbiting a distant star. He discovers he is the sole survivor of a mission to save Earth's sun and finds an unlikely alien ally in his quest. The book was adapted into a film in 2026.
Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman (2024)
Matt Dinniman's Dungeon Crawler Carl series, popularized through self-publishing and later commercially printed, blends sci-fi and fantasy elements. The story follows Carl, a veteran who participates in an alien reality TV show alongside his ex-girlfriend's cat. The dynamic between the characters is a source of humor as they navigate challenges, interact with a sentient AI, and build a fanbase across the galaxy. An adaptation is in development for Peacock.
