Can you recommend some ivory science fiction books?

One great book is 'The Cambridge Companion to Science Fiction'. It delves into various aspects of the history of science fiction, exploring different eras and significant works. Another is 'A History of Science Fiction' which comprehensively traces the development of the genre from its early roots to modern times.

Sure. 'Rendezvous with Rama' by Arthur C. Clarke is a great one. It tells the story of a huge, mysterious alien spacecraft that enters the solar system and the human exploration of it.

Another one could be 'Dhalgren' by Samuel R. Delany. This book is complex and takes the reader on a journey through a strange and changing city. It has elements of surrealism and is quite thought - provoking. There are various characters and sub - plots that all come together to create a unique science - fiction experience. It challenges the reader's perception of reality and the future.

Sure. 'Contact' by Carl Sagan is a great 1997 science fiction book. It's about a scientist's search for extraterrestrial intelligence and the implications that come with it.

Another one might be 'Flow My Tears, the Policeman Said' by Philip K. Dick. It has his typical mind - bending and thought - provoking elements. Dick is a master at creating complex and strange futures that make you question reality. This book is full of his signature themes like identity and the nature of power.

Sure. One of the well - known science fiction books from 1961 could be 'Stranger in a Strange Land' by Robert A. Heinlein. It explores themes like human nature, religion, and sexuality in a science - fiction setting on Mars.

Well, 'The Uplift War' by David Brin might be on that list. It's part of his Uplift series. In this book, there's a war between different alien species and the humans who are involved in the complex web of galactic politics. It has great world - building and interesting characters.

Sure. One of the well - known science fiction books from 1985 could be 'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card. It's a great read with complex characters and an interesting take on military training in a space - like setting.

Another one could be 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons. It has a complex and multi - layered story, with different characters' perspectives set in a far - future, science - fiction universe. It was very well - received in 1987 and has remained popular among science fiction fans ever since.

Sure. 'Foundation' by Isaac Asimov is a classic that might be on such a list. It's set in a vast galactic empire and explores concepts like psychohistory.