What makes a sci fi novel 'thoughtful'?

Well, 'Solaris' by Stanislaw Lem is a very thoughtful sci fi novel. It's about a planet that seems to have a consciousness of its own, and it makes the characters and the readers question the nature of reality. 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons is another. It weaves together multiple storylines in a far - flung future, exploring ideas like religion, time, and the human condition. 'The Three - Body Problem' by Liu Cixin is also a great choice. It presents a unique view of the universe and the relationship between civilizations.

One aspect is the exploration of deep themes. For example, in 'The Shining' by Stephen King, it's not just about a haunted hotel. It also delves into alcoholism, family breakdown, and the power of the supernatural. These deeper themes make it more than just a horror story.

Often, disturbing sci - fi novels play with concepts that violate our normal sense of ethics or humanity. For example, in 'Blade Runner' (both the book and movie versions), the idea of creating replicants that are almost human but treated as slaves is disturbing. It makes us question our own moral compass regarding artificial life.

A sci fi novel can be 'weird' when it defies the common understanding of science and reality. For example, if it has a completely different concept of time or space, like in 'Slaughterhouse - Five' where the main character becomes 'unstuck in time'. Another factor could be really strange alien species or entities that don't follow the usual tropes. In 'The Color Out of Space' by H. P. Lovecraft (which has a sci - fi feel too), the alien force is so indescribable and its effects on the environment are so abnormal that it makes the story really weird.

A sci fi art novel often has more focus on the aesthetic and creative aspects. For example, the descriptions of the settings might be more detailed and vivid, like in 'The City & the City' where the unique concept of two cities occupying the same physical space is described in an almost painterly way. Regular sci fi novels may be more plot - driven.

Exciting plots often make rejoice sci fi novels popular. For example, if there are space battles, time travel, or encounters with unknown civilizations, readers get hooked.

Standalone sci fi novels can be appealing because they can offer a complete and in - depth exploration of a single idea. Take 'Hyperion' for instance. It weaves together different stories and characters in a way that fully develops its far - future universe concept. They also don't require prior knowledge of a series, so new readers can jump right in. Moreover, the authors can take risks and be more experimental with the story since they don't have to worry about fitting into a pre - established series framework.

Character development is also crucial. In a good modern sci fi novel, you care about the characters. Take 'Hyperion' by Dan Simmons. The different characters' backstories are so well - developed that you get drawn into their individual quests within the overarching sci - fi setting. They are complex and their growth throughout the story is engaging.

An epic sci - fi novel is great when it can transport the reader to a completely different time and place. In 'Snow Crash', the virtual Metaverse and the post - apocalyptic real world are so vividly depicted that it feels like you're there. Great epic sci - fi also challenges our thinking. 'The War of the Worlds' made people think about the possibility of extraterrestrial life and our vulnerability. Moreover, a good plot that unfolds on a large scale, like in 'Foundation', with many twists and turns over a long period, is what makes an epic sci - fi novel stand out.

It usually has a unique and bleak setting that grabs your attention. Also, complex characters facing tough choices add to the appeal.