#1069 - 7 Sci-fi Novels Every Christian Should Read

Set in a world devastated by a nuclear apocalypse known as the 'Flame Deluge', the novel follows the monks of the Albertian Order of Leibowitz as they dedicate their lives to preserving scientific knowledge. The book is divided into three parts, each set in a different time period, spanning over 2,000 years. It delves into themes of Christian theology, the tension between religion and science, and the cyclical nature of human civilizations. Miller's work is a stark warning about the consequences of military build-up and the importance of the marriage between science and faith.

The novel is set in a future England where human fertility has ceased, leading to a society in decline. The story follows Dr. Theodore 'Theo' Faron, an Oxford don and cousin to the tyrannical Warden of England, Xan Lyppiatt. Theo becomes involved with a group of dissenters who aim to challenge the oppressive regime and fight for human rights. The narrative delves into themes of politics, power, and the human condition in the face of impending extinction. The book is known for its rich social criticism and theological reflections.

The Martian tells the story of astronaut Mark Watney, who is presumed dead and left stranded on Mars after a fierce storm. With limited supplies, Watney must draw upon his ingenuity, wit, and spirit to subsist and find a way to signal to Earth that he is alive. Meanwhile, NASA and a team of international scientists work tirelessly to bring 'the Martian' home, while Watney faces numerous challenges in his quest for survival. The novel is praised for its blend of science, humor, and suspense.

In this classic dystopian novel, Ray Bradbury depicts a future American society where books are outlawed and 'firemen' are tasked with burning any discovered. The protagonist, Guy Montag, is a fireman who starts to question his role after encountering Clarisse, a young girl who loves nature and reading. As Montag delves deeper into the world of books, he begins to see the emptiness of his life and the dangers of a society that values entertainment over critical thinking and intellectual freedom. With the help of Faber, a retired English professor, Montag rebels against the system, leading to a confrontation with his fire chief, Captain Beatty, and ultimately joining a group of intellectuals who have memorized books to preserve knowledge for a post-apocalyptic future.

Written in epistolary form, the novel tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant and ambitious scientist who, driven by Enlightenment-era ideas of progress and science, creates a living being from dead body parts. However, upon seeing the creature come to life, Frankenstein is horrified and abandons it. The creature, shunned by society due to its appearance, seeks revenge against its creator, leading to a series of tragic events. The novel explores themes of guilt, loss, and the emotional and moral consequences of scientific hubris, blending elements of Gothic and Romantic literature.

Published in 1968, 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? ' is set in a post-apocalyptic San Francisco after a nuclear war. The story follows Rick Deckard, a bounty hunter tasked with 'retiring' six escaped Nexus-6 androids. The novel delves into profound philosophical questions about the nature of life, empathy, and what defines humanity. It also introduces the concept of Mercerism, a religion that emphasizes empathy and compassion. The book is known for its complex characters, including Deckard's moral dilemmas and the ambiguous line between human and android, which has been a significant influence on science fiction and popular culture, including the film 'Blade Runner'.

The trilogy consists of 'Out of the Silent Planet', 'Perelandra', and 'That Hideous Strength'. It follows Dr. Elwin Ransom, a philologist, as he is kidnapped and taken to Mars (Malacandra), then to Venus (Perelandra), and finally back to Earth. Each book explores themes of good vs. evil, free will, and the cosmic hierarchy, drawing parallels with biblical narratives and classical mythology. The series delves into spiritual warfare, the nature of sin, and the struggle between personal ambition and moral integrity.

Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.