John Scalzi

John Scalzi is an American science fiction author and former president of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America. He is best known for his Old Man's War series and has won several awards for his work, including the Hugo Award.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Dispatcher

    In a world where murder victims miraculously return to life, Tony Valdez, a licensed dispatcher, navigates the complexities of his unique profession, which involves killing people to save them. When a fellow dispatcher goes missing, Tony is drawn into a dangerous investigation that reveals the dark underbelly of a society grappling with the moral implications of life and death. As he delves deeper, Tony must confront ethical dilemmas and personal challenges, all while trying to uncover the truth behind his colleague's disappearance.

    The 9709th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. The Collapsing Empire

    The Interdependency

    In "The Collapsing Empire," humanity has spread across the galaxy thanks to a network of extradimensional pathways known as the Flow, which makes interstellar travel possible. The Flow is controlled by the powerful Interdependency, a quasi-feudal empire that relies on the pathways to maintain its political and economic dominance. However, when it's discovered that the Flow is shifting and may soon disappear, the empire faces the threat of collapse. As various factions vie for power and survival, a scientist, a starship captain, and a member of the ruling elite embark on a desperate quest to uncover the truth about the Flow's instability and seek a way to save human civilization from impending doom.

    The 12225th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. When The Moon Hits Your Eye

    When the Moon Hits Your Eye asks what would happen if the Moon were suddenly replaced by a same-mass wheel of cheese. Over the course of a lunar cycle, interconnected characters—children, scientists, workers, billionaires, preachers and politicians—grapple with the physical, social and personal consequences of this strange, impossible change.

    The 12444th Greatest Book of All Time
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  4. 4. The Last Emperox

    The Interdependency, Book 3

    In the thrilling conclusion to a space opera trilogy, the story follows the newly crowned leader of an interstellar empire as she grapples with unexpected threats to her rule and the stability of the empire. As an ancient and sprawling network of human-occupied planets faces imminent collapse due to the failure of the extradimensional flow streams that connect them, political intrigue, assassination attempts, and complex alliances abound. The protagonist must navigate treacherous political waters, confront her own mortality, and make impossible choices to save her empire and billions of lives, all while dealing with the legacy of her unpredictable predecessor and the looming specter of an existential crisis.

    The 13236th Greatest Book of All Time
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  5. 5. Redshirts

    A Novel with Three Codas

    In this satirical science fiction novel, the story follows the adventures of a group of ensigns aboard the Universal Union's flagship Intrepid. They quickly realize that their ship's officers are frequently embroiled in dramatic and dangerous missions, while the lower-ranked crew members—often clad in red shirts—have a startlingly high mortality rate. The ensigns come to the shocking conclusion that they are actually characters in a badly written television show, and they must navigate a metafictional quest to confront their creators and change their fates to avoid being expendable casualties in the next away mission. The novel plays with the tropes of classic space operas and the concept of narrative determinism, delivering both humor and existential inquiry into the nature of free will and destiny.

    The 13318th Greatest Book of All Time
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  6. 6. Old Man's War

    In this science fiction novel, elderly citizens of Earth are given a chance to join an interstellar army, trading their decrepit bodies for rejuvenated, genetically enhanced versions to fight in a seemingly endless war across the galaxy. The protagonist, a widower who enlists on his 75th birthday, navigates the complexities of his new existence, including the physical and emotional challenges of being young again, the camaraderie and loss within the ranks, and the ethical quandaries posed by the conflict with various alien species. As he rises through the military's ranks, he confronts the harsh realities of this expansive and deadly cosmic battlefield.

    The 13565th Greatest Book of All Time
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  7. 7. The Consuming Fire

    The Interdependency Book 2

    In this science fiction novel, the sequel to a space opera series, an interstellar empire is on the brink of collapse due to the failure of the extradimensional Flow, the sole means of interstellar travel. As political intrigue and rebellion threaten to tear the empire apart, the emperox must confront internal and external enemies while seeking a way to save humanity from impending isolation and the subsequent downfall of civilization. With the help of a brilliant scientist and a cunning diplomat, the emperox navigates the treacherous political landscape, racing against time to uncover the secrets of the Flow before it's too late.

    The 13971st Greatest Book of All Time
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  8. 8. Starter Villain

    In a world where villainy is a corporate enterprise, a down-on-his-luck protagonist unexpectedly inherits a sinister empire from a distant relative. As he navigates the treacherous waters of villainy, he encounters a quirky cast of characters, including talking cats and dolphins with a penchant for espionage. With humor and wit, the story explores themes of morality, power, and the unexpected challenges of running a nefarious business, all while questioning what it truly means to be a villain in a modern world.

    The 14983rd Greatest Book of All Time
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  9. 9. The End Of All Things

    In a universe teetering on the brink of chaos, a series of interconnected narratives unfolds, revealing the intricate web of political intrigue, betrayal, and survival. As humanity's alliance with alien species faces unprecedented threats, individuals from diverse backgrounds must navigate a landscape where loyalties are tested and the very fabric of society is at risk. Through the eyes of soldiers, diplomats, and ordinary citizens, the story explores the resilience of the human spirit and the lengths to which people will go to protect their way of life in the face of existential danger.

  10. 10. The Human Division

    In a universe where humanity's survival hinges on its ability to navigate complex interstellar politics, a series of interconnected stories unfolds, revealing the intricate dynamics between Earth and the Colonial Union. As diplomatic tensions rise and alliances are tested, a diverse cast of characters, including diplomats, soldiers, and scientists, must work together to uncover a conspiracy that threatens to destabilize the fragile peace. With humor, wit, and a keen eye for detail, the narrative explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the cost of progress in a rapidly evolving galaxy.

  11. 11. Zoe's Tale

    In a gripping tale of adventure and resilience, a teenage girl finds herself at the heart of interstellar politics and warfare. As she navigates the complexities of growing up on a new colony world, she must also grapple with the weight of her family's legacy and the expectations placed upon her. With wit and determination, she faces challenges that test her courage and ingenuity, ultimately playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of her people. Her journey is one of self-discovery, friendship, and the realization that even the smallest actions can have profound consequences.

  12. 12. The Last Colony

    A Novel of the Old Man's War Universe

    In this gripping installment of the Old Man's War series, readers follow the journey of John Perry and his wife, Jane Sagan, as they are tasked with establishing a new human colony on the distant planet of Roanoke. However, their mission is fraught with unexpected challenges as they navigate political intrigue, interstellar diplomacy, and the looming threat of war with the alien Conclave. As tensions rise, Perry must rely on his wit and experience to protect his family and the colony from forces that threaten to unravel the fragile peace in the galaxy.

  13. 13. The Ghost Brigades

    In a universe where humanity is at constant war with alien species, the story follows the elite soldiers known as the Special Forces, or "Ghost Brigades," who are created from the DNA of deceased individuals. These soldiers are engineered to be the perfect warriors, devoid of personal memories and emotions. When a scientist betrays humanity by defecting to an enemy race, the Ghost Brigades are tasked with uncovering his motives and stopping a potential catastrophe. As they delve deeper into the mission, questions about identity, consciousness, and the essence of humanity arise, challenging the soldiers to confront their own existence and purpose.

  14. 14. The President's Brain Is Missing

    In a whirlwind of humor and satire, the story unfolds in a world where the President's brain has mysteriously vanished, throwing the nation into chaos. As a motley crew of unlikely heroes, including a determined journalist, a quirky scientist, and a secretive government agent, embark on a frantic quest to locate the missing organ, they uncover a tangled web of political intrigue, conspiracy theories, and unexpected alliances. With sharp wit and a dash of absurdity, the narrative explores themes of power, identity, and the lengths people will go to maintain control, all while keeping readers on the edge of their seats with its unpredictable twists and turns.

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  15. 15. Murder By Other Means

    A Dispatcher Novel

    In a world where death is not the end, Tony Valdez, a dispatcher who legally intervenes to save lives by ensuring people who die unnatural deaths are restored to life, finds himself embroiled in a complex web of intrigue and danger. As he navigates a city teeming with corruption and moral ambiguity, Tony must unravel a conspiracy that threatens not only his career but also the delicate balance between life and death. With his unique skills and a keen sense of justice, he races against time to uncover the truth, facing unexpected allies and formidable foes along the way.

  16. 16. The Dead City

    In a world where the remnants of humanity struggle to survive amidst the ruins of a once-thriving metropolis, a group of unlikely allies must navigate the treacherous landscape of a city overrun by mysterious forces. As they delve deeper into the heart of the devastation, they uncover secrets that challenge their understanding of reality and force them to confront their own inner demons. With danger lurking at every corner, they must rely on their wits and courage to unravel the truth and find a way to reclaim their future.

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  17. 17. The Android's Dream

    In a universe where interstellar diplomacy hinges on the peculiarities of a rare breed of sheep, a government agent named Harry Creek finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes race against time. Tasked with locating the last remaining Android's Dream sheep to prevent an intergalactic war, Harry teams up with a sentient AI and a genetically engineered woman who holds the key to their mission. As they navigate a web of political intrigue, corporate espionage, and alien conspiracies, Harry must outwit adversaries and uncover hidden truths to save Earth from impending chaos.

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  18. 18. Lock In

    In a near-future world where a devastating virus has left a significant portion of the population "locked in"—fully conscious but unable to move or communicate—a new technology allows these individuals to interact with the world through robotic avatars. The story follows an FBI agent who is one of the "locked in" and uses this technology to solve a complex murder case that delves into the intricate social and political dynamics of a society grappling with the implications of this transformative technology.

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  19. 19. After The Coup

    In a thrilling blend of military science fiction and political intrigue, the story unfolds in a universe where humanity's survival hinges on the strategic prowess of the Colonial Defense Forces. The narrative follows a seasoned soldier who finds himself navigating the complex aftermath of a coup, where alliances are fragile and loyalties are tested. As he grapples with the shifting dynamics of power, he must confront both external threats and internal conflicts, all while striving to uphold the ideals he swore to protect. The tale is a gripping exploration of duty, honor, and the relentless pursuit of justice in a galaxy fraught with danger.

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  20. 20. To Stand Or Fall

    In a universe where interstellar travel is governed by a complex network of alliances and betrayals, a determined protagonist must navigate the treacherous political landscape to secure peace for their home planet. As tensions rise and loyalties are tested, the protagonist faces moral dilemmas and unforeseen challenges, ultimately leading to a climactic confrontation that will determine the fate of multiple worlds. With a blend of strategic cunning and personal sacrifice, the story explores themes of duty, honor, and the cost of leadership in a galaxy on the brink of war.

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  21. 21. Can Long Endure

    Set in a universe where humanity is part of a vast interstellar alliance, this story explores the challenges faced by soldiers stationed on a remote planet. As they grapple with the harsh realities of war, the narrative delves into themes of camaraderie, resilience, and the moral complexities of conflict. Through the eyes of diverse characters, the tale examines the personal and collective struggles of maintaining hope and humanity in the face of seemingly endless adversity.

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  22. 22. Head On

    A Novel of the Near Future

    In a world where a mysterious virus has left a portion of the population "locked in" their bodies, technology has advanced to allow these individuals to interact with the world through robotic avatars known as "threeps." The story follows FBI agents Chris Shane and Leslie Vann as they investigate the suspicious death of a professional athlete during a high-stakes game of "Hilketa," a violent sport played by threeps. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover a web of corruption and deceit that challenges their understanding of identity, consciousness, and the lengths people will go to for power and profit.

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  23. 23. This Hollow Union

    Set in a universe where humanity is part of an interstellar alliance, the story delves into the complexities of political intrigue and the fragile peace that binds diverse alien species together. As tensions rise and hidden agendas come to light, a group of unlikely heroes must navigate the treacherous landscape of diplomacy and deception to prevent a catastrophic war. With a blend of humor, action, and thought-provoking themes, the narrative explores the challenges of unity and the sacrifices required to maintain harmony in a galaxy teetering on the brink of chaos.

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  24. 24. The Life Of The Mind

    In a world where artificial intelligence and human consciousness intersect, a detective with a unique ability to access the minds of the deceased embarks on a thrilling investigation. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she navigates a complex web of corporate intrigue, ethical dilemmas, and the blurred lines between technology and humanity. Her journey challenges her understanding of identity and the essence of what it means to be alive, ultimately leading to revelations that could alter the course of human evolution.

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  25. 25. Everything But The Squeal

    Set in a world where humanity has been decimated by a mysterious plague, the story follows a group of survivors who have adapted to a new way of life in a post-apocalyptic society. As they navigate the challenges of survival, they must also confront the ethical dilemmas posed by their reliance on genetically engineered pigs, which have become a crucial food source. The narrative explores themes of survival, morality, and the complexities of human nature, all while maintaining a balance of humor and thought-provoking insights.

  26. 26. The God Engines

    In a universe where gods are enslaved to power starships, a captain named Ean Tephe is tasked with a mission that challenges his faith and loyalty. As he navigates the complexities of divine servitude and the political machinations of his superiors, Ean must confront the moral implications of using gods as tools and the potential consequences of their liberation. The story explores themes of belief, power, and the nature of divinity, culminating in a gripping narrative that questions the boundaries between worship and control.

  27. 27. Agent To The Stars

    In this humorous and imaginative tale, a Hollywood agent is unexpectedly tasked with representing an alien race known as the Yherajk, who wish to introduce themselves to humanity in the most favorable light possible. These gelatinous beings, possessing a less-than-appealing odor, hope to leverage the power of media and celebrity to ensure a smooth first contact. As the agent navigates the challenges of interstellar public relations, he must balance the eccentricities of the entertainment industry with the complexities of extraterrestrial diplomacy, leading to a series of comedic and thought-provoking events.

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  28. 28. Fuzzy Nation

    In a thrilling blend of science fiction and legal drama, the story unfolds on the distant planet of Zara XXIII, where a resourceful and somewhat roguish prospector named Jack Holloway discovers a new species of intelligent creatures known as "Fuzzies." As the corporate interests of the powerful ZaraCorp clash with the ethical implications of the Fuzzies' discovery, Jack finds himself at the center of a legal battle that could redefine the rights of sentient beings. With sharp wit and unexpected twists, the narrative explores themes of justice, corporate greed, and the moral responsibilities of humanity.

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  29. 29. Questions For A Soldier

    Set in the universe of the Old Man's War series, this novella explores the complexities of military service and the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers. Through a series of probing questions posed by a civilian audience, a seasoned soldier reflects on the harsh realities of war, the ethical challenges of following orders, and the personal sacrifices made in the name of duty. The narrative delves into the soldier's internal conflict, offering a poignant commentary on the human cost of interstellar conflict and the enduring quest for understanding and redemption.

  30. 30. The Sagan Diary

    Set in the universe of the Old Man's War series, this introspective novella delves into the inner thoughts and emotions of Jane Sagan, a genetically enhanced soldier. As she transitions from a life of combat to one of personal exploration, she reflects on her experiences, fears, and desires, offering a poignant glimpse into the human condition. Through a series of diary entries, the narrative explores themes of identity, love, and the quest for meaning in a world shaped by war and technology.

  31. 31. Unlocked

    An Oral History of Haden's Syndrome

    Set in a near-future world, the narrative delves into the aftermath of a global pandemic that leaves a significant portion of the population "locked in"—fully conscious but unable to move or communicate. Through a series of interviews, reports, and firsthand accounts, the story explores the societal, technological, and personal ramifications of this condition, known as "Haden's Syndrome." As humanity grapples with the challenges of adapting to this new reality, the narrative weaves a compelling tapestry of resilience, innovation, and the enduring human spirit.

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  32. 32. Travel By Bullet

    In a world where human consciousness can be transferred between bodies, a private investigator finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes case involving a mysterious client and a deadly conspiracy. As he navigates a landscape filled with intrigue and danger, he must unravel the truth behind a series of murders linked to a revolutionary technology that could change the fabric of society. With time running out, he races against the clock to uncover the hidden motives of those who would stop at nothing to control the future.

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  33. 33. Slow Time Between The Stars

    In a universe where interstellar travel is possible but time dilation creates vast gaps between journeys, a group of explorers embarks on a mission to a distant star system, knowing they will return to a world that has aged centuries beyond their own experiences. As they navigate the challenges of space travel and the psychological toll of leaving everything they know behind, the crew must confront the profound implications of their journey on their relationships, identities, and the very fabric of human society. The narrative weaves together themes of isolation, the passage of time, and the enduring human spirit in the face of the unknown.

  34. 34. The Shattering Peace

    The Shattering Peace is a science fiction novel by American writer John Scalzi, the seventh book set in the Old Man's War universe, and takes place ten years after the events of The End of All Things.

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  35. 35. Die Letzte Kolonie

    A seasoned former soldier and his partner are assigned to lead a small, hastily gathered group of settlers to found a distant human colony, only to discover their mission is a political setup that draws them into interstellar manipulation, alien diplomacy, and outright conflict; forced to protect their people and make wrenching choices about leadership, loyalty, and the right to self-determination, they must navigate moral dilemmas, espionage, and unexpected alliances as they try to build a home in a hostile and politically treacherous universe.

  36. 36. Geisterbrigaden

    A cadre of genetically engineered soldiers created from the DNA of people who never enlisted are thrust into a desperate hunt after the theft and misuse of a brilliant researcher’s work; one newly formed recruit, whose genes and nascent psyche are unnervingly tied to the case, must reconcile implanted memories with emerging selfhood as the unit races across hostile space to stop a catastrophic weapon and confront the ethical limits of identity, loyalty, and the costs of making people for war.

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