The Greatest Books of All Time on Telepathy
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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 467 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.
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1. The Midwich Cuckoos by John Wyndham
In a small English village, an inexplicable event causes everyone within its boundaries to fall unconscious for an entire day. When they awaken, it's discovered that all women of childbearing age are pregnant, and the children born from these pregnancies are eerily identical with golden eyes and telepathic abilities. As these children grow, their collective power increases, causing fear and tension among the villagers. The narrative explores themes of fear of the unknown, societal norms, and the power dynamics between adults and children.
The 844th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey
In a world where telepathic dragons and their riders protect the land from the destructive Thread that rains down from the sky, a young woman unexpectedly becomes the new Weyrwoman, bonding with the last queen dragon. As the traditional ways of the past clash with the urgent need to defend their world, she and her enigmatic dragonrider ally must rediscover ancient secrets and take to the skies in a perilous quest to unite the dragonriders and save their planet from annihilation. Their journey is fraught with challenges, both political and personal, as they strive to harness the full power of the dragons and ensure the survival of their way of life.
The 1184th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. A Swiftly Tilting Planet by Madeleine L'Engle
In this science fiction-fantasy novel, the protagonist embarks on a time-traveling quest to prevent a global catastrophe. Guided by a unicorn, the protagonist uses a powerful rune to mentally leap through time and space, inhabiting the lives of different people throughout history who are connected to the present-day threat. As the protagonist influences the actions of these individuals, the narrative weaves a complex tapestry of interconnected events, emphasizing themes of family, love, and the interconnectedness of all things. The story challenges the protagonist to understand the ripple effects of actions across time, ultimately aiming to alter the course of history to save the world from impending doom.
The 1371st Greatest Book of All Time -
4. Witch World by Andre Norton
In a high-fantasy realm where magic intertwines with the fates of kingdoms, a man from our world stumbles through a gate into a land where witches wield power and their dominion is absolute. As he navigates this new world, he discovers his own latent magical abilities and becomes embroiled in a struggle against dark forces threatening to overwhelm the Witch World. With the help of powerful allies, he must learn to harness his newfound powers and play a crucial role in the battle for the world's survival, challenging the very notions of destiny and his place within this mystical universe.
The 1847th Greatest Book of All Time -
5. The Stars My Destination by Alfred Bester
In a future where teleportation is possible, Gully Foyle, a lowly spaceship crew member, survives a catastrophic accident and is left stranded in space. Driven by a burning desire for revenge against those who abandoned him, he undergoes a physical and mental transformation, becoming a force to be reckoned with. As he navigates a world filled with political intrigue, powerful corporations, and mysterious psychic abilities, Gully's journey becomes a thrilling exploration of identity, revenge, and the power of the human spirit.
The 1874th Greatest Book of All Time -
6. Childhood's End by Arthur C. Clarke
"Childhood's End" is a thought-provoking science fiction novel that explores the evolution of humanity under the guidance of mysterious extraterrestrial beings known as the Overlords. Set in the near future, the book follows the transformation of society as the Overlords bring peace, prosperity, and advanced technology to Earth. However, as the human race reaches a new level of enlightenment, questions arise about the true intentions of the Overlords and the future of humanity itself.
The 2256th Greatest Book of All Time -
7. Quatermass And The Pit by Nigel Kneale
"Quatermass And The Pit" is a science fiction novel that follows the investigations of Professor Bernard Quatermass, a brilliant scientist, as he unravels the mystery behind a strange object discovered during an excavation in London. As Quatermass delves deeper into the origins of the object, he uncovers a terrifying truth that connects it to ancient Martian civilization and its influence on human evolution. With the threat of a malevolent force awakening, Quatermass must race against time to prevent a catastrophic event that could change the course of humanity forever.
The 2577th Greatest Book of All Time -
8. The Night Land by William Hope Hodgson
A Love Tale
The book is a dark and imaginative science fiction tale set in a distant future where the sun has died, and the remnants of humanity reside within a colossal metal pyramid known as the Last Redoubt, shielded from the monstrous and supernatural creatures that roam the eternal night of the surrounding wasteland. The story follows the journey of a lone protagonist, who, driven by a telepathic connection with his beloved, embarks on a perilous quest across the desolate and horror-filled landscape to rescue her from a similar refuge far across the land, confronting not only the physical dangers of the Night Land but also the limits of human endurance and the power of love and hope in the face of overwhelming darkness.
The 2621st Greatest Book of All Time -
9. More Than Human by Theodore Sturgeon
"More Than Human" is a science fiction novel that explores the concept of evolution and the potential of human abilities. The story revolves around a group of outcasts with extraordinary abilities, including telepathy and teleportation, who form a collective consciousness, effectively becoming a single entity. As they struggle to understand their nature and purpose, they must also navigate the complexities of human society and morality. The novel poses profound questions about what it means to be human and the potential future of human evolution.
The 3541st Greatest Book of All Time -
10. The Demolished Man by Alfred Bester
In a future society where telepaths, known as Espers, are integrated into all levels of society, a powerful businessman plots the perfect murder, believing he can outwit the telepathic police. His cat-and-mouse game with a determined Esper detective unfolds in a world where mental privacy is nearly extinct, and the concept of crime has taken on new meaning. The businessman's struggle against the pervasive telepathic surveillance and his own conscience leads to a suspenseful and philosophical exploration of free will, guilt, and the possibility of redemption.
The 3894th Greatest Book of All Time -
11. The Chrysalids by John Wyndham
"The Chrysalids" is a captivating science fiction novel set in a post-apocalyptic world where the inhabitants of a small community strictly adhere to a religious doctrine that condemns any form of mutation or deviation. The story follows a young boy named David, who possesses telepathic abilities that he must conceal to avoid persecution. As David grows older, he becomes increasingly aware of the intolerance and hypocrisy of his society, leading him to question the rigid beliefs he has been raised with and ultimately embark on a dangerous journey to find acceptance and understanding.
The 5157th Greatest Book of All Time -
12. Dragonquest by Anne McCaffrey
In this sequel to the pioneering science fiction-fantasy novel set on the planet Pern, the inhabitants continue to grapple with the deadly threat of Threadfall, a spore that devours all organic material in its path. As the dragonriders, who telepathically bond with dragons to fight Thread, struggle with internal conflicts and the challenge of adapting to new technology, the protagonist seeks to unite the old ways with the new to ensure the survival of their world. Tensions rise between the conservative old-timers and the progressive new generation, leading to political intrigue and a quest for harmony between the dragonriders and the rest of the Pernese society.
The 5577th Greatest Book of All Time -
13. The Rediscovery Of Man by Cordwainer Smith
This book is a comprehensive collection of science fiction short stories that explore the vast and intricate universe of the Instrumentality of Mankind. Set in a future where humanity has reached the stars and undergone profound transformations, both biological and societal, the stories delve into themes of identity, morality, and the essence of what it means to be human. Through tales of engineered animals serving as companions to humans, to the rediscovery of lost cultures and the exploration of deep psychological and ethical dilemmas, the collection offers a rich tapestry of speculative fiction that challenges the reader to ponder the future of human civilization and our place in the universe.
The 5621st Greatest Book of All Time -
14. Dark Prince by Christine Feehan
A Carpathian Novel
The book is a paranormal romance that follows the story of a powerful and enigmatic Carpathian male who is on the brink of losing his humanity. He finds hope and salvation in a strong-willed human woman with psychic abilities, who is unaware of her own potential. As they navigate a world filled with danger and darkness, they must confront their own fears and desires, forging a deep and passionate bond that could either save or destroy them. Their journey is fraught with challenges from both external threats and internal struggles, as they learn to trust and rely on each other to overcome the shadows that threaten their love and existence.
The 5804th Greatest Book of All Time -
15. The White Dragon by Anne McCaffrey
In a world where telepathic dragons and their human riders protect the land from threadlike spores that rain down from the sky, "The White Dragon" follows the young Lord Jaxom and his unique dragon, Ruth. As the smallest and only white dragon on the planet, Ruth's intelligence and ability to travel through time make the duo an extraordinary pair. Jaxom, caught between his noble responsibilities and his bond with Ruth, must navigate political intrigue and ancient traditions as they work together to prove their worth. Their journey is one of self-discovery, as they embrace their unique roles in a society that values conformity, ultimately playing a pivotal role in the survival and evolution of their world.
The 6102nd Greatest Book of All Time -
16. City by Clifford D. Simak
A Vision of the Future
"City" by Clifford D. Simak is a collection of interconnected short stories that explore the future of humanity and the evolution of civilization. Set in a distant future where humans have abandoned Earth and left it to robots and intelligent dogs, the book delves into themes of loneliness, the nature of humanity, and the possibility of coexistence between different species. Through a series of thought-provoking narratives, Simak paints a vivid picture of a world where technology and nature intertwine, challenging readers to contemplate the essence of what it means to be human.
The 6786th Greatest Book of All Time -
17. Dragonsdawn by Anne McCaffrey
In this science fiction novel, a group of colonists from Earth seek to establish a new society on the distant planet of Pern. As they struggle to adapt to their new environment, they are unprepared for the deadly Thread falling from the sky, which destroys all organic matter it touches. The colonists' survival depends on genetically engineered dragons, created from native lifeforms, which can burn the Thread out of the sky with their fiery breath. The bond between the dragons and their human riders becomes the cornerstone of Pernese society, as they work together to defend their home against the periodic onslaughts. The novel explores themes of pioneering, human ingenuity, and the forging of a symbiotic relationship between humans and dragons in the face of adversity.
The 6998th Greatest Book of All Time -
18. Vril by Edward Bulwer-Lytton
The Power of the Coming Race
This novel unfolds in a subterranean world inhabited by beings who possess advanced powers and technology, thanks to their mastery of a mysterious energy called Vril. The narrative follows a young, unnamed male protagonist who stumbles upon this hidden society and explores its wonders, including its social structure, technology, and the potential threat its inhabitants pose to the surface world due to their superior abilities. As he navigates this underground realm, he encounters love, cultural clashes, and the philosophical implications of a society wielding such immense power, ultimately questioning the ethics of using such energy and the true nature of civilization.
The 7063rd Greatest Book of All Time -
19. The Einstein Intersection by Samuel R. Delany
The novel is a unique blend of science fiction and mythology, set in a post-apocalyptic world inhabited by an alien race that has taken on the forms and behaviors of humanity based on our myths and legends. The protagonist, a being named Lobey, embarks on a hero's journey, reminiscent of Orpheus's quest, to find and resurrect his lost love, Friza. Along the way, he encounters various characters and challenges that draw parallels to figures from classical myths and contemporary culture. The narrative explores themes of identity, transformation, and the nature of humanity through the lens of an alien society striving to understand the remnants of human civilization.
The 7290th Greatest Book of All Time -
20. Slan by A. E. van Vogt
The book is a science fiction tale set in a future where humanity is at odds with a genetically advanced subspecies known as Slans, who possess telepathic abilities and are persecuted by the fearful human majority. The story follows a young Slan named Jommy Cross as he navigates a world filled with danger and discrimination, seeking to uncover the truth about his kind and find a place where Slans can live in peace. His journey is fraught with challenges, including evading the relentless human forces bent on eradicating his species, while also contending with internal divisions among the Slans themselves. The narrative explores themes of prejudice, survival, and the quest for understanding between different beings.
The 12143rd Greatest Book of All Time -
21. Rosewater by Tade Thompson
The Wormwood Trilogy
"Rosewater" by Tade Thompson is a captivating science fiction novel set in a future Nigeria. The story follows Kaaro, a government agent with psychic abilities who works in the town of Rosewater, built around an alien biodome that heals and grants powers to those who enter it. As Kaaro navigates the complex world of telepathy, government conspiracies, and a mysterious alien presence, he becomes entangled in a dangerous plot that could change the fate of humanity. With its rich world-building and thought-provoking exploration of power and identity, "Rosewater" is a thrilling and immersive read.
The 12290th Greatest Book of All Time -
22. The Many Coloured Land by Julian May
Saga of Pliocene Exile, Volume 1
In a future where time travel is possible, a group of misfits from different eras are recruited to journey back to prehistoric Earth. As they navigate the dangers of this ancient world, they discover that they possess unique psychic abilities. With conflicts arising among themselves and encounters with other time-traveling factions, they must learn to harness their powers and survive the perils of the past. This captivating science fiction novel explores themes of identity, adventure, and the complexities of human relationships.
The 12279th Greatest Book of All Time -
23. They'd Rather Be Right by Mark Clifton
The Forever Machine
The book explores the consequences of creating a supercomputer with the ability to enhance human intelligence and extend life indefinitely. The machine, known as Bossy, becomes the center of controversy and fear, as it requires individuals to completely surrender their prejudices and preconceived notions to benefit from its gifts. The story delves into themes of human resistance to change, the struggle between individuality and the greater good, and the societal upheaval that ensues when a technology offers the potential for a utopian existence, but at the cost of deeply ingrained human traits and beliefs.
The 12535th Greatest Book of All Time -
24. Beyond This Horizon by Robert A. Heinlein
In a future society where genetic engineering has eradicated disease and the economy is managed to ensure abundance for all, the protagonist navigates a world where personal fulfillment and societal contribution are paramount. Citizens are armed and duels are a common means of settling disputes, while those who choose not to improve their genetic lineage are considered second-class. The narrative explores themes of eugenics, social structure, and the quest for meaning in a seemingly utopian existence, culminating in a revolutionary discovery that challenges the very foundations of this carefully constructed society.
The 12535th Greatest Book of All Time -
25. Dying Inside by Robert Silverberg
"Dying Inside" by Robert Silverberg is a thought-provoking novel that follows the life of David Selig, a telepath who is gradually losing his extraordinary abilities. As he struggles with the impending loss of his powers, David reflects on his past, his failed relationships, and the isolation that comes with being different from others. Through introspection and self-discovery, he grapples with the question of what it truly means to be alive and human, exploring themes of identity, loneliness, and the fragility of the human condition.
The 12912th Greatest Book of All Time
Reading Statistics
Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!
Download
If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.
Download