If you aim to stay updated on the fresh wave of science fiction hitting bookstores this November, you’ll need to be quick. New Scientist columnist Emily H. Wilson emphasizes the necessity of reading Claire North’s Slow Gods, and I’m inclined to trust her judgment (look for her review in next week’s edition). Additionally, I’m bracing myself for Rebecca Thorne’s chilling tale of a zombie-like virus aboard a submarine (talk about claustrophobia!). Grace Walker’s Merge has a central theme that terrifies me. This feels like a spooky month in the sci-fi realm. Yet, I also anticipate a poignant read about the extinct Great Sea Cow titled Sea Beasts, described as heart-wrenching and beautiful, devoid of any supernatural terror.

Emily H. Wilson has expressed her strong appreciation for this sci-fi novel. In my experience, it’s rare to encounter a science fiction columnist advocate for a book so passionately. This story illustrates the death and rebirth of deep space pilot Maukana na Vdnadze, exploring a supernova that “obliterated planets and devastated civilizations.” As Emily notes in her upcoming column, “Read this book. If you enjoy science fiction, it’s essential.” She consistently emphasizes value, and so do I.

Sea Beasts Written by Iida Turpeinen, translated by David Huxton

While not precisely science fiction, this tale delves into fictional interpretations of science. My fascination with sea cows began in childhood through Willard Price’s Adventure. The narrative kicks off in 1741, with naturalist Georg Wilhelm Steller embarking on an expedition to identify a sea route between Asia and America, where he discovers the Steller’s sea cow. Then, in 1859, the governor of Alaska dispatched men to unearth the skeleton of a massive marine mammal that vanished a century earlier, with restoration efforts beginning in 1952.

Though it may seem to tiptoe into the realm of fantasy, the publisher has likened it to a novel by Karian Bradley known for its time travel elements. The narrative unfolds within a library named “Jikoku,” filled with books containing the memories of individuals traversing the timelines between the post-war and Cold War periods in the U.S. At just 11, Lisavette finds herself trapped there, maturing into a world learned solely through the memories of the deceased. It becomes clear that government agents are infiltrating these times to eradicate memories that counter the official narrative…

We previously covered this novel during its self-publication in 2022, when our then-sci-fi columnist Sally Addie expressed enjoyment. Now endorsed by a major publisher, it seems laden with thrilling prospects and just the right amount of scare for the Halloween season, prompting me to finally dive in. A force known as the Anti-Meme preys on the book’s characters’ most treasured memories, covertly robbing them of their experiences while they remain unaware of the looming conflict.

Ice Written by Jacek Dukaj, translated by Ursula Phillips

Following the asteroid Tunguska’s 1908 impact, Russia unravels in a deadly winter. As the land succumbs to freezing temperatures, inhabitants flock to cities for survival. This extreme cold catalyzes a transformation of natural elements into bizarre new forms, spawning unique laws of physics.

Amelia’s mother, Laurie, is battling Alzheimer’s disease. As her condition deteriorates, Amelia opts into the world’s first experimental fusion treatment designed for Alzheimer’s patients. Laurie’s consciousness merges with Amelia’s, creating a singular identity. Together with other participants, they are placed in a luxurious rehabilitation facility known as The Village…yet all is not as it appears. Frankly, the notion of treatment options alone is unsettling.

Featuring themes of zombies, submarines, and maritime horror, Nix and Kessandra delve into a massacre in an underwater city. As they descend, Kessandra unveils the truth: a disease has triggered the massacre, transforming individuals into mindless killers, and it’s on the rise…

Within this narrative lies an interdimensional conflict described as “one of the most savage the multiverse has confronted” (and it indeed is brutal). We follow Beth, a teacher-turned-rebel, alongside a keen gun-slinging hero, Wakeful Slim. Unlike prior tales in Pandominion’s universe, this story stands alone, crafted by the author of The Girl with All the Gifts (a must-read zombie novel).

This monumental sci-fi narrative, Sun Eater, follows Hadrian Marlowe as he navigates life on the run from the Extrasolarians and the Soran Empire, whom he betrayed.

While not a new release, this 10th anniversary edition of humanity’s struggle for survival on a terraformed planet includes a special short story by Tchaikovsky, providing both enjoyment for fans and a perfect refresher for those new to the tale.

Described as an online cult phenomenon, this marks its inaugural English print edition. The narrative examines “the potential and pitfalls of human evolution,” delving into the author’s insights on genetic manipulation and the effect of colonizing Mars, accompanied by illustrations from Kosemen. Tchaikovsky himself described it as “a remarkable blend of scientific acumen and creativity.” Quite intriguing.

This thrilling high-concept story promises excitement. In a world governed by AI, everything comes to a halt right after your loved ones reveal their darkest secrets.

Mind Works Written by Neal Shusterman

This compilation of Shusterman’s short stories boasts a stunningly surreal cover and introduces readers to a realm where bats block the sun and a glacial life force resurrects the dead.