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15 Authors like John Scalzi

John Scalzi is known for witty and engaging science fiction novels. His book Old Man's War offers an inventive take on military sci-fi that readers widely enjoy.

If you enjoy reading books by John Scalzi then you might also like the following authors:

  1. Adrian Tchaikovsky

    Adrian Tchaikovsky is known for smart science fiction that blends exciting plots with thoughtful ideas. His stories explore themes of evolution and identity.

    In his book, Children of Time, humans attempt to colonize another planet, but things take a surprising turn when spiders evolve into an intelligent species.

    Readers who appreciate Scalzi's inventive storytelling and sharp wit will enjoy Tchaikovsky's fresh take on humanity's place in the universe.

  2. Becky Chambers

    Becky Chambers writes character-driven sci-fi that focuses on everyday life, diverse relationships, and humanity among the stars. Her book The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet follows a mismatched spaceship crew as they travel through the galaxy.

    Like Scalzi, Chambers' writing is warm, smart, and filled with humor, making science fiction both down-to-earth and fun.

  3. Martha Wells

    Martha Wells creates science fiction featuring engaging characters and humorous narration. Her popular All Systems Red, the first book in the Murderbot Diaries, follows an antisocial security android obsessed with soap operas and reluctant about being humanlike.

    Fans of Scalzi's entertaining characters and sharp humor will find a similar style in Wells' witty, adventurous stories.

  4. Andy Weir

    Andy Weir excels at funny, realistic, and compelling stories based on believable science. His book The Martian features astronaut Mark Watney stranded on Mars, who uses science, humor, and determination to survive.

    Weir blends tense action with humorous and relatable dialogue—perfect for readers who enjoy Scalzi's convincing science and engaging storytelling style.

  5. Dennis E. Taylor

    Dennis E. Taylor mixes humor, science, and adventure to explore big ideas in a fun, accessible manner. His novel We Are Legion (We Are Bob) follows a software engineer whose mind is uploaded into a space probe.

    Like Scalzi, Taylor keeps readers entertained through sharp dialogue, imaginative tech scenarios, and thoughtful exploration of identity and existence.

  6. Tamsyn Muir

    Tamsyn Muir writes fun and engaging sci-fi and fantasy with humor, sharp wit, and fascinating characters. Her novel Gideon the Ninth combines necromancy, mystery, and dark humor in a story featuring quirky and unforgettable protagonists.

    Readers who appreciate Scalzi's smart dialogue and humor-filled approach will enjoy Muir's clever storytelling and lively style.

  7. Arkady Martine

    Arkady Martine crafts science fiction that explores political intrigue, cultural clashes, and personal identity. Her book A Memory Called Empire follows a diplomat who finds herself navigating deadly politics and conspiracy within an expansive galactic empire.

    Fans of Scalzi's intelligent plots, strong character development, and thoughtful exploration of societies and cultures will appreciate Martine's writing.

  8. James S.A. Corey

    James S.A. Corey is the pen-name of authors Daniel Abraham and Ty Franck, who create rich and believable stories set in a gritty, realistic future.

    Their series beginning with Leviathan Wakes combines elements of detective noir, space adventure, and complex politics, featuring memorable characters dealing with high-stakes issues.

    Fans of Scalzi's accessible, action-packed style will find Corey's straightforward storytelling appealing.

  9. Ann Leckie

    Ann Leckie specializes in thoughtful, thought-provoking sci-fi that examines society, identity, and morality. Her novel Ancillary Justice introduces an AI protagonist navigating questions of selfhood, humanity, and justice within an intricate space empire.

    Readers who appreciate Scalzi's interest in deeper themes, such as ethics and identity, combined with a clear, engaging narrative style, will find Leckie's novels rewarding.

  10. Iain M. Banks

    Iain M. Banks wrote imaginative, ambitious, and thought-provoking sci-fi set in expansive futuristic settings.

    His Culture series, beginning with Consider Phlebas, explores a utopian, post-scarcity civilization involved in complex moral dilemmas, political intrigue, and large-scale conflicts.

    Fans of Scalzi's big ideas, engaging storytelling, and exploration of ethical and societal themes will be drawn to Banks' vivid world-building and intriguing narratives.

  11. Alastair Reynolds

    If you enjoy John Scalzi's fast-paced stories and clever explorations of humanity in space, Alastair Reynolds might be right up your alley. Reynolds writes ambitious and thoughtful space opera, mixing advanced futuristic science with rich storytelling.

    His book Revelation Space is a great example—it's full of mysterious discoveries, advanced technology, and suspenseful plots.

  12. Charles Stross

    Fans of Scalzi's wit and tech-savvy tales might really enjoy Charles Stross. He writes with humor and insight, often tackling ideas about the future, strange tech, and alternate realities.

    Try his novel Accelerando, a clever exploration of humanity's wild journey through technological change and artificial intelligence.

  13. Orson Scott Card

    If Scalzi's style of straightforward storytelling and engaging characters appeals to you, Orson Scott Card could be a natural fit. Card's novels often focus on strong character development and moral questions, wrapped in imaginative and tense plots.

    His classic work Ender's Game is known for its gripping characters, sharp dialogue, and thought-provoking theme of humanity and war.

  14. Lois McMaster Bujold

    Lois McMaster Bujold combines the kind of smart storytelling and engaging plots that Scalzi's readers often enjoy. Her stories blend humor, action, and wonderfully developed characters.

    Check out The Warrior's Apprentice, the book that introduces Miles Vorkosigan—a witty, clever hero navigating politics, action, and adventure in a richly drawn space opera setting.

  15. Elizabeth Moon

    Elizabeth Moon's writing should resonate with readers who love Scalzi's balance of military details, adventure, and human relationships. In her novel Trading in Danger, she crafts a compelling protagonist finding her way in a dangerous and uncertain universe.

    Moon brings authenticity and excitement to science fiction, and her storytelling feels vivid and believable.