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That's a great idea! If you want to recommend some highly-reviewed, recently published science fiction novels, here’s a mix of some standout books that have been getting a lot of buzz: 1. "The Terraformers" by Annalee Newitz (2023) Why Recommend: Newitz, a journalist and science fiction author, explores the complex dynamics of colonizing a new planet in this expansive novel. It’s thoughtful, beautifully written, and tackles big issues like climate change, governance, and societal ethics. Themes: Environmentalism, technology, society, space colonization. 2. "The Candy House" by Jennifer Egan (2022) Why Recommend: Egan’s ambitious novel explores the intersection of memory, privacy, and technology. It’s a bit of a genre-bender, incorporating elements of sci-fi with literary fiction, and it's been getting rave reviews for its depth and innovation. Themes: Memory, technology, self-awareness, human consciousness. 3. "A Psalm for the Wild-Built" by Becky Chambers (2021) Why Recommend: Chambers’ “Solarpunk” series offers an optimistic, character-driven exploration of the future where humans live in harmony with the environment. It’s a refreshing take on hopeful sci-fi, with themes of self-discovery and sustainability. Themes: Sustainability, eco-futurism, human connection, self-exploration. 4. "Gideon the Ninth" by Tamsyn Muir (2019) Why Recommend: This book is a unique, darkly comic blend of necromancy and space exploration. It’s a mix of mystery, science fiction, and gothic horror. If your friend enjoys quirky characters, witty banter, and complex world-building, they’ll love this one. Themes: Death, necromancy, mystery, queerness, space. 5. "The Ministry for the Future" by Kim Stanley Robinson (2020) Why Recommend: A hard-hitting, near-future exploration of climate change, economics, and political systems. It’s been praised for its realistic and visionary treatment of climate science and how society might adapt to the coming crises. Themes: Climate change, politics, economics, global systems. 6. "Sea of Rust" by C. Robert Cargill (2021 re-release) Why Recommend: A thought-provoking post-apocalyptic story centered on artificial intelligence and the consequences of a world without humans. It’s a dark but engaging narrative with deep questions about consciousness and survival. Themes: AI, post-apocalypse, ethics, survival. 7. "Klara and the Sun" by Kazuo Ishiguro (2021) Why Recommend: Ishiguro’s foray into science fiction is tender and thought-provoking. It’s a quieter, more introspective take on AI, and it deals with themes of love, humanity, and what it means to care. Themes: Artificial intelligence, love, human nature, loneliness. 8. "The Space Between Worlds" by Micaiah Johnson (2020) Why Recommend: A multidimensional journey with strong social commentary about class, privilege, and identity. It’s an exploration of parallel worlds where the protagonist can only travel to worlds where her counterpart is dead. Fast-paced and engaging. Themes: Identity, privilege, parallel universes, class. 9. "Project Hail Mary" by Andy Weir (2021) Why Recommend: If your friend liked The Martian, they’ll love this one. It’s full of Weir’s trademark humor and scientific accuracy, but this time it’s about saving humanity from an extinction-level disaster. Themes: Space, science, survival, isolation, humanity. 10. "The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" by V.E. Schwab (2020) Why Recommend: Though it's more fantasy than sci-fi, its mix of historical fiction and speculative elements makes it worth recommending for a science fiction fan. It explores immortality, identity, and the quest for meaning over centuries. Themes: Immortality, time, identity, loneliness. 11. "Light from Uncommon Stars" by Ryka Aoki (2021) Why Recommend: A genre-defying novel with elements of science fiction, fantasy, and LGBTQ+ themes. It mixes music, intergalactic travel, and personal transformation, and it’s gotten wonderful reviews for being unique and heartfelt. Themes: Music, identity, space, queer representation. 12. "To Sleep in a Sea of Stars" by Christopher Paolini (2020) Why Recommend: Known for Eragon, Paolini’s dive into adult science fiction delivers a massive space adventure. It's packed with action, grand world-building, and exploration of alien life. Themes: Space exploration, alien contact, personal growth. I hope one of these books would resonate with your friend! Any particular genre or vibe you want to lean into for the recommendation?