Sci-Fi Juggernauts: Brave New World

Aldous Huxley’s masterpiece gets the Juggernaut once-over.
by Sinjin Jones

There are dozens of classic novels that fall under the category of “must-read” science fiction. Throughout this year, I will examine why a handful of these particular works are absolutely essential additions to everyone’s reading list, even those who do not consider themselves science fiction fans.

"That is the secret of happiness and virtue — liking what you’ve got to do. All conditioning aims at that: making people like their inescapable social destiny."
~The Director, Brave New World

     With its imaginative use of metaphors and common sci-fi themes, Brave New World stands apart from most modern science fiction because of its keen ability to remain almost comical while exploring the serious issues of humanity.
     The novel follows the story of Bernard Marx, an inhabitant of a future society in which babies are created in Hatcheries and the world’s problems are solved by a miracle drug known as Soma. Bernard is often looked down upon because he isn’t as promiscuous as society would like him to be – it is frowned upon to be with one woman for any extended length of time. Read more

Sci-Fi Juggernauts: Dune

Frank Herbert’s classic mirrors current events.

by Sinjin Jones

There are dozens of classic novels that fall under the category of “must-read” science fiction. Throughout this year, I will examine why a handful of these particular works are absolutely essential additions to everyone’s reading list, even those who do not consider themselves science fiction fans.

"Religion and law among our masses must be one and the same…"
-Duke Leto, Dune

    Dune, by Frank Herbert, is a novel that strikes chords with science fiction fans all over the world because of its intricate plot, its mirroring of modern society, and the entertainment derived from reading it. Spawning a successful movie, miniseries, and a collection of sequels, this novel will live on in the vaults of literature for years to come. Read more

Sci-Fi Juggernauts: 1984

A look at George Orwell’s classic work.

by Sinjin Jones

There are dozens of classic novels that fall under the category of “must-read” science fiction. Throughout this year, I will examine why a handful of these particular works are absolutely essential additions to everyone’s reading list, even those who do not consider themselves science fiction fans.

     Science fiction has long been a voice for those who wish to comment on society. For readers who are interested in beginning or expanding their knowledge of this style of writing, the science fiction classic 1984 by George Orwell is essential.
    There are three main components to a great sci-fi novel: content, commentary on the human condition, and “on-purpose” writing. It is no coincidence that 1984 contains all of these features. Read more

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