NPR has published their list of the top 100 scifi and fantasy books. I have read or attempted the top 10. Actually out of the top 30, I had read or attempted 27. I finished with a total of 52 complete. I disagreed with some (Neverwhere was good, but how is it there and not Good Omens and why is Gaiman on here four times). I think Hitchhiker is top ten book but I don’t think it is A. #2 on the list, nor B. the best science fiction entry. I had at least heard of most of the science fiction entries, but can’t say the same for the fantasy entries especially #18 The Kingslayer Chronicles. I mean on a list where I have read 27 of the top 30 and have seen movie versions of two more, I have never even heard of #18.
I think a lot of authors got a bump due to being very hot right now. Brandon Sanderson, for instance, had three things on here and I just don’t think he is going to be that relevant in 20-30 years. It is worth noting that this list isn’t really a best of list, but more of a popularity contest. A lot of people have commented on the fact that the list should have been split or that an author should only be allowed on the list once. These are great ideas.
Pleasant surprise- Mary Stewart’s The Crystal Cave
Glaring omission- John Steakley’s Armor.
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