Books

Outstanding anthologies of science fiction and fantasy short stories

Discover exceptional collections of speculative fiction, featuring captivating short stories from renowned authors in the genres of science fiction and fantasy. Explore curated volumes that showcase the breadth of imaginative storytelling, from futuristic tales and space opera to magical realms and epic adventures. These compilations are perfect for readers seeking diverse narratives, groundbreaking concepts, and award-winning works that define the best of the genre. Find your next favorite short story or author within these highly acclaimed anthologies.

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  1. 1

    Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 41 (2025)

    272 Global Votes
    • Features winning stories from the Writers of the Future contest

      (+4)

    This anthology is highly regarded for discovering and promoting new talent in science fiction and fantasy, as evidenced by its 2025 Aurora Award win. It consistently features innovative stories from emerging authors.

  2. 2

    The System Apocalypse Anthology Volume 3 (2025)

    216 Global Votes
    • Features gripping tales from returning authors

      (+4)

    This anthology continues a popular saga of survival in a world transformed by 'the System.' It offers engaging stories about bounty hunters, warriors, and more, appealing to fans of post-apocalyptic and LitRPG themes.

  3. 3

    New Suns: Original Speculative Fiction by People of Color (2019)

    9 Global Votes
    • Features tales of science fiction, fantasy, horror

      (+4)

    Despite its 2019 publication, this anthology remains highly relevant and recommended in 2025 for its enduring quality and significant contribution to diverse speculative fiction. It has won multiple awards for its impactful stories.

  4. 4

    Year's Best Canadian Fantasy and Science Fiction: Volume Two (2024)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features stories from a wide variety of authors

      (+4)

    This volume has received significant critical acclaim, winning the 2025 Aurora Award and being a finalist for the World Fantasy Award. It represents the best of Canadian speculative fiction.

  5. 5

    Intergalactic Rejects (2025)

    0 Global Votes
    • Collection of exciting, powerful sci-fi and fantasy stories

      (+4)

    This anthology offers a fresh perspective on speculative fiction, curated by Storm Humbert. It promises unique and engaging stories that challenge conventional genre norms.

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  7. 6

    Derelict (2025)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features ghost ships and abandoned spaceships

      (+4)

    This independent press anthology offers a unique thematic focus on ghost ships and abandoned spaceships. It provides a distinct niche for fans of atmospheric and mysterious science fiction.

  8. 7

    As the Earth Dreams (2025)

    0 Global Votes
    • Ground-breaking anthology

      (+4)

    This collection by Terese Mason Pierre offers a unique speculative approach where the world feels subtly off-kilter. It provides cohesive yet varied stories that invite readers to uncover deeper meanings.

  9. 8

    Magic in the Melanin (2025)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features Black authors

      (+4)

    This anthology is dedicated to centering Black characters and imagination, offering a diverse range of moods and high-stakes narratives. It is a vital contribution to Black fantasy literature.

  10. 9

    Artifice & Access (2025)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features disabled and chronically ill characters

      (+4)

    This anthology reinterprets classic fantasy tropes by featuring disabled and chronically ill characters as heroes. It emphasizes adaptation and care as heroic qualities, offering a fresh and inclusive perspective.

  11. 10

    Tailored Realities (2025)

    0 Global Votes
    • Collection of ten science fiction and fantasy stories

      (+4)

    From the acclaimed author Brandon Sanderson, this collection includes ten standalone reads, notably the novella 'Moment Zero.' It is a highly anticipated release for fans of his intricate world-building.

  12. 11

    The Age of Calamities: Stories (2026)

    0 Global Votes
    • A pleasure to explore each story

      (+4)

    This debut collection by Seena Ahmad reimagines history through speculative and absurdist tales. It introduces a fresh voice that blends wit and unease while exploring profound themes.

  13. 12

    The Best American Science Fiction and Fantasy 2025 (2025)

    0 Global Votes
    • Interesting and strong short stories

      (+4)

    This annual anthology is a respected compilation of the finest short fiction from the previous year. Edited by Nnedi Okorafor and John Joseph Adams, it features boundary-pushing authors and diverse SFF stories.

  14. 13

    2026 SciFi Anthology: The Science Fiction Novelists (2026)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features post-collapse angle

      (+4)

    This upcoming anthology promises bold experiments and fresh takes on science fiction from a diverse group of authors. It is set to chart the ever-expanding frontier of speculative storytelling.

  15. 14

    The Year's Best Science Fiction on Earth 3 (2023)

    0 Global Votes
    • Collection of 29 imaginative science fiction stories

      (+4)

    This anthology uniquely focuses on science fiction stories that take place on Earth, featuring works from 2024. It includes notable authors like Pat Murphy and Greg Egan, offering grounded yet imaginative narratives.