This Week in Science Fiction — Week of June 8, 2026

Science Fiction Book of the Week

The most interesting data story from this week's Science Fiction book lists is The Midnight Train by Matt Haig, which added 2,056 ratings this week — the largest gain of any Science Fiction title.

Published: May 26, 2026

This book's trajectory shows a significant increase in ratings over the past week, with a growth of 34% from 6,030 to 8,086 ratings. The data suggests that The Midnight Train is gaining momentum, and its performance is outpacing other new releases in the Science Fiction genre.

In comparison to other Science Fiction movers in the data, The Midnight Train is leading the pack with its substantial growth. Its 34% increase in ratings surpasses the growth of other titles, such as The Unicorn Hunters, which grew by 27%, and Sublimation, which saw a 23% increase.

The significant growth of The Midnight Train may be driven by its unique blend of time travel and romance, which could be attracting readers looking for a fresh take on the Science Fiction genre.

Stats: 6,030 → 8,086 (+2,056)

Also Trending in Science Fiction

The Unicorn Hunters by Katherine Arden

Published: June 2, 2026

The Unicorn Hunters, a debut title, has entered the scene with a notable 27% growth in ratings, reaching 1,022 ratings this week. This increase suggests that the book is generating interest among Science Fiction readers, possibly due to its unique blend of fantasy and historical elements.

Stats: 807 → 1,022 (27%, +215)

Sublimation by Isabel J. Kim

Published: June 2, 2026

Sublimation, another debut title, has seen a 23% growth in ratings, reaching 419 ratings this week. This increase indicates that the book is finding its audience, potentially due to its thought-provoking exploration of identity and the human condition.

Stats: 342 → 419 (23%, +77)

Letters from the Last Apothecary by Bita Behzadi

Published: June 9, 2026

Letters from the Last Apothecary, a new release, has experienced a 13% growth in ratings, reaching 458 ratings this week. Although its growth is relatively modest compared to other titles, the book's unique blend of fantasy and romance may be attracting readers looking for a lighter, more uplifting Science Fiction read.

Stats: 407 → 458 (13%, +51)

Obstetrix by Naomi Kritzer

Published: June 9, 2026

Obstetrix, a debut title, has seen a 9.9% growth in ratings, reaching 534 ratings this week. This increase suggests that the book is generating interest among Science Fiction readers, possibly due to its thought-provoking exploration of a dystopian future.

Stats: 486 → 534 (9.9%, +48)

Science Fiction Genre Pulse

The overall Science Fiction genre has seen a significant increase in activity, with a net delta of 2,447 and a direction of "up". The total current ratings are 10,519, up from 8,072 last week. This surge in activity is likely driven by the debut of several new titles, including The Midnight Train, The Unicorn Hunters, Sublimation, Letters from the Last Apothecary, and Obstetrix, which are all generating interest among Science Fiction readers.