In our 10 favorite novels about scientists, these characters bring a spark to the science world.
It was only in adult life that I discovered my fascination with science (same goes with my love for fiction). My school weeks were spent dreading physics or biology, far preferring to head off the ocean or go long-distance running, and I now only wonder how that could’ve been so. Science can be mesmerizing, life-enhancing, and an excellent novel about scientists, where logic meets creativity, is at times unputdownable.
Scientists might spend their days in labs, hovered over microscopes or outdoors in the field with a clipboard in hand. But in fiction, their lives get a whole lot more interesting.
If you love the mix of science and storytelling, check out these ten fascinating fiction books about scientists that will have you hooked and—if you’re like me—even inspired to consider a profession in science.
The Overstory
Published: 2018
by Richard Powers
Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, The Overstory is a sweeping novel about trees, environmental activism and the connections between humans and the natural world. Several of the characters are scientists or have strong ties to scientific research, and their lives intersect in unexpected ways as they fight to save the planet’s forests.
Not only a beautiful fiction book about scientists and their love of trees, it’s one of our favorite books about nature that’ll get you outdoors. This novel blends ecological science with powerful storytelling, making it a must-read for anyone interested in environmental science or conservation.
Arcadia
by Tom Stoppard
This is a mind-bending play that jumps between two timelines—one in the early 1800s and another in the present day. The story features a young mathematical genius, Thomasina Coverly, and modern-day scientists and scholars trying to piece together her discoveries.
It’s a beautiful mix of science, chaos theory and human emotion, wrapped up in clever dialogue and humor. If you like your science with a side of literary flair, Arcadia is a must-read.
Never Let Me Go
Published: 2005
by Kazuo Ishiguro
Another Nobel Prize winner, Never Let Me Go is a haunting novel set in a dystopian world where humans are cloned for organ donation. The story follows three friends—Kathy, Tommy and Ruth—who slowly discover the dark reality behind their seemingly idyllic boarding school upbringing. As they come to terms with their fate, the novel raises profound questions about ethics in science, the value of human life and what it means to have a soul.
It’s a chilling, thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you’ve finished.
The House of the Scorpion
Published: 2002
by Nancy Farmer
This dystopian novel is perfect for fans of young adult fiction with a scientific twist. Set in a future where cloning is a reality, The House of the Scorpion follows the life of Matt, a young clone of a powerful drug lord. As Matt discovers the dark truths behind his creation and the ethical questions surrounding cloning, he has to grapple with what it means to be human.
It’s a gripping read that raises big questions about science and morality.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Published: 2010
by Rebecca Skloot
Okay, technically this one is part non-fiction, part fiction, but trust me—it deserves a spot on this list. This book dives into the story of Henrietta Lacks, a woman whose cells were taken without her knowledge in the 1950s and became one of the most important tools in medical research.
Skloot blends real science with an engaging narrative about the ethical issues surrounding scientific discovery, making it a must-read for anyone interested in medical science.
Lab Girl
Published: 2016
by Hope Jahren
This is another blend of memoir and fiction, but it’s a brilliant look into the life of a scientist. Hope Jahren, a geobiologist, shares her journey through the world of scientific research with a heavy dose of humor and personal insight. You’ll follow her through the ups and downs of her career, while also learning about plant science in a way that’s totally accessible.
If you’re curious about what it’s like to be a woman in science, this one’s for you.
State of Wonder
Published: 2011
by Ann Patchett
Set deep in the Amazon rainforest, State of Wonder follows Dr. Marina Singh, a scientist sent to track down her former mentor, who has gone rogue while developing a fertility drug from a mysterious plant. The novel combines science, adventure, and questions about the ethics of research, all wrapped up in a gripping, atmospheric narrative. It’s a great read for anyone who loves stories about scientists facing moral dilemmas in the wild.
I picked up State of Wonder on a recommendation and couldn’t put it down. The Amazon setting adds an extra layer of intrigue, and the story raises so many questions about how far science should go when it comes to human experimentation. Plus, Patchett’s writing is absolutely beautiful.
The Island of Dr. Moreau
Published: 1896
by H.G. Wells
This sci-fi classic has been bending minds since it was first published in 1896. It tells the story of a scientist, Dr. Moreau, who conducts unethical experiments on animals, turning them into human-animal hybrids on a remote island.
The Island of Dr. Moreau raises big questions about the consequences of playing God and pushing scientific boundaries too far. If you’re into dark, thought-provoking science fiction, this is a must-read.
Anatomy
Published: 2022
by Dana Schwartz
If historical fiction is your jam, Anatomy takes you back to 19th-century Scotland and follows Hazel Sinnett, a young woman who dreams of becoming a surgeon. As Hazel defies societal expectations and pursues her passion for anatomy, she gets involved in a mysterious world of body-snatching and dark medical secrets.
This gothic tale blends science, suspense and a touch of romance, making it an engrossing read for fans of historical fiction with a scientific flavor.
The Signature of All Things
Published: 2013
by Elizabeth Gilbert
Elizabeth Gilbert (yes, the author of Eat, Pray, Love) brings us a sweeping novel about Alma Whittaker, a 19th-century botanist whose life is filled with scientific discovery and personal growth. From her father’s vast botanical empire to her own studies of evolution, Alma’s journey is all about the wonder of the natural world and the pursuit of knowledge. The Signature of All Things is a lush, detailed read that will transport you to another era of scientific exploration.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Elizabeth Gilbert’s scientific fiction, but The Signature of All Things blew me away. Alma’s character is so richly developed, and her love of science comes through in every chapter. Plus, Gilbert’s attention to historical detail made me feel like I was right there alongside Alma, discovering the wonders of nature for the first time.
Whether you’re into medical science, historical discoveries, or wild ethical dilemmas, these fiction books about scientists are sure to keep you entertained and enthralled. They give you a peek into the fascinating (and sometimes messy) world of science, with characters you’ll root for and big ideas to ponder long after you’ve finished reading.