Science fiction book covers are the most wildly decorated on the shelf. With fantastic images in a variety of beautiful designs, here’s a look at retro and pulp science fiction book covers that exemplify what is best about sci fi: gorgeous vistas on alien worlds, space men challenging the boundaries of known space, and hostile alien creatures on the verge of attack.

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Teenage boys were one of the main demographics that read pulp science fiction, and the cover art reflects that. A large majority of the covers showcase a gorgeous woman being saved from certain death. How thankful she’ll be when the alien is defeated!

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These stories were popular because of how outrageous and strange they were. Publishing houses competed with each other to have the most unique plots involving giant aliens, killer robots, and space adventurers.

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The talent of these artists is apparent in all of their covers, but some are more startlingly artistic in nature. The toned down covers can sometimes be the most eye-catching.

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If there’s one thing every futurist knows, it’s that spheres are the future. Book artists are well aware and have painted accordingly!

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What would a sci fi book be without a daring adventurer for young readers to emulate? The astronaut was part Boy Scout, Scientist, and Bounty Hunter, but always all-American.

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The ships featured on vintage science fiction covers were always fantastic. Huge in scope and wildly varying in design, some of them seemed more organic than mechanical.

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Not all women were portrayed as damsels in distress. Here are two example of when the tables were turned.

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Some of the best book art comes from the classic storylines that have continued to entrance sci fi fans for generations.

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Not all Sci Fi book art is great, but it is always entertaining. Here are some of the more ridiculous examples of a crazy storyline mixing with an ambitious artist.

They say you can’t judge a book by its cover, but sometimes it can be unavoidable. The cover of a book can often make a strong first impression that is hard to ignore. Those who have had a lifelong love affair with books know the thrill of running their fingertips down a spine cloaked in rich mahogany leather. However, there are some books so cleverly designed that they captivate even the casual bookstore browser.

Travel and History

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A good book often has the ability to pull us into a different place and time. This unique Thames Tunnel book was used to promote the tunnel when it opened in 1843. It now calls Bristol reference library home. The holes in the cover of John Harrison and His Chronometer were meant to show off the artwork inside, but in the right lighting, cause the images to glow seductively. Other books can literally help you find your way with a map that doubles as a cover.

A Celebration of Art

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Artistic book covers tend to intrigue us and make us want to know more. Not only are they interesting to look at, we also are drawn in to the deeper meaning of the art. These book covers speak to us through mysterious subtleties.

DIY Crafty Covers

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People who love arts and crafts often create their own stunning cover designs. A cute book cover can be knitted or crocheted, painted, distressed or weathered. Some books aren’t for reading at all, but contain pressed botanical treasures.

The Bold and Bizarre

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Artists often use humor and oddities in book cover designs to attract interest and capture an audience. The shock value is striking and may cause readers to have a look, but these books must deliver on the promises their covers imply to keep readers engaged.

Sensational Books That Pop and Prickle

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Who didn’t love pop-up books as a kid? Books that pop when you open the cover offer a surprise that others don’t. Some books don’t save the 3-D thrill for the inside and outwardly present it for everyone to see. These books are interesting to look at and touch, but may not offer much literary value. Those of us who love to curl up with a good read might enjoy the superficial sensory experiences these books offer, but will have to keep looking for substance.