Fantasy Buddy Reads discussion

This is a place for book recommendations in the feel-good scifi genre. You may not know (I certainly didn't) that this genre exists, but I for one am thrilled to learn that it does!

Do you ever read a book about space travel and/or settling new planets and/or meeting non-human species that just leaves you feeling all warm and tingly inside? THAT'S feel-good scifi!

I know there's lists out there with these types of books but I've started this discussion to share that this genre exists, and maybe we can score some new converts, too! XD

I hope if you find this thread you'll add to it any scifi/space opera-type books you may have read that gave you the warm tinglies (using clickable links, please)! Also, please say (minus spoilers, please!) why the book gave you a little psychic hug so others might be able to find a book that'll make them happy. Thanks, y'all!

I'll start with The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers. My blurb: What made this book stand out to me was the nonhuman (and future-human) cultures to which we're introduced, and the imagination of the author to come up with a culture so alien (no joke intended). Also, all these cultures seem [for the most part, with some notable exceptions] to get along with each other and interact with respect and understanding. This book gives me great hope for a future in which we can find peace and harmony!

I'd like to suggest the Innkeeper Chronicles (starting with ) by Ilona Andrews.

This series is technically a fantasy/sci fi hybrid but I loved it. A few things about it I enjoy: learning about the different alien races and their cultures, the intergalactic market and Dina's cute alien pet. The writing is also excellent and it's very easy to get immersed into the world.

Thanks, Charlie!

After finishing Record of a Spaceborn Few I'm also in the mood for more feel-good sci-fi.

The first book that comes to mind, although I haven't read it in years, is a childhood favorite, The Forgotten Door.

One that honestly I can't say if it has aged well, but that was sci-fi candy to my 12-year old self is Acorna: The Unicorn Girl. It may very well be ridiculous, and actually had some not-so-feel-good child slavery in it as well, but- but-! She is a unicorn girl with magical healing and purifying powers! Save the Children!

Is it weird that I also want to mention The Murderbot Diaries, if perhaps only tangentially? They are still first and foremost action-comedy, but slowly revealing how Murderbot may have *gasp* feeeeelings? gave me all those squishy feels.

I'm wracking my brain and it's hard to think of ones with that same brand of Chambers optimism though. Just good people who talk out their problems and are trying to do the right thing. Star Trek sci-fi. I hope others have more recs. Time to check out more space opera on my TBR list.