20 best books on pandemics fiction – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you a fan of thrilling and thought-provoking fiction? Do you find yourself captivated by stories that explore the unimaginable? If so, you’re in luck. In this article, we have compiled a list of the 20 best books about pandemics fiction that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From gripping tales of deadly viruses to haunting dystopian worlds, these books offer a unique and immersive reading experience. So, grab a cup of tea, snuggle up in your favorite reading nook, and delve into the fascinating world of pandemics fiction books.


Station Eleven

by Emily St. John Mandel

Station Eleven is a captivating book about pandemics fiction that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through a post-apocalyptic world.

Set in a future where a devastating flu pandemic has wiped out most of humanity, the story follows a group of interconnected characters as they navigate the remnants of civilization. Mandel weaves together multiple narratives that span both the pre-pandemic world and the chaotic aftermath, creating a rich tapestry of human resilience and the enduring power of art.

Through vivid storytelling and exquisite prose, Mandel explores themes of survival, love, and the search for meaning in a world forever changed. The characters’ lives intersect in unexpected ways, highlighting the interconnectedness of humanity even in the face of disaster.

Station Eleven is not just a book on pandemics fiction, but a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be alive and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. It is a gripping and hauntingly beautiful tale that will stay with readers long after they turn the last page.

The Stand

by Stephen King

The Stand by Stephen King is a thrilling book on pandemics fiction that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Brace yourself for a heart-pounding journey into a world devastated by a deadly virus. This gripping book about pandemics fiction will take you on a rollercoaster ride through the darkness of humanity’s struggle for survival.

Severance

by Ling Ma

Are you ready to dive into a captivating journey through the depths of a world ravaged by a devastating and eerily familiar pandemic? Look no further than Severance, a mesmerizing book about pandemics fiction that will leave you breathless.

The Last Town on Earth

by Thomas Mullen

The Last Town on Earth is a gripping and timely novel that delves into the heart-wrenching consequences of a devastating pandemic. Set in the early 1900s, this book on pandemics fiction takes readers back to a time when the world was grappling with the deadly Spanish Flu.

The small logging town of Commonwealth, nestled deep in the Pacific Northwest, decides to take drastic measures to protect its inhabitants. In a desperate attempt to safeguard their community from the contagious disease, the town barricades itself from the outside world, effectively becoming a self-imposed quarantine zone.

As the tension within the town rises, we follow the lives of the McNaughton family, who face the difficult task of enforcing the quarantine while battling their own secrets and desires. As the pandemic spreads, the townspeople are torn between their fear of the disease and their yearning for connection and freedom.

This book about pandemics fiction explores the complex moral dilemmas faced by individuals during times of crisis. It delves into the psychological impact of isolation, the tension between personal liberty and the greater good, and the sacrifices one must make to protect loved ones.

Thomas Mullen skillfully weaves together a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With vivid descriptions and deeply developed characters, he transports us to a time when a deadly virus threatened to tear communities apart.

If you’re looking for a thought-provoking pandemics fiction book that explores the human condition in the face of a devastating disease, The Last Town on Earth is a must-read. Prepare to be immersed in a world of fear, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Andromeda Strain

by Michael Crichton

The Andromeda Strain is a gripping book on pandemics fiction written by Michael Crichton. This thrilling novel takes readers on an intense journey into the world of deadly viruses and their potential catastrophic effects on humanity.

The Road

by Cormac McCarthy

The Road by Cormac McCarthy is a heart-wrenching book about a post-apocalyptic world. Set in a desolate landscape, this gripping tale follows a father and son as they navigate through the remnants of civilization.

The Passage

by Justin Cronin

Introducing an electrifying tale of survival and humanity in the face of overwhelming darkness, ‘The Passage’ by Justin Cronin is an immersive and heart-stopping book on pandemics fiction.

In this gripping epic, Cronin explores a world on the brink of extinction as a government experiment to create a superhuman weapon goes devastatingly awry. The story unfolds in two timelines: the initial outbreak and the post-apocalyptic aftermath, spanning over a century.

With deft storytelling and richly developed characters, Cronin crafts a narrative that is as haunting as it is exhilarating. As a pandemic sweeps across the globe, transforming people into bloodthirsty creatures known as “virals,” a small group of survivors must navigate a world where danger lurks at every turn.

As the narrative unfolds, ‘The Passage’ delves into themes of sacrifice, hope, and the unbreakable bonds of love. It explores the resilience of the human spirit amidst unimaginable horrors, showcasing the lengths people will go to protect those they hold dear.

With its masterful blend of science fiction, horror, and literary fiction, ‘The Passage’ stands as a standout book about pandemics fiction. Cronin’s prose is lyrical, evocative, and haunting, drawing readers into a world that feels both terrifyingly real and strangely beautiful.

Prepare to be swept away by this mesmerizing pandemics fiction book as you join the characters on a journey that will test their limits and challenge their notions of what it means to be human.

Blindness

by José Saramago

Blindness is an extraordinary book on pandemics fiction that delves into the depths of human nature when faced with an unimaginable crisis. Written by the renowned Portuguese author José Saramago, this masterpiece is a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of a world engulfed by an epidemic.

The Dog Stars

by Peter Heller

The Dog Stars by Peter Heller is an extraordinary book about pandemics fiction that will leave you breathless and deeply moved. Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a deadly flu pandemic, this gripping tale takes readers on a harrowing journey of survival, hope, and the unbreakable bond between man and dog.

The Book of M

by Peng Shepherd

The Book of M by Peng Shepherd:

Step into a world where the boundaries of reality and memory blur, and the power of forgetting becomes a terrifying force. The Book of M is not your typical book on pandemics fiction; it is a mesmerizing tale that explores the consequences of a world plagued by a mysterious phenomenon.

In this book about pandemics fiction, Peng Shepherd takes readers on a journey through a post-apocalyptic landscape where people begin to lose their shadows and, with it, their memories. As the world succumbs to this strange affliction, chaos ensues, and civilization crumbles. But amidst the despair, a group of individuals emerges, each with a unique ability that defies the laws of nature.

The story follows Ory and his wife, Max, as they navigate this new reality. When Max loses her shadow and her memories, Ory embarks on a perilous journey to find her, armed only with a journal that Max left behind. Along the way, he encounters others who have also lost their shadows, each with their own motivations and secrets.

The Book of M is a pandemics fiction book that delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of love, identity, and the lengths we would go to protect those we cherish. As the characters grapple with the consequences of forgetting, they are forced to confront their pasts and question the nature of their own existence.

Shepherd’s writing is hauntingly beautiful, and her vivid descriptions bring the world to life. The Book of M is a thought-provoking and immersive read that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Get ready to be captivated by this extraordinary book on pandemics fiction that transcends the genre and explores the depths of the human experience.

The End of October

by Lawrence Wright

The End of October: A Gripping Tale of Catastrophe and Survival

Prepare to be captivated by a thrilling journey through a world on the brink of collapse. Lawrence Wright’s masterpiece, The End of October, is a heart-pounding rollercoaster ride that combines the suspense of a gripping thriller with the chilling reality of a global pandemic.

Set in a not-so-distant future, this mesmerizing book on pandemics fiction offers a hauntingly realistic portrayal of a deadly virus that threatens humanity’s very existence. As the world grapples with an unknown and rapidly spreading illness, panic and chaos ensue, pushing society to its limits.

Wright’s meticulous research and expert storytelling skills breathe life into every page, making this book about pandemics fiction an unforgettable experience. With its intricate plot, compelling characters, and a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where survival is uncertain, and every decision could mean life or death.

As the outbreak unfolds, the protagonist, a brilliant epidemiologist, races against time to unravel the mysteries surrounding the virus. From the corridors of power to the darkest corners of the globe, he must navigate treacherous political landscapes, confront hidden agendas, and confront his own personal demons.

The End of October is an unputdownable pandemics fiction book that will leave you questioning the fragility of our world and the resilience of the human spirit. It serves as a stark reminder of the threats we face and the importance of preparedness in an increasingly interconnected world.

If you’re a fan of heart-stopping suspense, thought-provoking themes, and a story that stays with you long after you turn the final page, then The End of October is a must-read. Brace yourself for an unforgettable journey into the depths of a pandemic-ridden world.

The Dreamers

by Karen Thompson Walker

Are you ready to embark on a mesmerizing journey through a world plagued by an extraordinary pandemic? Look no further than The Dreamers by Karen Thompson Walker, a riveting book on pandemics fiction that will leave you spellbound.

The Children of Men

by P.D. James

The Children of Men by P.D. James is a captivating book on pandemics fiction that takes readers on a thrilling journey into a world plagued by the devastating consequences of infertility. Set in a dystopian future, this book about pandemics fiction explores the profound impact that the loss of fertility has on society.

In this thought-provoking pandemics fiction book, P.D. James skillfully weaves together elements of suspense, political intrigue, and social commentary. The story follows the protagonist, Theodore Faron, as he navigates a world devoid of hope and purpose. As the last generation to be born, humanity faces the terrifying reality of extinction.

James’s vivid and descriptive writing style brings this grim world to life, immersing readers in a future where despair and chaos reign. The author expertly delves into the psychological and emotional toll that the absence of children has on the remaining population, exploring themes of identity, purpose, and the innate desire for hope.

The Children of Men is a compelling example of pandemics fiction that goes beyond the surface-level exploration of a global crisis. It raises important questions about the nature of humanity, the frailty of society, and the lengths people will go to in order to survive.

With its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, The Children of Men is a must-read book on pandemics fiction that will leave readers pondering its implications long after they have turned the final page.

The Year of the Flood

by Margaret Atwood

The Year of the Flood is an enthralling book on pandemics fiction that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Margaret Atwood, the renowned Canadian author, takes readers on a thrilling journey through a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a catastrophic pandemic.

In this book about pandemics fiction, Atwood introduces us to a dystopian society where a deadly virus, unleashed by a reckless scientific experiment, has wiped out most of humanity. The survivors are left to fend for themselves in a world overrun by lawlessness, scarcity, and genetically modified creatures.

The story follows the lives of two women, Toby and Ren, who are members of a religious group called the God’s Gardeners. These eco-activists had foreseen the impending doom and prepared themselves for the chaos that would ensue. As Toby and Ren navigate this dangerous world, the narrative weaves between their present struggles and their past experiences leading up to the pandemic.

Atwood’s masterful storytelling keeps readers captivated as she explores themes of survival, faith, and the resilience of the human spirit. The pandemics fiction book also delves into the ethical dilemmas of scientific advancements and the devastating consequences they can unleash.

The Year of the Flood is a thought-provoking and hauntingly realistic portrayal of a future that feels all too plausible. Atwood’s vivid descriptions and intricately developed characters make this novel a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and anyone intrigued by the potential consequences of our own actions.

The White Plague

by Frank Herbert

The White Plague is a thrilling book on pandemics fiction that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Set in a not-so-distant future, this gripping tale by Frank Herbert explores the devastating consequences of a global epidemic.

In this book about pandemics fiction, Herbert introduces us to Dr. John Roe O’Neill, a brilliant scientist whose life is shattered when his wife and children fall victim to a deadly terrorist attack. Driven by grief and a thirst for vengeance, O’Neill unleashes his scientific genius to create a new weapon, one that specifically targets women carrying the Y chromosome.

As the plague spreads across the world, chaos ensues, and society is pushed to the brink of collapse. The novel masterfully depicts the panic, fear, and desperation that grips nations as they grapple with an unimaginable crisis. With its intricate exploration of political and social dynamics, The White Plague is not just a pandemics fiction book, but also a thought-provoking commentary on the fragile nature of civilization.

Herbert’s writing is both engaging and thought-provoking, as he delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters. The story takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers captivated until the very last page.

If you’re in search of a thrilling pandemics fiction book that will make you question the boundaries of science and society, look no further than The White Plague. Herbert’s masterpiece is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and those who appreciate a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.

The Hot Zone

by Richard Preston

The Hot Zone is an intense and gripping book on pandemics fiction that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With its heart-pounding narrative and meticulous research, Richard Preston takes you on a thrilling journey into the world of deadly viruses and the brave individuals who fight to contain them.

The Maze Runner

by James Dashner

The Maze Runner by James Dashner is an electrifying book about pandemics fiction that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Set in a dystopian world, this gripping pandemics fiction book takes you on a heart-pounding journey into a mysterious maze.

The Girl with All the Gifts

by M.R. Carey

The Girl with All the Gifts by M.R. Carey is a thrilling and thought-provoking book about pandemics fiction. Set in a dystopian world where mankind is on the brink of extinction due to a devastating fungal infection, this novel takes readers on a heart-pounding journey filled with suspense, horror, and unexpected moments of tenderness.

The Water Knife

by Paolo Bacigalupi

The Water Knife by Paolo Bacigalupi is a gripping book about pandemics fiction that takes readers on a thrilling journey through a dystopian future where water scarcity has become a dire reality. Set in the American Southwest, the story follows the lives of three individuals – Angel, a merciless water knife who will do whatever it takes to secure water rights for his employer; Lucy, a journalist determined to expose the corruption and violence surrounding the water crisis; and Maria, a young refugee who is fighting for survival in a world where water is more valuable than gold.

The Fifth Sacred Thing

by Starhawk

The Fifth Sacred Thing by Starhawk is an enthralling book about a dystopian future where society is on the brink of collapse due to a devastating pandemic. This captivating book on pandemics fiction takes readers on a thrilling journey through a world torn apart by disease, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about pandemics fiction offer readers a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience during times of crisis. From dystopian societies to medical thrillers, these novels provide captivating narratives that captivate the imagination and offer valuable insights into the resilience and strength of humanity. Whether you’re a fan of science fiction, horror, or literary fiction, there’s something on this list for everyone. So, grab a copy of one of these books and get ready for an immersive journey into the world of pandemics fiction.