When we’re not excavating fossils or studying ancient lifeforms, many of us at the Montana Dinosaur Center like to get lost in fictional worldsones filled with distant galaxies, ancient magic, snarky AI, and universe-altering events. Here’s a look at what our staff members love to read when they’re off the dig site.
This list actually started because Steve finally finished Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time series this summer – only 25 years after che started it! After turning the final page of A Memory of Light, he asked the team for recommendations on what to read next… and the rest is literary history (or at least a fun staff bookshelf).
Bret’s Picks
- The Expanse Series by James S.A. Corey
- The Martian by Andy Weir
- New Thrawn Trilogy by Timothy Zahn
- Darth Plagueis by James Luceno
- Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick
- The Moon is a Harsh Mistress by Robert Heinlein
- Books by Robert Heinlein
- Books by Eric Nylund (for Halo fans)
Why Bret loves them: Whether it’s realistic Martian survival, expanded Star Wars lore, or classic dystopian sci-fi, Bret’s picks are all about sharp science, strong plots, and galaxy-spanning ideas.
Jen’s Pick: Epic Fantasy with a Twist
- Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson
Why Jen loves it: Sanderson’s unique magic system, layered worldbuilding, and jaw-dropping plot twists make this a must-read for fantasy lovers.
Steve’s Picks: Modern Sci-Fi with Heart
- An Absolutely Remarkable Thing by Hank Green
- A Beautifully Foolish Endeavor by Hank Green
Why Steve loves them: These books combine alien mystery with modern commentary on fame, social media, and identity, plus a dash of heartfelt weirdness. And Hank is a Montana-based author!
Director’s Pick: Classic Foundations
- Books by Isaac Asimov
Why the director loves it: Intelligent, timeless, and foundational to modern science fiction: Asimov’s work is perfect for deep thinkers and robot fans alike.
Past President’s Picks
- Mort by Terry Pratchett
- The Color of Magic by Terry Pratchett
- Hogfather by Terry Pratchett
- The Light Fantastic by Terry Pratchett
- Good Omens by Terry Pratchett & Neil Gaiman
- The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
Why the past president loves them: Brilliant satire, unforgettable characters, and thought-provoking themes served with a side of absurdity. Perfect for anyone who enjoys clever writing and imaginative worlds.
Whether you’re craving witty fantasy, epic space battles, or thought-provoking sci-fi, there’s something here for every reader. We hope you enjoy these as much as we do! What’s on your shelf?