About the Locus Award for Best Science Fiction Novel
The Locus Award for Best Science Fiction Novel is one of the most widely observed and historically significant awards in speculative fiction, presented annually by Locus Magazine based on a readers' poll. Locus, founded in 1968 in Oakland, California, is the primary trade publication covering the science fiction and fantasy publishing industry, and its annual poll is one of the oldest continuous genre awards, with roots going back to 1971. The Best Science Fiction Novel category was formally established in 1980 (separated from a general Best Novel category). Winners are determined by popular vote among Locus subscribers and online participants, making it a strong measure of what readers—rather than a small jury—value most in the genre. The Locus Awards consistently attract more voters than the Hugo or Nebula awards combined, lending them significant statistical weight as a reflection of reader taste. Past winners in the SF novel category include Ann Leckie (two consecutive wins for the Imperial Radch trilogy), Martha Wells (Murderbot Diaries), John Scalzi, Connie Willis, China Miéville, and many of the dominant voices of contemporary science fiction. Awards are announced at an annual Locus Awards banquet.
