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I haven't read a lot of good sci-fi lately, so if anyone has any suggestions, I'd like to hear them. New contemporary authors of this sector include such authors like Robert Asprin (Dragons Wild Series), Simon R. Green (Blue Moon Series, Deathwalker Series), and Jim Butcher (Dresden Files). I truly hold appreciation for stories now that can incorporate fantasy elements in our contemporary world. For a setting that is scientific, full of concrete ideas and known facts, the addition of mystery and and magic creates an ironic contrast that I find interesting in every said story. Although they're more of a thriller/horror mix, Paul Zindel's action series (Rats, Raptor, Reef of Death, The Doom Stone, Night of the Bat) is also a very riveting collection.

I'd like to hear all of your suggestions. Quick reads are a big plus (less than 400 pages), because I take a long time to finish a book, and also, I'd like to hear some authors that are less known. So no Harry Potter or Twilight please. Although they are new contemporary fantasy, I'd like to hear more about others out there. Likewise, if anyone is in need of a good read of something in this sector, I might be able to recommend some.

You should read Strata by Terry Pratchett. The premise of the story is that humanity has acquired Strata machines from the long extinct Spindle. Humanity uses these machines to terraform worlds, and at the same time create false evolutionary histories. The idea behind this is to diversify humanity so that we survive, and not end up like the Spindle (who were too similar to each other). All this is governed by a corporation that pays its employees with extended life. One such worker is Kin Arad, a woman who is over 200 years old. She is approached by Jago Jalo, a man who should have died thousands of years ago. He claims to have discovered an object of Spindle creation, a disc shaped world on the edges of known space. Needing to sate her curiosity, she agrees to travel with him to this discworld. The novel accounts the exploration of discworld and its mechanics by Kin, and two aliens: A Kung (four armed amphibians) named Marco, and a shandi (bear like creature) named Silver.
The book is very interesting and witty, you may enjoy it.

Very nice. I've been on the look out for some good sci-fi. Of course, it's hard to browse the genre without having to come across Terry Pratchett's name, but I was looking for something someone else might have already read and can suggest. Thanks a ton for the suggestion; it was very insightful and I appreciate the summary. Part of the deal with reading sci-fi and fantasy is that you have to quickly grow accustomed to the way their world works and the background behind how society functions.

Witty is a MAJOR plus. I'm a little short on spare cash for books and I don't normally like to borrow, but I may just have to investigate this. Always wanted to check out Terry Pratchett. Thanks again!! :]