my son is reading some Heinlein today and it occurred to me that the 50s 60s 70s were the golden age of science fiction... newer stuff just feels so different.  like fake saccharin sweet.  -just not quite right.
looking forward to yours. 

 My default in the meantime would be to recommend some Brandon Sanderson. He has a blend of fantasy and sci fi that appeals to many. 

 Any starter sci fi book you recommend for a non reader whose only experience was the movie matrix ? 😐😬