Home / Entertainment 21 fascinating science books for curious kids of all ages When it comes to feeding their brains, stem books for kids are the perfect fuel. By Amber Guetebier November 16, 2022 Rectangle We independently select and share the products we love—and may receive a commission if you choose to buy. From the wonder toddlers find in a blade of grass to the endless “Why?” curious kids ask everywhere, children are natural-born scientists. Feed that insatiable curiosity with books that teach scientific topics and concepts in a way that kids can relate to. Whether that’s a book of science experiments for kids to explore with their grownups or easy-to-follow board books about physics, we’re here to say not only will the children get a lot out of these books, adults will too. Because you’re never too young, or too old, to learn all about quantum entanglement, right? Nurture their love of the world, and universe, around them by using age-appropriate STEM books for kids to introduce scientific concepts in a way they’ll embrace. Related: It’s science: Reading the same books to your child over and over makes them smarter Science books for babies and toddlers Quantum Entanglement for Babies by Chris Ferrie Written by physicist, mathematician and father of four, Chris Ferrie, this little board book is packed with big concepts. But don’t worry, the basics of quantum particles are introduced in a fun and simple way.. Look for other science books in the Baby University series like “Neural Networks for Babies,” “Astrophysics for Babies,” and “Organic Chemistry for Babies.” SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Baby Loves Science Board Boxed Set by Ruth Spiro, illustrated by Irene Chan This boxed set includes four board books: “Thermodynamics!” “Coding!“, “Aerospace Engineering!,” and “Gravity!” and uses baby-centric language to connect the ideas in a simple but memorable way. Written for scientists aged 1 to 3. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Hello, World! Solar System by Jill McDonald Part of a 30 book series all designed to bring big ideas to baby’s world, this board book brings the beauty of the night sky to bedtime or anytime. Point to the pictures and read along, just don’t be surprised when your little one says the word “moon” one night. Geared toward ages 1 to 3. SHOP AMAZON Mrs. Peanuckle’s Flower Alphabet by Mrs. Peanuckle, illustrated by Jessie Ford Children from 1 to 5 will benefit from this cheerful introduction to botany. Using a flower for each letter of the alphabet, it also enforces reading skills. Bold graphics grace the pages of this sturdy board book, part of a series. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Related: The best STEM toys for toddlers and kids that encourage curiosity & exploration Picture books about science Fiona the Fruit Bat by Dan Riskin, illustrated by Rache Qiuqi Written by a bat expert, Fiona is a sweet scaredy-bat when it comes to flying free, but soon she discovers how to see in the dark using her powers of echolocation. Includes information about echolocation in the back of the book along with a “try it yourself” echolocation activity for kids ideal for ages 3 to 7. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Luminous: Living Things That Light Up the Night by Julia Kuo Dark pages give way to exquisite animals and other natural phenomena that are bioluminescent in this book that has a gentle, rhyming story thread with lots of scientific tidbits throughout. For kids ages 4 to 8, this book releases November 22. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP The Body Book by Nosy Crow, illustrated by Hannah Alice With die-cut pages and layered illustrations, this introductory anatomy book is full of details that clearly demonstrate various anatomical aspects of the human body, like the skeletal system, organs, and more. In spite of the vast concept, it’s written in a down-to-earth voice that helps engage kids. Though it’s suggested for ages 7 to 10, younger kids will definitely enjoy the imagery and can eventually read it independently when they’re older. SHOP AMAZON All About Plants! Ada Twist, Scientist: The Why Files #2 by Andrea Beaty and Dr. Theanne Griffith A spin-off nonfiction book on the book “Ada Twist, Scientist“ and the adorable Netflix show, explore botany basics in this scrapbook-like format perfect for early-elementary aged kids, 5 to 8. Look for other fantastic books in the series like “The Science of Baking.” SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP The Museum of Odd Body Leftovers: A Tour of Your Useless Parts, Flaws, and Other Weird Bits by Rachel Poliquin, illustrated by Clayton Hanmer Although this book is closer to picture-book size and has rooms and sections rather than official chapters, it is a text heavy read perfect for those kids that loved to play doctor when they were little. Ages 7 to 11. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Funginarium: Welcome to the Museum by Ester Gaya, illustrated by Katie Scott Picture this: an expertly written book all about the kingdom of fungi complete with illustrations reminiscent of botanical collections of old. Add to that fascinating facts and an oversized (11 x 14 inches) hardcover format and it truly is a museum-quality book to treasure for years. Plus, if you like this one, collect more in the series including “Botanicum“ and “Anatomicum.” For ages 8 to 12, but even those fungi-loving grown ups out there will adore this book. SHOP AMAZON Early reader & illustrated chapter books about science Snot, Sneezes, and Super-Spreaders: Everything You Need to Know about Viruses and How to Stop Them by Marc ter Host, illustrated by Wendy Panders Like it or not, our kids are living through a pandemic and there’s no erasing that. Lots of illustrations and explanations pair up in this timely book that helps kids understand the concept of virology, vaccines, and the science behind why you should cover your nose when you sneeze. Geared toward ages 8 to 12, but frankly we learned a few things ourselves. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Frank Einstein Series by Jon Scieszka, illustrated by Brian Biggs There’s only one thing to top that feeling you get when you’ve discovered a book they can’t put down: finding out there are five more in the series. Each book in the series tackles one of the topics on young genius Frank Einstein’s lab board. For example, the first book teaches kids basic tenets of physics like protons and neutrons, book two discusses electricity, and so much more. Written with humor in the vein of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” reluctant readers ages 7 to 11 will find this illustrated chapter book series a joy. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Kid Scientists: True Tales of Childhood from Science Superstars by David Stabler, illustrated by Anoosha Syed This Kid Legends series (which includes Kid Authors and Kid Inventors) takes a unique approach to teaching kids scientific history. Instead of giving summarized life stories of famous scientists, author David Stabler writes about pivotal moments in these scientist’s childhood. So instead of learning everything there is to know about Nikola Tesla, for example, kids meet a young Tesla and learn what events as a child led him to become an insatiable electrical engineer and scientist. It helps kids understand the value of their own curiosity, inventions, and trials. Illustrated and fun, it’s truly written with the kids in mind. Ages 8 to 12. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky A heavily illustrated and highly informative book in the spirit of books like “Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls,” no list of stem books for kids is complete without a collection that tells the sometimes nearly-forgotten stories of remarkable women in science from Ancient Greece to modern day. Ages 6 to 10. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Exploring the Elements: A Complete Guide to the Periodic Table by Isable Thomas, illustrated by Sara Gillingham Geared toward ages 8 to 12, even teenagers will appreciate this book that helps explain all of the elements using a combination of fun descriptions, hard science, and brilliant illustrations. A heavy, hardcover book, this one makes an excellent gift. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Middle grade books about science Izzy Newton and the S.M.A.R.T. Squad Series This dynamic new series follows Izzy Newton as she and her friends—the Solving Mysteries and Revealing Truth Squad aka the S.M.A.R.T squad—put their clever minds together to solve mysteries around Atom Middle School. The second book, “Izzy Newton and the S.M.A.R.T. Squad: Newton’s Flaw” is hot off the presses in early November and finds the crew facing a mysterious illness threatening to shut down the media center (noooo!) and the school. The series weaves anxieties and obstacles kids face as they navigate middle school with suspenseful mystery and plenty of science. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP The Disappearing Spoon (Young Readers Edition) by Sam Kean To understand the premise of this nonfiction book, the first thing to read is the complete title: “The Disappearing Spoon And Other True Tales of Rivalry,Adventure, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements.” Adapted from the NY Times bestseller, kids will never roll their eyes at chemistry lessons again. Full of fun facts, silly sidebars, and intriguing stories from history, mythology, and modern day, this book makes a great addition to a teacher’s classroom library or a budding chemistry buff’s bookshelf. Ages 10 and up. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Clues to the Universe by Christina Li This debut novel by author Christina Li explores a lot of uncharted territory for the middle grade audience. In addition to space exploration, there’s shocking loss, grief, abandonment, and discovery. Two kids who aren’t likely to be friends form a bond when thrown together as lab partners in school when they learn they have more in common than they thought, including the deeply felt absence of their own fathers. Ages 9 and up. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Science activity books for kids Destroy This Book in the Name of Science! Brainiac Edition by Mike Barfield An activity book that invites curious kids to take the book apart, color in it, cut out pieces, and more, all in the name of learning a wide-range of stem concepts from depth perception to chemistry. Perfect for kids ages 7 to 9, it’s fun and funny and perfect for a rainy day. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Sleuth & Solve Science: 20+ Mind-Twisting Mysteries If you’re looking for a great gift for a kid or you just want to find a book you’ll love doing with them, pick up this mystery book that delves into scientific methods and concepts as you work to solve the riddles and puzzles within. Written for ages 8 to 12, but younger kids can enjoy it with encouragement and participation. Let older kids lead the discussion and make it a family affair. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP Biomes: Discover the Earth’s Ecosystems with Environmental Science Activities for Kids The odds are if your kid has ever played Minecraft they already understand what a biome is. Build on that basic concept or start anew (no Minecraft required) with hands-on activities that encourage kids to explore environmental science and learn conservation in a way that makes sense. Geared toward ages 9 to 13. SHOP AMAZON SHOP BOOKSHOP The latest Child Learn & Play Here’s how to help kids find their ’emotional courage’ Child Learn & Play Finally! This chic, kid-friendly routine builder helped reduce my family’s daily friction News Picky eating in kids is mostly due to genetics, study says Mental Health Back-to-school can be hard on parents, too