A Giant, Redwood-Sized List of Tree Books for Kids

Children interested in trees? Thinking of doing a tree study unit? Here are some great books about trees for children just in time for Arbor Day.

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Disclaimer: Just so you know, I am an affiliate with Amazon. If you make a purchase after clicking on one of the image or title links, I will receive a small commission at no extra charge to you, the proceeds of which will help pay for maintaining this website.

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Nonfiction

Beginning Readers

The Secret Life of Trees, Level 2: Beginning to Read Alone</em> (DK Readers Level 2) by Chiara Chevallier

With controlled vocabulary and illustrated with top notch photographs, this reader is for youngsters starting to read alone.

Age Range: 6 – 8 years
Publisher: DK Children (October 25, 1999)
ISBN-10: 0789447606
ISBN-13: 978-0789447609

Picture Books:

Rise to the Sky: How the World’s Tallest Trees Grow Up by Rebecca E. Hirsch and illustrated by Mia Posada

The book starts with a simple question: What are the tallest living things? Do you know? If you guessed trees, then you are right.

Next are a series of illustrations that show visually how tall some of the biggest trees are. Young readers will then discover how trees get so big. Starting with a seed, trees use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide from the air to grow, grow, grow. The text is a straightforward introduction to such concepts as photosynthesis, capillary action, and the stages of the life cycle of trees. Includes extensive back matter.

Rise Up to The Sun is perfect for a unit on plants or to accompany a trip to see the redwoods.

Reading age ‏ : ‎ 5 – 10 years
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Millbrook Press ™ (April 4, 2023)
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1728440874
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1728440873

Stretch to the Sun: From a Tiny Sprout to the Tallest Tree on Earth by Carrie A. Pearson and illustrated by Susan Swan

How do you start a story about the tallest tree in the world? If you’re Carrie Pearson, you start it with a bang!

Creak! Crack! Kaboom!
A giant tree falls, broken,
and the forest floor trembles.

And with that dramatic event comes the opening needed for another tree to be born, one that will live over 1200 years and grow to about 380 feet tall. That’s about as tall as a 35 story building. Amazing!

Susan Swan’s illustrations are equally amazing. The trees are the central characters, of course, but she also features many animals of the Redwood National park, giving young readers hidden treasures to search for on every page.

The back matter shines as well. Besides an Author’s Note that explains how the book came about, there are many remarkable facts about coast redwoods, a bibliography, as well as information about where you can learn more and what you can do to help preserve redwoods.

Stretch to the Sun is a one-of-a-kind book about a one-of-a-kind tree. Get lost in a copy today!

Reading age ‏ : ‎ 5 – 8 years
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Charlesbridge; Illustrated edition (October 9, 2018)
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1580897711
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1580897716

Be a Tree! by Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Felicita Sala

The book is hard to categorize, walking the line between fiction and nonfiction.

First the author grabs the young readers with a gentle second person narrative, making them feel like they are a tree.

Stand tall.
Stretch your branches to the sun.
Let your roots coil in the soil to ground you.

Half way through, the point of view shifts to first person plural, the voice of the trees.

Our roots twine with fungi,
joining all trees of the forest together.
We talk…

In the last spread, it all comes together, urging us to care for one another.

Reading age : 4 – 8 years
Publisher : Harry N. Abrams (March 30, 2021)
ISBN-10 : 1419744224
ISBN-13 : 978-1419744228

Tall, Tall Tree by Anthony D. Fredericks and illustrated by Chad Wallace

Look for animals way up in the redwood trees, while learning to count from one to ten.

Age Range: 2 – 5 years
Publisher: Dawn Pubns (September 1, 2017)
ISBN-10: 1584696028
ISBN-13: 978-1584696025

The Life Cycle of a Tree by Bobbie Kalman, Kathryn Smithyman, and illustrated by Barbara Bedell has beautiful photographs and full-color illustrations. The chapters cover such topics as what is a tree, what is a life cycle, and how seeds move.

Age Range: 6 and up
Publisher: Crabtree Pub Co; Ill edition (June 2002)
ISBN-10: 0778706893
ISBN-13: 978-0778706892

Branching Out: How Trees Are Part of Our World by Joan Marie Galat and illustrated by Wendy Ding describes a particular species of tree, how it used by humans, and what animals depend on that particular kind of tree in a series of four-page spreads. The 11 species of trees highlighted range from red maples and downy birches to pau brasil and cork oaks.

Filled with color photographs and sidebars, this title takes a serious and scientific tone. The introduction about why trees are important is particularly well done.

Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: Owlkids Books (October 14, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1771470496
ISBN-13: 978-1771470490

Celebritrees: Historic and Famous Trees of the World by Margi Preus and illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon consists of a series of two-page spreads telling the stories of 14 famous, tall and exceptionally-old trees from around the world, the back matter gives more information about the trees and a number of suggestions about what the reader can do to help and encourage trees.

Rather than photographs, Rebecca Gibbon created lighthearted, fun illustrations using a mix of acrylic ink, colored pencils and watercolor. The illustrations allow for a more coherent look and also incorporate details of the text in ingenious ways. The look would definitely appeal to young readers who prefer fiction.

Age Range: 6 – 10 years
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR); First Edition edition (March 1, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0805078290
ISBN-13: 978-0805078299

A Log's Life by Wendy Pfeffer, and illustrated by Robin Brickman is for young children who enjoy turning over rocks and looking under logs. This book talks about the importance of the tree, and the log that remains after the tree falls, to the community of animals, plants and fungi around it. The illustrations are unique 3D paper sculptures.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Publisher: Aladdin; Reprint edition (March 6, 2007)
ISBN-10: 1416934839
ISBN-13: 978-1416934837

A Tree Is Growing by Arthur Dorros and illustrated by S.D. Schindler is suitable for a range of audiences. It follows an oak tree through the seasons. Along the way are interesting sidebars of other species. Did you know that baobab trees store water in their trunks and actually swell up? The paper is dark and the illustrations are not the bright primary colors associated with picture books, but are very lifelike.

Age Range: 5 and up
Publisher: Scholastic; 1St Edition edition (April 1997)
ISBN-10: 0590453009
ISBN-13: 978-0590453004

Be a Friend to Trees (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out, Stage 2) by Patricia Lauber, and illustrated by Holly Keller, is part of the popular Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out-Science series. The emphasis of this book is how useful trees are. Starting with products and foods we use that come from trees, Lauber then devotes several pages to how many animals need trees for food and homes. Finally she moves to less concrete benefits of trees, such as holding soil and water, and producing oxygen. The last three pages are devoted to simple ideas of how you can be a friend to trees through activities like recycling and planting a tree.

Tree of Life: The World of the African Baobab (Tree Tales) is written and illustrated by Barbara Bash. The baobab tree survives in a harsh environment and is leafless for most of the year. In fact, legend says that the tree was planted upside down. From this beginning, Bash relates the story the life cycle of the tree and all the creatures that depend on it. The watercolors are beautiful.

Cactus Hotel (Big Book) by Brenda Z. Guiberson and illustrated by Megan Lloyd discusses the life cycle of a saguaro. It’s easy to forget that a cactus like a saguaro can be a tree. Once again, this book covers the life cycle of a unique plant found in a harsh environment that is home to many creatures.

Planting the Trees of Kenya: The Story of Wangari Maathai (Frances Foster Books) by Caire A. Nivola tells the story of Wangari Maathai, who won the Nobel Peace prize in 2004. Maathai returned to Kenya after studying abroad, to find the trees gone and the people struggling. She encouraged everyone to plant trees again to restore their environment. The nice thing about this book is that it is printed on recycled paper.

Tell Me, Tree: All About Trees for Kids by Gail Gibbons
Starting out with general information abut parts of trees, such as seeds, leaves, bark and roots, Gibbons emphasizes identifying trees. She illustrates the overall shape, leaves and bark of sixteen different trees (although she also identifies leaves and trees throughout the earlier pages as well.) At the end she shows how to make your own tree identification book with pressed leaves, and leaf and bark rubbings. The last page is full of unusual and interesting facts about trees, sure to entice children to want to find out more.

Life Cycle of an Oak Tree (Life Cycle of a...) by Angela Royston.

Starting out with an acorn, and following an oak tree through its life cycle until it is hundreds of years old, the young reader learns both about the developmental process and the vocabulary needed to discuss it. The centerpiece of the story is an English oak, which can live for 900 years. What a venerable tree!Illustrated with clear, colorful photographs, and with a timeline on each page, the book is visually appealing.

Trees, Leaves & Bark (Take-Along Guide) by Diane Burns and illustrated by Linda Garrow is useful as a first identification guide to a few common North American trees.

Sky Tree: Seeing Science Through Artby Thomas Locker and Candace Christiansen follows a tree through the seasons. Although frankly more about art than science, this book is likely to lead to discussions of art techniques and the changes that occur during the seasons.

The Tree in the Ancient Forest by Carol Reed-Jones and Christopher Canyon describes how other living things depend on trees and how trees have life cycles.

Age Range: 5 and up
Publisher: Dawn Pubns; 1st edition (April 1, 1995)
ISBN-10: 1883220319
ISBN-13: 978-1883220310

If I Ran the Rain Forest: All About Tropical Rain Forests (Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library) by Bonnie Worth and illustrated by Aristides Ruiz follows The Cat in the Hat as he takes Sally and Dick for a ride through the understory, canopy, and emergent layers of a tropical rain forest. The books in this series are uniformly good and deliver more serious science than the cartoon character illustrations might indicate.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers; First Edition edition (April 22, 2003)
ISBN-10: 0375810978
ISBN-13: 978-0375810978

I Can Name 50 Trees Today!: All About Trees (Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library) by Bonnie Worth and illustrated by Aristides Ruiz and Joe Mathieu uses the familiar Dr. Seuss characters and rhyming scheme to teach children how to identify different species from the shape of their crowns, leaves, lobes, seeds, bark, and fruit. The books in this series are well-researched, and deliver more serious science than the cartoon character illustrations might imply.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers (February 28, 2006)
ISBN-10: 0375822771
ISBN-13: 978-0375822773

The Tree Lady: The True Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever by H. Joseph Hopkins and illustrated by Jill McElmurry is a lovely picture book biography about Kate Sessions, the woman who is considered to be the Mother of Balboa Park in San Diego.

It is astonishing to learn that San Diego was once an almost barren desert, and that one woman’s vision and determination was able to completely transform it.

Age Range: 5 – 10 years
Publisher: Beach Lane Books (September 17, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1442414022
ISBN-13: 978-1442414020

Leaf Jumpersby Carole Gerber and Leslie Evans is a simple, poetic introduction to identification eight types of fall leaves. Leaves shown include ginkgo, sycamore, and basswood. Then the children sweep up leaves and jump into the pile.

Age Range: 3 – 7 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge; 1 Reprint edition (June 1, 2006)
ISBN-10: 1570914982
ISBN-13: 978-1570914980

Middle Grade

Can You Hear the Trees Talking?: Discovering the Hidden Life of the Forest by Peter Wohlleben

Peter Wohlleben is the well-known author of the bestselling popular science book for adults, The Hidden Life of Trees. Now he’s applied his eye-opening approach to understanding trees in this book for young readers. He asks kid-friendly questions, such as “How do trees drink?” and answers them using current scientific knowledge and appropriate vocabulary. Even if you already know a lot about trees, be prepared to say, “Wow!”

Can You Hear the Trees Talking? is a must-have resource that is likely to awe and inspire readers, young and old. Seriously!

Age Range: 8 – 10 years
Publisher: Greystone Kids; Reprint edition (October 1, 2019)
ISBN-10: 1771644346
ISBN-13: 978-1771644341

Ultimate Explorer Field Guide: Trees by Patricia Daniels

Each description includes a photo of the entire tree, plus close-ups of identifying parts. Fun facts keep the interest level high.

Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books (October 10, 2017)
ISBN-10: 1426328915
ISBN-13: 978-1426328916

Activity Books:

Backyard Explorer Kit: 3-in-1 Collector's Kit! by Rona Beame is for children who love hands on activities and want to learn more about trees. The kit includes a 3 1/2 by 8 inch Leaf and Tree Guide to trees (that will conveniently fit in a pocket or backpack), a plastic leaf-collecting bag, and an unbound 25 page Leaf Collecting Album. The guide has information about trees, how to identify a number of common species (with color photographs of specimens), and 16 hands-on activities.

Fiction/Poetry About Trees

Under My Tree by Muriel Tallandier illustrated by Mizuho Fujisawa and translated by Sarah Klinger

Young Susanne tells the reader — in the first person — how she found a special tree in the forest near her grandparents home. She returns to the tree again and again throughout the summer to discover the life that depends on the tree and how it changes from season to season.

Although fiction, leaf-shaped sidebars on many of the pages add nonfiction interest through questions, activity suggestions, and tree facts.

Spending time in nature is important. For children who might not be able to talk a walk in the woods, reading this quiet, gentle book that celebrates trees might be the best alternative. Get lost in a copy of Under My Tree soon!

Age Range: 3 – 8 years
Publisher: Blue Dot Kids Press (April 14, 2020)
ISBN-10: 1733121234
ISBN-13: 978-1733121231

Poetrees by Douglas Florian is as the title implies, a book of poems about trees. Florian includes poems about trees from around the world like the banyan and monkey puzzle, not just common North American ones. The layout consists of vertical, two-page spreads, giving the feel of looking at a tall tree. If you are familiar with Florian’s illustrations, you will recognize his unconventional art.

Age Range: 6 – 10 years
Publisher: Beach Lane Books; 1 edition (March 9, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1416986723
ISBN-13: 978-1416986720

Leaf Man (Ala Notable Children's Books. Younger Readers (Awards)) by Lois Ehlert is inspiring because the author is such a wonderful artist. In this book, we see leaf shapes with added plant materials that form a funny leaf man. When the wind comes up, who knows where the leaf man is going to go.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Harcourt; First Edition edition (September 1, 2005)
ISBN-10: 0152053042
ISBN-13: 978-0152053048

This Tree Counts! by Alison Formento and illustrated Sarah Snow is a counting book that shows all the creatures that depend on the oak tree behind the Oak Lane School. After counting all the creatures and learning about uses of trees, the children plant “baby trees.”

We Planted a Tree by Diane Muldrow and illustrated by Bob Staake is a picture book with poetic text. It shows two families who plant trees, one in New York City and one in Kenya, then follows with trees growing throughout the world.

Our Tree Named Steve by Alan Zweibel and illustrated by David Catrow is a bittersweet story about the loss of a tree that meant a lot to a family. You might want to read this one first if your children tend to be sensitive, to see whether it is appropriate.

Maple by Lori Nichols is really about a new sibling arriving in a family, but features a girl named Maple whose parents planted a maple tree when she was born. She and the tree grow together.

Age Range: 3 – 5 years
Publisher: Nancy Paulsen Books (February 20, 2014)
ISBN-10: 039916085X
ISBN-13: 978-0399160851

03/14/201504/15/2022

Books for Gardening Together with Children

Looking for activity ideas to incorporate into home, school or community garden projects? Here’s a “growing” list to help you get started.

Note: Linked titles go to Amazon for further information and reviews. Just so you know, I am an affiliate with Amazon. If you make a purchase after clicking on one of the links, I will receive a small commission at no extra charge to you, the proceeds of which will help pay for maintaining this website.

Planting a Garden in Room 6: From Seeds to Salad by Caroline Arnold.

Caroline Arnold has visited Mrs. Best’s kindergarten classroom before. This time:

The children in Room 6 are planting a vegetable garden.

Mrs. Best brings in some seeds and transplants. The children plant them in a raised bed garden outside their classroom. Arnold takes photographs of the process, step by step. Before long the plants have grown enough to be harvested and the children eat the results.

This book is absolutely delightful. The series is called “Life Cycles in Room 6,” but the life cycle aspect is subtle. Arnold includes just the right amount of information to hold a young reader’s attention. Plus, seeing children in the photographs draws them right in.

Planting a Garden in Room 6 would be fantastic to accompany a gardening project, either at home or at school. It would be a great addition to a unit on plants, as well. Grow some young minds and pick up a copy today!
Reading age ‏ : ‎ 3 – 7 years
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Charlesbridge (March 15, 2022)
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1623542405
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1623542405

Harlem Grown: How One Big Idea Transformed a Neighborhood by Tony Hillery and illustrated by Jessie Hartland – nonfiction picture book

When Mr. Tony (Tony Hillery) spotted an abandoned lot across from a school in Harlem, he had an idea. Getting help from the community, he cleaned it up and invited children to help him plant a garden. Through trial and error a farm emerged.

The benefits of gardening with children are many. From getting outside for healthy exercise, to learning patience, to appreciating the taste of fresh vegetables, gardening is a win-win-win activity. Harlem Grown is about making it happen. Share a copy today and you will be glad you did.

Reading age ‏ : ‎ 4 – 8 years
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books; Illustrated edition (August 18, 2020)
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1534402314
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1534402317

Gardening Projects for Kids: Fantastic ideas for making things, growing plants and flowers, and attracting wildlife to the garden, with 60 practical projects and 500 photographs by Jenny Hendy

With 60 projects to chose from, how can you go wrong?

Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Southwater; Original edition (February 16, 2012)
ISBN-10: 1780190190
ISBN-13: 978-1780190198

It’s Our Garden: From Seeds to Harvest in a School Garden by George Ancona is a warm and delightful picture book about a school garden at the Acequia Madre elementary school in Santa Fe. Ancona provides both color photographs and samples of the children’s art work to document the changes that occur with the seasons (review Wrapped In Foil).

Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Candlewick (January 8, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0763653926
ISBN-13: 978-0763653927

The Nitty-Gritty Gardening Book: Fun Projects for All Seasons (Nonfiction – Grades 4-8) by Kari Cornell

The beauty of this book is that it is geared for year-around fun. Most of the projects can be done in a relatively small amount of space.

Library Binding: 48 pages
Publisher: Millbrook Press (January 1, 2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1467726478
ISBN-13: 978-1467726474

Gardening Lab for Kids: 52 Fun Experiments to Learn, Grow, Harvest, Make, Play, and Enjoy Your Garden (Hands-On Family) by Renata Fossen Brown, Vice President of Education at the Cleveland Botanical Garden

Although the term “experiments” in the subtitle might suggest scientific trials or investigations, for this book “experiment” is actually used more in the sense of “to try something new.” Gardening Lab for Kids is a lovely collection of hands-on activities for children to do for every week of the year, from designing a garden and making seed tape, to planting a garden in a shoe, growing a pizza garden, and constructing a wind chime. In addition, children will certainly learn some science as they explore parts of plants, investigate soils, try out composting, and learn about watering.

Age Range: 5 – 12 years
Publisher: Quarry Books (April 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1592539041
ISBN-13: 978-1592539048

Math in the Garden: Hands-On Activities That Bring Math to Life, Ages 5-13 by Jennifer M. White, Katharine D. Barrett, Jaine Kopp, Christine Manoux, Katie Johnson, and Yvette McCullough

Grades K-8
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: National Gardening Association (2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 091587346X
ISBN-13: 978-0915873463

Botany on Your Plate: Investigating the Plants We Eat by Katharine D. Barrett

Science curriculum for grades K-4

Hardcover: 88 pages
Publisher: National Gardening Association (2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0915873494
ISBN-13: 978-0915873494

Success with School Gardens: How to Create a Learning Oasis in the Desert by Linda A. Guy, Lucy K. Bradley, and Cathy L. Cromell

Although written with the Southwest gardener in mind, it contains many tips for managing a school garden that could apply anywhere.

Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Arizona Master Gardener Press (September 1996)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0965198707
ISBN-13: 978-0965198707

A Child’s Garden: 60 Ideas to Make Any Garden Come Alive for Children (Archetype Press Books)
by Molly Dannenmaier

The hardcover copy I have has a slightly different title/cover. It says “Enchanting Outdoor Spaces for Children and Parents.” Enchanting is the right word. Mixed with informative text about how children play and how important it is for them to play outdoors, are photos of fairytale settings for children to play in. On pages 158-159 is a photo and list of the plants in the George Washington River farm alphabet garden.

Series: Archetype Press Books
Paperback: 180 pages
Publisher: Timber Press; Updated Pbk. Ed edition (January 15, 2008)
ISBN-10: 0881928437
ISBN-13: 978-0881928433

Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots: Gardening Together with Children by Sharon Lovejoy

This is a classic that deserves to be on every gardener’s shelf.

Series: Gardening together with children
Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Workman Publishing Company; First Edition, First Printing edition (May 1, 1999)
ISBN-10: 0761110569
ISBN-13: 978-0761110569

Growlab: Activities for Growing Minds by Eve Pranis

This book is hard to find, but it is worth the search.

Paperback: 307 pages
Publisher: Natl Gardening Assn (May 1990)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 091587332X
ISBN-13: 978-0915873326

Gardening with Children (BBG Guides for a Greener Planet) by Monika Hanneman, Patricia Hulse, Brian Johnson, Barbara Kurland, Tracey Patterson, and illustrated by Sam Tomasello

This books gets raves. It is indeed the high quality you would expect from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

Series: BBG Guides for a Greener Planet
Paperback: 120 pages
Publisher: Brooklyn Botanic Garden; Reprint edition (April 5, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1889538787
ISBN-13: 978-1889538785

Do you have any favorite gardening books for working with kids? We’d love to hear your suggestions.

Related Resources:

Find books to share with children in these two lists:

List of Children’s books about seeds.

Plant Science Books for Children

Gardening activities inspired by children’s books:

Children’s Garden Week Activities at Growing With Science Blog

You might also be interested in our Gardening/Science Pinterest Board:

03/08/201502/05/2021

Math Books for Pi Day and Every Day

Kids tend to get excited for Pi Day, which is observed on March 14 (3/14) as a nod to the fact that pi is 3.14… What a great opportunity to pull out some math books for kids to share.

Disclaimer: Just so you know, I am an affiliate with Amazon. If you make a purchase after clicking on one of the title links, I will receive a small commission at no extra charge to you, the proceeds of which will help pay for maintaining this website.

And now we have a list of children’s books by and about women mathematicians.

Pi Day Books

The classic Pi Day book is Sir Cumference and the Dragon of Pi (A Math Adventure) by Cindy Neuschwander and illustrated by Wayne Geehan.

This is the second of a very popular series that turns common math concepts into memorable stories. When Sir Cumference turns into a dragon, can his family and friends use math to save him?

Although it looks a bit like a picture book, this is actually written for middle grades.

See some of the other titles in the series in the middle grade section below.

Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge (February 1, 1999)
ISBN-10: 1570911649
ISBN-13: 978-1570911644

Why Pi? (Big Questions) by Johnny Ball

Why Pi? is not just about pi, but is a general history of all things math. It covers how humans have used numbers and measured things from the past all the way to the present. Pages are bright colors, some contrasted with black like the cover. This is a follow-up book to the award-winning title, Go Figure, by the same author (see middle grade level below), which contains information about why all the world’s phone numbers appear in pi.

Age Range: 7 – 10 years
Paperback: 96 pages
Publisher: DK Children; Revised edition (January 19, 2016)
ISBN-10: 1465443878
ISBN-13: 978-1465443878

Piece of Pi: Wit-Sharpening, Brain-bruising, Number-Crunching Activities with Pi (Grades 6-8) by Naila Bokhari and illustrated by S. O’Shaughnessy

Not only does this book explain what pi is and how it came about, it also has some great hands-on activities to help students learn how to apply it.

Grades 6–8
Paperback: 48 pages
Publisher: Prufrock Press (January 1, 2005)
ISBN-10: 1593631200
ISBN-13: 978-1593631208

Popular Books About Math and Mathematicians:

Board Books

Brilliant Baby Does Math by Laura Gehl and illustrated by Jean Claude, part of a series at little bee books.

Using a compelling rhyme, Laura Gehl introduces young children to math concepts and vocabulary found in everyday activities.

Jean Claude’s brightly-colored illustrations are not only cute, but also contain much to explore. For example, ask young readers to point out the shapes they find in each scene. Some of the shapes are subtle, such as hidden in the pattern of a rug. Others are called out in the text.

Overall, Brilliant Baby Does Math isn’t about how to do math, but instead is an age-appropriate introduction to what math does. Investigate a copy today!

Reading age : 2 – 5 years
Publisher : little bee books (February 2, 2021)
ISBN-10 : 1499811195
ISBN-13 : 978-1499811193

Counting Books

Goodnight, Numbers by Danica McKellar and illustrated by Alicia Padron is for children who are learning their numbers.

Danica McKellar is not just another celebrity using their fame to hawk children’s books. She is a serious mathematician whose goal is to get kids excited about math through books and videos. Her first books were for middle and high school aged kids. Now she’s writing for the youngest set.

You can see what she has to say in this book trailer:

Age Range: 2 – 5 years
Publisher: Crown Books for Young Readers (March 7, 2017)
ISBN-10: 110193378X
ISBN-13: 978-1101933787

Mice Mischief: Math Facts in Action by Caroline Stills walks young readers through all the ways 1 through 9 can add up to 10.

Age: 3-6
Hardcover: 24 pages
Publisher: Holiday House (January 14, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0823429474
ISBN-13: 978-0823429479

Edible Numbers by Jennifer Vogel Bass combines counting, colors, and yummy fruits and vegetables into one delightful adventure.

Age Range: 2 – 5 years
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press (May 26, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1626720037
ISBN-13: 978-1626720039

Taking Away with Tigers (Animal Math) by Tracey Steffora helps young readers learn how to subtract.

Illustrated with photographs of live tigers in various poses, the concepts are made concrete enough to help the curious child master them. Want to take the lesson to the next level? Obtain some tiger figurines, toy tigers and/or plush tigers to use as manipulatives. Count and move the tigers guided by the text. Then have some fun by playing hide and seek. Take turns hiding the figurines and then “hunting” for them like real tigers.

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 4 – 6 years
Publisher: Heinemann (July 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1432975706
ISBN-13: 978-1432975708

Picture Books/Early Elementary

I’m Trying to Love Math by Bethany Barton

Know young people who aren’t sure about the value of learning math? This humorous title is likely to help them find out how useful it is for everyday life. Knowing why something is important often helps to motivate students.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers (July 2, 2019)
ISBN-10: 0451480902
ISBN-13: 978-0451480903

Infinity and Me by Kate Hosford and illustrated by Gabi Swiatkowska

Infinity and Me is an amazing nonfiction picture book that brings a difficult abstract concept into focus for young children. Hosford doesn’t tell the reader the definitive answer of what infinity is, but instead gently shows how each person can search for his or her own answer. Where they take it from there is, well, potentially infinite.

Reviewed at Wrapped in Foil.

Curriculum Guide available in pdf

Age Range: 5 – 10 years
Publisher: Carolrhoda Picture Books (August 1, 2012)
ISBN-10: 0761367268
ISBN-13: 978-0761367260

Equal Shmequal by Virginia Kroll

Mouse and her animal friends explore the concept of what it means to be equal.

Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge (July 1, 2005)
ISBN-10: 1570918910
ISBN-13: 978-1570918919

Bedtime Math: A Fun Excuse to Stay Up Late (Bedtime Math Series) by Laura Overdeck and illustrated by Jim Paillot

This is the first book in an innovative and fun series in which Laura Overdeck suggests number riddles and challenges that can easily be “added” to the bedtime routine. Over 100 riddles, each with three different levels for families with several children. Check the Fun Nightly Math section of the Daily Math website to see examples of the leveled challenges, including some for pi day.

Age Range: 3 – 7 years
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends (June 25, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1250035856
ISBN-13: 978-1250035851

Bedtime Math: This Time It’s Personal (Bedtime Math Series) by Laura Overdeck and illustrated by Jim Paillot

In this second book from the Bedtime Math series, Overdeck shows children how to use math to investigate how their bodies work, personal habits, etc.

Age Range: 3 – 7 years
Series: Bedtime Math Series
Hardcover: 96 pages
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends (March 11, 2014)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1250040965
ISBN-13: 978-1250040961

Bedtime Math: The Truth Comes Out (Bedtime Math Series) by Laura Overdeck and illustrated by Jim Paillot

In the third book in the series, Overdeck has assembled math challenges relating to the wild questions that children love to investigate. Example: how many eyelids does a camel have? See more at the Bedtime Math website.

Age Range: 3 – 7 years
Series: Bedtime Math Series
Hardcover: 96 pages
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends (March 3, 2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1250047757
ISBN-13: 978-1250047755

The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos by Deborah Heiligman and illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Heiligman’s book explores the life of a boy who thinks about math all day.

Messages I love from this book:

Math can be exciting and interesting
It is okay to be different from everyone else

The Boy Who Loved Math is as special, lovable, and one-of-a-kind as its subject. “Added plus”: the illustrator has incorporated a great deal of math in the illustrations.

Age Range: 3 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 2
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press (June 25, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1596433078
ISBN-13: 978-1596433076

Lemonade for Sale (MathStart 3) by Stuart J. Murphy and illustrated by Tricia Tusa

Love using reading to explain math? Using a story of four children and a parrot running a lemonade stand to set the stage, this book shows children how to understand bar graphs.

Be sure to look for other titles in the MathStart series by Stuart J. Murphy that explain many different early math concepts.

Age Range: 6 – 10 years
Grade Level: 2 and up
Publisher: HarperCollins; MathStart 3 edition (December 18, 1997)
ISBN-10: 0064467155
ISBN-13: 978-0064467155

Math Curse by Jon Scieszka and illustrated by Lane Smith

This is wildly popular introduction to math by the genius pair of Scieszka and Smith. Although it is included in the picture book category, it may also be appropriate for older kids.

Age Range: 3 – 7 years
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers; Library Binding edition (October 1, 1995)
ISBN-10: 0670861944
ISBN-13: 978-0670861941

How Much Is a Million? 20th Anniversary Edition (Reading Rainbow Books) by David M. Schwartz and illustrated by Steven Kellogg

Some adults may question whether young children are interested in big numbers, but often they are. This book makes big numbers understandable and relatible.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: HarperCollins; Reissue edition (December 28, 2004)
ISBN-10: 0688099335
ISBN-13: 978-0688099336

“Quirky Math”

What do I mean by quirky math? These are unique books that introduce math concepts in ways that don’t always align with school standards and aren’t easy to assign age categories. Because of that, they may not be a good fit for everyone. On the other hand, for the right reader, they can open doors to a whole new way of thinking about the world.

Anno’s Math Games by Mitsumasa Anno

The brilliance of Anno’s books can be really hard to explain, but I will try. They are use imaginative, creative, and unusual illustrations and stories to encourage children to explore math concepts ranging from basic to highly advanced. These are books that children will want to return to again and again as their understanding increases.

Age Range: 5 and up
Hardcover: 104 pages
Publisher: Philomel; 1st edition (September 21, 1987)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0399211519
ISBN-13: 978-0399211515

Anno’s Math Games 2 by Mitsumasa Anno

In the first section of this book, Anno introduces concepts children will use in algebra with a “magic machine.” The characters put things into the machine and they change when they come out. For example, a chicken becomes a chick. The children are challenged to figure out what is happening in various scenarios and to make up their own examples.

Hardcover: 103 pages
Publisher: Philomel (September 6, 1989)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0399216154
ISBN-13: 978-0399216152

Anno’s Math Games III by Mitsumasa Anno

Exploring the most advanced concepts yet, Anno takes on topology, mazes, and Euclidean geometry. It is literally about thinking outside the box.

Hardcover: 103 pages
Publisher: Philomel (March 28, 1991)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 039922274X
ISBN-13: 978-0399222740

STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, art, and math. This is Not Another Math Book by Anna Weltman and ilustrated by‎ Charlotte Milner is a perfect choice for older kids who want to explore art as a way to understand math.

Author Anna Weltman has created an imaginative series of hands-on projects that include exploring symmetry by drawing kaleidoscopic patterns, growing a forest of fractal trees, and assembling five-square pentomino shapes into pictures.

Ages: 9+
Paperback: 96 pages
Publisher: Kane Miller Books / EDC Publishing; First American edition (2018)
ISBN-10: 1610675975
ISBN-13: 978-1610675970

Life of Fred: Apples, Elementary Math Book, Math As Serious As It Needs to Be (Life of Fred, Volume 1) (Life of Fred, Volume 1) by Stanley F. Schmidt, Ph.D.

Life a Fred is a series of math books ranging from elementary to high school levels. Some people absolutely love their quirky uniqueness, and others find it off-putting. I have to say that underlying the stories (and frankly somewhat odd illustrations) is carefully-thought-out math presented in such a way to make it understandable and memorable.

See the Life of Fred website and check this .pdf sample to get an better idea of what it is like.

Middle Grade

Cool Math: 50 Fantastic Facts for Kids of All Ages by Tracie Young and Katie Hewett

Organized as a series of two-page spreads, this small book packs in a king-sized number of tips, games, cool facts, and tricks that will interest even the most math adverse. Examples range from tips for quick multiplication to how to make a magic square. Tucked in are practical refreshers, like how to calculate area and volume.

Although designed for middle school, the title is correct; it could be fun for adults as well. You could read it cover to cover, but Cool Math is so easy to browse. Glance through the table of contents or thumb through the book. Either way, something will catch your attention and before long you’ll grab a pencil to figure out how it works. Plus, the practical tips will make you want to return to it again and again.

Cool Math is a fun, painless way to hone those math skills. Explore a copy today!

Age Range: 12 – 16 years
Publisher: Pavilion Children’s (March 3, 2020)
ISBN-10: 1843654482
ISBN-13: 978-1843654483
Mysterious Patterns: Finding Fractals in Nature by Sarah C. Campbell and photographs by Richard P. Campbell

This gorgeous book is at the interface between picture book and middle grade level. It starts simply, with common shapes found in the environment, giving the impression of a picture book for youngsters. Step-by-step the shapes become more complex, until we are seeing the repeating patterns called fractals, revealing exciting concepts for older students. Then readers are taken through examples of fractals that range in scale from Queen Anne’s lace flowers to mountain ranges. Amazing!

In the back is an activity to make a type of fractal called a Sierpinski triangle, perfect to reinforce learning. The afterword by Michael Frame summarizes the life of Benoit Mandelbrot, who named fractals, as well as proposing some practical and potential uses for fractals.

Mysterious Patterns: Finding Fractals in Nature is a great introduction to complex patterns and is sure to inspire students, particularly reluctant ones, to investigate math in greater depth.

Age Range: 7 – 10 years
Publisher: Boyds Mills Press; SEW edition (April 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1620916274
ISBN-13: 978-1620916278

The expert team of Hilary Koll and Steve Mills have developed a unique series of math books illustrated by Vladimir Aleksic. Each feature gritty, real world applications of math with problems to solve embedded within the story. The challenges vary in difficulty and math skills needed.

In Solve a Crime (You Do the Math) Alex, an undercover police detective, shows how math can help catch a criminal. For example, on one page the reader is asked to use co-ordinates to map the evidence and then look on a grid to calculate the distance between certain items. These problems will require a pencil and piece of paper to do the work.

The graphic-style illustrations are bold and serious, adding to the true-to-life feel.

Age Range: 6 – 8 years
Publisher: QEB Publishing (April 1, 2015)
ISBN-10: 160992732X
ISBN-13: 978-1609927325

Fly a Jet Fighter (You Do the Math) follows pilot Katie as she handles data, interprets tables, and reads dials and scales. The goal is to create a squadron of jet fighter aces and complete the mission.

Age Range: 6 – 8 years
Publisher: QEB Publishing (April 1, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1609927311
ISBN-13: 978-1609927318

Launch a Rocket into Space (You Do the Math) follows each stage of the space mission to make sure the rocket blasts clear of the atmosphere and returns safely. It features astronaut Michael who helps the reader compete the math exercises and learn about everything from fractions to timelines. A few problems will require a protractor to measure angles.

Each of the books has a glossary and the answers for all the questions are in the back matter.

Although recommended for ages 6-8, these books could also be useful for older children who are struggling with math concepts or don’t quite see how the math they are learning might be useful.

The entire You Do the Math series would be perfect for homeschoolers and after school math clubs because it can be entirely child-directed reading.

Sir Cumference and the First Round Table (A Math Adventure) by Cindy Neuschwander and Wayne Geehan

In this first of the series, we are introduced to the main characters (and some hilarious puns.) Sir Cumference, his wife Lady Di of Ameter, their son Radius, and the carpenter, Geo of Metry, help King Arthur deal with a neighbor who is threatening war by finding the perfect table. Again, although this may look like a picture book, it is meant for middle grades.

Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge; First Paperback Edition edition (July 1, 1997)
ISBN-10: 1570911525
ISBN-13: 978-1570911521

Here’s the newest title in the series:

Sir Cumference and the Fracton Faire (A Math Adventures) by Cindy Neuschwander and illustrated by Wayne Geehan

Even though the title says “Fracton,” it’s a sneaky tale to learn about fractions. This one would be best for grades 2 -5.

Age Range: 7 – 10 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge (March 7, 2017)
ISBN-10: 1570917728
ISBN-13: 978-1570917721

The newest in the series, Sir Cumference Gets Decima’s Point by Cindy Neuschwander and illustrated by Wayne Geehan came out in October 2020.

Follow Decima the ogre baker as she figures out how to divide her deserts for more and more hungry diners. When she thinks she finally has enough, disaster happens. How will she provide equal portions to everyone who wants them?

Hidden in the story of baking antics is a solid background in decimals. The endnote explains how it works in more straightforward mathematical terms.

Books like these that mix fact and fiction can be hard to categorize, but can play an important role in helping children who struggle with certain math concepts. Looking at the problem from a different perspective may be just the ticket to the understanding train.

Age Range: 7 – 10 years Publisher: Charlesbridge (October 27, 2020)
ISBN-10: 1570918457
ISBN-13: 978-1570918452

Go Figure!: A Totally Cool Book About Numbers (Bccb Blue Ribbon Nonfiction Book Award (Awards)) by Johnny Ball (Author)

An award-winning title packed with math history and concepts, as well as math puzzles, tricks and challenges sure to get kids using math.

Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: DK (August 15, 2005)
ISBN-10: 0756613744
ISBN-13: 978-0756613747

Mathemagic!: Number Tricks by Lynda Colgan and illustrated by Jane Kurisu

Mathemagic shows kids how to entertain their friends with number tricks and then explains the math behind the magic. Certain children of the target age are likely to really enjoy activities like “mind reading” and “calculator magic.”

Educators will also want to put this book into their trick toolbox. It will appeal to the math whizzes who play math games anyway, but it might also be useful to those who are struggling math because it makes many aspects of math more concrete, allows children to see math computations from a new angle, lets them see math in everyday life, and may help motivate them to practice the skills that they need for standardized tests.

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 10 – 14 years
Publisher: Kids Can Press, Ltd. (March 1, 2011)
ISBN-10: 1554534259
ISBN-13: 978-1554534258

Math Talk: Mathematical Ideas in Poems for Two Voices by Theoni Pappas

Each subject has its own vocabulary to be mastered. This small book introduces children to math via well-written poetry. Particularly useful for those looking for novel ways to introduce math topics.

Age Range: 7 and up
Publisher: Wide World Publishing, Tetra (January 25, 1993)
ISBN-10: 0933174748
ISBN-13: 978-0933174740

Theoni Pappas also offers a yearly mathematical calendar with math problems to solve for every day.

The Mathematics Calendar 2018

High School

Looking for a way to keep teenagers engaged in STEM? Chaos Theory Uncovered: How chaos and fractals shape our world by E L Strauss might be just the ticket. It reveals how math can be used to help us understand and make predictions about large, complex events in a beautiful way.

When you first open the book the computer-generated illustrations might just give you chills, particularly the swirling brightly-colored lines against a black background that are visual representations of chaos. The images of fractals are stunning as well, particularly the Mandelbrot set. Magic happens when art meets math.

The best part about the book is it is not watered down for kids. To get the most out of it, the reader should probably have a working understanding of at least algebra, and an inkling of beginning calculus would be helpful.

Chaos Theory Uncovered: How Chaos and Fractals Shape Our World is sure to help young adults and adults to understand complex math. It might also help some to discover an astonishing new passion.

Mathematics: The Science of Patterns: The Search for Order in Life, Mind and the Universe (Scientific American Paperback Library) by Keith Devlin

Meant to appeal as a popular math book, Keith Devlin’s text reveals that math is about much more than numbers. Many people rave about the illustrations as well as the text.

Series: Scientific American Paperback Library
Paperback: 216 pages
Publisher: Scientific American Library; 1st edition (1997)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0716760223
ISBN-13: 978-0716760221

Elementary Algebra by Harold R. Jacobs

Excellent title for homeschooling or self-study, the explanations by Jacobs are especially easy to follow and helpful. Although this title is out of print, it is well worth trying to dig up a copy if you are interested in learning algebra.

Hardcover: 876 pages
Publisher: W. H. Freeman (1979)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0716710471
ISBN-13: 978-0716710479

Hot X: Algebra Exposed! by Danica McKellar

Don’t let the suggestive title fool you, this is a serious guide to algebra and more. It’s also a hip call for young people to work hard, particularly at math, in order to attain their dreams. McKellar wants her readers to feel smart and confident, and develop the skills to be successful. It is a very positive message repeated throughout the book.

Although clearly written as a resource to supplement a math course, the tips and exercises could be a useful for instructors or for tutors looking for yet another way to get a point across. There are are additional solutions to problems on McKellar’s Hot X website.

The bottom line is that Hot X is much more than just a pretty face and a clever title. If you are studying or teaching algebra, you should take a look at it.

Hardcover: 876 pages
Publisher: W. H. Freeman (1979)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0716710471
ISBN-13: 978-0716710479

Girls Get Curves: Geometry Takes Shape by Danica McKellar

Once again, the cover may give a suggestive message, but it is only designed to get reluctant mathematicians to look inside. There they’ll find ways to master the core concepts of high school geometry, including congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, circles, proofs, theorems, etc.

Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Plume; 6.2.2013 edition (July 2, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0452298741
ISBN-13: 978-0452298743

02/13/201503/19/2020

Desert Books for Kids

Desert habitats are unique and fascinating. Time to find out more through some great books.

________________________

_________________________

Nonfiction:

The Night Flower by Lara Hawthorne is a great place to start.

Lara Hawthorne is an illustrator so it is no surprise this book is an incredible visual treat.

The book starts with an informational paragraph about the saguaro cactus. From there gentle rhyming text takes the reader on a journey through one day and night in the desert. Along the way readers meet many different animals and learn about the role the saguaro plays in their lives.

The Night Flower is a beautiful introduction to a unique plant and its habitat. It is perfect to accompany a unit on deserts or plants, or to prepare for a trip to Arizona. Poke around in a copy today!

Age Range: 3 – 7 years
Publisher: Big Picture Press (March 12, 2019)
ISBN-10: 1536206164
ISBN-13: 978-1536206166

Get to Know Gila Monsters (Get To Know Reptiles) by Flora Brett

In this book Brett has done a good job of finding facts that will be interesting to children, such as how big are Gila monsters, what do they eat, what is their life cycle, and whether or not Gila monsters are venomous. She also separates the facts (Gila monsters are venomous) from the myths (their bite is not fatal to humans).

The book is illustrated with color photographs. Just a note, there is one photograph of a Gila monster eating a deer mouse that might be too graphic for sensitive youngsters.

Get to Know Gila Monsters is a perfect introduction to a desert creature is unfamiliar to many people. This is a must have for units on deserts and would also be useful for lessons about life cycles.

Age Range: 6 – 9 years
Publisher: Capstone Press (January 1, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1491422459
ISBN-13: 978-1491422458

A Day and Night in the Desert (Caroline Arnold’s Habitats) by Caroline Arnold

As the words “day” and “night” suggest, this story reveals which Sonoran desert creatures are active through a 24-hour cycle from 6:00 a.m. one morning until 6:00 a.m. the following day. With the distinctive cut-paper collage illustrations and narrative style, Arnold has created a nonfiction book that will appeal to young readers who prefer fiction.

A Day and Night in the Desert is a wonderful book to introduce the concept of time (for youngest readers), the terms diurnal and nocturnal, and also how different desert animals respond to desert habitats.

Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Picture Window Books (February 1, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1479560847
ISBN-13: 978-1479560844

Cactus Hotel (An Owlet Book) by Brenda Z. Guiberson and illustrated by Megan Lloyd

This classic picture book follows all the desert creatures that use the giant saguaro cactus as a home.

Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Square Fish; 1 edition (October 15, 1993)
ISBN-10: 0805029605
ISBN-13: 978-0805029604

Deserts by Gail Gibbons

Gail Gibbons is really the queen of picture book nonfiction. Her books are always impeccably researched. She also creates the illustrations.

Age Range: 6 and up
Publisher: Holiday House (October 1, 1999)
ISBN-10: 0823415198
ISBN-13: 978-0823415199

Why Oh Why Are Deserts Dry?: All About Deserts (Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library) by Tish Rabe and illustrated by Aristides Ruiz and Joe Mathieu

The Cat in the Hat books bring rhyming text to serious science nonfiction. Learn about desert animals from around the world, as well as desert phenomenon such as mirages. Highly recommended.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers (January 11, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0375858687
ISBN-13: 978-0375858680

Desert Giant: The World of the Saguaro Cactus (Tree Tales)
by Barbara Bash

Age Range: 6 – 10 years
Publisher: Sierra Club Books for Children (September 6, 2002)
ISBN-10: 1578050855
ISBN-13: 978-1578050857

Southwestern author Conrad Storad has written quite a few books about the plants and animals of the Sonoran desert. Here are just two examples:

Saguaro Cactus (Early Bird Nature) by Conrad J. Storad and photographs by Paula Jansen

Age Range: 7 and up
Publisher: Lerner Publications (September 1994)
ISBN-10: 0822530023
ISBN-13: 978-0822530022

Lizards for Lunch: A Roadrunner’s Tale by Conrad J. Storad and illustrated by Beth Neely and Don Rantz

Age Range: 4 and up
Grade Level: Preschool and up
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Sunbelt Publications (March 1, 2002)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1891795007
ISBN-13: 978-1891795008

Cactus Desert (One Small Square) by Donald Silver and Patricia Wynne

Another older title that is well worth getting your hands on. What I like about this book is that it includes all the living creatures of the desert, including fungi, protists and plants. Cactus Desert has excellent suggestions for hands-on activities. Although it says 6 and up and it looks a bit like a picture book, I would say the density of text and level of vocabulary would make it perfect for middle grades.

Age Range: 6 and up
Publisher: McGraw-Hill; 1 edition (September 22, 1997)
ISBN-10: 0070579342
ISBN-13: 978-0070579347

Desert Discoveries by Ginger Wadsworth

This title focuses on the animals found in deserts. The illustrations have hide-and-seek questions to encourage children to observe closely, as well as analog clock images to helps children learn how to tell time using hands. The first page says, “…animals, birds, and insects.” Of course, this is an error because birds and insects are also considered animals (members of the animal kingdom).

Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge (February 1, 1997)
ISBN-10: 0881068179
ISBN-13: 978-0881068177

Deserts: An Activity Guide for Ages 6 to 9 by Nancy F. Castaldo

One of the few books to cover deserts found throughout the world, this book also contains hands-on activities such as making a didgeridoo (to celebrate Australian deserts) and growing your own date palm. Fun!

Fiction:

Nobody Hugs a Cactus by Carter Goodrich

Hank the Cactus sits all alone in his pot on a windowsill and that’s the way he likes it. Whenever someone tries to visit him, he ignores them. Sometimes he even yells at his neighbors, tortoise and jack rabbit. Over time, Hank realizes his lifestyle is making him lonely. Will he ever find a friend?

Carter Goodrich is an illustrator who is known for his covers on The New Yorker, so it is not surprising that it is the art that strikes you first when you open the book. The colors capture the brilliant light of the desert Southwest. Plus, Hank’s expressions range from silly to enchanting.

In addition to being an introduction to social skills, Nobody Hugs a Cactus would be appropriate to accompany a unit on deserts. Get a warm, fuzzy feeling from a copy today!

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (April 16, 2019)
ISBN-10: 1534400907
ISBN-13: 978-1534400900

01/18/201507/16/2015

Popular Chemistry Books for Young Adults

Most of us learn about chemistry from a textbook, but that doesn’t have to be the only way. There are a number of popular science books about chemistry. Many are written for adults, but may be appropriate for young adults as well. If you have any question as to how appropriate a given title might be for your child(ren), be sure to read it yourself first.

Rust: The Longest War by Jonathan Waldman

Breaking into a topic that has gotten very little attention, Jonathan Waldman explores how rust quietly changes our lives.

Like rusty metal, the book is somewhat tarnished by uneven text, although with some skimming it is possible to find bits that will be interesting to young chemists. For example, the story of the Statue of Liberty shows how very little we know about the chemistry of corrosion and is tightly constructed. On the other hand, the author goes on a walkabout by over-describing a visit with rust photographer, Alyssha Eve Csük (that is not to say that Csük’s abstract photographs are flawed, because they are very beautiful and intriguing. They are simply better seen than described.) Rust also lacks a bibliography and an index, making it less useful as a research tool. Too bad, because with a bit of polish, this could have been an excellent book and those who are deeply interested in chemistry, history, and human culture will find it worthwhile.

Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: Simon & Schuster; 1St Edition edition (March 10, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1451691599
ISBN-13: 978-1451691597

Your Atomic Self: The Invisible Elements That Connect You to Everything Else in the Universe by Curt Stager

Although all matter in the universe is made up of atoms, Dr. Stager has chosen to use the human body as his point of reference, which provides general readers with both a way to relate to the information and a sense of scale.

Rather than an in-depth exploration of human biology, however, it is more like a wandering walk using our basic knowledge of ourselves as a trail marker for exploring the world of elements. The “walk” covers topics from why the sky is blue to how the nitrogen atoms from salmon end up in spruce trees in the Pacific Northwest. The text is roughly organized by sections on the most common elements: carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, hydrogen, etc.

(Note: The book does contain references to what happens to bodies after death, which may not be appropriate for some younger teens.)

Hardcover: 320 pages
Publisher: Thomas Dunne Books (October 14, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1250018846
ISBN-13: 978-1250018847

The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements by Sam Kean

This title is also about elements, but is covers the groups in the periodic table as units. How was an element discovered and who discovered it? Why is it useful and what properties does it have? Interesting tidbits, such as the use of gallium by practical jokers to create “disappearing spoons,” keeps the reader engaged and enthralled.

Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Back Bay Books; Reprint edition (June 6, 2011)
ISBN-10: 9780316051637
ISBN-13: 978-0316051637
ASIN: 0316051632

Periodic Tales: A Cultural History of the Elements, from Arsenic to Zinc by Hugh Aldersey-Williams

As suggested by the title, this book is not so much scientific as a cultural history of how we humans have discovered and use the chemical elements.

Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: Ecco; Reprint edition (February 28, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0061824739
ISBN-13: 978-0061824739

The Elements: A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe by Theodore Gray, with photographs by Nick Mann

Really a photographic wonder, this book is a series of two-page spreads for each of the first 100 elements. The author has found concrete examples of every element in its pure form, giving the reader a visual understanding of their properties. It is intriguing, unique and entirely appropriate for children.

To get an idea what the book and cards below are like, Theodore Gray has his periodic table of element photographs at http://periodictable.com. To look at each element, click on the photograph.

Paperback: 240 pages
Publisher: Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers; Reprint edition (April 3, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1579128955
ISBN-13: 978-1579128951

The Photographic Card Deck of The Elements: With Big Beautiful Photographs of All 118 Elements in the Periodic Table
by Theodore Gray

Same author and photographer as the above book, but in a card format.

Cards: 126 pages
Publisher: Black Dog & Leventhal Publishers; Crds edition (October 27, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1603761985
ISBN-13: 978-1603761987

Napoleon’s Buttons: How 17 Molecules Changed History by Penny Le Couteur and Jay Burreson

This title probably contains the most “adult” themes of any in this list, but it also differs from the others because it concentrates on molecules rather than elements.The 17 molecules were chosen for their historical importance.

Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Jeremy P Tarcher; Reprint edition (May 24, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1585423319
ISBN-13: 978-1585423316

The Cartoon Guide to Chemistry by Larry Gonick and Craig Criddle

Cartoon guides like this one are a great way for visual learners to grasp complicated material. Might also draw in older reluctant readers who are intimidated by textbooks.

Series: Cartoon Guide To…
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Collins Reference; 1 edition (May 3, 2005)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060936770
ISBN-13: 978-0060936778

Nature’s Building Blocks: An A-Z Guide to the Elements by John Emsley

The serious chemistry student may enjoy reading this book from cover to cover, but it also serves as an excellent handy reference to the elements.

Paperback: 720 pages
Publisher: Oxford University Press; New Rev Up edition (October 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0199605637
ISBN-13: 978-0199605637

Feel free to leave a comment if you have any suggestions for this list.

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12/29/201406/17/2017

Science Books for Middle Grade: Scientists in the Field Series

Middle grade readers can get to know what real scientists do every day in the award-winning Scientists in the Field series. How many have you read?

Note: Books are roughly listed by publication date, from most recent to older.

Amazon Adventure: How Tiny Fish Are Saving the World’s Largest Rainforest by Sy Montgomery with photographs by Keith Ellenbogen

Go on a trip to the Amazon with conservation biologist Scott Dowd to learn about how fish like tiny cardinal tetras are important to the ecosystem.

Age Range: 10 – 12 years
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (July 4, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0544352998
ISBN-13: 978-0544352995

Crow Smarts: Inside the Brain of the World’s Brightest Bird by Pamela S. Turner and photographs by Andy Comins

Written with light humor (one of the crows is named “Crow we never got around to naming”) and illustrated with birds-eye-view photographs (like the one on the cover). Whether you have read all of books in the Scientists in the Field series or none of them, you are going to want to pick up this one. Perfect for anyone interested in learning, tool use and birds, including budding animal behaviorists, ornithologists, psychologists and educators.

Full review at Growing With Science.

Age Range: 10 – 12 years
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (August 2, 2016)
ISBN-10: 0544416198
ISBN-13: 978-0544416192

The Octopus Scientists (Scientists in the Field Series) by Sy Montgomery and illustrated by Keith Ellenbogen

The Octopus Scientists: Exploring the Mind of a Mollusk follows four octopus researchers from very different backgrounds as they look for octopuses around the island of Moorea in the Pacific Ocean. Canadian Jennifer Mather wanted to study marine biology, but found resistance in what was perceived as a “man’s” field. Instead she became a psychology professor and then applied her studies to octopuses. American David Scheel studied lions for his doctorate degree, but when he couldn’t find a job working with lions, switched to marine biology. Tatiana Leite is a professor of marine ecology in Brazil. Keely Langford works at the Vancouver Aquarium.

If you have ever wanted to don a wet suit and search the ocean floor for octopuses, The Octopus Scientists is the book for you. If not, reading it might just make you want to give it a try.

Age Range: 10 – 12 years
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (May 26, 2015)
ISBN-10: 0544232704
ISBN-13: 978-0544232709

Beetle Busters by Loree Griffin Burns and illustrated by Ellen Harasimowicz

Beetle Busters reveals how researchers are tackling a destructive insect, the Asian longhorned beetle, that is eating hardwood trees in New England. It contains information about the life cycle of the beetle, the history of its introduction to North America, details about how scientists are studying the insects, and a in-depth explanation how concerned citizens can get involved. Burns also reveals some information about how cutting down trees changes habitats and some evidence that ecosystems can recover eventually through succession.

Full review at Growing with Science

Age Range: 10 – 14 years
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers; 1st Edition, 1st Printing edition (October 7, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0547792670
ISBN-13: 978-0547792675

The Next Wave: The Quest to Harness the Power of the Oceans by Elizabeth Rusch

The Next Wave introduces young readers to an exciting new technology that will capture the energy of waves and convert it to useful electrical energy. Rusch starts the book with a description of the power of waves. She then delves into the early lives of two engineers who are working on converting wave energy into electricity. This section about the “Two Mikes” gives examples of young scientists of similar age or only slightly older than the target reader, drawing them into the story. She follows with an overview of the research of several competing groups, showing the progress and setbacks of this interesting field.

The book will definitely inspire young readers who enjoy STEM and want explore waves and oceans. It is also a great resource for adults who want to learn more about research on this potential new source of energy.

Reviewed at Wrapped in Foil blog

Related activity suggestions at Growing with Science

Age Range: 10 – 14 years
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (October 14, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0544099990
ISBN-13: 978-0544099999

Sea Turtle Scientist (Scientists in the Field Series) by Stephen R. Swinburne

Sea Turtle Scientist reveals Dr. Kimberly Stewart’s efforts to investigate and conserve sea turtles on the Caribbean Island of St. Kitts. As with others of the series, it reveals what it is like to work as a scientist, trudging through sand in the middle of the night or taking samples from poached sea turtles. Sea Turtle Scientist will make you want to jump on a plane and become a sea turtle scientist, too.

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Related activities and information about sea turtles at Growing with Science

Age Range: 10 – 14 years
Hardcover: 80 pages
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (January 7, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0547367554
ISBN-13: 978-0547367552

Chasing Cheetahs: The Race to Save Africa’s Fastest Cat (Scientists in the Field Series) by Sy Montgomery and photographs Nic Bishop

Chasing Cheetahs highlights the work of Dr. Lauren Marker and her colleagues with cheetahs in Namibia. Sadly, the numbers of cheetahs have fallen to fewer than 10,000 in the world. To do something concrete to prevent cheetahs from going extinct, Dr. Marker has started the Cheetah Conservation Fund. This organization not only rescues injured and orphaned cheetahs, but also helps educate and work with the local farmers to increase chances of cheetah survival.

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 10 – 14 years
Hardcover: 80 pages
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (April 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0547815492
ISBN-13: 978-0547815497

Park Scientists: Gila Monsters, Geysers, and Grizzly Bears in America’s Own Backyard (Scientists in the Field Series) by Mary Kay Carson with photographs by Tom Uhlman

When you think of national parks, you may think of hiking, wildlife and getting away from it all, but probably you probably don’t think of science. This title goes a long ways toward remedying that omission. The authors catch a reader’s attention with everything from geysers and grizzlies in Yellowstone National Park to salamanders and fire flies in the Great Smoky Mountains, and they have also chosen a range of people to focus on, from geologist park rangers to citizen scientist high school students.

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Hardcover: 80 pages
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (May 13, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0547792689
ISBN-13: 978-0547792682

The Dolphins of Shark Bay (Scientists in the Field Series) by Pamela S. Turner

This outstanding book encapsulates over twenty-five years of research into dolphin intelligence by scientist Janet Mann and her colleagues working at Shark Bay in Australia. It reveals how science is done in the field, plus gives loads of information about wild bottlenose dolphins. It also asks some hard questions about whether these highly-intelligent animals should be kept in captivity solely for our enjoyment.

Full Review at Growing with Science

Age Range: 10 – 14 years
Hardcover: 80 pages
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (November 5, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0547716389
ISBN-13: 978-0547716381

Wild Horse Scientists (Scientists in the Field Series) by Kay Frydenborg

Right away, a warning: this is not a picture book! It would probably be best from mature readers, ages 12 and up. The books contains large, full color photographs of dead, decaying horses, and a discussion of a birth control program developed for horses. That said, for older readers interested in science, and particularly horses, this book is a must have.

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Horse-related activities to accompany the book at Growing with Science

Age Range: 10 and up
Grade Level: 5 – 9
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (November 6, 2012)
ISBN-10: 0547518315
ISBN-13: 978-0547518312

The Hive Detectives: Chronicle of a Honey Bee Catastrophe (Scientists in the Field Series) by Loree Griffin Burns and photographs by Ellen Harasimowicz

Loree Griffin Burns starts the book with a visit to beekeeper Mary Duane’s backyard. Mary calmly works the bees as she explains many aspects of honey bee biology and the culture techniques she uses. The author moves next to colony collapse disorder or CCD – the problem with honey bees disappearing that has been in the news- and introduces us to four bee scientists who are at the front lines of CCD research. Finally, Burns wraps up by taking us back to Mary Duane’s beeyard for a lesson about gathering and processing honey.

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Related science activities at Growing With Science

Age Range: 10 and up
Grade Level: 5 – 9
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (April 16, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0544003268
ISBN-13: 978-0544003262

The Tapir Scientist: Saving South America’s Largest Mammal by Sy Montgomery and photographs by Nic Bishop

The Tapir Scientist: Saving South America’s Largest Mammal features the work of scientist Patricia Medici and her team in the Pantanal region of Brazil. What are tapirs and why study them? Tapirs are unusual-looking animals with long noses that we know little about. There are four different kinds in the world: Malayan, Bairds’s, mountain and lowland. This book concentrates on the lowland tapir that lives both in grasslands and rainforests of Brazil. Because they eat large quantities of fruit, these elusive creatures move seeds from place to place, serving an important role in the ecosystem.

Full Review at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 10 and up
Grade Level: 5 – 9
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (July 23, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0547815484
ISBN-13: 978-0547815480

Stronger Than Steel: Spider Silk DNA and the Quest for Better Bulletproof Vests, Sutures, and Parachute Rope by Bridget Heos with illustrations by Andy Comins

Stronger Than Steel highlights scientist Randy Lewis’ quest to find a better way to obtain large quantities of spider silk for innovative new products through genetic engineering, specifically incorporating the spider silk gene into goats.

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 10 – 14 years
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (February 26, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0547681267
ISBN-13: 978-0547681269

Eruption!: Volcanoes and the Science of Saving Lives by Elizabeth Rusch and illustrated by Tom Uhlman

This book follows the experiences of USGS volcanologist John Pallister and his team from of the Cascades Volcano Observatory as they participate in VDAP or the Volcano Disaster Assistance Program. VDAP is an international effort to provide assistance to any country impacted by volcanoes that asks for help in monitoring and predicting eruptions. The program was formed after the deadly eruption of Colombia’s Nevado del Ruiz in 1985.

Exciting and well-written, this book is a must for budding volcanologists and geologists. It would also be great to accompany units on volcanoes, earth science and for investigating how scientists do their jobs.

Review and related activities at Growing With Science blog

Age Range: 9 – 12 years
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (June 18, 2013)
ISBN-10: 0547503504
ISBN-13: 978-0547503509

The Manatee Scientists: Saving Vulnerable Species by Peter Lourie

The Manatee Scientists follows scientists from around the world trying to learn more about manatees in a race protect them from extinction. Peter Lourie documents the techniques the scientists use and the problems they encounter. In the Amazon River basin, the author accompanies Fernando Rosas on a boat trip to follow radio-tagged manatees that have been released from captivity. He flies with John Reynolds, who does an aerial count of manatees in warm Florida waters, and shows researcher Lucy Keith rescuing West African manatees trapped behind a dam in Senegal.

Full Review at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 10 and up
Grade Level: 5 – 9
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (March 28, 2011)
ISBN-10: 054715254X
ISBN-13: 978-0547152547

The Elephant Scientist (Scientists in the Field Series)
by Caitlin O’Connell and Donna M. Jackson with photographs by the first author and her husband, Timothy Rodwell

Unlike other books in the series, the scientist in the spotlight in The Elephant Scientist is one of the co-authors, Dr. Caitlin O’Connell. It follows Dr. O’Connell as she studies elephant social life and communication and at the same time works on ways to prevent elephants from ruining crops planted by local people. She discovers that elephants communicate to one another over long distances by detecting vibrations in the ground with their feet and trunks.

Summary review at Wrapped in Foil

Related science activities at Growing with Science

Age Range: 10 and up
Grade Level: 5 – 9
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers; 1 edition (July 11, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0547053444
ISBN-13: 978-0547053448

The Frog Scientist by Pamela S. Turner and illustrated by Andy Comins

Age Range: 10 and up
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers; Reprint edition (September 13, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0547576986
ISBN-13: 978-0547576985

The Bat Scientists by Mary Kay Carson and photographs by her husband, Tom Uhlman

Author Carson accompanies bat scientist Merlin Tuttle into a cave in Texas to find out what studying bats in like. Immediately the reader learns that this field is not for the squeamish. Why would anyone wade through bat guano teeming with insects while breathing through a respirator in a smelly cave at temperatures of 100° F? They do it because it turns out that bats are pretty important in the scheme of things. By learning more about them, hopefully we can protect these fragile and misunderstood little creatures before it is too late.

Reviewed at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 10 and up
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (September 28, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0547199562
ISBN-13: 978-0547199566

Kakapo Rescue: Saving the World’s Strangest Parrot (Scientists in the Field Series) by Sy Montgomery with photographs by Nic Bishop

With the team of experienced nature writer Sy Montgomery and and fabulous photographer Nic Bishop, you know this book is going to be high quality. What really tips this book into another category is their obvious passion for the topic. You can tell these two are thrilled to be freezing and wet on a remote island near Antartica chasing the kakapo story to share with us. In addition, the kakapos are so endearing that you won’t be able to put the book down.

Kakapo Rescue won the Sibert Award.

Reviewed at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 10 and up
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (May 24, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0618494170
ISBN-13: 978-0618494170

Tracking Trash: Flotsam, Jetsam, and the Science of Ocean Motion (Scientists in the Field Series) by Loree Griffin Burns

This title is about Dr. Curt Ebbesmeyer, an oceanographer who studies the huge streams of water flowing through the ocean, called currents. He finds clues to ocean water movement by looking at trash that comes up on the beach after spills in the ocean. It is really a fascinating book.

Summary and related activities at Growing With Science

Age Range: 10 and up
Grade Level: 5 – 9
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers; Reprint edition (April 5, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0547328605
ISBN-13: 978-0547328607

Project Seahorse by Pamela S. Turner and illustrated by Scott Tuason

Age Range: 10 and up
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (July 28, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0547207131
ISBN-13: 978-0547207131

The Snake Scientist by Sy Montgomery and photographs by Nic Bishop

Age Range: 10 and up
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (February 26, 2001)
ISBN-10: 0618111190
ISBN-13: 978-0618111190

06/16/201410/21/2021

Popular Chemistry Books for Kids

Most of us learn about chemistry in high school and usually from a textbook, but that doesn’t have to be the only way. Children will enjoy learning about chemistry from these popular books.

Beginning Readers

What Are Atoms? (Rookie Read-About Science) by Lisa Trumbauer

With short sentences and controlled vocabulary, this is an introduction to atoms for the youngest reader.

Age Range: 6 and up
Publisher: Childrens Pr (March 2005)
ISBN-10: 0516246658
ISBN-13: 978-0516246659

What Is Density? (Rookie Read-About Science) by Joanne Barkan

What does a baseball and a birthday party balloon have in common? Although they are the same because they are both made of matter and take up space, young readers will also find out that they don’t have the same density.

Age Range: 6 and up
Publisher: Children’s Press(CT) (September 1, 2006)
ISBN-10: 0516246607
ISBN-13: 978-0516246604

All about Matter (Science Builders) by Mari Schuh

With only 151 words, this beginning reader book still manages define matter and explore the three states of matter: solids, liquids, and gases. As you can see from the cover, it is illustrated with big, colorful photographs.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Pebble Plus (August 1, 2011)
ISBN-10: 142967105X
ISBN-13: 978-1429671057

Picture Books

What Is the World Made Of? All About Solids, Liquids, and Gases (Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science, Stage 2) by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld and Paul Meisel

In a gently humorous way, this book introduces children to the idea the world is made of matter and that matter occurs in three states: solid, liquid, or gas. You can never go wrong with any of the Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science series books.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Series: Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2 (Book 1)
Publisher: HarperCollins (August 8, 1998)
ISBN-10: 0064451631
ISBN-13: 978-0064451635

Upper Elementary

Chemical Reactions!: With 25 Science Projects for Kids by Dr. Susan Berk Koch (website) and illustrated by Micah Rauch

You can find tons of so-called chemistry experiments on the internet. The problem is it takes time to find the legitimate ones (in among the ads), and weed out the ones that are not age-appropriate or don’t work. Dr. Koch has done all that for readers ages 7-10, plus added the background and educational materials needed for successful learning.

Chemical Reactions! is perfect for budding chemists and students who love their learning hands on. It would also be a wonderful resource for a unit on chemistry or to develop experiments for an elementary-level science fair. Check out a copy and see what develops.

Reading age ‏ : ‎ 7 – 10 years
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Nomad Press (October 15, 2021)
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1619309416
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1619309418

The Solid Truth about Matter (LOL Physical Science) by Mark Weakland and illustrated by Bernice Lum

Humor is also the target of the books in the LOL Physical Science series, but that doesn’t mean the science is not serious. For example, you can find out all about more advanced concepts such as friction and viscosity on page 16 in the book.

Age Range: 8 – 10 years
Grade Level: 3 – 4
Publisher: Fact Finders (August 1, 2012)
ISBN-10: 1429693029
ISBN-13: 978-1429693028

Molecule Mayhem Pop-Up Chemistry Chaos by Tom Adams and illustrated by Thomas Flintham.

The winner of the 2013 ALCS Educational Writers’ Award, this title from the UK combines the interactivity of pop-ups, pull tabs and booklets with the answers to some chemistry mysteries (“Why do onions make us cry?”) and suggestions for hands-on activities.

Age: 7+
Hardcover: 18 pages
Publisher: Templar (August 1, 2012)
ISBN-10: 1848772920
ISBN-13: 978-1848772922

Solids, Liquids and Gases (Starting with Science) by Ontario Science Centre, illustrated by Ray Boudreau

Tested at the Ontario Science Centre, these 13 experiments exploring solids, liquids, and gases are sure to be hits with younger scientists. Illustrated throughout with bright, lively photographs.

Age Range: 5 – 9 years
Publisher: Kids Can Press (August 12, 1995)
ISBN-10: 1550744011
ISBN-13: 978-1550744019

Make It Change! (Whiz Kid Science) by Anna Claybourne, and illustrated by Kimberly Scott and Venetia Dean introduces some easy-to-do hands-on chemistry activities that are sure to intrigue and inspire kids. Are these unique, groundbreaking experiments? No, you can probably find instructions for the twelve experiments that are included throughout the Internet. The difference is the instructions are clear, there are suggestions for troubleshooting, the science behind the experiment is revealed in a concise and accurate way, and suggestions for extending the activities are included.

Grade Level: 2 – 4
Publisher: Raintree (July 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1410967468
ISBN-13: 978-1410967466

Middle Grade

Your Guide to the Periodic Table by Gill Arbuthnott and illustrated by Marc Mones

After a brief introduction to the periodic table, Arbuthnott delves into over 70 of the 92 elements.Common elements warrant a two page spread, whereas less common are covered in a page or less. Lively illustrations and photographs add interest. It is a good first introduction/overview.

Age Range: 9 – 12 years
Publisher: Crabtree Publishing Company (April 1, 2016)
ISBN-10: 0778722538
ISBN-13: 978-0778722533

Fizz, Bubble & Flash!: Element Explorations & Atom Adventures for Hands-On Science Fun! (Williamson Kids Can! Series) by Anita Brandolini and illustrated by Michael Kline

Don’t be fooled by the cover, this book really is written for older kids. Organized by chemical families, it introduces the everyday elements, such as boron, bismuth, and calcium and gives instructions for hands-on activities to explore them. There is some serious science hiding behind the less-than-serious cartoon illustrations.

Age Range: 9 and up
Series: Williamson Kids Can! Series
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Williamson Pub; First Edition edition (May 2003)
ISBN-10: 188559383X
ISBN-13: 978-1885593832

Cool Chemistry Concoctions: 50 Formulas that Fizz, Foam, Splatter & Ooze
by Joe Rhatigan and Veronika Gunter, with illustrations by Tom La Baff

This book gives the instructions for 50 experiments kids can do with materials generally found around the house. In addition to explaining “What You Do,” each experiment is accompanied by a “Why It Works” section explaining the science behind it. Most of the experiments are classics, but there are a few fresh ones.

Age Range: 8 and up
Paperback: 80 pages
Publisher: Lark Books (March 1, 2007)
ISBN-10: 1579908829
ISBN-13: 978-1579908829

How to Make a Universe with 92 Ingredients: An Electrifying Guide to the Elements by Adrian Dingle

Once readers have a good idea that everything is made up of the same 92 elements, they can flip through and find the elements that intrigue them the most. Wacky illustrations and blasts of humor make it easy to read.

Age Range: 10 – 14 years
Publisher: Owlkids Books (October 15, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1771470089
ISBN-13: 978-1771470087

Why Is Milk White?: & 200 Other Curious Chemistry Questions by Alexa Coelho and Simon Quellen Field

In this interesting project, 11-year-old Alexa Coelho came up with the questions and science writer Simon Field answered them. Readers can skip to questions that interest them, which is an added plus for reluctant readers. Those fascinated by chemistry, however, won’t be able to put it down.

Age Range: 9 and up
Grade Level: 4 and up
Paperback: 288 pages
Publisher: Chicago Review Press; 1 edition (January 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1613744528
ISBN-13: 978-1613744529

Chemical Chaos (Horrible Science) by Nick Arnold and illustrated by Tony De Saulles

The books of the Horrible Science series try to be gross and irreverent, but many, like this one, turn out to be much more educational than crass. Chemical Chaos has history, facts and hands-on activity suggestions all rolled into one. The cartoon illustrations and sidebars are great for visual learners. Members of our family read it again and again.

Age Range: 10 and up
Publisher: Scholastic (September 1998)
ISBN-10: 0590108859
ISBN-13: 978-0590108850

Chemical Chaos (Horrible Science) is also available in Kindle format.

Chemistry (Experimenting With Science) by Antonella Meiani

The layout of the text is clean and serious, with specific instructions for experiments and clear explanations of what is happening. Could be used with a range of ages.

Age Range: 9 and up
Publisher: Lerner Pub Group (L) (September 2002)
ISBN-10: 0822500876
ISBN-13: 978-0822500872

Science Fair Projects: Chemistry by Bob Bonnet and Dan Keen, illustrated by Frances Zweifel

Starting with instructions for 47 interesting hands-on experiments and activities, the reader is then invited to expand them into science fair projects. Best for the beginner who needs to learn the scientific method. Although the cover has a gorgeous full-color photograph, the illustrations inside are black and white drawings.

Age Range: 9 and up
Paperback: 96 pages
Publisher: Sterling (June 30, 2001)
ISBN-10: 080697799X
ISBN-13: 978-0806977997

Basher Science: Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction by Simon Basher and Dan Green

Do you know a child who is interested in science but finds the traditional nonfiction books a bit too tame and lame? Looking for something a little edgy with a bite of humor (“You have to keep your ‘Ion’ this bunch…”)? Then you might want to take a look at the Basher series science books. Each concept is illustrated in Basher’s unique style.

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 10 – 15 years
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Kingfisher; Pap/Pstr edition (July 6, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0753464136
ISBN-13: 978-0753464137

The Periodic Table: Elements with Style! by Simon Basher and Adrian Dingle

Once again, Basher’s humor and first person narratives are not for everyone, but just might be the ticket for a reluctant reader.

Age Range: 10 – 15 years
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Kingfisher; Pap/Pstr edition (May 23, 2007)
ISBN-10: 0753460858
ISBN-13: 978-0753460856

Do you have any favorite chemistry books? We’d love to hear about them!

______

04/26/201407/31/2021

Plant Science Books for Children

Below is a list of children’s books that focus on plants and gardening, organized by reading level and genre. They were chosen to support and inspire plant science projects. Be sure to visit our earlier list of children’s books about seeds, as well.

Do you have any favorite plant science books for kids? We’d love to hear your suggestions.

Nonfiction

Beginning Readers

Lerner Plant Life Cycles – Pull Ahead Readers Series pairs nonfiction and fiction titles on the same topic

Let’s Look at Apple Trees by Katie Peters

Have you ever seen an apple blossom? Carefully leveled text and engaging photos show emergent readers what apples look like while they are growing in an orchard. Pairs with the fiction title Baking Apples by Margo Gates and illustrated by Jeff Crowther, which features a father and his daughter using fresh-picked apples to bake a delicious apple tart.

Reading age ‏ : ‎ 4 – 7 years
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lerner Publications ™ (August 1, 2020)
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1541590201
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1541590205

Let’s Look at Pumpkins by Katie Peters

How do small, flat pumpkin seeds become large, round pumpkins? This title uses carefully leveled text and vibrant photos to show younger readers the pumpkin life cycle. Pairs with the fiction title Pumpkin Seeds by Margo Gates and illustrated by Stephen Brown, which shows Mom making pumpkin soup, while Ravi prepares the pumpkin seeds.

Reading age ‏ : ‎ 4 – 7 years
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lerner Publications ™ (August 1, 2020)
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 154159021X
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1541590212

Let’s Look at Beans by Katie Peters

Introduce emergent readers to the life cycle of the tiny-but-mighty bean. Carefully leveled text and bright photos show bean plants in all their stages: seed, sprout, flower, and pod. Pairs with the fiction title Bean Soup by Margo Gates and illustrated by Lisa Hunt.

Reading age ‏ : ‎ 4 – 7 years
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Lerner Publications ™ (August 1, 2020)
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1541590244
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1541590243

Plants: Real Size Science by Rebecca Rissman

Don’t let the short sentences fool you, this informational book is full of vocabulary and concepts, such as what are roots, stems and flowers. Be sure to read the notes for parents and educators in the back to get the most from the book.

Age Range: 4 – 6 years
Publisher: Acorn (July 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 143297887X
ISBN-13: 978-1432978877

Picture Books

New Books:
Plants Can’t Sit Still by Rebecca E. Hirsch and illustrated by Mia Posada

Although they can’t run around like some animals can, plants can move quite a bit. Sunflowers follow the sun, tendrils can creep around, and seeds can shoot away. A deeper look into the life of plants.

Isn’t the cover beautiful?

Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Millbrook Press (September 1, 2016)
ISBN-10: 1467780316
ISBN-13: 978-1467780315

Flowers (Plant Parts) by Melanie Waldron is the perfect introduction to flowers in the garden. This informational book covers what a flower is, the parts of a flower, how flowers make seeds, and become fruit, etc. It also discusses how flowers attract insect pollinators. Two hands-on activities are included with clear and well-organized instructions to help reinforce learning.

Age Range: 7 – 9 years
Grade Level: 2 – 4
Series: Plant Parts
Publisher: Raintree Perspectives (January 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1410954269
ISBN-13: 978-1410954268

Seeds and Fruits (Plant Parts) is also by Melanie Waldron and is part of the same series as Flowers. It covers variation in seeds and fruits, what seeds and fruit are for, the parts of a flowering plant, how seeds are made, what’s inside a seed, what seeds need to germinate, different types of fruit, methods plants use to disperse seeds, and how humans interact with seeds and fruits. This book contains an activity of finding seeds in fruit and an experiment to investigate germination of bean seeds under different conditions.

These books in the Plant Parts series would work well with a school garden as well as in the classroom for a unit on plants.

Age Range: 7 – 9 years
Grade Level: 2 – 4
Series: Plant Parts
Publisher: Raintree Perspectives (January 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1406274801
ISBN-13: 978-1406274806

Vegetables aren’t the only plants we can study. Weeds Find a Way by Cindy Jenson-Elliott and illustrated by Carolyn Fisher introduces young readers to the wonders of the natural world by exploring these often ignored, deplored plants. Jenson-Elliott’s text conjures up lighthearted word pictures. For example, can’t you imagine seeds coming out of pods “…like confetti from a popped balloon?” The back matter, however, includes a serious discussion of weeds, why they are interesting and important, and a list and descriptions of some common weeds.Pick up a copy and you will find out, as the author says, “Weeds are amazing!” (Review with activity suggestions at Growing with Science).

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Publisher: Beach Lane Books (February 4, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1442412607
ISBN-13: 978-1442412606

Plant a Pocket of Prairie by Phyllis Root and illustrated by Betsy Bowen is a perfect introduction because it encourages planting of locally-adapted plants in pocket wildlife gardens. The book may focus on the prairies of Minnesota, but it carries a message about preserving habitats that is important anywhere in the world. Get the full scoop at Growing with Science.

Ages 5-10
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press (April 15, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0816679800
ISBN-13: 978-0816679805

Secrets of the Garden: Food Chains and the Food Web in Our Backyard by Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld and illustrated by Priscilla Lamont

This creative picture book walks the line between fiction and nonfiction. Although Alice is the narrator, leading the way to her discoveries in her family’s garden, two chickens provide the science concepts in informative sidebars.

Age Range: 5 – 9 years
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers; First Printing edition (February 28, 2012)
ISBN-10: 0517709902
ISBN-13: 978-0517709900

Older favorites:

A Seed Is Sleepy by Dianna Hutts Aston and Sylvia Long

This is an absolutely gorgeous and well-researched book. Highly recommended!

Age Range: 5 – 10 years
Publisher: Chronicle Books; First Edition edition (March 1, 2007)
ISBN-10: 0811855201
ISBN-13: 978-0811855204

Pumpkin Circle: The Story of a Garden by George Levenson, Shmuel Thaler (Photographer)

When I lent this one to someone and never got it back, I knew I had to go out and buy another copy. This book is really one of a kind. The photographs are exceptional, although they do have a flower fly identified as a honey bee, which is a common mistake. The website has good information, too.

Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Tricycle Press (August 7, 2002)
ISBN-10: 1582460787
ISBN-13: 978-1582460789

Planting a Rainbow by Lois Ehlert

You can see what it is about in this video.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Paperback: 40 pages
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers; Reprint edition (February 28, 1992)
ISBN-10: 0152626107
ISBN-13: 978-0152626105

Middle Grade

Linnea’s Windowsill Garden (Linnea books) by Cristina Bjork, illustrated by Lena Anderson, and translated by Joan Sandin

For fans of Linnea’s Garden (see fiction section below), this gardening how-to is a useful introduction to indoor gardening. It is written in a cozy, journal style.

Age Range: 9 – 12 years
Grade Level: 4 – 7
Publisher: R & S Books (October 1, 1988)
ISBN-10: 9129590647
ISBN-13: 978-9129590647

Related Fiction

Picture Books

Tops & Bottoms by Janet Stevens

Children will learn all about which parts of plants are edible in this folktale retelling. Lovely illustrations explain why this was a Caldecott Honor Book.

Age Range: 4 – 7 years
Publisher: Harcourt Brace; 1st edition (March 29, 1995)
ISBN-10: 0152928510
ISBN-13: 978-0152928513

The Gardener by Sarah Stewart and illustrated by David Small

Lydia Grace Finch isn’t used to living in the city, let alone with her dour uncle. Can she work miracles with a small suitcase full of seeds?

Age Range: 4 – 7 years
Publisher: Square Fish; Reissue edition (May 1, 2007)
ISBN-10: 031236749X
ISBN-13: 978-0312367497

Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney

This classic picture book reveals how planting flowers can make a difference. A family favorite.

Age Range: 5 and up
Publisher: Puffin; Reprint edition (November 6, 1985)
ISBN-10: 0140505393
ISBN-13: 978-0140505399

Middle Grade

Our School Garden! by Rick Swann and illustrated by Christy Hale

Discovering the joys of the school garden helps lonely Michael make friends.

Winner, 2013 Growing Good Kids Book Award, Junior Master Gardener & American Horticultural Society

Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: Readers to Eaters (March 6, 2012)
ISBN-10: 0983661502
ISBN-13: 978-0983661504

Linnea in Monet’s Garden by Cristina Bjork, Lena Anderson (Illustrator), Joan Sandin (Translator)

If you are interested in art, artists, Monet, nature, gardening or traveling to Paris, this is the book for you. Definitely inspires me to want to grow a “Monet Garden” of my own. Beautiful, sweet, and informative, I keep our copy with the art books, but it wants to be with the nature and gardening books, too.

Age Range: 9 – 12 years
Publisher: R & S Books; 1st American ed edition (October 1, 1987)
ISBN-10: 9129583144
ISBN-13: 978-9129583144

Grow: A Novel in Verse by Juanita Havill and illustrated by Stansislawa Kodman

Twelve-year-old Kate helps Berneetha turn a vacant lot into a community garden, gathering help and friends along the way. Can they protect the garden when the lot owner decides to build on it?

Age Range: 9 and up
Publisher: Peachtree Publishers (April 1, 2011)
ISBN-10: 156145575X
ISBN-13: 978-1561455751

Related Resources:

Compost and Decomposition Books

List of Children’s books about seeds.

Gardening activity books for adults working with children

Children’s Garden Week Activities at Growing With Science Blog

You might also be interested in our Gardening/Science Pinterest Board:

04/25/201406/11/2017

30 Space and Astronomy Books for Children

What is more inspiring than space?

If you are doing a science theme about space or the solar system and are looking for books for children, you’ve come to the right place. (Note: Linked titles go to Amazon for more information. Please see the disclaimer below). The titles are organized by reading level.

Looking for more specific information? Visit our more recent, specialized lists about:

Nonfiction

Beginning Readers- Informational Texts

Space (Smithsonian Little Explorer) by Martha E. H. Rustad is a quick introduction to topics ranging from the moon and planets to the Big Bang. Colorful photographs and eye-catching illustrations help keep interest and put things in perspective. See how many Earths placed on top of each other would equal the height of the sun. Fascinating!

Reading Level grades 1-2
Publisher: Capstone Press (November 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1476535515
ISBN-13: 978-1476535517

Comets (Heinemann First Library: the Night Sky and Other Amazing Sights in Space) by Nick Hunter explains how these bits of dust and ice orbit the sun in our solar system. Starting with ancient records of comets, Hunter describes some of the most famous comets and how they were discovered, He concludes with an activity using balls and a playing field to help children conceptualize the vastness of space.

Reading Level: Grades 1-3
Publisher: Heinemann (August 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1432975196
ISBN-13: 978-1432975197

Show Me Space: My First Picture Encyclopedia (My First Picture Encyclopedias) by Steve Kortenkamp is a visually-stimulating way to learn about our sun, the planets, moons and even far away galaxies.

Reading level: 1-2
Ages 4-8
Series: My First Picture Encyclopedias
Publisher: Capstone Press (February 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1620659220
ISBN-13: 978-1620659229

Stars and Constellations (Heinemann First Library: The Night Sky: And Other Amazing Sights in Space) by Nick Hunter explores what stars are, where they come from, what makes them shine, what people thought of them in the past, and how we study stars today, starting with the nearest star, the Sun. A fun activity is provided along with advice on viewing stars.

Reading Level: Grades 1-3
Publisher: Heinemann (August 1, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 143297517X
ISBN-13: 978-1432975173

Eclipses (Heinemann First Library: The Night Sky: And Other Amazing Sights in Space) by Nick Hunter (Author) examines both solar and lunar eclipses, as well as eclipses on other planets. The book covers what an eclipse is, what eclipses can look like, how they happen, what people thought of eclipses in the past, and how they are studied today. He concludes with an activity, along with advice on viewing eclipses.

Reading Level: Grades 1-3
Publisher: Heinemann (August 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1432975153
ISBN-13: 978-1432975159

Northern Lights (Heinemann First Library) by Nick Hunter covers some of the coolest phenomena we can see without a telescope: the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. He explains what they are, what they look like, where they can be seen, and how they are caused. Readers also learn about the significance of solar storms, the Southern Lights, what people thought about auroras in the past, and how they are explored today. As with the others in this series, he concludes with a fun activity.

Reading level: Grades 1-3
Publisher: Heinemann (August 1, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1432975161
ISBN-13: 978-1432975166

Picture Books

If You Were the Moon by Laura Purdie Salas and illustrated by Jaime Kim

Combining spare, imaginative text with denser scientific explanations, this book has potential for a multitude of uses. It can be a lovely bedtime book, the basis for a language arts lesson, or a great accompaniment to a lesson on the solar system.

Salas must inspire her illustrators to greatness, because Jaime Kim’s art positively shines.

If You Were the Moon is a must have for budding astronomers and poets everywhere.

Visit Laurie Purdie Salas’s website for downloadable teaching guides (long and short versions) and other goodies.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Millbrook Press (March 1, 2017)
ISBN-10: 146778009X
ISBN-13: 978-1467780094

How the Meteorite Got to the Museum by Jessie Hartland

In her usual lightly humorous style Hartland reveals how a piece of the Peekskill meteorite ended up on display at the American Museum of Natural History. This book is the third in a series in which Hartland uses a cumulative story technique borrowed from “The House that Jack Built.” Here she explains where the meteorite came from, who saw it, and what the owner of the car did when she discovered the damage, etc.

Reviewed at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 6 – 9 years
Grade Level: 1 – 4
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Blue Apple Books (October 8, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1609052528
ISBN-13: 978-1609052522

Picture Books about the Planets/Solar System:

Pluto’s Secret: An Icy World’s Tale of Discovery by Margaret Weitekamp and David DeVorkin, illustrated by Diane Kidd

With the the change in 2006 from having nine planets in the solar system to only eight, children may be wondering what happened to Pluto. Why isn’t it a planet any longer? Pluto’s Secret: An Icy World’s Tale of Discovery by Margaret Weitekamp, with David DeVorkin, and illustrated by Diane Kidd uses a whimsical approach to explain the discovery of Pluto, its history and how scientific classifications change as we uncover more information about the world around us.

Reviewed at Growing with Science

Age Range: 5 – 9 years
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 4
Publisher: Harry N. Abrams (March 12, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1419704230
ISBN-13: 978-1419704239

13 Planets: The Latest View of the Solar System
by David A. Aguilar

Explains the most recent view (2011) of the planets in our solar system, with eight planets in the classical sense and five dwarf planets.

Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books (March 8, 2011)
ISBN-10: 1426307705
ISBN-13: 978-1426307706

National Geographic Kids First Big Book of Space by Catherine D. Hughes and illustrated by David A. Aguilar

At 128 pages, this is a big book! Even though it exceeds the usual length, let’s keep it in the picture book section because of the fabulous illustrations and the reading age level.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books (October 9, 2012)
ISBN-10: 1426310145
ISBN-13: 978-1426310140

Picture books About the Lunar Landing:

Footprints on the Moon by Alexandra Siy

Illustrated with photographs, this book documents

Age Range: 3 – 7 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge (February 1, 2001)
ISBN-10: 1570914095
ISBN-13: 978-1570914096

Moonshot: The Flight of Apollo 11 by Brian Floca is an extraordinary book. You can tell the minute you open it and see the front endpapers, which have exquisite, detailed illustrations of Apollo 11.

Age Range: 4 – 10 years
Series: Richard Jackson Books (Atheneum Hardcover)
Publisher: Atheneum/Richard Jackson Books (April 7, 2009)
ISBN-10: 141695046X
ISBN-13: 978-1416950462

One Giant Leap
by Robert Burleigh and illustrated by Mike Wimmer

Another book to commemorate the 40th anniversary lunar landing, it is also well done.

Age Range: 6 – 8 years
Publisher: Philomel (April 2, 2009)
ISBN-10: 0399238832
ISBN-13: 978-0399238833

Look to the Stars by Buzz Aldrin and illustrated by Wendell Minor is remarkable because it is much more than merely an account by the second human being to touch the surface of the moon. Dr. Aldrin shows us how this incredible accomplishment is part of a long history of discoveries and advancements, and how it may lead to many more new things in the future.

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 6 – 8 years
Grade Level: 1 – 3
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile (May 14, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0399247211
ISBN-13: 978-0399247217

Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2 has a whole series of titles about space and space exploration:

Floating in Space (Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2) by Franklyn M. Branley and illustrated by True Kelley

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: HarperCollins (January 3, 1998)
ISBN-10: 0064451429
ISBN-13: 978-0064451420

The International Space Station (Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)
by Franklyn M. Branley and illustrated by True Kelley

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: HarperCollins (September 19, 2000)
ISBN-10: 0064452093
ISBN-13: 978-0064452090

The Sky Is Full of Stars (Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)
by Franklyn M. Branley and illustrated by Felicia Bond

This title is about the constellations you can see in the night sky. Because it is illustrated by Felicia Bond (Give a Mouse a Cookie), it has a different look than some of the others that come later in the series.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: HarperCollins; 1 edition (March 9, 1983)
ISBN-10: 0064450023
ISBN-13: 978-0064450027

The Moon Seems to Change (Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)
by Franklyn M. Branley and illustrated by Barbara & Ed Emberley

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: HarperCollins; Revised edition (July 24, 1987)
ISBN-10: 0064450651
ISBN-13: 978-0064450652

The Big Dipper (Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 1)
by Franklyn M. Branley and illustrated by Molly Coxe

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: HarperCollins; Revised edition (April 15, 1991)
ISBN-10: 0064451003
ISBN-13: 978-0064451000

What the Moon is Like (Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science, Stage 2) by Franklyn M. Branley and illustrated by True Kelley

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: HarperCollins; Ill edition (May 3, 2000)
ISBN-10: 0064451852
ISBN-13: 978-0064451857

Mission to Mars (Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)
by Franklyn M. Branley and illustrated by True Kelley

Explores the premise that someday people may visit, and even live on, Mars.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: HarperCollins (September 3, 2002)
ISBN-10: 0064452336
ISBN-13: 978-0064452335

Middle Grade

Space, Stars, and the Beginning of Time: What the Hubble Telescope Saw by Elaine Scott

A history of the Hubble Telescope and overview of how the images it has captured have added to the field of astronomy. Although written for middle grades, it is also useful for adults wishing to brush up on the topic.

Age Range: 9 – 12 years
Grade Level: 4 – 7
Publisher: Clarion Books (January 24, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0547241895
ISBN-13: 978-0547241890

The Mighty Mars Rovers: The Incredible Adventures of Spirit and Opportunity (Scientists in the Field Series)
by Elizabeth Rusch

Age Range: 10 and up
Grade Level: 5 – 9
Lexile Measure: 950L (What’s this?)
Series: Scientists in the Field Series
Hardcover: 80 pages
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (June 19, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 054747881X
ISBN-13: 978-0547478814

Cars on Mars: Roving the Red Planet
by Alexandra Siy

Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge; New edition (July 1, 2009)
ISBN-10: 1570914621
ISBN-13: 978-1570914621

Planet Hunter: Geoff Marcy and the Search for Other Earths
by Vicki Oransky Wittenstein

Have you ever wanted to visit the laboratory of a ground-breaking research scientist? Now you can, because Planet Hunter: Geoff Marcy and the Search for Other Earths by Vicki Oransky Wittenstein will allow you to feel like you are standing right next to Dr. Geoff Marcy in his quest to find extrasolar planets (planets that revolve around stars other than our sun).

Full review at Wrapped in Foil

Age Range: 10 – 14 years
Publisher: Boyds Mills Press (March 1, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1590785924
ISBN-13: 978-1590785928

Is There Life on Other Planets?: And Other Questions About Space (Is That a Fact?)
by Gregory L. Vogt and illustrated by Colin W. Thompson

Another in the Is That a Fact? series, this one investigates some silly myths as well as serious, such as, “Is the moon made of green cheese? and “Do astronauts wear diapers?”

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Library Binding: 40 pages
Publisher: Lerner Publications (March 2010)
ISBN-10: 0822590824
ISBN-13: 978-0822590828

Spacecraft (Machines Close-Up) by Daniel Gilpin and illustrated by Alex Pang

Full color cut-away illustrations show the ins and outs of space vehicles past, present and future.

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Publisher: Benchmark Books; 1 edition (September 2010)
ISBN-10: 1608701123
ISBN-13: 978-1608701124

A Black Hole Is Not a Hole
by Carolyn Cinami DeCristofano

Age Range: 9 – 12 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge (February 1, 2012)
ISBN-10: 1570917833
ISBN-13: 978-1570917837

Young Adult

Earthrise: My Adventures as an Apollo 14 Astronaut by Edgar Mitchell, Ellen Mahoney, and with a foreword by Dr. Brian Cox

Fast-paced autobiography of Dr. Edgar Mitchell, who went to the moon in 1971 on Apollo 14. Although obviously a must-have resource for future astronauts, Earthrise is also likely to appeal to those interested in history, science, engineering, and aviation. It is a revealing look at how one man’s sense of adventure took him places that the rest of us can only imagine.

Full review at Growing with Science.

Age Range: 12 and up
Publisher: Chicago Review Press (April 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1613749015
ISBN-13: 978-1613749012

Fiction

You Are the First Kid on Mars by Patrick O’Brien

Illustrator/author O’Brien takes the reader on an imaginary trip to a colony on Mars in the future. Scientific details and photorealistic illustrations, as well as second person narration, draw the reader into the story. It is not 100% accurate, but is a 100% thrilling ride.

Age Range: 5 and up
Grade Level: Kindergarten and up
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile (May 14, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0399246347
ISBN-13: 978-0399246340

Are you ready to try science poetry now? Check out our list of space and astronomy poetry books for kids.

Related activity: Exploring Space Without a Spacesuit.

03/24/201407/09/2022

21+ Children’s Books about Women Scientists

March is Women’s History Month. To celebrate, we have gathered some children’s book biographies of remarkable women who have made significant impacts in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.

The list keeps growing, so now it is 21+ books (last edited 7/2022).

Historically women have been under-represented in STEM fields. Reading these biographies, it becomes apparent that early females interested in STEM faced discrimination. They managed to persevere, however, and make significant discoveries. Their stories are inspiring.

With so many wonderful biographies coming out recently, we started a new list of children’s books about Women Mathematicians.

Last Name A-F

Greta Binford

Silk & Venom: Searching for a Dangerous Spider by Kathryn Lasky and her husband, photographer Christopher G. Knight is a middle grade biography of arachnologist, Greta Binford.

This book can work both for the spider squeamish and spider enthusiast because, although it is filled with large photographs of spiders, it isn’t a general book about spiders, but a biography. After reviewing Binford’s path to becoming a spider scientist, the story follows on her journey to the Caribbean to find a certain species of brown recluse.

Reading level: Ages 4-8 (Amazon, this is probably better for 9-12)
Hardcover: 64 pages
Publisher: Candlewick (February 22, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0763642223
ISBN-13: 978-0763642228

Rachel Carson

Spring After Spring: How Rachel Carson Inspired the Environmental Movement by Stephanie Roth Sisson reveals how Carson carefully observed natural events during her childhood, which is why she was able to notice things were changing later in her life and sound the alarm. Extensive back matter.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press (August 14, 2018)
ISBN-10: 1626728194
ISBN-13: 978-1626728196

Rachel Carson and Her Book That Changed the World by Laurie Lawlor and illustrated by Laura Beingessner

This picture book biography was written to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the publication of Rachel Carson’s groundbreaking book, Silent Spring.

Lexile Measure: 890L (What’s this?)
Publisher: Holiday House (February 1, 2012)
ISBN-10: 0823423700
ISBN-13: 978-0823423705

Rachel Carson: Preserving a Sense of Wonder (Images of Conservationists)by Joseph Bruchac and illustrated by Thomas Locker

Encompassing Rachel Carson’s life in a few pages, Bruchac emphasizes her love of nature in this picture book biography. The title refers to Carson’s book, A Sense of Wonder.

Age Range: 4 – 10 years
Publisher: Fulcrum Publishing (May 1, 2009)
ISBN-10: 1555916953
ISBN-13: 978-1555916954

Middle grade level:
Rachel Carson and Ecology for Kids: Her Life and Ideas, with 21 Activities and Experiments (For Kids series) by Rowena Rae

What could be better than an in depth history combined with hands-on activities to reinforce learning?

Although centered on Rachel Carson’s love of nature, Rowena Rae also highlights Caron’s writing process and the power of the written word. For example regarding the writing process, Carson worked hard on her early pieces to make sure they sounded good when read aloud. To celebrate Carson’s writing, several of the activities for children in the book center on writing and honing writing skills.

Age Range: 9 – 12 years
Publisher: Chicago Review Press (February 4, 2020)
ISBN-10: 0897339339
ISBN-13: 978-0897339339

Eugenie Clark

Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist by Jess Keating and illustrated by Marta Alvarez Miguens

Lively picture book about how Eugenie Clark became the “Shark Lady,” the scientist who studied sharks even though sharks were unpopular and scary, and women weren’t supposed to be scientists. Contains colorful and imaginative illustrations, including one of sharks swimming in a library.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky (June 6, 2017)
ISBN-10: 1492642045
ISBN-13: 978-1492642046

Swimming with Sharks: The Daring Discoveries of Eugenie Clark by Heather Lang and illustrated by Jordi Solano

Eugenie Clark was an incredible zoologist/marine biologist. This biography focuses on her work on sharks which earned her the nickname “Shark Lady.”

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company (December 1, 2016)
ISBN-10: 0807521876
ISBN-13: 978-0807521878

Desert Beneath the Sea by Ann McGovern and Eugenie Clark, illustrated by Craig Phillips

This older book about ichthyologist Eugenie Clark has a personal, conversational tone that makes the reader feel like they are underwater with Eugenie. The delicate, pale illustrations by Craig Phillips are delightful. Definitely a book to share with any child interested in becoming a scientist or simply interested in learning more about oceans.

Paperback: 48 pages
Publisher: Scholastic; 1 edition (October 1991)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0590426397
ISBN-13: 978-0590426398

Fish Watching with Eugenie Clark (Naturalist’s Apprentice) by Michael Elsohn Ross and illustrated by Wendy Smith

Geared for older audiences than The Desert Beneath the Sea, this biography of ichthyologist Eugenie Clark is more comprehensive as well. The biographies in this series by Michael Elsohn Ross include observation tips and and related hands-on activities.

Age Range: 8 and up
Publisher: Carolrhoda Books (February 2000)
ISBN-10: 1575053845
ISBN-13: 978-1575053844

Anna Botsford Comstock

Out of School and Into Nature: The Anna Comstock Story by Suzanne Slade and illustrated by Jessica Lanan

Anna Botsford Comstock excelled at art and science, plus she encouraged others to explore and love nature. Although not as well known as some others, her works influenced many, including Rachel Carson.

Age Range: 6 – 9 years
Publisher: Sleeping Bear Press (March 15, 2017)
ISBN-10: 1585369861
ISBN-13: 978-1585369867

Marie Curie

Marie Curie by Demi glows. From the gold leaf letters on the cover, to Demi’s beautiful and unique illustrations, to the perfectly composed text, this picture book biography is a gem.

Full review and activity suggestions at Growing with Science blog.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) (February 20, 2018)
ISBN-10: 1627793895
ISBN-13: 978-1627793896

Marie Curie for Kids: Her Life and Scientific Discoveries, with 21 Activities and Experiments by Amy M. O’Quinn is a middle grade title that is an important resource for educators as well.

The 21 hands-on activities range from learning about Poland (Marie Curie’s birthplace) to chemistry and physics experiments, such as:

Build an atomic model
Make a compass with magnets
Explore Charles’s Law using soap clouds

I have to say that I love Chicago Review Press books. They combine two of my favorite elements: an in-depth biography and hands-on activities to reinforce learning. Those are a powerful combination on their own. Add that the title is about an outstanding woman scientist, and it is a must have.

Full review at Growing with Science blog

Age Range: 9 – 12 years
Publisher: Chicago Review Press (November 1, 2016)
ISBN-10: 1613733208
ISBN-13: 978-1613733202

Marie Curie: Prize-Winning Scientist (Biographies) by Lori Mortensen and illustrated by Susan Jaekel

Noted for her groundbreaking work with radioactivity, Marie Curie became the first woman to receive a Nobel Prize for Physics in 1903. Later, she was awarded a second Nobel Prize in chemistry.

Age Range: 5 – 9 years
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 3
Library Binding: 24 pages
Publisher: Picture Window Books (January 1, 2008)
ISBN-10: 1404837310
ISBN-13: 978-1404837317

Marie Curie: Scientist Who Made Glowing Discoveries (Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Inventors & Scientists) by Mike Venezia (Author, Illustrator)

Mike Venezia, who made a name for himself with his fun and informative biographies of artists, has expanded to biographies of scientists. Children love his cartoon illustrations and humor, while learning about important historical figures. See his title about Jane Goodall, as well.

Age Range: 6 and up
Grade Level: 1 and up
Publisher: Children’s Press(CT); Reprint edition (March 1, 2009)
ISBN-10: 053122208X
ISBN-13: 978-0531222089

Marie Maynard Daly

Marie Maynard Daly is the first African American woman to earn a PhD in Chemistry.

Science Sparks has a fact file and activity suggestions for kids.

Sylvia Earle

Claire A. Nivola’s Life in the Ocean: The Story of Oceanographer Sylvia Earle is a lovely picture book biography of a pioneer of in the field of ocean studies.

Nivola has allowed her subject to tell her own story without excessive crafting. Her delicate and whimsical watercolors are lovely, and they rise to a new level in the underwater scenes, where Sylvia becomes a sea creature herself. Life in the Ocean will be a hit with children who are interested in oceans, in science, in history and/or in conservation. The incredible story of Sylvia Earle’s life is sure to inspire future explorers.

Reading level: Ages 4 and up
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) (March 13, 2012)
ISBN-10: 0374380686
ISBN-13: 978-037438068

Sylvia Earle: Extraordinary Explorer and Marine Biologist (Great Minds of Science) by Rebecca Rowell

Although the stock photographs give the book a bit of a dated feel, each chapter has a section at the end that asks questions and encourages readers to think deeper about the content. Supports Common Core State Standards.

Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: Core Library (September 1, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1624038743
ISBN-13: 978-1624038747

Sylvia Earle: Ocean Explorer (Women in Conservation) by Dennis Fertig

Most of us go to the beach and marvel at the the beauty of the ocean, but we rarely get even the smallest glimpse of what is happening under the waves. Sylvia Earle has logged in more than 7,000 hours underwater. Now she shares her passion and knowledge with others.

As appropriate for a children’s book, this biography starts with Earle’s childhood. Sylvia Earle spent her early years on a farm in New Jersey, where she remembers visiting the Jersey Shore at the age of three and discovering the power of the ocean. When she was twelve, Sylvia and her family moved to Dunedin, Florida. Suddenly, she had a beautiful ocean to investigate right in her own backyard. She jumped in and her life was changed forever.

Age Range: 8 – 11 years
Grade Level: 3 – 6
Publisher: Heinemann InfoSearch (July 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 148460475X
ISBN-13: 978-1484604755

Last Name G – L

Jane Goodall

I am Jane Goodall by Brad Meltzer and Christopher Eliopoulos

Brad Meltzer’s picture book biographies are top notch. Add the captivating chimpanzee behavior scientist, Jane Goodall and how can you go wrong?

Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Dial Books (September 6, 2016)
ISBN-10: 0525428496
ISBN-13: 978-0525428497

The Watcher: Jane Goodall’s Life with the Chimps by Jeanette Winter

This award-winning biography ties Jane Goodall’s childhood to her career as a ground-breaking primatologist and conservationist.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Publisher: Schwartz & Wade (April 5, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0375867740
ISBN-13: 978-0375867743

Untamed: The Wild Life of Jane Goodall by Anita Silvey and foreword by Jane Goodall gives a more detailed overview of Goodall’s accomplishments. It is written for older children, and is illustrated with the high quality photographs you would expect from National Geographic.

Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books; 1 edition (June 9, 2015)
ISBN-10: 142631518X
ISBN-13: 978-1426315183

Heidi Hammel

Beyond Jupiter: The Story of Planetary Astronomer Heidi Hammel (Women’s Adventures in Science (Joseph Henry Press)) by Fred Bortz

Heidi Hammel is an astronomer who specializes in studying the planets Neptune and Uranus. Bortz fills in some of the details of her childhood, as well as discussing her scientific accomplishments. The strength of this series is that it covers more contemporary women whose stories have not been told for young people.

Age Range: 11 and up
Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Joseph Henry Press (December 31, 2006)
ISBN-10: 0309095522
ISBN-13: 978-0309095525

Caroline Herschel

Caroline’s Comets: A True Story by Emily Arnold McCully

This picture book biography explores the life of a famous woman astronomer who lived from 1750 to 1848. Caroline Herschel discovered galaxies, nebulae and was the first woman to discover a comet. Her other claim to fame was that she was the first woman scientist who was paid for her work.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Holiday House (February 28, 2017)
ISBN-10: 0823436640
ISBN-13: 978-0823436644

Hypatia

Of Numbers and Stars: The Story of Hypatia by D. Anne Love and illustrated by Pamela Paparone

Hypatia, the daughter of a mathematician and philosopher named Theon, studied mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy at a time when few women received an education. She became a scholar and teacher.

Shirley Ann Jackson

Strong Force: The Story of Physicist Shirley Ann Jackson (Women’s Adventures in Science) by Diane O’Connell

Shirley Jackson is a theoretical physicist who studies subatomic particles. Appropriately for a middle grade title, the author reveals details of Jackson’s childhood interest in science, including experiments with bumble bees. Her successes have led her to become the president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and an advisor to President Barack Obama.

Publisher : Joseph Henry Press (April 30, 2006)
Reading age : 11 – 15 years
ISBN-10 : 0309095530
ISBN-13 : 978-0309095532

Mae Jemison

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed and illustrated by Stasia Burrington

From a young age, Mae Jemison was a dreamer. She dreamed of seeing the earth from space one day, so her family encouraged her to follow her passion and become an astronaut. That encouragement and her love of learning led Mae to become the first black woman to travel in space.

By the way, Roda Ahmed is a Norwegian author and columnist born in Hargeisa, Somalia. She speaks five languages!

Reading age : 4 – 8 years
Publisher : HarperCollins; Illustrated edition (January 9, 2018)
ISBN-10 : 0062651730
ISBN-13 : 978-0062651730

Mae C. Jemison―The First African-American Female Astronaut by Meeg Pincus and illustrated by Elena Bia

Part of the Women in Science and Technology series, this biography follows the career of a woman who is not only the first African-American astronaut, but also an engineer and physician. And a dancer, too!

Reading age : 6 – 10 years
Publisher : Discovery Library (August 11, 2019)
ISBN-10 : 1731612230
ISBN-13 : 978-1731612236

Henrietta Leavitt

Look Up!: Henrietta Leavitt, Pioneering Woman Astronomer by Robert Burleigh and illustrated by Raúl Colón (February 19, 2013), is a picture book biography of the woman who discovered how the brightness of stars had fixed patterns, information that would later be used to measure distances through space. Amazingly, at the time she did her work women weren’t even allowed to use telescopes; she made her observations from photographs.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books (February 19, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1416958193
ISBN-13: 978-1416958192

Ada Byron Lovelace

Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine by Laurie Wallmark and illustrated by April Chu, which is the story of a unique and fascinating woman who was years ahead of her time.

Adults may have heard of the British poet Lord Byron, but likely they have missed the story of his inventive math whiz of a daughter, Ada Byron Lovelace. Lovelace overcame a severe childhood illness to write the first computer program. Who knows what she might have achieved if she hadn’t died at a relatively young age and if her collaborator, Charles Babbage, had actually built the analytical machine he had planned.

Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine is likely to resonate with kids interested in computers, math, and engineering and inspire some who haven’t yet found their passions. History buffs, particularly those interested in women’s history, will also want to check it out.

Age Range: 5 and up
Publisher: Creston Books (October 13, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1939547202
ISBN-13: 978-1939547200

Last Name M – Q

Wangari Maathai

Seeds of Change: Planting a Path to Peace by Jen Cullerton and illustrated by Sonia Lynn Sadler is a picture book about the life of Wangari Maathai, a woman whose story is both uplifting and complex.

When she is a child, Wangari’s mother shows her the mugumo, the wild fig tree, and explains its importance. Later, when her brother tells her of the things he learns at school, Wangari decides she would like to go, too. Although it is unusual for a girl to receive an education, Wangari does go to school. In fact, she goes all the way to study in the United States and becomes a scientist.

When Wangari returns to Kenya, she find many things have changed. She finds the trees have all been cut down and the resulting environmental damage means that people can no longer grow food for themselves. In a move that is in one hand simple, and in the other incredibly insightful, she encourages the women to re-plant the trees. Her tree-planting movement grew and flourished as did the trees themselves, but not completely without hardship. Wangari had to overcome harsh political resistance and was even briefly imprisoned. She was released, however, and in 2004 Wangari became the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize.

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Publisher: Lee & Low Books (June 30, 2010)
ISBN-10: 160060367X
ISBN-13: 978-1600603679

Barbara McClintock

Barbara McClintock: Nobel Prize Geneticist (Spotlight Biography)by Edith Hope Fine

Edith Hope Fine has turned her considerable writing ability to chronicle the life of a truly creative, brilliant and persistent scientist. Barbara McClintock discovered the existence of jumping genes, something that few other scientists understood or believed for many years.

This title is only available as an e-book.
For ages 9+
File Size: 1281 KB
Print Length: 104 pages
Publisher: eFrog Press (April 12, 2012)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
ASIN: B007TRDLJY

Barbara McClintock (Women in Science)by J. Heather Cullen, with an introduction by Jill Sideman

Barbara McClintock noticed something odd about the genetics of the corn she was working with. With persistence and creativity, she discovered jumping genes. She was awarded the Nobel prize in 1983.

Age Range: 10 and up
Grade Level: 5 and up
Series: Women in Science
Paperback: 112 pages
Publisher: Chelsea House Publications (January 2003)
ISBN-10: 0791075222
ISBN-13: 978-0791075227

Barbara McClintock: Genius of Genetics (Great Minds of Science) by Naomi E. Pasachoff

Age Range: 9 and up
Grade Level: 4 and up
Publisher: Enslow Publishers (April 1, 2006)
ISBN-10: 0766025055
ISBN-13: 978-0766025059

Barbara McClintock: Pioneering Geneticist (Makers of Modern Science) by Ray Spangenburg and Diane Kit Moser

Hardcover: 136 pages
Publisher: Chelsea House Pub (L) (March 2008)
ISBN-10: 0816061726
ISBN-13: 978-0816061723

Barbara McClintock: Pioneering Geneticist (Unlocking the Secrets of Science) by Kathleen Tracy

Age Range: 9 and up
Publisher: Mitchell Lane Pub Inc (October 1, 2001)
ISBN-10: 1584151110
ISBN-13: 978-1584151111

Maria Sibylla Merian

Summer Birds: The Butterflies of Maria Merianby Margarita Engle and illustrated by Julie Paschkis explores the life of a woman who investigates the mysteries of insect metamorphosis during the 1600s. Known for her brilliant paintings, Merian was also a careful, patient observer and scientist.

Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 3
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR); 1 edition (April 27, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0805089373
ISBN-13: 978-0805089370

Maria Mitchell

Maria Mitchell (Great Women in History) by Anna Butzer

Starting beginning readers out well, this small book distills Maria Mitchell’s life into the important details. It would be a great title for teaching timelines because it has ever expanding timeline at the bottom of every two-page spread.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 1
Publisher: Pebble Books (July 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1491405422
ISBN-13: 978-1491405420

Maria’s Comet by Deborah Hopkinson and illustrated Deborah Lanino

Having a picture book format and poetic text, Maria’s Comet fills in details of Maria’s childhood and family.

Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Aladdin; Reprint edition (February 1, 2003)
ISBN-10: 0689856784
ISBN-13: 978-0689856785

Margaret Morse Nice

Bird Watching with Margaret Morse Nice (Naturalist’s Apprentice)
by Michael Elsohn Ross and illustrated by Laurie A. Caple

Margaret Morse Nice was an ornithologist who studied birds for more than eighty years. Ross does an excellent job of writing about lesser-known women who gave a great deal to their chosen field. Includes suggestions for activities.

Age Range: 8 and up
Lexile Measure: 980L (What’s this?)
Series: Naturalist’s Apprentice
Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Carolrhoda Books (December 1997)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1575050021
ISBN-13: 978-1575050027

Ellen Ochoa

Ellen Ochoa: The First Hispanic Woman Astronaut (Great Hispanics of Our Time) by Maritza Romero

After becoming a pioneer in the field and inventing optical devices used in recognizing images, Ellen Ochoa went to work for NASA where she became the first female Hispanic astronaut in July 1991. Participating in four space flights, Dr. Ochoa was in space over 978 hours. She currently serves as Deputy Director at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. What an inspiring woman!

Lexile Measure: 860L (What’s this?)
Library Binding: 24 pages
Publisher: PowerKids Press; 1st edition (January 31, 2001)
ISBN-10: 0823950875
ISBN-13: 978-0823950874

Caitlin O’Connell

The Elephant Scientist (Scientists in the Field Series)by Caitlin O’Connell and Donna M. Jackson with photographs by the first author and her husband, Timothy Rodwell

The Elephant Scientist is a part of the award-winning Scientists in the Field series. Not a biography, this book follows author Dr. Caitlin O’Connell as she studies elephant social life and communication and at the same time works on ways to prevent elephants from ruining crops planted by local people. She discovers that elephants communicate to one another by detecting vibrations in the ground with their feet and trunks. What better way to learn about what a scientist does than in the scientists own words?

Age Range: 10 and up
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers; 1 edition (July 11, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0547053444
ISBN-13: 978-0547053448

Beatrix Potter

Beatrix Potter, Scientist by Lindsay H. Metcalf and illustrated by Junyi Wu

Like the illustration of young Beatrix Potter on the cover, this book focuses a lens on the children’s author’s lesser-known years as a mycologist (one who studies fungi). Although Potter had no formal schooling in science, she was introduced to mushrooms by a talented amateur named Charles McIntosh. He became her mentor and sent her samples to study. Beatrix made beautiful detailed drawings of each specimen. She also figured out a way to prove that new mushrooms grow from spores, something that wasn’t well known at the time. However, like other women scientists in the 1800s and early 1900s, Beatrix Potter encountered resistance when she tried to share her findings.

After finishing the book, educators and parents will likely want to discuss with young readers the pros and cons of how Beatrix ultimately dealt with the rejection.

Overall Beatrix Potter, Scientist will appeal to both young readers interested in STEM and also those interested in women’s history. Investigate a copy today!

Grade Level : Preschool – 3
Publisher : Albert Whitman & Company (September 1, 2020)
ISBN-10 : 0807551759
ISBN-13 : 978-0807551752

Jeanne Power

Secrets of the Sea: The Story of Jeanne Power, Revolutionary Marine Scientist by Evan Griffith and illustrated by Joanie Stone

Jeanne Power was born in France, but moved to Sicily with her husband in 1818 when she was 23. Formerly a busy seamstress, she was likely not used to staying at home. To pass the time, she began to study the animals and plants of her new surroundings. The ocean intrigued her the most, but how could she observe what was going on in the water? Build one of the first glass-sided aquariums of course!

During her studies, Jeanne Power concentrated on the paper nautilus, which is a type of octopus. At the time, no one was sure whether the nautilus borrowed the delicate shells they carried from other creatures or whether they grew them. Jeanne Power figured out the answer. It wasn’t always smooth sailing, but she was able to publish her findings.

The back matter is extensive, including notes about “Jeanne’s life and legacy,” “The Paper Nautilus, information about “Marine Biology and Conservation,” a “Note on Historical Research,” and a “Bibliography.”

Secrets of the Sea would be a great choice for a science unit on oceans or for Women’s History Month. Explore a copy today!

Reading age : 6 – 9 years
Publisher : Clarion Books (March 9, 2021)
ISBN-10 : 0358244323
ISBN-13 : 978-0358244325

Last Name R – Z

Nancy Grace Roman

Always Looking Up: Nancy Grace Roman, Astronomer by Laura Gehl and illustrated by Louise Pigott and Alex Oxton

Known affectionately as the mother of the Hubble Telescope, Nancy Grace Roman was passionate about studying space from an early age. However, she had to overcome vision problems and stereotypes to achieve her goal. Because she learned how to work hard and be persistent, she was was able to drive the Hubble telescope project to success when countless others doubted the viability of putting a giant telescope in space.

Laura Gehl’s text is lively and includes just the right amount of detail.

Age Range: 5 – 7 years
Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company; None edition (October 1, 2019)
ISBN-10: 0807502960
ISBN-13: 978-0807502969

Mary Golda Ross

Classified: The Secret Career of Mary Golda Ross, Cherokee Aerospace Engineer by Traci Sorell and illustrated by Natasha Donovan

Introduction to Mary Golda Ross, who designed classified airplanes and spacecraft as Lockheed Aircraft Corporation’s first female engineer. Find out how her passion for math and the Cherokee values she was raised with shaped her life and work. Written by Cherokee author Traci Sorell.

Reading age : 7 – 11 years
Publisher : Millbrook Press ™ (March 2, 2021)
ISBN-10 : 1541579143
ISBN-13 : 978-1541579149

Vera Rubin

The Stuff Between the Stars: How Vera Rubin Discovered Most of the Universe by Sandra Nickel and illustrated by Aimée Sicuro

Vera Rubin studied where galaxies were found in space and how they moved relative to each other. When she saw the stars within galaxies move at different speeds than she thought they should, she demonstrated there was something in between the stars that we can’t see or detect, something pulling the stars. That “something” had been previously named dark matter and there is a lot of it!

The Stuff Between the Stars is sure to thrill budding astronomers. It would be perfect to accompany a trip to a planetarium, as well as for Women’s History Month discussions. Gaze into a copy today!

Reading age : 6 – 9 years
Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers (March 2, 2021)
ISBN-10 : 1419736264
ISBN-13: 9781419736261

Kate Sessions

The Tree Lady: The True Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever by H. Joseph Hopkins and illustrated by Jill McElmurry is a lovely picture book biography about Kate Sessions, the woman who is considered to be the Mother of Balboa Park in San Diego.

Kate Sessions came to San Diego to become a teacher, but went on to almost single-handedly transform the city from a barren desert to a tree-filled paradise using her interest in horticulture/botany.

Age Range: 5 – 10 years
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 5
Publisher: Beach Lane Books (September 17, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1442414022
ISBN-13: 978-1442414020

Joanne Simpson

Breaking Through the Clouds: The Sometimes Turbulent Life of Meteorologist Joanne Simpson by Sandra Nickel and illustrated by Helena Perez Garcia

Learn about the importance of clouds in determining weather from this wonderful picture book biography.

Joanne Simpson loved clouds and wanted to study them. After some push back from her male professors, she persevered to become the first woman in the world to earn a PhD in Meteorology.

Breaking Through the Clouds is a perfect choice for Women’s History Month, as well as for budding historians and budding scientists. Get inspired by a copy today!

Full review and activity suggestions at Growing With Science blog.

Reading age ‏ : ‎ 6 – 9 years
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Abrams Books for Young Readers (March 8, 2022)
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1419749560
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1419749568

Amy Vedder

Gorilla Mountain: The Story of Wildlife Biologist Amy Vedder (Women’s Adventures in Science (Joseph Henry Press))
by Rene Ebersole (Author)

Following in the footsteps of Dian Fossey, Amy Vedder not only studies gorillas, but must fight to save them. The strength of this series is that it covers more contemporary women whose stories have not been told for young people.

Age Range: 11 and up
Publisher: Joseph Henry Press (December 31, 2006)
ISBN-10: 0309095514
ISBN-13: 978-0309095518

Collections of Biographies

Animal Allies: 15 Amazing Women in Wildlife Research by Elizabeth Pagel-Hogan.

Elizabeth Pagel-Hogan has sorted the animals into five categories: birds, arthropods, sea creatures, reptiles and amphibians, and mammals. Within each category, she has found three amazing female scientists who study those types of animals. For example, Corina Newsome is saving seaside sparrows while Michelle LaRue uses satellites to study Antarctic birds. Lizzy Lowe takes on what many fear in researching spiders, and Erin Ashe lives out the dream of many studying dolphins and whales. Kristen Hecht chases the elusive hellbender amphibian while Enikö Kubinyi uses robots to get information on wolf pups.

As for reading level, the suggested age is 12+, but mature middle graders will probably enjoy it as well.

Animal Allies is a must have collection for young readers who are interested in careers studying animals. It is also a wonderful choice for those interested in STEM, as well as nature lovers. Investigate a copy today!

Reading age ‏ : ‎ 12 years and up
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Chicago Review Press (May 17, 2022)
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 224 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1641606223
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1641606226

No Boundaries: 25 Women Explorers and Scientists Share Adventures, Inspiration, and Advice by two National Geographic Explorers, Clare Fieseler and Gabby Salazar.

The authors gathered an amazing group of women to highlight. They have included diverse women working on a wide range of projects from all around the world, from Linguistic Anthropologist Sandhya Narayanan to Volcanologist Stephanie Grocke. Inspiring!

As you would expect from any book by National Geographic, the illustrations are eye-popping full color photographs. Even better, we learn about how Visual Storyteller Hannah Reyes Morales and Conservation Photographer Jenny Adler capture some of those amazing images.

No Boundries is perfect to help girls evaluate potential careers. Discovering what careers are possible and how women achieved their goals is a absolute treasure. Explore a copy today!

Grade level ‏ : ‎ 5 – 9
Publisher ‏ : ‎ National Geographic Kids (February 1, 2022)
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1426371764
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1426371769

Black Women in Science: A Black History Book for Kids by Kimberly Brown Pellum, PhD.

A collection of biographies of 15 incredible Black women who pioneered in STEM. Includes biographies of Mae Jemison, Annie Easley, Bessie Coleman, Katherine Johnson, Gladys West, Mamie Phipps Clark, Jane Cooke Wright, and many more.

Publisher : Rockridge Press (October 8, 2019)
Reading age : 9 – 12 years
ISBN-10 : 1641527072
ISBN-13 : 978-1641527071

Wonder Women of Science: How 12 Geniuses Are Rocking Science, Technology, and the World by Tiera Fletcher, Ginger Rue and illustrated by Sally Wern Comport

This middle grade title starts with an introduction by coauthor and Black aerospace engineer Tiera Fletcher, then gives profiles of twelve other prominent female scientists who are still active in their fields. Back matter includes reading suggestions, an index, a glossary, and some surprising ideas for how to get involved in the world of STEM. Exciting!

Reading age : 9 – 12 years
Publisher : Candlewick (March 23, 2021)
ISBN-10 : 1536207349
ISBN-13 : 978-1536207347

Magnificent Minds: 16 Pioneering Women in Science and Medicine by Pendred E. Noyce.

This book is a collection of biographies chronicling the lives of women who made a name for themselves in the areas of STEM and health care, complete with timelines for each woman.

Age Range: 12 and up
Hardcover: 180 pages
Publisher: Tumblehome Learning, Inc. (March 1, 2015)
ISBN-10: 0989792471
ISBN-13: 978-0989792479

Super Women In Science (Turtleback School & Library Binding Edition) (Women’s Hall of Fame) by Kelly DiDomenico

Age Range: 9 and up
School & Library Binding: 102 pages
Publisher: Turtleback (January 1, 2003)
ISBN-10: 0613804333
ISBN-13: 978-0613804332

Girls Research!: Amazing Tales of Female Scientists (Girls Rock!) by Jennifer Phillips

This book gives a brief overview of the lives of 56 women scientists and researchers.

Age Range: 9 – 13 years
Library Binding: 64 pages
Publisher: Savvy (January 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 147654056X
ISBN-13: 978-1476540566

Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World written and illustrated by Rachel Ignotofsky

The illustrations in this book are very modern. Check out Rachel Ignotofsky’s website for examples.

Ages 10 & up
Hardcover: 128 pages
Publisher: Ten Speed Press; Gift edition (July 26, 2016)
ISBN-10: 1607749769
ISBN-13: 978-1607749769

Other lists of children’s books about women in STEM:

Women in Science – Trailblazers Before the 20th Century at Kidlit Celebrates Women’s History Month 2012

Women in Science – Trailblazers of the 20th Century at Miss Rumphius Effect

Biographies of Women Scientists: For Girls and Young Women at Library of Congress

Looking for subject ideas for a biography about a woman in STEM? Try this list of Women in STEM from the National Women’s History Project.

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