A lift-the-flap book that teaches preschoolers about composting with age-appropriate rhyming text. Would be appropriate for young beginning readers, as well.
Age Range: 2 – 3 years
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers; Ltf Brdbk edition (March 8, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0375854126
ISBN-13: 978-0375854125
This unique alphabet book is actually a rousing call to compost written in rhyming text. The collage illustrations are also made from recycled materials.
Books in Bloom has a 16-page lesson plan to accompany this book (link to .pdf download)
Age Range: 3 – 7 years
Publisher: Dragonfly Books; Reprint edition (October 14, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0385755384
ISBN-13: 978-0385755382
Table scraps that normally go into the garbage can be used to make compost for the garden. Linda Glaser describes how and Shelley Rotner inspires us to go out and compost.
Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Millbrook Press (January 1, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0761349111
ISBN-13: 978-0761349112
Each two-page spread contains information about a different group of animals that live in the soil and potentially compost, such as earthworms and cicada grubs. A “Dig-in” sidebar gives a memorial fact or two. A glossary is also included in each spread. The text is clear and succinct.
Age Range: 6 – 9 years
Publisher: Capstone Press (August 1, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1491450614
ISBN-13: 978-1491450611
Once again, John Himmelman’s watercolor illustrations make this book about earthworms special.
Age Range: 5 and up
Publisher: Childrens Pr (April 2001)
ISBN-10: 0516265350
ISBN-13: 978-0516265353
Wiggling Worms at Work(Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2) by Wendy Pfeffer and illustrated by Steve Jenkins
You can’t go wrong with any of the Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science books. The collage illustrations are Steve Jenkins’s trademark. They may or may not work for a science book.
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: HarperCollins; 1 edition (December 23, 2003)
ISBN-10: 0064451992
ISBN-13: 978-0064451994
I’ll let you know right up front that this book is not for the highly squeamish. If the thought of fly vomit makes you quiver, then you might not find the book as delightful as I did. Photographer Kuhn spares nothing as he follows the decomposition meltdown of a carved Halloween pumpkin. takes you down and dirty with close-ups of molds, slime molds and yeasts, as well as other organisms, to show how nutrients get recycled and organic matter added to the soil. Remember that kids, however, might enjoy all that goo and ooze. Plus, the team of David M. Schwartz and Dwight Kuhn have worked on a number of projects together and their expertise shows.
Age Range: 4 – 12 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 7
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Creston Books (July 23, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1939547032
ISBN-13: 978-1939547033
A classic, this older book has stood the test of time. The illustrations are lovely. The back matter is a two-page spread with facts about earthworms in a question-and-answer format.
Age Range: 4 and up
Publisher: Millbrook Press; Reprint edition (March 1, 1994)
ISBN-10: 1562947303
ISBN-13: 978-1562947309
Written as a series of poems and with cartoon-like illustrations, this serious text might just entice some readers who prefer fiction to explore a less-than-glamorous ecosystem.
Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: Peachtree Publishers (March 1, 2018)
ISBN-10: 156145950X
ISBN-13: 978-1561459506
Although this book is older, it is really worth trying to get your hands on it. The photographs lead the reader into the miniature life of the compost heap. The author also shows her passion for compost in the detailed text.
Age Range: 9 and up
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile; 1st edition (May 1, 1993)
ISBN-10: 0525447636
ISBN-13: 978-0525447634
Michael Elsohn Ross has a wonderful “-ology” series of science books for middle grade children that cover critters found in compost heaps. Gives life cycles and simple kid-friendly experiments to do.
Age Range: 7 and up
Publisher: Carolrhoda Books (February 1996)
ISBN-10: 0876149379
ISBN-13: 978-0876149379
In this level 3 reader, kids will learn about the water cycle through leveled vocabulary. Illustrated with the gorgeous photography readers have come to expect from National Geographic.
Age Range: 6 – 9 years
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books (July 8, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1426314744
ISBN-13: 978-1426314742
Introduces many important concepts and vocabulary words pertaining to the water cycle, such as evaporation, condensation and precipitation. Along with a glossary and an index, there are instructions for making a “mini-earth” in the form of a terrarium.
Age Range: 4 and up
Publisher: Capstone Press (August 1, 2011)
ISBN-10: 1429671424
ISBN-13: 978-1429671422
This picture book…
Starts with a single raindrop that “has billions of stories to tell” then follows it through time and space at it cycles again and again. Readers will be thrilled as the words flow like water.
This picture book…
Has incredibly imaginative illustrations that play with perspective, zooming in and out up and down from spread to spread.
This picture book…
Has a little something extra. It features a lovely arlin paper cover with foil text enhancements, illustrated end papers, plus back matter including an explanation of the water cycle, the importance of water conservation, and resources for further reading.
This picture book…
Could help save the planet. As the sticker on the cover says, “Every Book [purchased] Plants a Tree.” What could be better than that?
Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Flowerpot Press (April 7, 2020)
ISBN-10: 1486718175
ISBN-13: 978-1486718177
Catchy text and gorgeous illustrations caught the attention of judges and reviewers all over. Both a Robert F. Sibert Honor Book and an ALA Notable Children’s Book.
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Neal Porter Books (March 26, 2019)
ISBN-10: 0823441555
ISBN-13: 978-0823441556
Raindrops Roll features April Pulley Sayre’s fabulous and fresh photographs of wet plants and critters, accompanied by verb-rich, poetic text that captures the very essence of rain.
In the main text, the reader learns that raindrops reflect, magnify and cling. In the two-page spread in the backmatter, the reader can explore “A Splash of Science” to understand more about what they see.
Young children will want to come back to Raindrops Roll again and again. Have a copy handy to read the next time you are trapped inside on a rainy day!
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Beach Lane Books; 1 edition (January 6, 2015)
ISBN-10: 148142064X
ISBN-13: 978-1481420648
At first glance, it might seem to be too lovely to be a serious science book.
Water can be a…
Thirst quencher
Kid drencher
Cloud fluffer
Fire snuffer
As you spend more time with the book, however, you begin to discover the depth Salas has incorporated into it. The back matter has “More About Water” with explanations for each phrase in the main text. In it Salas introduces children to such scientific vocabulary as “condense,” “water vapor” and “water cycle.” She explains how all living organisms need water to live, how it regulates temperature and how it can be a powerful natural force. It is sure to generate discussion and even more ideas about the importance of water.
Water Can Be… could be used to learn about the seasons, weather, the importance of water to living things, and even life cycles
Blue on Blue by Dianne White and illustrated by Beth Krommes
Explore the details of a New England rain storm through Diane White’s spare rhyme and the amazing watercolor and scatchboard illustrations by Caldecott Medalist Beth Krommes. (If you are put off by the cover linked here, check the Amazon look inside feature. It gives a clearer picture.)
Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Beach Lane Books (December 9, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1442412674
ISBN-13: 978-1442412675
Miranda Paul’s spare but engaging story arc goes from familiar (getting a glass of water) to less familiar (forms of water/weather) and then returns to drinking water again (familiar).
Award-winning author and illustrator Jason Chin’s paintings of children doing everyday activities help bring the young reader in, as well.
A two-page spread in the backmatter helps children learn “More About Water.” In this case, the pages explain the vocabulary of the water cycle, from evaporation to seepage.
Pick up a copy of Water is Water to share with children ready to learn the basics of the water cycle. Perfect for young readers who prefer their nonfiction to look and sound like fiction.
Age Range: 6 – 10 years
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press (May 26, 2015)
ISBN-10: 159643984X
ISBN-13: 978-1596439849
This denser explanation of the water cycle would pair well with the All the Water above to give the more detailed explanations some older students crave.
Age Range: 5 and up
Publisher: Dawn Pubns (April 1, 1998)
ISBN-10: 1883220726
ISBN-13: 978-1883220723
Mixing stories, poems, quotations, and informational text, author Flood explores all aspects of water and its impact on our world. The topics are wide ranging, from the chemistry of water molecules to the geopolitics of water conservation. It reads somewhat like a folder of fascinating tidbits about water put together into a coherent collage.
The illustrations are color photographs by Jan Sonnenmair, supplemented with stock photographs and some diagrams.
Water Runs Through This Book would be a useful reference text to have on hand for a wide range of topics. It also would work well for young adults and even adults, as well as middle grades.
Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: Fulcrum Publishing (August 25, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1936218135
ISBN-13: 978-1936218134
Children often become interested in different aspects of weather as they grow older or as they experience different weather extremes. Disclosure: I am an affiliate for Amazon. If you click through the linked titles or ads and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. Proceeds will be used to maintain this self-hosted blog/website.
Amazing, vibrant color photographs of lightning storms accompany simple text in this book for the youngest reader. Also has illustrations to explain how lightning happens.
Be sure to check the “Notes for Parents and Teachers” in the back matter for pre-reading and post-reading activity suggestions.
Age Range: 4 – 6 years
Publisher: Heinemann; Nov edition (July 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1484605586
ISBN-13: 978-1484605585 National Geographic Readers: Weather by Kristin Baird Rattini
This level one reader is packed with information to explain basic weather, such as wind, clouds, thunderstorms, etc. Text accompanied with amazing color photographs.
Age Range: 4 – 6 years
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books (July 9, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1426313489
ISBN-13: 978-1426313486
Young readers explore the concept of comparing and contrasting, while at the same time learning about different kinds of clouds and how to describe them. “For Creative Minds” in the back matter has four pages of interactive activities to reinforce learning. Examples include experiments with evaporation, a cloud match exercise, and information about how clouds are connected to weather prediction.
Learn about the importance of clouds in determining weather from this wonderful picture book biography. 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!
What better way to learn about weather phenomena and vocabulary than through bouncy rhymes with the Cat in the Hat? This unique series encourages children to explore complex concepts in a painless way. The best part is, in spite of the cartoon illustrations, they are well-researched and informative.
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers; English Language edition (May 25, 2004)
ISBN-10: 0375822763
ISBN-13: 978-0375822766
Covers not only the water cycle and common weather events, but also has information about how to stay safe during severe weather events. Gail Gibbons is a prolific and award-winning author of children’s nonfiction.
Paperback: 32 pages
Publisher: Holiday House (January 30, 2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 082343303X
ISBN-13: 978-0823433032
Riding the line between beginning reader and picture book, this gorgeous title has only a few words or short sentences per two-page spread. The words, however, are beautifully chosen and the photographs tell much more. In the back matter are more detailed explanations of each spread, to help educators field questions or engage readers more fully. Excellent!
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Publisher: Beach Lane Books; 1 edition (January 6, 2015)
ISBN-10: 148142064X
ISBN-13: 978-1481420648
A2018 Best STEM Book K-12 (National Science Teachers Association and the Children’s Book Council)
Hurricanes have certainly been in the news. This middle grade title is for kids who are looking for a deeper understanding of extreme weather. It not only explains what a hurricane is, but also offers discussions about whether we can stop hurricanes from forming, whether we can harness their energy, and whether we should we even try to “mess with Mother Nature.”
Age Range: 9 – 12 years
Publisher: Seagrass Press (August 1, 2017)
ISBN-10: 1633222462
ISBN-13: 978-1633222465
With timelines, maps, and numerous photographs and illustrations, Tornado documents the aftermath of actual tornadoes to help readers learn about these extreme weather events.
Age Range: 11 – 16 years
Publisher: Heinemann (July 1, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1484601890
ISBN-13: 978-1484601891
With hurricane season well under way, children are likely to be curious about these enormous weather systems. Readers soon learn that as Carson says, “Hurricanes are disasters that have called ahead to say they’re coming.”
When you think of extreme weather, an image of tornadoes or hurricanes usually comes to mind. Many more aspects of weather can be extreme, however, from temperature (both hot and cold) to rainfall (drought versus the extreme rains of monsoons). Hynes tells the story of all these kinds of weather, rightfully pointing out that all our weather is powered by the sun.
With a very modern look, this book has large color photographs overlaid with smaller glimpses of particular events, along with sidebars and keys to explain some aspects in more detail.
One thing I really like about this book is that the last section describes some things that are being done to mitigate the effects of extreme weather. In the back are suggestions for ways to investigate weather defenses, as well. From building hurricane shelters to planting trees on hillsides, the fact that a few things can be done to make things better gives children some sense of control. Who knows, maybe someday one of the children who read the book will come up with an even better way to help protect us from natural disasters due to extreme weather.
Children of a certain age are often fascinated by insects. Given that ants can be found almost anywhere, they are good subjects to study. Do you know some children who are interested in ants? This list of books is just for them!
The list is organized by reading level and genre.
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.
This informational book is packed with facts about ants, such as what they look like, where they live and what they eat. Illustrated with the quality photographs you would expect from National Geographic.
Age Range: 4 – 6 years
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books (January 12, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1426306083
ISBN-13: 978-1426306082
Look Inside an Ant Nest is a straightforward nonfiction book that explores the unseen world of an ant nest. Laid out with large color photographs on the right side page and simple sentences with controlled, subject-specific vocabulary on the left, it is perfect for the beginning reader (first grade reading level). The large size also makes it easy to hold up and read in front of a group of young children.
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Capstone Press (July 1, 2011)
ISBN-10: 1429660783
ISBN-13: 978-1429660785
The book is set up as a series of two-page spreads on different topics such as “Sister Cities” and “Bug Eat Bug Job.” You might not be able to see from the image of the cover above, but each spread features a photograph or two of real ants (photographs by Alex Wild) surrounded by cartoons.
Although the cartoon illustrations may make it look like this isn’t a serious book, don’t be fooled. Serious facts and concepts are discussed, but in a lighthearted way that will attract the most reluctant of readers. Throughout the author compares what ants can do to what humans do, making them more relatable.
Age Range: 4 – 7 years
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (October 3, 2017)
ISBN-10: 054457043X
ISBN-13: 978-0544570436
The Are you a…? books are always wonderful because the author brings the child into the story by comparing the insects, in this case ants, to humans. You feel like you are inside an ant colony.
Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: Kingfisher; Reprint edition (May 13, 2004)
ISBN-10: 0753458039
ISBN-13: 978-0753458037
This older book (1996) is well worth a second look. The illustrations are gorgeous, bringing the reader up close to ants. The text is simple and lyrical, but also packs in all the information needed.
“Food!
What do ants eat?
Some eat meat.
A snack of dead bug.
A hunk of worm…”
A fabulous book for kids!
Age Range: 6 and up
Publisher: Mondo Pub (November 1, 1996)
ISBN-10: 1572552093
ISBN-13: 978-1572552098
Part of the Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science series, this title is probably one of the more informative books about ants for this age group. It follows the busy ants of an “ant city” or colony.
Age Range: 5 – 9 years
Publisher: HarperCollins; Reprint edition (June 23, 1988)
ISBN-10: 0064450791
ISBN-13: 978-0064450799
The Life Cycle of an Ant has denser text and more complicated vocabulary than some of the previous titles. It is for the student who is interested in delving deeper into ant biology.
Age Range: 6 and up
Publisher: Crabtree Pub Co (November 1, 2005)
ISBN-10: 0778707008
ISBN-13: 978-0778707004
As you would expect with a book labeled with the venerable Smithsonian name, Little Black Ant on Park Street is a quality nonfiction picture book. As with the other books in this series, it also has a fictional flavor. What do I mean by fictional flavor? The author has created a main character, the little black ant, who experiences rising levels of conflict and finally resolution. Overlaying this rich story is amazingly accurate and up-to-date information about the biology of ants.
Be prepared to giggle at the quirky humor in this creative picture book.
The main part is a “nine-step guide” to walking an ant. After explaining how to find the ant and gain its trust, she says you must attach the leash. Things go downhill, or possibly uphill, from there. In fact, the humor can be dark at times and Appendix 1 explains how to carry out an ant funeral. Appendix 2 gives young readers some actual ant facts.
Overall, How To Walk An Ant is likely to appeal to budding myrmecologists and artists alike. It will certainly give you a lot to smile about, think about, and discuss after reading. Investigate a copy today!
Follow Ms. Frizzle’s class once more, as this time they make a movie about ants. Walking the line between fiction and nonfiction, this imaginative older book is filled with facts about ants and very bad puns!
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Scholastic (January 1, 1996)
ISBN-10: 059040024X
ISBN-13: 978-0590400244
In this lively take on a Mexican tale, the ant finds out more about its world as it tries to carry home a crumb that is too large. The text contains some Spanish vocabulary words. The illustrations are vibrant, fun watercolors.
Age Range: 5 – 8 years
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (March 22, 1999)
ISBN-10: 0395720974
ISBN-13: 978-0395720974
The orange ants in this story are named for the fact they are used to protect orange trees from pests. Ma Jiang and her family experience turbulent times as the men are pressed into service in the emperor’s army. Will the orange ants help those left behind to survive?
Age Range: 6 and up
Publisher: Orchard Books; First Edition edition (September 2000)
ISBN-10: 0531332411
ISBN-13: 978-0531332412
Fourth grader Nora keeps an ant farm. She also records fascinating facts about ants in a journal, with quotes sprinkled throughout the book. She even does a simple experiment with ants and writes a paper about it. If that was all the book was about it would be good, but author Claudia Mills takes it to the next level by including many layers of story. For more details and a full review, see our sister blog, Wrapped in Foil.
Age Range: 7 – 10 years
Hardcover: 176 pages
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (September 22, 2015)
ISBN-10: 0385391617
ISBN-13: 978-0385391610
What is more inspiring than gazing at the stars? How about the amazing photographs of nebulae taken by the Hubble telescope?
In this list of books, we have flown beyond the planets in our solar system and are now exploring the stars, galaxies and other features of the universe. The titles are organized by genre and reading level.
This list is still under construction and we’d love your suggestions!
Seymour Simon is known for his science books for kids. This text gives an introduction to stars and star cycles. Note: as one reviewer pointed out, the color of a star is related to mass rather than age.
Age Range: 6 – 10 years
Publisher: HarperCollins (May 23, 2006)
ISBN-10: 0060890010
ISBN-13: 978-0060890018
Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2 has a whole series of titles about space and space exploration:
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 illustrations in Inside Stars are just amazing, as you can tell from the cover image. Author Mordecai-Mark Mac Low is a curator at the American Museum of Natural History in the department of Astrophysics, so you know the information is accurate.
Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: Sterling (July 5, 2011)
ISBN-10: 1402781628
ISBN-13: 978-1402781629
Lovely illustrations. Just be aware that although author David A. Aguilar has a good reputation, at least one reviewer found a number of errors in this book. If you are using it as a resource for a report, be sure to double-check your facts with other sources.
Age Range: 10 and up
Publisher: National Geographic Children’s Books; Reprint edition (October 9, 2007)
ISBN-10: 1426301707
ISBN-13: 978-1426301704
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.
Just as it says in the subtitle, Beyond the Solar System is an amazing history lesson, capturing mini-biographies of many of the key players in the development of our current understanding of space. The reader learns about the contributions of astronomers such as al-Sufi, Galileo, Kepler, Newton, Einstein, Caroline Herschel, and Annie Jump Cannon. Each piece builds on the previous sections. It also is a thought-provoking overview of the science of astronomy, moving from early observations of constellations to dark energy and dark matter, and beyond. Seeing the discoveries and concepts unfurl against the backdrop of history really helps put them in perspective and makes it easy to understand and remember.
Add in 21 hands-on activities to reinforce learning and you have a truly stellar book!
Age Range: 9 and up
Publisher: Chicago Review Press (June 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1613745443
ISBN-13: 978-1613745441
Using analogies and straightforward language intermixed with more light, conversational tone, Carolyn DeCristofano does a wonderful job of explaining what a black hole is and what it is not. The author’s note in the back matter about fact-checking should be required reading for everyone, not just children.
Age Range: 9 – 12 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge (February 1, 2012)
ISBN-10: 1570917833
ISBN-13: 978-1570917837
Imagine you were on a space ship traveling past the moon, out of solar system and through our galaxy to 55,000 light years away, while taking photographs of things you would see on the way. This is the unique premise of this book that delves not only deeply into space, but also into a deep explanation of many space phenomena. Be prepared to learn vocabulary like pulsars, nebulae, supernovas and supermassive black holes, etc.
Age Range: 8 – 14 years
Publisher: Kingfisher; Har/Pstr edition (September 18, 2012)
ISBN-10: 075346876X
ISBN-13: 978-0753468760
Young Adult
It is often difficult to find good nonfiction science books for young adults. By the time readers reach their teen years, if they are interested in science they are often forced to resort to reading books written for adults. That is why we were excited to find Our Universe Revealed: A Cosmic Exploration by E. L. Strauss, which targets this under-served age group.
The illustrations in the book are amazing. They include a selection of photographs and artist’s renditions of that are wondrous to behold, as well as numerous detailed charts and tables. Instead of a simple illustration of the Scientific Method, Strauss gives a much more complex and realistic “Process of Investigation” flow chart. What scientist hasn’t wandered “down a few dark alleys” as Strauss explains?
Although – as the book summary states – Our Universe Revealed is “aimed at bright, gifted, curious and creative teens,” it is also likely to appeal to adults who want a clear understanding of some of the most cutting-edge concepts in astronomy today. Nothing expands your mind like exploring the cosmos and this book is a wonderful way to start.
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.
If you are doing a science theme about planets 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 genre and reading level.
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!
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: 1-2
Ages 4-8
Series: My First Picture Encyclopedias
Publisher: Capstone Press (February 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1620659220
ISBN-13: 978-1620659229
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.
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.
Follow the “Nerdy Baby” astronauts as they travel into space (floating), orbit around the sun, go back to the moon, then discover each of the planets in the solar system, with one significant fact noted about each.
The pacing, vocabulary, and information presented all work perfectly for preschoolers in the 4-5 year old range.
The only thing that was off-putting was that the author included the Nerdy Baby branding in the text. Preschoolers might not like to be called babies (or nerdy), so decide how you want to deal with that part.
Overall, Nerdy Babies: Space is a sweet, well-paced introduction to our solar system.
With interest in travel to Mars expanding, Carson makes a detailed comparison between Mars and the Earth while describing the history of Mars exploration, right up to the recent Mars rovers.
Age Range: 6 and up
Publisher: Sterling Children’s Books (February 6, 2018)
ISBN-10: 1454923512
ISBN-13: 978-1454923510
What are exoplanets? Exoplanets are planets found outside our solar system. The first confirmed exoplanet was discovered in 1992, but many, many are now known.
Seymour Simon talks about his inspiration for the book in this video:
Age Range: 6 – 10 years
Publisher: HarperCollins (March 27, 2018)
ISBN-10: 0062470574
ISBN-13: 978-0062470577
Do you know what the title Saturn Could Sail refers to? It turns out Saturn is less dense than water and could float in it if one could find a container of water large enough. Given our experience has mostly been with our own rocky planet, which is much denser than water, the fact a something as huge as a planet could float is very surprising to think about.
This books is full of the kind of thought-provoking facts that a certain type of child is going to soak up like a sponge and then bring up every chance he or she gets, usually prefaced with the words, “Did you know…?”
Age Range: 4 – 8 years
Publisher: Little Simon (December 16, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1481414283
ISBN-13: 978-1481414289
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.
Don Nardo is foremost a historian and he brings a historical perspective to the human exploration of space. Starting with the observations of the earliest humans, he gives a fast-paced overview of what we have learned and accomplished in our quest to figure out, “What’s out there?”
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.
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
Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2 has a whole series of titles about space and space exploration:
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
Dr. Maggie’s Grand Tour of the Solar System by Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock and illustrated by Chelen Écija
Space scientist Dr. Maggie guides the reader around our solar system, supported by incredible visual elements. What’s best about this book is that readers can read in order for a clear, logical progression or they can browse sections for specific topics of interest. The sidebars also break the text into delicious readable chunks.
Dr. Maggie’s Grand Tour of the Solar System will enthrall budding astronomers and astronauts alike. Pick up a copy for the ride of your life.
As with other in the excellent Scientists in the Field series, The Mighty Mars Rovers focuses on the work of Steven Squyres, professor of astronomy at Cornell University and lead scientist on the mission.
Age Range: 10 and up
Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers (June 19, 2012)
ISBN-10: 054747881X
ISBN-13: 978-0547478814
Follow the twin rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, as they explore Mars. Learn how scientists determined that there was once water on Mars and how the NASA team resolved problems with the rovers from afar in order to prolong the mission.
Age Range: 8 – 12 years
Publisher: Charlesbridge; New edition (July 1, 2009)
ISBN-10: 1570914621
ISBN-13: 978-1570914621
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).
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?”
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
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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 Kidsby 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.
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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.
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
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
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.
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
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.
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? 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.
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 todo 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
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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.
Desert habitats are unique and fascinating. Time to find out more through some great books.
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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 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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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!
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
Note: this post contains affiliate links to Amazon.
by Craig Hammersmith
by April Pulley Sayre
by Laura Purdie Salas and illustrated by Violeta Dabija
by Miranda Paul and illustrated by Jason Chin
goes from familiar (getting a glass of water) to less familiar (forms of water/weather) and then returns to drinking water again (familiar).
by George Ella Lyon and illustrated by Katherine Tillotson
by Barbara McKinney and illustrated by Michael S. Maydak
by Nancy Bo Flood
by Helen Cox Cannons
by Kristin Baird Rattini
by Karen Wallace
by Katharine Hall
by Tish Rabe and illustrated by Aristides Ruiz
by Gail Gibbons
Learn what happens during thunderstorms and what causes them.
by Kathy Furgang
by Ben Hubbard
by Mary Kay Carson
by Margaret Hynes
by David Ludlum
by Dr. Seuss
by Melissa Stewart
by by Kristin L. Nelson
by Editors of TIME For Kids
by Deborah Lock
by Megan Nicole Cooley Peterson
The book is set up as a series of two-page spreads on different topics such as “Sister Cities” and “Bug Eat Bug Job.” You might not be able to see from the image of the cover above, but each spread features a photograph or two of real ants (photographs by Alex Wild) surrounded by cartoons.
by Judy Allen and illustrated by Tudor Humphries
by Barbara Brenner and illustrated by Carol Schwartz
by Arthur Dorros
by Charles Micucci
by Hadley Dyer and Bobbie Kalman
by Janet Halfmann and illustrated by Kathleen Rietz,
by Joanna Cole, and illustrated by John Speirs and Bruce Degen
by Shirley Climo and illustrated by Francisco Mora
by Cathi Hepworth
by Phillip M. Hoose, Hannah Hoose and Debbie Tilley
by Barbara Ann Porte and illustrated by Annie Cannon
by Chris Van Allsburg
by Janell Cannon
by Claudia Mills and illustrated by Katie Kath
by Steve Kortenkamp is a visually-stimulating way to learn about our sun, the planets, moons and even far away galaxies.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
by Jessie Hartland
by Jenny Hendy
by Kari Cornell
by Renata Fossen Brown, Vice President of Education at the Cleveland Botanical Garden
by Jennifer M. White, Katharine D. Barrett, Jaine Kopp, Christine Manoux, Katie Johnson, and Yvette McCullough
by Katharine D. Barrett
by Linda A. Guy, Lucy K. Bradley, and Cathy L. Cromell
by Sharon Lovejoy
by Eve Pranis
by Monika Hanneman, Patricia Hulse, Brian Johnson, Barbara Kurland, Tracey Patterson, and illustrated by Sam Tomasello
by Cindy Neuschwander and illustrated by Wayne Geehan.
by Naila Bokhari and illustrated by S. O’Shaughnessy
by Caroline Stills walks young readers through all the ways 1 through 9 can add up to 10.
by Jennifer Vogel Bass combines counting, colors, and yummy fruits and vegetables into one delightful adventure.
by Tracey Steffora helps young readers learn how to subtract.
by Laura Overdeck and illustrated by Jim Paillot
by Laura Overdeck and illustrated by Jim Paillot
by Laura Overdeck and illustrated by Jim Paillot
by Deborah Heiligman and illustrated by LeUyen Pham
by Stuart J. Murphy and illustrated by Tricia Tusa
by Jon Scieszka and illustrated by Lane Smith
by David M. Schwartz and illustrated by Steven Kellogg
by Mitsumasa Anno
by Mitsumasa Anno
by Mitsumasa Anno
(Life of Fred, Volume 1) by Stanley F. Schmidt, Ph.D.
by Sarah C. Campbell and photographs by Richard P. Campbell
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.
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.
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.
by Cindy Neuschwander and Wayne Geehan
by Johnny Ball (Author)
by Lynda Colgan and illustrated by Jane Kurisu
by Theoni Pappas
by Keith Devlin
by Harold R. Jacobs
by Danica McKellar
by Danica McKellar
by Flora Brett
by Caroline Arnold
by Gail Gibbons
by Tish Rabe and illustrated by Aristides Ruiz and Joe Mathieu
by Conrad J. Storad and photographs by Paula Jansen
by Conrad J. Storad and illustrated by Beth Neely and Don Rantz
by Donald Silver and Patricia Wynne
by Ginger Wadsworth
by Nancy F. Castaldo
