10+ Best Animal Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that combines adventure, fun, and furry friends? Look no further! Our carefully curated selection of animal books for 10-year-olds is packed with stories that will captivate and educate young readers. From tales that trot alongside courageous critters to narratives that swim with aquatic allies, there's something here for every animal-loving kid. Keep reading to discover our top picks for animal books that are sure to engage and inspire your young reader!

Fun Animal Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This beloved novel tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a wise spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte writes messages in her web to persuade the farmer to save him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that teaches themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, making it perfect for young readers to develop empathy and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who enjoy stories about friendships and adventures.

• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Patricia Castelao
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: Inspired by a true story, this book follows Ivan, a captive gorilla who lives in a shopping mall, as he struggles to remember his past and eventually finds a new future.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on animals in captivity and the power of hope. The story is both touching and thought-provoking, encouraging young readers to think about how they treat others.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories from an animal's perspective and those interested in animal welfare.

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the story of Despereaux Tilling, a mouse who loves music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It follows his adventures as he navigates a world filled with dangers and decrees.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fairy tale that celebrates the virtues of bravery and forgiveness. The narrative encourages readers to be courageous and to always dream big.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers and anyone who loves fairy tales with unlikely heroes and thrilling adventures.

• Owls in the Family by Farley Mowat
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Biography
  • Synopsis: The story recounts the author's boyhood in Saskatchewan, where he adopts two owls, Wol and Weeps. It details their hilarious antics and the bond they form with their human family.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and humorous read that provides insight into wildlife and the joys and challenges of having unusual pets.
  • Perfect for: Nature enthusiasts and children who enjoy stories about wildlife and family bonds.

• Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater, illustrated by Robert Lawson
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This classic features Mr. Popper, a house painter fascinated by the Antarctic, and his life-changing adventure when he receives a penguin as a gift, which soon leads to a house full of penguins.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor and whimsy, making it a delightful read that can spark a love for reading through its engaging and absurd plot.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy quirky stories and anyone with a sense of humor about the chaos animals can bring into our lives.

Educational Animal Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Magic School Bus Inside a Beehive by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: Join Ms. Frizzle and her class as they take a magical journey inside a beehive to learn how bees live, work, and contribute to our ecosystem.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of biology and ecology, teamwork, and environmental awareness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an engaging and interactive way for children to learn about science and nature through a beloved and familiar set of characters.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and nature enthusiasts who enjoy learning through adventure and exploration.

• Winterdance: The Fine Madness of Running the Iditarod by Gary Paulsen
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book recounts the thrilling and often humorous experiences of the author as he prepares for and races in the Iditarod, a grueling sled dog race across Alaska.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Resilience, determination, understanding of animal care and Arctic environments.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of adventure and perseverance, filled with insights into the bond between a man and his sled dogs.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers and animal lovers who are fascinated by survival stories and extreme challenges.

• The Tarantula Scientist by Sy Montgomery, photographs by Nic Bishop
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: This book follows scientist Sam Marshall as he studies tarantulas and explores the rainforests of French Guiana, shedding light on these often misunderstood creatures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and wildlife conservation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It demystifies a creature that is often feared, promoting understanding and appreciation of biodiversity.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who have an interest in spiders and science, and those who enjoy real-life scientific adventures.

• Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean's Most Fearless Scientist by Jess Keating, illustrated by Marta Álvarez Miguéns
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science
  • Synopsis: This inspiring biography tells the story of Eugenie Clark, a pioneering female scientist who changed the way we see sharks and fought against stereotypes and obstacles in her field.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Gender equality in science, marine biology, perseverance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the achievements of a remarkable scientist and encourages all children, especially girls, to pursue their dreams in science.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in marine life and stories of extraordinary individuals who defy expectations.

• What If You Had Animal Teeth!? by Sandra Markle, illustrated by Howard McWilliam
  • Genre(s): Science, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book explores the fascinating world of animal teeth by imagining what it would be like if children had teeth like various animals.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Dental science, animal adaptation, and imaginative thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with educational content, making learning about biology fun and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy quirky, imaginative scenarios and learning about the animal kingdom in a fun way.

Challenging Animal Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Watership Down by Richard Adams
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This novel follows a group of rabbits as they escape the destruction of their warren and seek a safe place to establish a new home, encountering various dangers and challenges along the way.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book features complex themes of survival, leadership, and freedom, coupled with a richly developed language and culture of the rabbits.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an epic tale of adventure and resilience that encourages readers to think deeply about society, relationships, and ethics.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love epic tales and are ready to tackle more sophisticated themes.

• The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story details the perilous journey of three pets – two dogs and a cat – as they traverse the Canadian wilderness in search of their owners.
  • Why this book is challenging: It uses vivid descriptions and a narrative style that requires a higher level of reading comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping adventure filled with loyalty and determination, showcasing the resilience of animals.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who enjoy survival stories.

• The Call of the Wild by Jack London
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This classic novel tells the story of Buck, a domestic dog who is kidnapped and sold into the brutal life of an Alaskan sled dog, where he must adapt, survive, and eventually rise to lead.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative explores complex themes such as primal instinct, survival, and the clash between civilization and the wild.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a powerful examination of nature and nurture, and the instincts that drive all creatures.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in deeper themes and classic literature.

• Poppy by Avi, illustrated by Brian Floca
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Poppy, a courageous mouse, challenges a tyrannical owl to save her family and secure a new home for her fellow mice.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book features complex character development and a narrative that deals with themes of tyranny, courage, and social responsibility.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling tale that encourages critical thinking about leadership and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories of adventure and self-discovery.

• The Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White, illustrated by Fred Marcellino
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story follows Louis, a trumpeter swan born without a voice, who goes on a remarkable journey to find his voice and win the heart of his love.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores themes of love, disability, and self-expression through rich, elegant prose.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on overcoming adversity and finding one's own way in the world.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate stories of personal growth and triumph.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of animal books, it's a great opportunity to develop some solid reading habits along the way. Here are a few exercises designed specifically for 10-year-olds to make reading more engaging and beneficial. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Establish a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and helps in achieving a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Read Aloud to a Pet or Stuffed Animal
  • What it is: Practice reading books aloud to a pet or a favorite stuffed animal.
  • How it helps: Improves reading fluency and makes the activity more fun.
  • Tips: Choose a quiet, comfortable spot for reading sessions.

• Create a Book Club
  • What it is: Form a small group to read and discuss animal books.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and provides different perspectives on the same book.
  • Tips: Meet regularly and ensure every member gets a chance to express their thoughts.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book after reading.
  • How it helps: Boosts imagination and helps in visualizing the text.
  • Tips: Use a variety of materials like crayons, markers, or paints to bring scenes to life.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after reading.
  • How it helps: Reinforces understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Keep summaries short and discuss them with a parent or a friend.

• Ask Questions
  • What it is: Come up with questions about the story before, during, and after reading.
  • How it helps: Stimulates critical thinking and curiosity.
  • Tips: Write down any questions that arise and try to answer them after finishing the book.

• Map the Story
  • What it is: Create a map that outlines the journey of the characters or the setting of the book.
  • How it helps: Helps with understanding the geographical and physical context of the story.
  • Tips: Use the book’s descriptions to add as many details as possible to your map.

These exercises aren't just fun; they're stepping stones to becoming a better reader and thinker. So, grab your favorite animal book, pick one or two of these exercises, and start enhancing your reading experience today. Happy reading!