10+ Best Engineering Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to spark a passion for engineering in your teen? Look no further! Our curated selection of engineering books for 13-year-olds is designed to captivate and educate young minds about the wonders of engineering. Whether they're just starting to show interest or are already budding engineers, these books are sure to engage and inspire. Keep reading to discover our top picks that will help your young engineer start on the right foot!

Fun Engineering Books for 13-Year-Olds

• The Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science, Engineering
  • Synopsis: This updated classic explains the inner workings of machines and devices, from simple levers to modern technologies using detailed illustrations and accessible text.
  • Why we recommend this book: It breaks down complex engineering concepts into understandable chunks, making it fun and educational, which can spark a lifelong interest in engineering.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are curious about how things work and aspiring engineers.

• Girls Think of Everything: Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women by Catherine Thimmesh, illustrated by Melissa Sweet
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Biography, Science
  • Synopsis: This book celebrates the ingenious inventions by women throughout history, from familiar everyday products to groundbreaking scientific innovations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's inspiring and empowering, highlighting the contributions of women to science and engineering, which encourages young readers, especially girls, to explore and invent.
  • Perfect for: Young feminists and inventors interested in stories of innovation and overcoming obstacles.

• Rubber Band Engineer by Lance Akiyama
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Engineering, DIY
  • Synopsis: This hands-on guide teaches how to build projects and gadgets with rubber bands and other household materials, combining fun and learning in engaging projects.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages practical learning and problem-solving skills through DIY activities, which are perfect for engaging young minds in engineering principles.
  • Perfect for: Creative tinkerers and DIY enthusiasts who love building and learning through hands-on activities.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Biography, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This is the true story of a Malawian teenager who builds a windmill from scraps to save his village from famine, demonstrating the power of ingenuity and persistence.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful and uplifting story that shows how determination and a bit of engineering can make a huge difference, which can inspire readers to think about how they can impact the world.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in real-life heroes and sustainable engineering solutions.

• Nick and Tesla's High-Voltage Danger Lab by Bob Pflugfelder and Steve Hockensmith
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Science, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In this adventure, siblings Nick and Tesla discover the wonders of science through a series of exciting and educational experiments that readers can replicate at home.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines a thrilling narrative with practical science experiments, making learning about engineering fun and interactive.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love a good mystery and are eager to experiment with science and engineering projects.

Educational Engineering Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Engineering: An Illustrated History from Ancient Craft to Modern Technology by Tom Jackson
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, History, Engineering
  • Synopsis: This book offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of engineering from ancient times to the present day, showcasing major achievements and innovations.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, understanding of engineering principles, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a broad and informative overview of engineering's impact on our world, helping readers appreciate the field's depth and diversity.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and budding engineers interested in the roots and evolution of technology.

• Can You Feel the Force? Putting the Fizz Back into Physics by Richard Hammond
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Physics, Science
  • Synopsis: This book demystifies the basics of physics through engaging explanations and interactive experiments that explain concepts like force and motion.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Physics concepts, experimental skills, analytical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes physics accessible and fun, encouraging a hands-on approach to learning that can captivate young minds.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and anyone who wants to understand the forces that shape our universe.

• Cool Engineering Projects: Fun & Creative Workshop Activities by Rebecca Felix
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Engineering, Activity Book
  • Synopsis: This activity book includes a variety of engineering projects that teach fundamental principles through building and experimentation.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Practical engineering skills, creativity, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a direct, hands-on approach to learning engineering, perfect for engaging young learners in the principles and joys of making things.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy crafting and building, and who learn best through doing.

• The New Way Things Work by David Macaulay
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science, Engineering
  • Synopsis: This book explains the workings of machines and technology from levers to digital technology, updated to include modern advancements.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of mechanical and digital systems, technical literacy
  • Why we recommend this book: It builds on foundational concepts with updated content, making it relevant and engaging for today's tech-savvy kids.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a curiosity about how both simple and complex machines work.

• How Machines Work: Zoo Break! by David Macaulay
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Engineering, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: Through the story of two zoo animals planning their escape, this book introduces young readers to simple machines and basic engineering concepts.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of simple machines, problem-solving, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines storytelling with educational content, making learning about engineering concepts enjoyable and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Children who love animals and stories, while also learning about the mechanics of movement and problem-solving.

Challenging Engineering Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Exploring the World of Robotics by Simone Sarasso
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Technology, Engineering
  • Synopsis: This book delves into the fascinating world of robotics, explaining how robots work, the various types they come in, and their applications in different industries.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex concepts of robotics and artificial intelligence, which are advanced topics even for adults.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive overview of a cutting-edge field, encouraging curiosity and a deeper understanding of technology that shapes the future.
  • Perfect for: Tech-savvy teens interested in robotics and future innovations.

• The Art of Construction: Projects and Principles for Beginning Engineers & Architects by Mario Salvadori
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Engineering, Architecture
  • Synopsis: This book explains basic engineering and architectural principles through easy-to-follow projects and activities.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers foundational engineering and architectural concepts, which require spatial and mathematical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches critical thinking and practical skills through engaging projects, making complex ideas accessible and fun.
  • Perfect for: Young builders and future architects or engineers who enjoy hands-on learning.

• Build It! Structures, Systems and You by Adrienne Mason
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science, Engineering
  • Synopsis: A detailed exploration of how different structures and systems are built, from bridges to water systems, and how they function in our daily lives.
  • Why this book is challenging: It discusses the intricate details of various engineering systems and structures, requiring readers to grasp complex technical concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It expands a young reader's understanding of the built environment and the principles that make our world work.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds fascinated by how things are built and how they operate.

• Electric Gadgets and Gizmos: Battery-Powered Buildable Gadgets that Go! by Alan Bartholomew
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Engineering, Electronics
  • Synopsis: This book offers a hands-on approach to understanding electronics by guiding readers through the creation of several battery-powered devices.
  • Why this book is challenging: It involves practical application of electronic concepts and requires problem-solving and technical skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages active learning and innovation, providing a strong foundation in electronics through DIY projects.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and experimenters eager to create and learn about electronics.

• Engineered! Engineering Design at Work by Shannon Hunt
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Engineering, Technology
  • Synopsis: A look at how engineers use their skills to solve problems, featuring nine real-world engineering challenges.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents real-world engineering problems and the complex processes engineers use to solve them.
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases the impact of engineering in various fields, inspiring readers to appreciate and possibly pursue a career in engineering.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring engineers and problem solvers interested in real-world applications of engineering concepts.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of engineering books, it's fantastic! Engineering can open up a universe of creativity and innovation, especially for a young mind like yours. To get the most out of your reading, here are some exercises designed to enhance your experience and develop solid reading habits:

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you'll read.
  • How it helps: Keeps you focused and helps in making reading a regular part of your day.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Summarize What You Read
  • What it is: After reading, take a few minutes to summarize the key points.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Write your summaries in your own words to better grasp the concepts.

• Discuss With Friends or Family
  • What it is: Talk about what you’ve read with others who are interested.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding through discussion and clarifies doubts.
  • Tips: Try forming a small reading group to discuss and debate ideas.

• Create Mind Maps
  • What it is: Draw diagrams that map out the information and concepts from your readings.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the information and see the connections between different concepts.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to make the mind map more engaging and easier to remember.

• Ask Questions
  • What it is: Write down any questions that arise while you're reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages deeper thinking and exploration beyond the text.
  • Tips: Look for answers in the book itself, or use additional sources to research.

• Apply What You Learn
  • What it is: Think of ways to apply the engineering concepts in everyday life or in hypothetical projects.
  • How it helps: Reinforces learning and makes it more tangible.
  • Tips: Try simple projects at home that relate to the concepts you are reading about.

These exercises aren't just about getting through a book; they're about making the most of what you read and really absorbing the material. So, grab your favorite engineering book, pick one or two of these strategies, and start turning those pages into practical knowledge. Happy reading!