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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to introduce your 10-year-old to the wonders and challenges of our planet? Look no further! Our specially curated list of environmental books for 10-year-olds is packed with engaging reads that are sure to captivate young minds and inspire eco-consciousness. Keep reading to discover the diverse array of books that will help your child understand and appreciate the environment around them.

Fun Environmental Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Environmental
  • Synopsis: This tale features the grumpy yet charming Lorax who speaks for the trees against the greedy Once-ler. The story is a cautionary tale about conservation and environmental responsibility.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines fun rhymes and colorful illustrations to teach important lessons about caring for the environment.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy vibrant stories and those interested in nature and conservation.

• The Magic School Bus and the Climate Challenge by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Educational, Science
  • Synopsis: Ms. Frizzle and her class take another adventurous trip on the Magic School Bus, this time learning about climate change and how energy use affects the planet.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and engaging way to introduce complex scientific concepts like climate change in a manner that's easy to understand.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love science and adventures.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: This beloved story follows a young pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a wise spider named Charlotte. As Wilbur faces the threat of being slaughtered, Charlotte crafts a plan to save him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches themes of friendship, loyalty, and the natural cycle of life, all within a farm setting that gently introduces ideas about animal welfare and environmental stewardship.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who appreciate heartwarming stories.

• Greta and the Giants by Zoë Tucker, illustrated by Zoe Persico
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: Inspired by Greta Thunberg's stand to save the world from climate change, this book features a young girl, Greta, who confronts giants threatening the forest.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's inspired by real events and encourages activism, showing kids that they too can make a difference.
  • Perfect for: Young activists and any child interested in protecting the environment.

• The Curious Garden by Peter Brown
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Environmental
  • Synopsis: The story is about a boy named Liam who discovers a struggling garden and decides to take care of it, which leads to a greener city.
  • Why we recommend this book: It illustrates the transformative power of gardening and encourages children to engage with their own environment creatively.
  • Perfect for: Young gardeners and any child who enjoys stories of growth and transformation.

Educational Environmental Books for 10-Year-Olds

• One Plastic Bag: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of the Gambia by Miranda Paul, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Children's Non-Fiction, Environmental
  • Synopsis: This inspiring true story showcases how Isatou Ceesay started a movement to recycle the plastic bags that were littering her community in the Gambia.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental awareness, recycling practices, community activism
  • Why we recommend this book: It demonstrates the impact one person can have on improving the environment and empowers children to think about how they can make a difference in their own communities.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and readers interested in recycling and community service.

• The Water Princess by Susan Verde, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Biographical
  • Synopsis: Based on the true story of model Georgie Badiel, a young girl dreams of bringing clean drinking water to her African village.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, understanding of global water issues, empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: It personalizes the global water crisis and inspires children to think about and appreciate the resources they have access to every day.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about real-world problems and those interested in different cultures and environmental challenges.

• Miss Fox's Class Goes Green by Eileen Spinelli, illustrated by Anne Kennedy
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: Miss Fox's class learns about environmental conservation and each student starts implementing green practices in their daily lives.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental conservation, teamwork, practical applications of green practices
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides actionable steps for kids to help the environment and shows the power of collective effort in making a positive change.
  • Perfect for: Classroom readers and young environmentalists eager to start making a difference.

• Follow the Moon Home: A Tale of One Idea, Twenty Kids, and a Hundred Sea Turtles by Philippe Cousteau and Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Meilo So
  • Genre(s): Children's Non-Fiction, Environmental
  • Synopsis: A young girl leads her classmates in a project to save baby loggerhead turtles in their community.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental activism, project planning, animal conservation
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages problem-solving and leadership through environmental conservation efforts, teaching children how they can impact wildlife protection.
  • Perfect for: Young leaders and animal enthusiasts who are passionate about conservation.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Children's Non-Fiction, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book tells the true story of a Malawian teenager who builds a windmill from scraps to provide electricity and water to his village.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Innovation, perseverance, engineering
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of how ingenuity and determination can lead to remarkable changes and improve the lives of many.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and readers interested in DIY projects and sustainability.

Challenging Environmental Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Gaia Warriors by Nicola Davies
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Environmental Science
  • Synopsis: This book explores the science of climate change and the stories of people around the world fighting for the planet's future.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into the complex scientific concepts of climate change and environmental protection, requiring readers to think critically about these global issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive look at environmental challenges and solutions, inspiring readers to think about how they can contribute to fighting climate change.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and science enthusiasts ready to take on more complex subjects.

• World Without Fish by Mark Kurlansky, illustrated by Frank Stockton
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Environmental Science
  • Synopsis: This book discusses the impending extinction of fish and the devastating impact it would have on the planet.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles the intricate ecological and economic issues related to overfishing and environmental degradation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a stark look at the consequences of human actions on marine life and stresses the importance of sustainable practices.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in marine biology and those passionate about preserving our oceans.

• The New 50 Simple Things Kids Can Do to Save the Earth by EarthWorks Group
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Environmental Science
  • Synopsis: This book provides practical tips for kids to help save the environment, from recycling to conserving energy.
  • Why this book is challenging: It encourages young readers to engage in activities that require initiative and responsibility, promoting a proactive approach to environmental issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It empowers children by offering them real actions they can take to make a difference, enhancing their understanding of environmental impact.
  • Perfect for: Environmentally conscious kids who are eager to take action and make a difference in their communities.

• Heroes of the Environment: True Stories of People Who Are Helping to Protect Our Planet by Harriet Rohmer
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Biography, Environmental Science
  • Synopsis: This book highlights the stories of twelve people from various backgrounds who have taken significant actions to protect the natural world.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a range of environmental issues across different contexts and cultures, requiring readers to understand diverse ecological and social aspects.
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases real-life environmental heroes, which can inspire readers to believe in their capacity to contribute positively to the planet.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are inspired by real-life stories and those interested in activism and environmental protection.

• An Inconvenient Truth: The Crisis of Global Warming by Al Gore
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Environmental Science
  • Synopsis: Adapted for a new generation, this book by former Vice President Al Gore outlines the causes of global warming and presents arguments for the measures needed to combat it.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents scientifically detailed explanations of climate change, requiring a higher level of comprehension and critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling presentation of a critical global issue, offering a mix of scientific data and persuasive argumentation aimed at fostering informed future citizens.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and activists ready to engage deeply with the pressing issue of climate change.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into environmental books and you're around 10 years old, learning how to build good reading habits can really enhance your experience and understanding. Below are some fun exercises designed to help you get the most out of your reading time. These simple activities will not only improve your comprehension but also make reading even more enjoyable!

• Create a Reading Schedule
  • What it is: Set specific times each day dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Regularly scheduled reading times help develop a steady reading habit.
  • Tips: Choose a quiet time of day when you can relax and enjoy reading without interruptions.

• Make a Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Write down new words and their meanings in a notebook.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of the book and improves your vocabulary.
  • Tips: Try to use the new words in sentences to better remember them.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Discussing the book helps reinforce what you've learned and can offer new perspectives.
  • Tips: Think of questions you can ask others about the book to start a discussion.

• Draw Scenes from the Book
  • What it is: Use drawing to recreate scenes or concepts from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps with visual memory and understanding of the text.
  • Tips: Don't worry about artistic skill; focus on how the scene made you feel and what it means.

• Summarize Each Chapter
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you read it.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries short and focus on the main points.

These exercises aren't just tasks; they're stepping stones to becoming a more engaged and thoughtful reader. By incorporating these activities into your reading routine, you'll not only boost your understanding of environmental issues but also enjoy the journey of learning about our planet. So, grab your favorite environmental book, and let's get started on building those great reading habits!