10+ Best Marine Biology Books for 12-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Diving into the deep blue sea has never been easier from the comfort of your own home! If you've got a curious young mind at home eager to learn about the mysteries of the ocean, our roundup of marine biology books for 12-year-olds is the perfect treasure trove. From fascinating sea creatures to the complex ecosystems they inhabit, these books are designed to captivate and educate. Keep reading to discover our top picks of marine biology books for 12-year-olds that promise to spark a wave of curiosity and learning.

Fun Marine Biology Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Magic School Bus on the Ocean Floor by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Educational, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Join Ms. Frizzle and her class as they take a magical school bus ride to explore the ocean floor. Along the way, they learn about various marine creatures and their habitats.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines fun adventures with educational content, making learning about marine biology exciting and engaging. The illustrations add a vibrant layer to the educational journey.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love adventure and science, and those who enjoy visually rich educational books.

• The Oceanology Handbook: A Course For Underwater Explorers by Professor Pierre Aronnax
  • Genre(s): Educational, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Styled as a guidebook for young oceanographers, this book explores marine life, oceanic phenomena, and the tools used for underwater exploration.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an interactive and informative read that encourages curiosity about the ocean and its mysteries. The hands-on approach helps readers feel like young scientists themselves.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring marine biologists and kids who dream of exploring the underwater world.

• 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, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This book tells the inspiring story of Eugenie Clark, a pioneering female scientist who changed the way people thought about sharks and fought against gender stereotypes in her field.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's not only a biography but also a motivational story that showcases perseverance, passion, and the thrill of discovery. The illustrations beautifully complement the empowering narrative.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in real-life heroes, marine science, and empowerment through knowledge.

• Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau by Jennifer Berne, illustrated by Éric Puybaret
  • Genre(s): Biography, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book explores the life of Jacques Cousteau, the famous oceanographer and filmmaker who introduced the beauty of the oceans to millions of people.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the spirit of exploration and the importance of protecting our environment, inspiring readers to learn about and care for the ocean.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who are fascinated by the ocean and its mysteries, and those inspired by stories of adventure and conservation.

Educational Marine Biology Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Brilliant Deep: Rebuilding the World’s Coral Reefs by Kate Messner, illustrated by Matthew Forsythe
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Environmental Science
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Ken Nedimyer and his efforts to save and rebuild the world's coral reefs by growing corals and transplanting them to damaged areas.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental awareness, science, conservation techniques
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story that combines science with activism, showing how dedication and passion can lead to environmental change.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and future marine biologists interested in conservation and restoration projects.

• Life in the Ocean: The Story of Oceanographer Sylvia Earle by Claire A. Nivola
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science
  • Synopsis: This book profiles Sylvia Earle’s journey from her childhood fascination with the ocean to becoming a renowned oceanographer and advocate for the protection of the sea.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental science, biography, exploration
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the importance of following one's passion and the impact one person can have on environmental conservation.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are inspired by personal stories of scientific exploration and environmental advocacy.

• The Great Shark Rescue: Saving the Whale Sharks by Sandra Markle
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Environmental Science
  • Synopsis: This book covers the plight of whale sharks and the conservation efforts to save them, providing insights into the biology of these fascinating creatures and the challenges they face.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of marine biology, conservation issues, ecological awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines real-world science with conservation, offering a hopeful look at how humans can help endangered species.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring conservationists and young readers interested in sharks and marine rescue efforts.

• Ocean: A Visual Encyclopedia by DK
  • Genre(s): Reference, Educational
  • Synopsis: An extensive visual encyclopedia that explores the diversity of life in the ocean, from the tiny plankton to the majestic blue whale.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Research skills, marine biology knowledge, ecological diversity
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a comprehensive resource that provides a detailed look at the complexities of marine life and ecosystems.
  • Perfect for: Students who love detailed facts, diagrams, and learning about a wide range of marine species.

• National Geographic Kids Everything Sharks by Ruth Musgrave
  • Genre(s): Educational, Wildlife
  • Synopsis: This engaging book offers everything kids want to know about sharks, including their biology, behavior, and the role they play in the ocean's ecosystem.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Knowledge of marine animals, ecological roles, reading and comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s packed with fascinating facts and stunning photography that will captivate young readers and educate them about these important marine predators.
  • Perfect for: Young shark enthusiasts and readers curious about marine wildlife and ocean ecosystems.

Challenging Marine Biology Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Curious World of Seaweed by Josie Iselin
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: This book offers an in-depth look at the various types of seaweed found along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America, blending scientific insight with beautiful, high-resolution imagery.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text includes scientific terminology and ecological concepts that are more advanced, requiring readers to engage with complex biological processes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique blend of art and science, encouraging an appreciation for the smaller, often overlooked elements of marine biology.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a keen interest in botany and marine ecosystems who enjoy a visual learning experience.

• Citizen Scientists: Be a Part of Scientific Discovery from Your Own Backyard by Loree Griffin Burns
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book encourages readers to get involved in citizen science projects, focusing on various environmental and biological studies, including those related to marine life.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces the concept of citizen science and includes a variety of scientific methodologies that require critical thinking and active participation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It empowers readers to contribute to real scientific research, enhancing their understanding of marine biology and ecology through practical experience.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists and environmentalists eager to make a difference in the real world.

• The Science of the Ocean: The Secrets of the Seas Revealed by DK
  • Genre(s): Reference, Educational
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive guide dives into the mysteries of the ocean, covering everything from the geology of the sea floor to the creatures that inhabit its depths.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a broad range of topics with a depth that requires readers to synthesize and retain complex information.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a visually stunning resource that provides detailed information on a wide array of topics, perfect for deepening knowledge of marine science.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who are not satisfied with surface-level information and crave a deeper understanding of the ocean's complexities.

• Beneath the Waves: Exploring the Hidden World of the Kelp Forest by Norbert Wu
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Photography
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers on a photographic journey into the dense kelp forests of the ocean, exploring the diverse wildlife and ecosystems found within.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book combines high-level ecological concepts with detailed photographic documentation, requiring readers to interpret visual data in the context of scientific information.
  • Why we recommend this book: It visually and textually enriches the reader's understanding of marine ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of conservation and ecological diversity.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and young photographers interested in marine biology and environmental conservation.

• The Deep: The Hidden Wonders of Our Oceans and How We Can Protect Them by Alex Rogers
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Conservation
  • Synopsis: Written by a leading marine biologist, this book explores the depths of the ocean, detailing the strange creatures and landscapes that lie beneath the surface and the efforts to protect these fragile ecosystems.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into advanced scientific research and conservation issues that are crucial yet complex, discussing topics like deep-sea mining and biodiversity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a rare glimpse into the least understood parts of our planet, fostering a sense of wonder and a deeper awareness of the need for ocean conservation.
  • Perfect for: Readers passionate about environmental science and those who are motivated to learn about and protect the underexplored parts of our world.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the fascinating world of marine biology, pairing your reading with some effective habits can make your learning adventure even more exciting. Here are a few exercises tailored for 12-year-olds to help develop good reading habits while exploring marine biology books:

• Create a Reading Schedule
  • What it is: Set specific times and days for reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and helps make reading a regular part of your daily routine.
  • Tips: Choose a time when you're usually relaxed, and there are few distractions.

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

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested in marine biology.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding through discussion and can introduce different perspectives.
  • Tips: Try to explain what you’ve learned in your own words to deepen your understanding.

• Draw or Sketch
  • What it is: Draw or sketch something related to what you've read.
  • How it helps: Engages your creative skills and helps you visualize the information.
  • tips: You don’t have to be a perfect artist; simple sketches can make a big difference.

• Ask Questions
  • What it is: Write down any questions that come to mind while reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and curiosity.
  • Tips: Look for answers in the book itself or use other resources if needed.

• Use Multimedia Resources
  • What it is: Supplement your reading with videos and documentaries about marine biology.
  • How it helps: Provides a multi-dimensional understanding of the material.
  • Tips: Try to find visual content that directly relates to your reading material.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enjoy your marine biology books more, but you'll also retain more of the fascinating facts and concepts. Happy reading and exploring!