10+ Best Nonfiction Books for 10-11-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for engaging nonfiction books for 10-11-year-olds that will pique their curiosity and enhance their knowledge? You've landed in the right place! Whether you're a parent, teacher, or librarian, finding age-appropriate nonfiction can sometimes be a challenge. But don't worry, we've compiled a diverse selection of titles that are perfect for young readers eager to explore the world through facts and true stories. Keep reading to discover our top picks of nonfiction books for 10-11-year-olds that are both educational and captivating!

Fun Nonfiction Books for 10-11-Year-Olds

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Illustrator: Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book tells the true story of a young boy in Malawi who builds a wind turbine to save his village from famine.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale that showcases the power of ingenuity and determination. It encourages young readers to think innovatively and to believe in their ability to make a difference.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and science enthusiasts who love real-life hero stories.

• National Geographic Kids Why?: Over 1,111 Answers to Everything by Crispin Boyer
  • Genre(s): Reference, Science, Curiosities & Wonders
  • Synopsis: A fun and fascinating book filled with answers to some of kids' biggest and most interesting questions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It feeds curiosity with engaging and accurate information, making learning fun and accessible. It's perfect for expanding general knowledge through a playful and visually appealing format.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love trivia and discovering the why behind many of life’s interesting questions.

• Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: An illustrated collection of biographies highlighting 50 women who have made significant contributions to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the achievements of women in STEM, inspiring readers with stories of perseverance and brilliance.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists, especially girls, who might see themselves as future innovators.

• The Kid Who Invented the Popsicle: And Other Surprising Stories about Inventions by Don L. Wulffson
  • Illustrator: Laurie Keller
  • Genre(s): History, Science, Inventions
  • Synopsis: This book explores the interesting and often quirky backstories behind various everyday inventions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uncovers the fascinating, unexpected stories behind common objects, encouraging a deeper appreciation for innovation and the creative process.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are always asking "Who made this?" and "Why?"

• Time For Kids: Big Book of Why by the Editors of TIME for Kids Magazine
  • Genre(s): Reference, Curiosities & Wonders, Science
  • Synopsis: A comprehensive resource that provides clear answers to hundreds of why questions, covering a wide range of topics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's designed to satisfy the curiosity of young minds, providing explanations that are both easy to understand and highly engaging.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who have a relentless thirst for knowledge and enjoy learning about a wide array of subjects.

Educational Nonfiction Books for 10-11-Year-Olds

• Guts & Glory: The Vikings by Ben Thompson
  • Genre(s): History, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book gives a thrilling look into the lives and adventures of the Vikings, exploring their culture, conquests, and legacy in history.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, cultural understanding, reading comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It presents history in an engaging and action-packed manner, which makes learning about the past exciting for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Adventure lovers and young historians interested in the daring exploits of the Vikings.

• The Elements Book: A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table by DK
  • Genre(s): Science, Reference
  • Synopsis: This visual encyclopedia introduces children to the periodic table and details each element with clear, informative descriptions alongside vivid imagery.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Chemistry, scientific literacy, data interpretation
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes complex scientific concepts accessible and interesting, helping young readers understand and appreciate the building blocks of the universe.
  • Perfect for: Budding chemists and kids who show an interest in science and how things work at a molecular level.

• Animalium by Jenny Broom
  • Illustrator: Katie Scott
  • Genre(s): Zoology, Reference
  • Synopsis: This book serves as a virtual museum that displays a variety of animals from around the world, detailed with beautiful illustrations and informative text.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Biological sciences, animal behavior, environmental awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: The stunning illustrations and fascinating facts captivate young readers, encouraging a deeper appreciation for biodiversity and conservation.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young naturalists who are curious about the animal kingdom and its diverse inhabitants.

• The Thrifty Guide to Ancient Rome: A Handbook for Time Travelers by Jonathan W. Stokes
  • Genre(s): History, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book is a travel guide for prospective time travelers, providing humorous and practical tips on how to survive and thrive in ancient Rome.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical perspective, critical thinking, cultural understanding
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with history, making the ancient world immensely relatable and fun for modern kids.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and history buffs with a good sense of humor who enjoy a quirky take on learning about the past.

• Smart About Sharks by Owen Davey
  • Genre(s): Marine Biology, Ecology
  • Synopsis: This book offers detailed insights into the world of sharks, covering their biology, behavior, and the role they play in their ecosystems.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Marine science, environmental consciousness, research skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thorough exploration of one of the ocean's most fascinating creatures through engaging illustrations and text.
  • Perfect for: Young marine biologists and anyone interested in ocean life and the preservation of marine species.

Challenging Nonfiction Books for 10-11-Year-Olds

• Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson
  • Genre(s): Science, Astrophysics
  • Synopsis: A simplified version of Tyson's famous book, tailored for younger readers, explaining complex astrophysical concepts like black holes, quarks, and the universe's expansion.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces advanced scientific concepts and vocabulary that are usually tackled at higher educational levels.
  • Why we recommend this book: It distills vast and complex ideas into digestible parts, sparking curiosity about the universe in young minds.
  • Perfect for: Young readers fascinated by space and eager to understand the workings of the universe.

• The Omnivore's Dilemma: Young Readers Edition by Michael Pollan
  • Genre(s): Health, Nutrition, Science
  • Synopsis: This version of Pollan’s original book explores the complexities of the modern food system, detailing where food comes from and how it affects our health and the environment.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles the intricate issues of agricultural ethics, food production, and environmental sustainability.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking about daily food choices and the impact of these choices on our planet.
  • Perfect for: Health-conscious young readers interested in food science and environmental issues.

• Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition by Margot Lee Shetterly
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book tells the inspiring true story of four African American women who played a crucial role in NASA during the space race.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers complex themes of racial and gender inequality, alongside the technical details of space exploration and mathematics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the significant contributions of these women, inspiring readers with powerful examples of perseverance and intelligence.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and historians, and those interested in social justice and space exploration.

• Can We Save the Tiger? by Martin Jenkins
  • Illustrator: Vicky White
  • Genre(s): Conservation, Biology
  • Synopsis: An exploration of the various endangered species around the world, focusing on what is causing these species to be at risk and what is being done to save them.
  • Why this book is challenging: It discusses complex ecological and conservation issues, including human impacts on the environment.
  • Why we recommend this book: It raises awareness about biodiversity and the importance of conservation efforts in a scientifically engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists passionate about animals and conservation.

• The Whydah: A Pirate Ship Feared, Wrecked, and Found by Martin W. Sandler
  • Genre(s): History, Archaeology
  • Synopsis: This book recounts the exciting true story of the Whydah pirate ship from its initial launch, its capture and use by pirates, to its eventual sinking and modern-day underwater archaeological discovery.
  • Why this book is challenging: It combines historical facts with archaeological science in a detailed narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thrilling historical adventure alongside insights into the methods and findings of underwater archaeology.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and budding archaeologists, especially those with a penchant for pirates and treasure hunts.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you've got a young reader at home or if you're a young reader yourself, diving into nonfiction can be both fun and educational. But how do you make the most of your reading time? Here are some exercises designed specifically for 10-11-year-olds to help develop strong reading habits while exploring nonfiction books. Let’s get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books or pages to read each week.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistent reading and helps in tracking progress.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to build confidence.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus by associating the space with reading activities.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, comfy, and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you read with friends or family.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of information.
  • Tips: Try to express what you learned and your opinion about the topics.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Look up any new words you encounter in a dictionary.
  • How it helps: Expands vocabulary and understanding of the text.
  • Tips: Keep a dictionary handy whenever you are reading.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write brief summaries of each chapter after you read.
  • How it helps: Aids in remembering key information and main ideas.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and revisit them before continuing the book.

• Ask Questions
  • What it is: Write down questions about the text before, during, and after reading.
  • How it helps: Stimulates critical thinking and engagement with the material.
  • Tips: Share your questions with others to see if they interpreted things differently.

• Make Connections
  • What it is: Relate the information in the book to real life or other things you know.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and makes reading more relatable.
  • Tips: Try to find at least one connection every time you read.

These exercises are not just about reading; they're about turning reading into a habit and a hobby that educates and entertains. By incorporating these activities into your routine, you’ll not only get better at reading nonfiction but also enjoy the process a lot more. Happy reading!