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

Are you on the hunt for engaging and educational reads for your young reader? Dive into our latest roundup of nonfiction books for 10-year-olds that promise to captivate their curious minds! Whether they're passionate about science, history, or the arts, there's something here that will spark their interest and maybe even teach them something new. Keep reading to discover our top picks of nonfiction books for 10-year-olds that can't be missed!

Fun Nonfiction Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Illustrator: Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: This book tells the inspiring story of a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to save his village from famine.
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases the power of ingenuity and perseverance. It's a fantastic story that proves you're never too young to innovate.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and science enthusiasts.

• National Geographic Kids Why?: Over 1,111 Answers to Everything by Crispin Boyer
  • Genre(s): Reference, Science, Curiosities & Wonders
  • Synopsis: A fun-filled book packed with answers to questions kids often ask about the world around them.
  • Why we recommend this book: It feeds curiosity with fascinating facts and engaging explanations, perfect for expanding general knowledge.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love to ask "Why?"

• Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book highlights the contributions of fifty notable women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from the ancient to the modern world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's inspirational and educational, showing readers that anyone can excel in STEM, regardless of gender.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists, especially girls interested in STEM fields.

• The Kid Who Invented the Popsicle: And Other Surprising Stories about Inventions by Don L. Wulffson
  • Genre(s): History, Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: This book explores the interesting stories behind the inventions of many everyday items and the kids who invented them.
  • Why we recommend this book: It reveals the fascinating, often accidental origins of common objects, encouraging creativity and innovation in young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and those curious about how things work.

• I Survived True Stories: Five Epic Disasters by Lauren Tarshis
  • Genre(s): History, Survival, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This non-fiction companion to the popular "I Survived" series features true stories of survival from historic disasters.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides thrilling, real-life accounts of resilience and bravery, perfect for fans of adventure and history.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy thrilling tales of survival and historical events.

• What If You Had Animal Teeth? by Sandra Markle
  • Illustrator: Howard McWilliam
  • Genre(s): Science, Biology, Humor
  • Synopsis: This imaginative book explores what would happen if a child had the teeth of various animals, combining facts with fun.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous, engaging way to learn about the animal kingdom and dental science.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love animals and enjoy a good laugh while learning.

Educational Nonfiction Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Guts & Glory: The Vikings by Ben Thompson
  • Genre(s): History, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers on a thrilling journey through the world of the Vikings, exploring their culture, conquests, and legacy.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, cultural understanding, reading comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a captivating look at the history of the Vikings with engaging storytelling that makes it accessible and exciting for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young history buffs and adventure seekers.

• The Thrifty Guide to Ancient Rome: A Handbook for Time Travelers by Jonathan W. Stokes
  • Illustrator: David Sossella
  • Genre(s): History, Travel, Humor
  • Synopsis: Presented as a travel guide for time travelers, this book offers a humorous and informative look at life in ancient Rome.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, cultural insights, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses a unique, playful format to teach history, making it more engaging and fun for kids.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love history mixed with humor and imaginative scenarios.

• How Things Work: Then and Now by T.J. Resler
  • Genre(s): Technology, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book explores the mechanics behind how everyday objects work, from ancient tools to modern technology.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific understanding, technological literacy, historical context
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers detailed explanations and visuals that help demystify complex ideas and promote curiosity about engineering and technology.
  • Perfect for: Young tech enthusiasts and curious minds interested in mechanics and history.

• The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin by Julia Finley Mosca
  • Illustrator: Daniel Rieley
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Psychology
  • Synopsis: This book tells the inspiring story of Dr. Temple Grandin, a scientist and autism advocate who revolutionized practices for the humane handling of livestock.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of autism, scientific inquiry
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the importance of diverse thinking and shows how someone who "thinks differently" can make significant contributions to society.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and advocates, and anyone interested in psychology and animal science.

• Atlas of Adventures: Wonders of the World by Ben Handicott
  • Illustrator: Lucy Letherland
  • Genre(s): Geography, Culture, Adventure
  • Synopsis: From the Great Pyramid of Giza to the Great Barrier Reef, this book takes readers on a tour of the world's most incredible natural and man-made wonders.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Geographic literacy, cultural appreciation, exploration
  • Why we recommend this book: It's beautifully illustrated and packed with information that encourages exploration and appreciation of the diverse world we live in.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers and travelers eager to learn about the world's most spectacular places.

Challenging Nonfiction Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Elements: A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe by Theodore Gray
  • Illustrator: Nick Mann
  • Genre(s): Science, Chemistry
  • Synopsis: This book offers a stunning photographic exploration of the periodic table, detailing each element with fascinating facts and figures.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex chemical concepts and the properties of elements in a detailed manner.
  • Why we recommend this book: It visually captivates and educates, making the abstract concepts of chemistry accessible and intriguing.
  • Perfect for: Young science enthusiasts and visual learners fascinated by the building blocks of the universe.

• An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States for Young People by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, adapted by Debbie Reese and Jean Mendoza
  • Genre(s): History, Social Studies
  • Synopsis: This book reinterprets American history from the perspective of Indigenous peoples and discusses the impact of European settlement.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex and nuanced historical perspectives often omitted from traditional textbooks.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a critical understanding of American history, encouraging critical thinking and empathy.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in a comprehensive and honest look at the history of the United States through the lens of Indigenous peoples.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Illustrator: Diana Sudyka
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Fiction
  • Synopsis: A group of gifted children with unique talents undertake a global scavenger hunt filled with puzzles and danger to find a missing friend and thwart a nefarious plot.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex puzzles and moral dilemmas that require advanced reading skills and critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines excitement and brain-teasing puzzles, which are great for developing problem-solving skills.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love mysteries and challenges.

• Radioactive! How Irène Curie & Lise Meitner Revolutionized Science and Changed the World by Winifred Conkling
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This dual biography explores the lives and scientific achievements of Irène Curie and Lise Meitner, both pioneers in the field of radioactivity.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into complex scientific concepts and historical contexts that require a mature understanding.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the contributions of two remarkable scientists, inspiring readers with the impact of women in science.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and historians, particularly those interested in the contributions of women to scientific advancements.

• The Secret World of Whales by Charles Siebert
  • Genre(s): Science, Biology, Environmental Studies
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers into the depths of the ocean to explore the lives, habits, and environments of whales.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers advanced biological and environmental concepts, including the impact of human activities on marine life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It fosters a deep appreciation for marine biology and the importance of environmental conservation.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and animal lovers eager to learn more about marine life and its preservation.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you've got a curious 10-year-old at home or know someone who does, diving into nonfiction books can open up a whole new world of knowledge and excitement. To make the most out of their reading experience, here are some fun and effective exercises that can help develop good reading habits. These activities are not just educational, but also super engaging!

• Create a Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Write down new and interesting words found in the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and improves understanding of the text.
  • Tips: Use a notebook dedicated to new words and their meanings.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after reading.
  • How it helps: Reinforces comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Keep summaries short and focus on main ideas.

• Ask Questions
  • What it is: Come up with questions about the text while reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and deeper engagement with the content.
  • Tips: Write questions down in a notebook and discuss them with others.

• Make Connections
  • What it is: Relate the content of the book to personal experiences or other knowledge.
  • How it helps: Helps in understanding and remembering the information better.
  • Tips: Use a chart to visually map out connections.

• Illustrate Concepts
  • What it is: Draw pictures or diagrams to represent ideas from the book.
  • How it helps: Visual learning aids comprehension and recall.
  • Tips: Use colored pencils or markers to make the illustrations vibrant and fun.

• Teach Someone Else
  • What it is: Explain a concept from the book to a friend or family member.
  • How it helps: Teaching others is a great way to deepen one's own understanding.
  • Tips: Try to use simple language and examples to explain complex ideas.

By incorporating these exercises into their reading routine, young readers can not only enjoy their nonfiction books more but also boost their learning skills significantly. So, grab that fascinating book off the shelf, and let's get started on this exciting learning journey! Happy reading!