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

Are you on the lookout for the perfect way to introduce the wonders of physics to your eager 10-year-old? Finding the right resources can be a bit of a puzzle, but don't worry—we've got you covered with our curated selection of physics books for 10-year-olds. These books are designed to captivate young minds and explain complex concepts in a way that's both fun and understandable. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to spark a love for physics in your young learner!

Fun Physics Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Explorabook: A Kid's Science Museum in a Book by John Cassidy
  • Genre(s): Science, Interactive Learning
  • Synopsis: This book acts as a mini science museum, filled with experiments, activities, and lots of hands-on learning.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's interactive and engaging, making the concepts of physics tangible and fun for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love hands-on activities and learning by doing.

• Physics for Every Kid: 101 Easy Experiments in Motion, Heat, Light, Machines, and Sound by Janice VanCleave
  • Genre(s): Educational, Experiments
  • Synopsis: Provides 101 simple and accessible experiments that help explain various physics concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: Each experiment is easy to set up with common household items, encouraging kids to learn physics through practical, real-world applications.
  • Perfect for: Young experimenters and budding scientists who enjoy discovering how things work.

• The Everything Kids' Science Experiments Book by Tom Robinson
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book covers a wide range of science topics, including physics, with experiments that can be done at home or in the classroom.
  • Why we recommend this book: It breaks down complex science into enjoyable and manageable experiments, fostering a love for learning and curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds that thrive on seeing the principles of science in action.

• National Geographic Kids Everything Robotics: All the Photos, Facts, and Fun to Make You Race for Robots by Jennifer Swanson
  • Genre(s): Technology, Robotics, Science
  • Synopsis: Explores the exciting world of robotics, including how physics plays a crucial role in how robots function.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's visually stimulating with full-color photos and provides fascinating facts that capture the imagination.
  • Perfect for: Kids fascinated by robots and how they work, blending technology with basic physics principles.

• Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson, with Gregory Mone
  • Genre(s): Astrophysics, Space Science
  • Synopsis: Simplifies the complex concepts of astrophysics into digestible pieces of information suitable for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: Authored by a renowned astrophysicist, it makes the vast concepts of space and time accessible and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who gaze at the stars and wonder about the universe.

Educational Physics Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Baby Loves Quantum Physics! by Ruth Spiro, illustrated by Irene Chan
  • Genre(s): Physics, Board Book
  • Synopsis: This colorful board book introduces young children to the basics of quantum physics through a simple story about a baby who loves to play peek-a-boo.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic physics concepts, early science literacy
  • Why we recommend this book: It simplifies complex physics concepts to a level that's engaging and understandable for very young children.
  • Perfect for: Toddlers and preschoolers beginning to explore the world of science.

• The Physics of Superheroes by James Kakalios
  • Genre(s): Physics, Popular Science
  • Synopsis: This book applies principles of physics to explain the powers and abilities of famous superheroes, making complex concepts fun and relatable.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of physics principles, application of science to fictional scenarios
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses popular superhero stories as a unique and entertaining way to teach physics and stimulate interest in the subject.
  • Perfect for: Young superhero fans and budding scientists interested in both fiction and real-world science.

• How Things Work: Then and Now by T.J. Resler
  • Genre(s): Physics, Technology, History
  • Synopsis: This book explains the mechanics behind everyday objects and the evolution of technology from past to present.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical perspective on technology, understanding of mechanical and physical principles
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive look at the science behind everyday objects, encouraging curiosity about how things work.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are always asking "why?" and "how?" about the things around them.

• Physics: Why Matter Matters! by Dan Green, illustrated by Simon Basher
  • Genre(s): Physics, Illustrated
  • Synopsis: Presented with quirky illustrations, this book creatively explains the fundamentals of physics, from gravity to electromagnetism.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic understanding of key physics concepts, visual learning
  • Why we recommend this book: Its visually engaging format and personified illustrations make complex topics accessible and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and children who appreciate a fun and artistic approach to learning about science.

• The Cartoon Guide to Physics by Larry Gonick
  • Genre(s): Physics, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel uses cartoons and humor to explain the laws of physics and their application in various scenarios.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Comprehension of physics laws, ability to relate abstract concepts to real-life situations
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with education, making the learning process enjoyable and less intimidating.
  • Perfect for: Students who enjoy graphic novels and those who learn better with visual aids and humor.

Challenging Physics Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The New Way Things Work by David Macaulay
  • Genre(s): Physics, Technology, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book explores the mechanics behind everyday objects and complex machines, using detailed illustrations and accessible explanations.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into the intricacies of various technologies and physics concepts, requiring readers to think critically about how things work.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides clear explanations and engaging illustrations that demystify complex machines and technologies.
  • Perfect for: Curious kids who have a knack for understanding and interest in the mechanics behind how things work.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Biography, Physics, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This true story follows William Kamkwamba, a boy from Malawi who builds a wind turbine to save his village from drought.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex engineering and physics concepts through a real-life application, challenging readers to understand and appreciate the practical impact of physics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale that shows how creativity and understanding of physics can lead to life-changing solutions.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in real-world applications of physics and stories of innovation and resilience.

• Physics for Future Presidents: The Science Behind the Headlines by Richard A. Muller
  • Genre(s): Physics, Educational, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: Explains the scientific principles behind key issues that future leaders will face, from nuclear power to climate change.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a broad range of complex physics topics related to real-world issues, requiring a mature understanding from the reader.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches important physics concepts through their application to significant global challenges, preparing young readers to think critically about the world.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young leaders and scientists who are keen to understand how physics impacts global issues.

• George's Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy and Stephen Hawking
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Educational, Adventure
  • Synopsis: George finds a computer that opens portals to the universe, leading him on adventures that teach him about space, time, and the cosmos.
  • Why this book is challenging: It combines complex scientific concepts with a fictional narrative, challenging readers to learn about physics within a fantastical context.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an engaging adventure that makes learning about physics and the universe exciting and accessible.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy science fiction and are curious about the universe and physics.

• The Mystery of the Periodic Table by Benjamin Wiker, illustrated by Jeanne Bendick
  • Genre(s): Chemistry, Physics, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers on a journey through the history and significance of the periodic table, explaining the roles of each element in various physical phenomena.
  • Why this book is challenging: It requires understanding of both chemical and physical properties, bridging complex concepts in a comprehensive manner.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a foundational understanding of elements and their interactions, essential for grasping more advanced physics topics.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are interested in chemistry and physics, and who enjoy unraveling the mysteries of how elements shape our world.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the fascinating world of physics books designed for 10-year-olds, it's not just about reading the words on the page—it's about making the most out of each reading session. Here are some engaging exercises to help young readers develop solid reading habits while exploring the wonders of physics.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and helps complete books in a manageable way.
  • Tips: Choose realistic goals that can be adjusted as needed.

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

• Create a Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Write down new or interesting words and their meanings.
  • How it helps: Expands vocabulary and understanding of scientific terms.
  • Tips: Use a notebook dedicated to new words and review it regularly.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends, family, or teachers.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding and critical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Try to express what you liked about the concepts or experiments discussed.

• Draw Concept Maps
  • What it is: Draw diagrams that connect different concepts from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize and link complex ideas.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to make the connections clear and engaging.

• Predict the Next Experiment
  • What it is: Guess what experiments or concepts will be discussed next in the book.
  • How it helps: Stimulates curiosity and active thinking.
  • Tips: Write predictions in a notebook and check them as you read along.

These exercises aren't just about getting through the book; they're about making the journey through physics both enjoyable and educational. By integrating these practices into your reading routine, you'll not only better understand the material but also develop a lifelong love for learning. Happy reading!