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

Hey there! Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that'll captivate and educate? Look no further! Our roundup of Animal Fact Books for 10-Year-Olds is just what you need. Packed with fascinating insights and fun tidbits, these books are sure to delight any young animal enthusiast. Keep reading to discover our top picks that promise to spark curiosity and a love for the natural world in your young reader. Let’s dive in!

Fun Animal Fact Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Fascinating Animal Book for Kids: 500 Wild Facts! by Ginjer Clarke
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book is packed with hundreds of intriguing facts about animals, ranging from the tiny flea to the gigantic blue whale. Each page offers colorful photographs and fascinating tidbits about the animal kingdom.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a treasure trove of fun facts that can spark a child's interest in biology and the natural world, making learning a joy rather than a chore.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love to soak up random facts and trivia about animals.

• National Geographic Kids Why?: Over 1,111 Answers to Everything by Crispin Boyer
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Reference, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book provides clear answers to a plethora of questions about animals, science, history, and much more, all presented in an engaging and accessible format.
  • Why we recommend this book: It satisfies the curiosity of young readers and encourages them to question and explore the world around them.
  • Perfect for: Inquisitive kids who have endless questions about how the world works.

• Animal! by DK
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Reference, Visual Guide
  • Synopsis: A visual encyclopedia that provides detailed information about animals from every continent and environment, beautifully illustrated to help children visualize and understand the natural world.
  • Why we recommend this book: The book's stunning visuals and comprehensive details help children retain information and foster a love for nature and wildlife.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and young wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate detailed illustrations alongside their facts.

• The Animal Book: A Visual Encyclopedia of Life on Earth by David Burnie
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational, Reference
  • Synopsis: This encyclopedic book covers the entire scope of animal life, from the smallest insects to the largest mammals, detailing their different behaviors, habitats, and more.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a thorough introduction to biodiversity and the importance of conservation in an engaging format.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are passionate about animals and interested in environmental conservation.

• Ultimate Bugopedia: The Most Complete Bug Reference Ever by Darlyne Murawski and Nancy Honovich
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Reference, Educational
  • Synopsis: An extensive guide to the world of bugs, featuring vivid photographs and fascinating facts about these tiny creatures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages a respect and appreciation for even the smallest animals, which are often overlooked, and provides a detailed look into the complex world of insects.
  • Perfect for: Kids who aren't afraid to get a little dirty and love discovering the wonders of smaller creatures.

Educational Animal Fact Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Animals by the Numbers: A Book of Infographics by Steve Jenkins
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational, Reference
  • Synopsis: This visually engaging book uses infographics to present fascinating animal facts in a clear and fun way, covering topics like animal speeds, sizes, and habits.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Data interpretation, mathematical concepts, animal science
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines math and science in a visually stimulating format that makes complex information easy to understand and fun to learn.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love animals and are interested in numbers or visual data.

• The Kingfisher Animal Encyclopedia by David Burnie
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Encyclopedia, Educational
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive encyclopedia offers detailed information on over 2,000 animals, providing insights into their habitats, behaviors, and conservation status.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Research skills, reading comprehension, critical thinking about biodiversity and conservation
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thorough resource that encourages deeper knowledge and understanding of a wide range of animal species.
  • Perfect for: Young researchers and anyone interested in a comprehensive guide to the animal kingdom.

• Animal Atlas by Anne Rooney, illustrated by Lucy Rose
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Atlas, Educational
  • Synopsis: This atlas explores the various habitats around the world and the animals that live in them, using maps and engaging illustrations to show geographical distribution and diversity.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Geography, environmental science, understanding of ecosystems
  • Why we recommend this book: It helps children connect animal life with geographic locations, enhancing their global awareness and understanding of ecosystems.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are fascinated by maps and interested in how animals adapt to different environments around the world.

• Zoology for Kids: Understanding and Working with Animals by Josh Hestermann and Bethanie Hestermann, illustrated by Tanya Emelyanova
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational, Activity Book
  • Synopsis: This book introduces young readers to the science of zoology through informative text, engaging illustrations, and hands-on activities.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, critical thinking, hands-on learning
  • Why we recommend this book: It's interactive and educational, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical experiences related to animals.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists and animal lovers who enjoy active learning and experiments.

Challenging Animal Fact Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Genius of Birds by Jennifer Ackerman
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Ornithology
  • Synopsis: This book explores the intelligence of birds and delves into new research showing how birds exhibit problem-solving skills and cognitive abilities that challenge our traditional views of intelligence.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex scientific concepts and research studies that require a higher level of reading comprehension and critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a fascinating insight into the cognitive world of birds, encouraging readers to appreciate and rethink the intelligence of animals.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and animal behavior, especially those fascinated by birds.

• The Elephant Whisperer: My Life with the Herd in the African Wild by Lawrence Anthony with Graham Spence
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Biography, Conservation
  • Synopsis: This memoir recounts the experiences of conservationist Lawrence Anthony who accepted a herd of 'rogue' wild elephants on his Thula Thula game reserve in South Africa.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes such as conservation, animal behavior, and the emotional connections between humans and animals.
  • Why we recommend this book: The story is not only thrilling and heartwarming but also educates about the importance of conservation and empathy towards animals.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are passionate about wildlife conservation and stories of animal-human interaction.

• The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness by Sy Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Nature
  • Synopsis: This book provides an in-depth look at the complex behavior and surprising emotional depth of octopuses, based on the author's experiences with these fascinating creatures.
  • Why this book is challenging: It challenges readers to consider the consciousness and emotions of a non-human creature, incorporating scientific research and philosophical questions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It expands the reader’s understanding of intelligence and emotion in animals, presented through engaging narrative storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Those intrigued by marine life and philosophical questions about the nature of consciousness.

• What If You Had Animal Teeth!? by Sandra Markle, illustrated by Howard McWilliam
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Children’s Literature
  • Synopsis: This book explores the adaptations of various animals through the imaginative scenario of a child having the teeth of different animals.
  • Why this book is challenging: It combines factual animal science with creative thinking, encouraging readers to imagine and learn through a unique perspective.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and creative way to learn about animal adaptations and the importance of teeth in animal survival.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy creative learning and are curious about how animals adapt to their environments.

• Hidden World: Ocean by Libby Walden, illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational, Interactive Book
  • Synopsis: This interactive book offers a detailed exploration of ocean life, featuring flaps to lift and small, engaging bits of text that reveal facts about the creatures living in and around the oceans.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes detailed scientific information about a variety of marine species and ecosystems, presented in an interactive format.
  • Why we recommend this book: It engages young readers with hands-on interaction while providing in-depth knowledge about marine biology.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who love the ocean and enjoy interactive learning experiences.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of animal fact books, you're in for a treat—especially if you're around 10 years old. These books are packed with fascinating insights about the animal kingdom, and to make the most out of your reading experience, here are some great exercises to develop good reading habits. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you want to read.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and make reading a regular part of your day.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Set up a specific spot in your home where you can read comfortably.
  • How it helps: Creates a dedicated environment that can enhance concentration and enjoyment.
  • Tips: Make sure it's well-lit and quiet, and keep your favorite books close at hand.

• Use a Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Keep a list of new or interesting words you find in your animal fact books.
  • How it helps: Enhances your vocabulary and understanding of the material.
  • Tips: Review the list regularly and try to use new words in your daily conversations.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends, family, or classmates.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the information.
  • Tips: Try to express what you found interesting and hear others' perspectives to deepen your understanding.

• Draw or Sketch
  • What it is: Draw scenes or animals from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the content and reinforces memory.
  • Tips: Don't worry about perfect art; focus on how the images help you remember the facts.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you read it.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and recall of key details.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and revisit them before starting the next reading session.

• Question and Answer Sessions
  • What it is: After reading, think of questions about the text and try answering them.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and deeper engagement with the material.
  • Tips: Write down your questions and answers to review later or discuss them with someone else.

So there you have it! With these exercises, you'll not only enjoy reading about the amazing world of animals but also boost your reading skills significantly. Remember, the key is consistency, so try to incorporate these exercises into your daily reading routine. Happy reading!