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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that will rocket your 10-year-old's imagination straight into outer space? Look no further! Our carefully curated list of astronaut books for 10-year-olds is packed with thrilling adventures that are just waiting to be discovered. Whether your young reader dreams of walking on the moon or navigating the stars, these books will surely ignite their passion for space exploration. Keep reading to explore the universe of astronaut books we've gathered just for them!

Fun Astronaut Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Astro Girl by Ken Wilson-Max
  • Illustrator: Ken Wilson-Max
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around a young girl who dreams of becoming an astronaut and the various space adventures she imagines.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's vibrant and inspiring, showing kids that they can aspire to be anything, including astronauts. The illustrations are engaging and help bring the story to life.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers and future space explorers.

• The Darkest Dark by Chris Hadfield
  • Illustrator: The Fan Brothers
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Biography
  • Synopsis: Inspired by the childhood of real-life astronaut Chris Hadfield, this book tells the story of a young boy who overcomes his fear of the dark to realize his dream of becoming an astronaut.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartfelt and beautifully illustrated story that encourages overcoming fears to pursue one's dreams. It also provides a realistic glimpse into the life of an astronaut.
  • Perfect for: Kids who have big dreams but might be a little scared of the dark.

• Hidden Figures: Young Readers' Edition by Margot Lee Shetterly
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This book uncovers the incredible true story of the black women mathematicians at NASA who played a crucial role in America's space program.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story that highlights the importance of perseverance and intelligence. It also educates readers on significant historical events.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and science, and those who appreciate stories of unsung heroes.

• I, Cosmo by Carlie Sorosiak
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Told from the perspective of a golden retriever, Cosmo, whose family is going through changes. Cosmo's young owner, Max, dreams of becoming an astronaut, and together they embark on a mission to keep their family together.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with touching moments, teaching about loyalty, love, and the importance of family through the unique perspective of a dog.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and any kid who enjoys a good laugh along with a heartfelt story.

• Max Goes to the Space Station: A Science Adventure with Max the Dog by Jeffrey Bennett
  • Illustrator: Michael Carroll
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: This educational adventure follows Max the dog as he travels to the International Space Station, teaching readers about space and science along the way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's educational and fun, providing a good mix of science facts and adventurous storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who have an interest in science and space exploration.

Educational Astronaut Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Mission to Mars by Mary Kay Carson
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science, Space Exploration
  • Synopsis: This book explores the fascinating details of Mars and the ongoing missions to explore the Red Planet, including the technology and plans needed to land humans on Mars.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Knowledge of space exploration, scientific reasoning, technology in space
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a detailed and engaging look at Mars missions, making complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring astronauts and scientists, and anyone interested in Mars and space missions.

• Astronaut Handbook by Meghan McCarthy
  • Illustrator: Meghan McCarthy
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Guidebook
  • Synopsis: This book offers a humorous yet informative guide on what it takes to become an astronaut, from training to what to expect in space.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of astronaut training, space travel basics
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun mix of factual information presented in a kid-friendly manner with delightful illustrations that enhance the learning experience.
  • Perfect for: Kids who dream of traveling to space and want a realistic view of an astronaut's life.

• The Mighty Mars Rovers: The Incredible Adventures of Spirit and Opportunity by Elizabeth Rusch
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The story of the Mars rovers, Spirit and Opportunity, and their journey across the Martian surface to gather and send information back to Earth.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, problem-solving, perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the thrilling real-life adventures of the Mars rovers, showcasing the blend of technology and human ingenuity.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who love robots and adventures, and those interested in the mechanics of space rovers.

• Look Up! Henrietta Leavitt, Pioneering Woman Astronomer by Robert Burleigh
  • Illustrator: Raúl Colón
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This biography highlights the life and achievements of Henrietta Leavitt, a pioneering astronomer whose discoveries helped astronomers measure the vast distances across space.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, understanding of astronomy, gender studies
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story of a woman who made significant contributions to science despite the challenges of her time.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history, astronomy, and stories about influential women in science.

• Space Explorers: 25 Extraordinary Stories of Space Exploration and Adventure by Libby Jackson
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Biography, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book covers the thrilling and sometimes perilous tales of 25 different space explorers who have contributed to our understanding of space.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical and scientific knowledge, inspirational stories
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a broad and exciting overview of human space exploration through engaging stories and significant historical details.
  • Perfect for: Anyone fascinated by the personal stories behind space missions and those who enjoy tales of adventure and bravery.

Challenging Astronaut Books for 10-Year-Olds

• George's Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy and Stephen Hawking
  • Illustrator: Garry Parsons
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: George's adventures begin when he finds a secret key that unlocks a means to travel through the universe, discovering planets, stars, and much more, all while learning real scientific facts.
  • Why this book is challenging: It integrates complex scientific concepts and theories about the universe into the narrative, providing a deep educational context that challenges young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating mix of real science and adventure, written by renowned physicist Stephen Hawking and his daughter, making complex scientific ideas accessible and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love science and adventure, and those curious about the universe.

• The Countdown Conspiracy by Katie Slivensky
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Thriller
  • Synopsis: Miranda Regent is selected as one of six kids training for a mission to Mars, but she soon discovers that not everyone wants the mission to succeed, and her life is in danger.
  • Why this book is challenging: This book features a complex plot with advanced scientific and technological concepts, along with a deep dive into interpersonal relationships and conflict.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines the thrill of space exploration with suspense and drama, making it a compelling read that also educates about teamwork and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy science fiction with a twist of mystery and real-world science.

• See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Alex Petroski loves space and rockets, and his journey to launch his own rocket into space leads him on an epic road trip that turns into an exploration of family, friendship, and the universe.
  • Why this book is challenging: Told through recordings Alex makes on his iPod, this unique narrative style presents complex themes of family and existence in a thought-provoking way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a heartwarming adventure that teaches about resilience and curiosity, all through the eyes of a space-obsessed boy.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are interested in space and love stories that are both touching and humorous.

• The Jamie Drake Equation by Christopher Edge
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: Jamie's father is an astronaut on the International Space Station, and Jamie must deal with his dad being far away and the challenges that come with it. Things take a turn when Jamie accidentally downloads an alien intelligence.
  • Why this book is challenging: It blends real science with science fiction and deals with complex family dynamics, offering a multi-layered narrative that challenges young readers emotionally and intellectually.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique combination of space science and personal growth, with a thrilling plot of alien communication.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about space that also explore personal and familial relationships.

• Cosmic by Frank Cottrell Boyce
  • Genre(s): Humor, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Liam is too tall for his age and often mistaken for an adult, which leads him to a wild adventure where he ends up in space pretending to be a dad.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book plays with themes of identity and responsibility, wrapped in a humorous but insightful narrative that challenges young readers to think about what growing up means.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s hilariously narrated with a serious undercurrent about the responsibilities of adulthood and the adventures of childhood.
  • Perfect for: Kids who like a good laugh with their adventures and are maybe feeling a bit too grown-up for their age.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the fascinating world of astronaut books, you're in for an adventure that's out of this world! 🚀 To make the most of your reading journey, especially for the young space enthusiasts around 10 years old, here are some fun and effective exercises designed to enhance reading habits and comprehension.

• Create a Mission Log
  • What it is: Simulate an astronaut's mission log by writing summaries of each chapter.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of what was read.
  • Tips: Pretend you're reporting back to mission control and keep your summaries clear and concise.

• Design a Space Quiz
  • What it is: Create a quiz based on the book's content.
  • How it helps: Reinforces key information and details from the book.
  • Tips: Swap quizzes with friends to make it more fun and challenging.

• Draw Your Favorite Scene
  • What it is: Sketch or paint a scene from the book that you found exciting or important.
  • How it helps: Encourages visualization of the text, which aids memory and understanding.
  • Tips: Don't worry about artistic skill; focus on how the scene made you feel.

• Space Vocabulary Builder
  • What it is: Make a list of new words found in the book and learn their meanings.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and improves ability to understand more complex texts.
  • Tips: Use these new words in sentences related to the book's theme to better remember them.

• Astronaut Role-play
  • What it is: Act out a favorite part of the book with friends or family members.
  • How it helps: Deepens engagement with the text and helps with recall.
  • Tips: Use props or costumes to make the role-play more exciting and realistic.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only boost your comprehension skills but also have a blast exploring the depths of space through your astronaut books. So, gear up, young astronauts, and prepare for a reading journey that's just as thrilling as a rocket launch! 🌌 Happy reading!