10+ Best Fiction Books About Space for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect adventure that will rocket your 10-year-old's imagination to new heights? Look no further! Our list of Fiction Books About Space for 10-Year-olds is packed with stories that blend fun, excitement, and a bit of learning—all set against the backdrop of the cosmos. Whether your young reader is a budding astronaut or a curious explorer, these books are sure to captivate and inspire. Keep reading to discover the universe of possibilities that awaits in these stellar reads!

Fun Fiction Books About Space for 10-Year-Olds

• The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: This timeless tale tells the story of a young prince who travels from planet to planet, learning about the bizarre behavior of adults and discovering the truths about life and love.
  • Why we recommend this book: It blends whimsy with wisdom, making it a profound yet accessible read for children. The story encourages curiosity and reflection on human nature and relationships.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers and thinkers, and anyone who enjoys stories that delve into life's big questions.

• Cosmic by Frank Cottrell Boyce
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The book follows 12-year-old Liam who ends up on a spaceship meant for children because of a series of misunderstandings, leading to an extraordinary adventure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a funny and thrilling tale that also touches on themes of responsibility and what it means to be grown-up.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love space and adventures, and those who enjoy stories about friendship and growing up.

• George's Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy and Stephen Hawking
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: George finds a computer that opens a portal to the universe, leading him on an adventure filled with cosmic dangers and wonders.
  • Why we recommend this book: Co-written by a renowned physicist, this book makes complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and adventurers, and anyone curious about the universe.

• Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke (Illustrator: Ben Hatke)
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Zita finds herself a reluctant heroine when she’s propelled into a quest to rescue a friend who's been abducted by aliens.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its engaging graphic novel format and fast-paced plot make it a great choice for visual learners and reluctant readers.
  • Perfect for: Fans of graphic novels and heroic tales, and readers who like strong female characters.

• The True Meaning of Smekday by Adam Rex
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: After the alien Boov invade Earth, 11-year-old Tip sets off on a cross-country adventure to find her mother, accompanied by a renegade Boov.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s hilarious and heartwarming, offering a unique take on alien invasion stories with lots of laughs and a deep message about understanding.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a good laugh with their sci-fi and those who appreciate tales of friendship and resilience.

Educational Fiction Books About Space for 10-Year-Olds

• Space Case by Stuart Gibbs
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set on a moon base in 2040, this story follows twelve-year-old Dashiell Gibson as he unravels the mystery surrounding the suspicious death of one of the base’s top scientists.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, problem-solving, scientific knowledge about space
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines science fiction with a gripping mystery, making it a compelling read that keeps young readers engaged while educating them about life in space.
  • Perfect for: Young sleuths and science enthusiasts who love a good mystery.

• The Countdown Conspiracy by Katie Slivensky
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Miranda Regent is selected as one of six kids training for a mission to Mars, but things turn dangerous when threats and sabotage start to jeopardize the mission.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, leadership, scientific principles related to space travel
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an exciting look at space exploration and the challenges of interstellar travel, wrapped in a thrilling adventure.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring astronauts and readers who thrive on action-packed stories.

• See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Eleven-year-old Alex Petroski loves space and rockets. His journey to launch his iPod into space leads him on an epic road trip that turns into a discovery of family secrets.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, resilience, understanding of space and astronomy
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a heartwarming adventure that captures the wonder of space exploration and the complexity of human relationships.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who are curious about the universe and the intricacies of family dynamics.

• Astrotwins -- Project Blastoff by Mark Kelly with Martha Freeman
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Twin brothers Mark and Scott Kelly work together with friends to turn their grandpa's old barn into a spaceship in this inspiring tale based on the real-life experiences of astronaut Mark Kelly.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, creativity, basic engineering and physics
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages problem-solving and innovation, showing how determination and teamwork can literally reach new heights.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in DIY projects and stories of real-life astronauts.

Challenging Fiction Books About Space for 10-Year-Olds

• The Search for WondLa by Tony DiTerlizzi
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Eva Nine is a young girl who, after being raised by a robot in an underground sanctuary, must venture above ground for the first time into a strange and mysterious world to search for other humans.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel introduces complex themes of survival, identity, and environmental conservation wrapped in rich, descriptive language and a unique otherworldly setting.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a beautifully illustrated adventure that stimulates the imagination and challenges young readers to think about their place in the world.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love exploring new worlds and thinking about future possibilities.

• The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer L. Holm
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Ellie's world changes dramatically when her grandfather, a scientist, discovers a way to reverse aging and turns up at her doorstep as a teenager. Together, they embark on an experiment that challenges the natural order of life and science.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into complex scientific concepts and ethical dilemmas, making it a thought-provoking read for young minds.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book blends science with a touch of magic and humor, encouraging curiosity about science and the ethics of scientific discovery.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and any kid who’s ever wished they could have a grandparent as a classmate.

• The Tanglewood Terror by Kurtis Scaletta
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: When a mysterious glowing fungus begins to envelop the town of Tanglewood, 12-year-old Kip and his sister are thrust into a dangerous investigation to uncover the origins of the growth and how to stop it.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative combines advanced scientific and botanical concepts with a suspenseful plot, providing both intellectual and emotional challenges.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping tale that combines science with suspense, perfect for those who love a mystery with a twist of science fiction.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy eerie mysteries and learning about nature’s oddities.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: The gifted foursome known as The Mysterious Benedict Society is on a global scavenger hunt to find Mr. Benedict, who has been kidnapped. The team must use their unique skills to solve puzzles and face numerous challenges.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book requires readers to solve complex puzzles and riddles along with the characters, enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an intellectually stimulating puzzle-packed adventure that celebrates the power of friendship and intelligence.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle lovers and young detectives who enjoy stories about teamwork and intellectual challenges.

• Skyward by Brandon Sanderson
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Spensa dreams of becoming a pilot in her world’s defense force against alien attackers, but she must first overcome her father's legacy as a coward. Her discovery of a crashed spaceship offers a path to achieving her dreams.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative explores complex themes of bravery, redemption, and societal expectations with a sophisticated plot and multi-dimensional characters.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an exhilarating tale of perseverance and self-discovery, with high stakes and thrilling aerial battles.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring pilots and adventurers, and anyone who loves a good underdog story.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the vast universe of space fiction books, it’s a great opportunity to develop stellar reading habits. Here are some fun and effective exercises designed specifically for 10-year-olds to enhance their reading experience. Let’s blast off into these activities!

• Create a Reading Spacecraft
  • What it is: Design a dedicated space for reading that is comfortable and inviting.
  • How it helps: Encourages regular reading by creating a special 'spacecraft' where adventures in books feel exciting.
  • Tips: Decorate with space-themed items to make the area more appealing and inspiring.

• Mission Control Reading Plan
  • What it is: Set up a reading schedule that outlines when and what to read.
  • How it helps: Helps manage time and sets a routine, making reading a daily habit.
  • Tips: Use a calendar or planner to mark reading times, just like setting dates for space missions!

• Astronaut Book Club
  • What it is: Form a book club with friends who are also interested in space fiction.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention through discussion and shared insights.
  • Tips: Meet regularly to discuss the book's plot, characters, and exciting discoveries.

• Space Log Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Keep a list of new or interesting words found in the books.
  • How it helps: Expands vocabulary and improves understanding of the text.
  • Tips: Try using the new words in sentences or a story to better grasp their meanings.

• Star Mapping the Story
  • What it is: Create a visual map or timeline of the story’s events.
  • How it helps: Helps with understanding the sequence of events and the relationship between them.
  • Tips: Use drawings or symbols to represent different parts of the book on a poster board.

• Alien Artifacts
  • What it is: Collect items or pictures that relate to the themes or objects described in the book.
  • How it helps: Makes connections between the reading material and the real world, enhancing engagement.
  • Tips: Look for items around the house or draw them to add to your collection.

These exercises aren’t just about reading; they’re about making the journey through your space-themed books as engaging and educational as possible. Remember, every young astronaut needs a good base to start from. Enjoy your reading adventures!