10+ Best General Knowledge Books for 6-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to spark curiosity in your little one? Look no further than our roundup of the best general knowledge books for 6-year-olds! These books are not only fun but also packed with fascinating facts that will keep your child engaged and eager to learn more. Keep reading to discover our top picks that promise to entertain and educate your young reader.

Fun General Knowledge Books for 6-Year-Olds

• National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Why by Amy Shields
  • Illustrator: Not specifically credited
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Reference
  • Synopsis: This book provides answers to common why questions asked by kids, covering a wide range of topics including animals, the human body, and how things work.
  • Why we recommend this book: It stimulates curiosity and encourages the development of problem-solving skills by answering the kind of questions young minds are full of.
  • Perfect for: Curious children who love to ask "Why?"

• The Everything Kids' Science Experiments Book by Tom Robinson
  • Illustrator: Not specifically credited
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Activity Book
  • Synopsis: This book offers simple science experiments that can be done with everyday household items, helping kids understand scientific concepts practically.
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes science fun and accessible, showing kids that they can interact with science in an engaging and hands-on way.
  • Perfect for: Young experimenters and budding scientists.

• First Big Book of Space by Catherine D. Hughes
  • Illustrator: David A. Aguilar
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Space, Astronomy
  • Synopsis: This colorful book introduces young readers to the wonders of space, from the Earth and the moon to the planets and beyond.
  • Why we recommend this book: It expands a child’s understanding of the vast universe with stunning visuals and easy-to-understand explanations.
  • Perfect for: Little astronomers and anyone fascinated by the stars and planets.

• Maps by Aleksandra Mizielinska and Daniel Mizielinski
  • Illustrator: Aleksandra Mizielinska and Daniel Mizielinski
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Geography, Culture
  • Synopsis: This book features maps of different countries around the world, each filled with cultural icons, animals, and landmarks unique to each region.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a visual feast for young readers and helps develop a sense of global awareness and curiosity about different cultures.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who dream of traveling the world and learning about new places.

• The Animal Book: A Visual Encyclopedia of Life on Earth by David Burnie
  • Illustrator: Not specifically credited
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Animals, Encyclopedia
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive guide to the animal kingdom covers hundreds of species, with detailed information on habitats, conservation, and animal behavior.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thorough introduction to biodiversity and helps foster a respect for wildlife and nature.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young naturalists eager to learn about the diversity of life on our planet.

Educational General Knowledge Books for 6-Year-Olds

• My First Book of Planets: All About the Solar System for Kids by Bruce Betts
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Space, Astronomy
  • Synopsis: This engaging book introduces young readers to our solar system, including detailed descriptions of each planet and interesting facts about space.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic astronomy, understanding of the solar system, scientific curiosity
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with fascinating facts and easy-to-understand information that makes learning about the solar system exciting and accessible.
  • Perfect for: Young space enthusiasts and budding astronomers.

• The Fascinating Animal Book for Kids: 500 Wild Facts! by Ginjer Clarke
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Animals, Reference
  • Synopsis: This book offers a collection of intriguing and surprising facts about a wide variety of animals, from familiar pets to exotic wild creatures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Animal knowledge, reading comprehension, attention to detail
  • Why we recommend this book: It captivates children’s interest with fun facts and vibrant photographs that encourage learning and exploration.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are fascinated by animals and enjoy learning fun, quirky facts.

• The Big Book of the Body by Minna Lacey
  • Illustrator: Peter Allen
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Human Body, Science
  • Synopsis: This interactive book explores the human body in great detail, from the brain to the toes, with engaging illustrations and lift-the-flap features.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Human anatomy, interactive learning, motor skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes learning about the human body an interactive adventure that is both educational and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Curious kids who are interested in how their body works and young learners who enjoy interactive books.

• Atlas of Adventures: A collection of natural wonders, exciting experiences and fun festivities from the four corners of the globe by Rachel Williams
  • Illustrator: Lucy Letherland
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Geography, Culture, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book takes children on a journey around the world, exploring continents and introducing them to various cultural events and natural wonders.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Geography, cultural awareness, curiosity about the world
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages a global perspective and inspires adventure and curiosity about different cultures and places.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and explorers eager to learn about the world around them.

• ABCs of Biology by Chris Ferrie and Cara Florance
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Biology
  • Synopsis: This alphabetical introduction to biology gives young readers a foundation in the science of life, covering everything from anatomy to zoology.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic biology concepts, alphabetical recognition, early reading skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It simplifies complex biology topics into understandable elements for young children, fostering early scientific learning.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and any child with a budding interest in biology and the natural world.

Challenging General Knowledge Books for 6-Year-Olds

• The Kid's Book of World Religions by Jennifer Glossop
  • Illustrator: John Mantha
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Religion, Culture
  • Synopsis: This book explores various world religions, their histories, beliefs, and practices, providing a broad understanding of cultural diversity.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex concepts of faith and belief systems, which are typically explored at older ages.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes tolerance and understanding of diverse cultures and beliefs, essential in our global society.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in learning about different cultures and religious practices.

• One Hundred Steps: The Story of Captain Sir Tom Moore by Captain Tom Moore
  • Illustrator: Adam Larkum
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This illustrated biography details the inspiring life of Captain Sir Tom Moore, from his early days in Yorkshire to his army career and his famous walk that captured hearts worldwide.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers historical events and personal challenges that require a mature understanding from young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches resilience, hope, and the impact one individual can have on the world.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love inspiring stories and learning about historical figures.

• Child's Introduction to Art: The World's Greatest Paintings and Sculptures by Heather Alexander
  • Illustrator: Meredith Hamilton
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Art, History
  • Synopsis: The book introduces children to important artworks and artists from different periods, explaining artistic movements and techniques.
  • Why this book is challenging: It discusses complex artistic concepts and historical contexts that are usually targeted to older audiences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages an appreciation for art and history and enhances observational skills.
  • Perfect for: Young artists and any child interested in learning about art and history.

• The Street Beneath My Feet by Charlotte Guillain
  • Illustrator: Yuval Zommer
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Earth Science
  • Synopsis: This unique fold-out book takes readers on a journey deep beneath the Earth's surface, exploring geological and biological secrets hidden underground.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents detailed scientific information about geology and biology in a layered, immersive format.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique visual experience that enhances understanding of Earth sciences in an engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Budding geologists and children curious about the natural world beneath their feet.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Illustrator: Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Biography, Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: This children’s version of the inspiring true story follows William Kamkwamba as he builds a windmill from scraps to save his Malawian village from drought.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses complex themes of innovation, poverty, and resilience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires creativity and problem-solving while educating about different lifestyles around the world.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and readers inspired by stories of ingenuity and determination.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 6-year-old dive into the world of general knowledge books, you're in the right place! Here are some fun and educational exercises that can help develop strong reading habits in young readers. These activities are designed to be engaging and beneficial, ensuring that reading becomes a joyful part of their daily routine.

• Picture Walk
  • What it is: Browse through the book looking at pictures before reading.
  • How it helps: Stimulates curiosity and sets a context before the actual reading begins.
  • Tips: Ask your child to guess what the book might be about based on the pictures.

• Read Aloud Together
  • What it is: You read the book aloud to your child, and then they try to read after you.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps them learn new words.
  • Tips: Change your voice for different characters to make the reading more fun and engaging.

• Question and Answer Game
  • What it is: After reading, ask each other questions about the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention of the information read.
  • Tips: Keep the questions simple and related to the story or facts in the book.

• Match the Fact
  • What it is: Create cards with facts from the book and match them with pictures or related information.
  • How it helps: Helps with memory and understanding of the content.
  • Tips: Use colorful cards and write in large, clear letters to make it more appealing.

• Story Retelling
  • What it is: Encourage your child to retell the story or a part of the book in their own words.
  • How it helps: Boosts imagination and verbal skills.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions to expand their thinking and expression.

These exercises aren't just about reading; they're about creating an interactive learning experience. By incorporating these activities into your reading routine, you're not only helping your child develop a love for books but also enhancing their understanding and appreciation of what they read. Happy reading!