10+ Best National Geographic Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to spark curiosity and adventure in your young reader? Look no further than National Geographic Books for 8-Year-Olds! These books are tailor-made to captivate and educate, taking young minds on a journey through the wonders of our world. Keep reading to discover our curated lists of National Geographic Books for 8-Year-Olds that promise to engage, inform, and inspire.

Fun National Geographic Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Weird But True! by National Geographic Kids
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Trivia
  • Synopsis: This book is packed with bizarre facts and incredible information that will astonish young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's designed to spark curiosity and encourage learning through fun, weird facts that are appealing to kids.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love fun facts and trivia.

• Ultimate Explorer Field Guide: Birds by Julie Beer
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Guidebook, Nature
  • Synopsis: This field guide introduces young readers to the world of birds, with tips on how to observe and identify different species.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages outdoor exploration and teaches children about the diversity of bird species in an engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Young nature enthusiasts and aspiring bird watchers.

• 5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!) by National Geographic Kids
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Reference, Trivia
  • Synopsis: A comprehensive book filled with chapters on a wide range of topics, each brimming with 5,000 incredible facts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a vast amount of knowledge in a lively, accessible format that captivates young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are eager to learn about a wide array of subjects in a fun, engaging way.

• Beginner's United States Atlas by National Geographic Kids
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Atlas, Geography
  • Synopsis: An easy-to-read atlas designed to teach children about the United States, including maps, state facts, and more.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great educational tool that helps children understand geography and develop a sense of spatial awareness.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers interested in learning more about different states and geographical features.

• National Geographic Kids Almanac by National Geographic Kids
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Almanac, Reference
  • Synopsis: An annual almanac that includes the latest news on science, space, technology, and more, tailored for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's updated annually with the most current information, making it a reliable and engaging resource for curious minds.
  • Perfect for: Kids who want to stay informed about the world and enjoy keeping up with current events and discoveries.

Educational National Geographic Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Little Kids First Big Book of Why by Amy Shields
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book provides answers to the big questions that curious little minds have about how things work.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, curiosity, basic scientific and social concepts
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles a wide range of questions with clear explanations and engaging visuals, making complex ideas accessible and interesting.
  • Perfect for: Inquisitive young minds who constantly ask "Why?"

• Little Kids First Big Book of Space by Catherine D. Hughes, illustrated by David A. Aguilar
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Space, Educational
  • Synopsis: This colorful book introduces young readers to the wonders of space, from the Earth to the farthest galaxies.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic astronomy, understanding the solar system, scientific curiosity
  • Why we recommend this book: The book's large pictures and simple text make the vast topic of space approachable and fascinating for young children.
  • Perfect for: Kids who dream of becoming astronauts or are fascinated by the stars and planets.

• National Geographic Kids Brain Games by Jennifer Swanson
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Puzzles, Games
  • Synopsis: A collection of challenges, puzzles, and games designed to boost brain power and cognitive skills.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, logic, concentration
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fun and interactive way to sharpen the mind and encourages kids to think outside the box.
  • Perfect for: Youngsters who enjoy challenges and games that test their thinking and logic skills.

• National Geographic Kids Cookbook: A Year-Round Fun Food Adventure by Barton Seaver
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Cookbook, Educational
  • Synopsis: This cookbook teaches kids how to cook simple, healthy recipes while learning about the seasons and where food comes from.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cooking skills, nutritional knowledge, awareness of seasonal eating
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines cooking with education about sustainability and healthy eating, making it both practical and informative.
  • Perfect for: Young chefs and food enthusiasts who are eager to learn more about cooking and the origins of their meals.

• National Geographic Kids Wild Adventures: Super Simple Bird Guide by Julie Beer
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Wildlife, Guidebook
  • Synopsis: This guide offers a simple introduction to bird watching, featuring information on how to identify various bird species and understand their behaviors.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Bird identification, observation skills, appreciation for nature
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great starter book for young bird watchers, with easy-to-understand information and engaging activities.
  • Perfect for: Budding ornithologists and kids interested in learning more about wildlife and nature observation.

Challenging National Geographic Books for 8-Year-Olds

• National Geographic Kids Science Encyclopedia by National Geographic Kids
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Encyclopedia
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive encyclopedia covers a wide range of scientific topics, including physics, chemistry, biology, and technology.
  • Why this book is challenging: The encyclopedia format presents a vast amount of information that requires readers to engage deeply with complex scientific concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides detailed explanations and vivid illustrations that help simplify complex subjects, making science accessible and exciting.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists who are eager to explore more advanced topics and expand their knowledge.

• National Geographic Kids World Atlas by National Geographic Kids
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Atlas, Geography
  • Synopsis: This atlas offers detailed maps of the world, along with facts about the countries, cultures, and people around the globe.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes comprehensive geographic information that goes beyond basic atlas content, encouraging advanced understanding of global topics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It helps young readers develop a global perspective and enhances their spatial thinking and map-reading skills.
  • Perfect for: Young geographers and travelers who want to learn more about the world in a detailed and engaging way.

• Everything Rocks and Minerals by Steve Tomecek
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Geology
  • Synopsis: This fascinating book dives into the world of rocks and minerals, explaining how they are formed and why they are important to our planet.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces geological concepts and terminology that are typically not explored deeply at this age level.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers clear explanations and stunning photographs that capture the beauty and complexity of geology, sparking curiosity about the Earth's structure.
  • Perfect for: Young geologists and anyone interested in learning about the physical aspects of our planet.

• National Geographic Kids Everything Mythology by Blake Hoena
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Mythology, Culture
  • Synopsis: This book explores the myths and legends from various cultures around the world, including Greek, Norse, and Egyptian mythology.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a diverse range of myths with rich cultural contexts that require higher-level reading comprehension and cultural understanding.
  • Why we recommend this book: It broadens readers' horizons by introducing them to the fascinating stories and characters that have shaped human history and culture.
  • Perfect for: Young readers fascinated by stories, history, and the origins of ancient cultures.

• National Geographic Kids Ultimate Dinopedia: The Most Complete Dinosaur Reference Ever by Don Lessem, illustrated by Franco Tempesta
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Dinosaurs, Reference
  • Synopsis: This is the most comprehensive dinosaur reference guide, including detailed profiles of various dinosaurs, their habitats, and behaviors.
  • Why this book is challenging: It offers in-depth scientific information and paleontological details that go beyond basic dinosaur facts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thorough exploration of dinosaurs with engaging illustrations and up-to-date research that will captivate and educate young readers.
  • Perfect for: Dinosaur enthusiasts who are ready to take their knowledge to the next level and delve deeper into paleontology.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! Are you looking for fun and effective ways to help your 8-year-old develop good reading habits with National Geographic books? Here are some engaging exercises that can make reading more enjoyable and beneficial. These activities are not only fun but also educational, enhancing their learning experience as they explore the world through reading.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Set up a dedicated and comfortable area for reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages regular reading by providing a special spot just for this activity.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions or posters.

• Book Themed Art Projects
  • What it is: Create art projects based on themes or scenes from the National Geographic books.
  • How it helps: Reinforces content comprehension and makes learning visually engaging.
  • Tips: Use a variety of materials like clay, paint, or recycled items to keep things interesting.

• Map It Out
  • What it is: Draw maps or create diagrams related to the information in the books.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of geographical and environmental concepts.
  • Tips: Hang the maps around the reading space to serve as visual reminders of what's been learned.

• Storytelling Sessions
  • What it is: Encourage your child to retell the stories or facts they read.
  • How it helps: Improves memory and oral communication skills.
  • Tips: Make it a family activity where everyone shares something from their reading.

• Reading Challenges
  • What it is: Set up challenges with a certain number of books to read each month.
  • How it helps: Motivates continuous reading and goal setting.
  • Tips: Reward accomplishments with small treats or new books to keep the momentum.

• Question and Answer Time
  • What it is: After reading, ask your child specific questions about the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and critical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Keep questions fun and engaging rather than making it feel like a test.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Enroll your child in a kids' book club that focuses on National Geographic titles.
  • How it helps: Provides social interaction and exposes them to different perspectives.
  • Tips: If there isn’t a local club, consider starting one with school friends or neighbors.

Incorporating these exercises into your child's reading routine can dramatically improve their engagement and retention of information. Not only will they learn more about the world, but they'll also develop a lifelong love for reading. So, grab some National Geographic books and start exploring these activities today!