10+ Best Nonfiction Books for 10-12-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that both educates and entertains? Look no further! Our carefully curated selection of nonfiction books for 10-12-year-olds is packed with exciting choices that are sure to captivate curious young minds. Whether your child is a budding scientist or a history enthusiast, these books will enrich their knowledge and spark their imagination. Keep reading to discover our top picks of nonfiction books for 10-12-year-olds that can't be missed!

Fun Nonfiction Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Illustrator: Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to save his village from famine.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story that shows how creativity and determination can change lives. It also introduces young readers to renewable energy concepts.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and science enthusiasts.

• Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: A collection of short biographies highlighting the contributions of fifty notable women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from the ancient to the modern world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the achievements of women in STEM, inspiring readers with stories of perseverance and brilliance.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and history buffs.

• National Geographic Kids Why?: Over 1,111 Answers to Everything by Crispin Boyer
  • Genre(s): Reference, Science, Curiosities and Wonders
  • Synopsis: This book provides clear answers to a wide range of questions on topics such as animals, the human body, history, and much more.
  • Why we recommend this book: It feeds curiosity and encourages exploration and learning through fun facts and engaging explanations.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love fun facts and learning about a wide range of topics.

• The Kid Who Invented the Popsicle: And Other Surprising Stories about Inventions by Don L. Wulffson
  • Genre(s): History, Science, Inventions
  • Synopsis: This book explores the interesting and often unexpected stories behind various everyday inventions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a fun and fascinating look at the history of inventions, showing how many common items came to be.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and anyone interested in how things work.

• I Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World (Young Readers Edition) by Malala Yousafzai with Patricia McCormick
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Inspirational, Social Issues
  • Synopsis: The story of Malala Yousafzai, a young girl from Pakistan who stood up against the Taliban for her right to education.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful and moving story that highlights the importance of education and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in social justice and inspiring real-life heroes.

• What If You Had Animal Teeth? by Sandra Markle
  • Illustrator: Howard McWilliam
  • Genre(s): Science, Biology, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book explores the fascinating world of animals through the lens of their unique teeth, imagining what it would be like if humans had the same.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with science, making learning fun and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love animals and enjoy imaginative scenarios.

Educational Nonfiction Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States for Young People by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, adapted by Jean Mendoza and Debbie Reese
  • Genre(s): History, Social Studies
  • Synopsis: This book adapts the original adult text for young readers, presenting the history of the United States from the perspective of Indigenous peoples and challenging the founding myths of the country.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, historical perspective, cultural awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a necessary re-framing of U.S. history, promoting understanding and respect for the experiences and contributions of Indigenous peoples.
  • Perfect for: Students interested in American history and social justice.

• The Thrifty Guide to Ancient Rome: A Handbook for Time Travelers by Jonathan W. Stokes
  • Genre(s): History, Humor
  • Synopsis: Part of "The Thrifty Guides" series, this book is a whimsical travel guide for time travelers visiting ancient Rome, offering tips, do's and don'ts, and fun facts about daily life in the past.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, critical thinking, reading comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and engaging way to learn about ancient history, blending factual content with humor and imaginative scenarios.
  • Perfect for: Young history buffs and fans of time travel stories.

• How to Be a Scientist by Steve Mould
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book is a vibrant introduction to the world of science, featuring experiments and explanations that cover various scientific principles and encourage hands-on learning.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific method, critical thinking, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It's interactive and visually stimulating, making science accessible and exciting for young learners.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and curious minds who love experimenting.

• Can We Help?: Kids Volunteering to Help Their Communities by George Ancona
  • Genre(s): Social Studies, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book showcases real stories of children who volunteer in their communities, illustrating how kids can make a significant impact.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, social responsibility, community involvement
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires action and demonstrates the power of kindness and community service.
  • Perfect for: Young readers looking to make a difference in their communities.

• The Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay
  • Genre(s): Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: An updated version of the classic book, it explains the inner workings of machines and technology, from levers to digital technology, using clear illustrations and accessible text.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Technical understanding, curiosity about how things work, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It demystifies complex machines and technologies, making them understandable and fascinating for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young engineers and anyone interested in mechanics and technology.

Challenging Nonfiction Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• A Black Hole Is Not a Hole by Carolyn Cinami DeCristofano
  • Illustrator: Michael Carroll
  • Genre(s): Science, Astronomy
  • Synopsis: This book introduces young readers to the mysterious and fascinating world of black holes, explaining complex scientific concepts in an accessible way.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into advanced scientific concepts and theories about space and black holes which are typically not covered in depth at this age level.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a clear and engaging explanation of a complex topic, sparking curiosity about the universe and science.
  • Perfect for: Budding astronomers and kids interested in space and physics.

• The Elements: A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe by Theodore Gray
  • Genre(s): Science, Chemistry
  • Synopsis: This visually stunning book presents detailed information and fascinating facts about every element in the periodic table.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a broad range of scientific data and uses a sophisticated vocabulary to describe chemical properties and atomic structures.
  • Why we recommend this book: The book makes chemistry visually appealing and comprehensible, encouraging a deeper understanding of the material world.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and anyone with a keen interest in chemistry and the elements.

• Lost City: The Discovery of Machu Picchu by Ted Lewin
  • Genre(s): History, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book recounts the thrilling discovery of Machu Picchu by explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911, illustrated with evocative watercolors.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes historical and cultural complexities of the Inca civilization and the story of exploration and archaeology.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines history with adventure, bringing to life the excitement of discovery and exploration.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous spirits and young historians interested in ancient civilizations and exploration.

• The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos by Deborah Heiligman
  • Illustrator: LeUyen Pham
  • Genre(s): Biography, Mathematics
  • Synopsis: This book explores the life of Paul Erdos, a famous mathematician, focusing on his passion for math and his unique lifestyle.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex mathematical concepts and the lifestyle of a mathematician not typically accessible to children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the beauty of mathematics and the quirks of a genius, inspiring a love for math in a personal and relatable way.
  • Perfect for: Math enthusiasts and kids who enjoy stories about unique individuals.

• Radioactive!: How Irène Curie and Lise Meitner Revolutionized Science and Changed the World by Winifred Conkling
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book highlights the achievements and challenges of Irène Curie and Lise Meitner, two pioneering women in the field of radioactivity.
  • Why this book is challenging: It discusses detailed scientific research and historical contexts that require a mature understanding from readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sheds light on the significant contributions of female scientists and the impact of their work on our understanding of the world.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in science history and stories of groundbreaking women in science.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're between 10 and 12 years old and diving into the world of nonfiction books, you're on an exciting journey of learning and discovery. To make the most of your reading experience, here are some fun and effective exercises to help you develop great reading habits. These exercises are not only enjoyable but also enhance your understanding and retention of what you read. Let's get started!

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many books you want to read in a month or choose specific topics you're interested in.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and motivated to read regularly.
  • Tips: Choose realistic goals that are challenging yet achievable to keep you motivated.

• Create a Reading Schedule
  • What it is: Plan specific times in your day or week dedicated solely to reading.
  • How it helps: Ensures you make time for reading amidst other activities.
  • Tips: Stick to your reading schedule as much as possible, and treat it like an important appointment.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you read with friends, family, or a book club.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and gives you different perspectives on the topic.
  • Tips: Try to express what you liked, what you learned, and ask others their thoughts.

• Summarize Each Chapter
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you finish reading it.
  • How it helps: Improves memory and understanding of the material.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries short and focus on the main points.

• Ask Questions Before Reading
  • What it is: Write down questions that you hope to answer through your reading.
  • How it helps: Sets a purpose for reading and engages you more deeply with the content.
  • Tips: Review your questions after reading to see if they were answered, and how.

• Use Visual Aids
  • What it is: Create mind maps, diagrams, or drawings related to what you read.
  • How it helps: Helps in visualizing information and makes learning more interactive.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to make your visual aids more interesting and easier to remember.

• Reflect on Your Reading
  • What it is: Take a few minutes to reflect on the book after you finish it.
  • How it helps: Allows you to internalize what you've learned and think critically about the content.
  • Tips: Write down your reflections or discuss them with someone else.

These exercises are designed to boost your engagement with nonfiction books and help you build strong reading habits. Whether you're exploring science, history, or any other subject, these strategies will enhance your learning experience and make reading even more rewarding. Happy reading!