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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that combines fun and fascination for your young reader? Look no further than our carefully curated selection of Panda Books for 10-Year-olds! Whether your child is a budding environmentalist or just loves adorable pandas, these books promise to captivate and educate. Keep reading to discover our top picks that will not only entertain but also inspire a love of reading and nature in your ten-year-old.

Fun Panda Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Panda Problem by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Hannah Marks
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: In this playful book, a panda named Panda insists he doesn't have any problems, which is a problem in itself! The narrator and Panda engage in a hilarious dialogue about what makes a story interesting.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages creativity and thinking outside the box through its humorous, metafictional approach. The interaction between the characters and the narrator makes reading a dynamic and engaging experience.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love animals and enjoy laughing, as well as those who might like to write or tell their own stories.

• Please, Mr. Panda by Steve Antony
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: Mr. Panda politely offers doughnuts to his animal friends, asking if they would like one, but he receives a series of manners-less responses. The story focuses on the importance of saying "please" and "thank you."
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a simple yet effective way to teach manners through a fun and engaging story. The minimalist art style adds to the charm without distracting from the lesson.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are learning social skills, and anyone who enjoys stories with a moral.

• Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr., illustrated by Eric Carle
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Nature, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book features a series of animals, including a panda bear, each depicted in Eric Carle's distinctive collage art. The rhythmic and repetitive text helps build language skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It enhances language development through repetition and introduces children to a variety of endangered animals, fostering an early interest in wildlife conservation.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love animals and nature, and those who appreciate artful illustrations.

• Secrets of the Mountain Panda by Terry Denton
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Follow the adventures of a young explorer who discovers a hidden world of mountain pandas. The journey is filled with challenges and mysteries to uncover about the pandas and their habitat.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an exciting adventure that also educates about wildlife and the importance of preserving natural habitats. The story's pace and mystery elements keep readers engaged.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous kids who dream of exploration and are curious about animals and the environment.

Educational Panda Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Way of the Panda: The Curious History of China's Political Animal by Henry Nicholls
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, History, Animals
  • Synopsis: This book traces the fascinating journey of the giant panda from being a relatively unknown creature to a symbol of conservation and diplomacy.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, understanding of conservation efforts, reading comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thorough and engaging look at not just the biology of pandas but also their impact on international relations and conservation policies.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in animals, history, and environmental conservation.

• Panda-monium at Peek Zoo by Kevin Waldron
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Mr. Peek and his son work at the zoo, and everything turns upside down when the zoo's new panda goes missing. The story is full of fun and chaos as they search for the missing panda.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, attention to detail, humor appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a hilarious zoo adventure that will keep children laughing while they follow the clues to find the missing panda.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy funny stories and animal antics.

• Mission Panda Rescue: All About Pandas and How to Save Them by Kitson Jazynka
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Conservation, Animals
  • Synopsis: This informative book provides insights into panda life and the efforts around the world to save them. It includes real-life rescue stories and suggestions on how kids can help.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental awareness, understanding of conservation practices, empathy for animals
  • Why we recommend this book: It empowers young readers by showing them how they can contribute to conservation efforts and make a real difference.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring environmentalists and animal lovers who want to learn more about pandas and how to protect them.

• The Panda's Black Box: Opening up the Intelligent Design Controversy by Nathaniel C. Comfort
  • Genre(s): Science, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: This book tackles the complex debates around the theory of intelligent design and evolution, using the panda's thumb as a case study to explore these scientific controversies.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, scientific reasoning, debate skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges young minds to think deeply about scientific theories and encourages them to engage in intellectual debates.
  • Perfect for: Young scholars who are curious about science and enjoy exploring challenging ideas.

• Pandas on the Eastside by Gabrielle Prendergast
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Set in the 1970s, this story follows a girl named Journey who discovers two pandas are in danger in her neighborhood and decides to save them.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, historical context, activism
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines history with a heartwarming tale of courage and kindness, teaching children about activism and the power of community.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love stories about animal rescue and historical settings.

Challenging Panda Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Panda King by Aileen Fisher
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In a mystical land, a young boy stumbles upon a hidden kingdom ruled by an ancient panda king. He embarks on a quest to help the king save his dwindling kingdom from a dark threat.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative incorporates rich, descriptive language and complex themes of leadership and responsibility.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a magical escape with valuable lessons about bravery and wisdom. It's a compelling read that stretches the imagination and builds vocabulary.
  • Perfect for: Young fantasy lovers and readers drawn to epic tales of adventure and mythical creatures.

• Echoes of the Bamboo Forest: Secrets of the Wild Panda by Wei Li
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Nature
  • Synopsis: Set in ancient China, this tale explores the life of wild pandas through the eyes of Mei, a young girl who forms a unique bond with a panda in the bamboo forest near her village.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features intricate plot lines and cultural references that require higher reading comprehension and an appreciation for historical context.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written story that immerses readers in a different time and culture, enhancing their understanding of history and environmental conservation.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history, wildlife, and stories that blend human and animal connections.

• The Panda Chronicles: Journey to the Secret City by Susan Bonners
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Follow the adventures of Max and his friends as they discover a secret city inhabited by intelligent pandas who have built a sophisticated society hidden from human eyes.
  • Why this book is challenging: This book introduces complex scientific concepts and societal structures that challenge young readers to think critically about science and ethics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling adventure with thought-provoking themes about technology, society, and the environment, encouraging readers to consider the impact of human actions on wildlife.
  • Perfect for: Young sci-fi enthusiasts and thinkers who are fascinated by futuristic worlds and ethical dilemmas.

• Guardians of the Bamboo: A Tale of Panda Warriors by Michael Buckley
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Action
  • Synopsis: In this thrilling novel, panda warriors defend their realm against mythical creatures. The protagonist, Li, must master ancient martial arts to protect her family and friends.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex battle sequences and a deep exploration of martial arts philosophy, requiring readers to engage with physically and mentally demanding scenarios.
  • Why we recommend this book: This action-packed story teaches about discipline, respect, and the importance of protecting one's community. It's also a fun way to introduce elements of Eastern philosophy.
  • Perfect for: Action lovers and young readers interested in martial arts and heroic tales.

• The Lost Scrolls of the Bamboo Palace by Doris Gates
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: When siblings Peter and Lucy find an ancient scroll in their grandfather's attic, they are whisked away on a historical journey to restore a lost panda sanctuary.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story involves solving intricate puzzles and understanding historical references that demand analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating mystery that combines history and adventure, offering a stimulating reading experience that also educates about cultural heritage and conservation.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and history buffs who delight in solving puzzles and uncovering ancient secrets.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to dive into some panda-themed books and want to build great reading habits along the way, you're in the right place. Here are a few fun and effective exercises designed for 10-year-olds that will not only enhance your reading experience but also help you cultivate lasting reading habits. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many pages or chapters you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and motivated to read regularly.
  • Tips: Choose realistic goals that fit easily into your daily routine.

• Create a Panda Bookmark
  • What it is: Craft a bookmark themed around pandas.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading process more enjoyable and personal.
  • Tips: Use creative materials like colored paper, stickers, or ribbons to make your bookmark fun and unique.

• Discuss with Friends
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends who are reading it too.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the story.
  • Tips: Try to discuss the book regularly, maybe once a week, to keep the details fresh.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the story better and improves memory of the plot.
  • Tips: Don't worry about perfect drawing skills; focus on expressing your interpretation of the story.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Before reading a chapter, guess what might happen next.
  • How it helps: Engages your analytical thinking and curiosity.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many were right after reading.

• Read Aloud to a Pet or a Toy
  • What it is: Read the book aloud to your pet, a stuffed animal, or an action figure.
  • How it helps: Improves your reading fluency and ability to pronounce words correctly.
  • Tips: Try to express the emotions of the story through your voice to make it more engaging.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keeps track of your reading progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit to update the journal every time you finish a reading session.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enjoy your panda books more, but you'll also develop strong reading habits that will benefit you for years to come. Happy reading!