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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect physics books for 12-year-olds that are both engaging and educational? You've come to the right place! Whether your young reader is a budding scientist or just curious about how the world works, we've got a selection of books that will capture their imagination and deepen their understanding of physics. Keep reading to discover our top picks for physics books that are ideal for 12-year-olds!

Fun Physics Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Explorabook: A Kid's Science Museum in a Book by John Cassidy
  • Illustrator: The Klutz Team
  • Genre(s): Science, Interactive, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book acts as a mini science museum, filled with interactive experiments and explanations about the basics of physics and other sciences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It includes hands-on activities that make learning physics fun and engaging, which is great for keeping young readers interested.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love interactive learning and hands-on experiments.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Illustrator: Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This true story follows a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to save his village from drought and famine, teaching himself physics in the process.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an inspiring tale that shows how determination and knowledge can change lives, encouraging young readers to see the practical and transformative power of physics.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and any child interested in real-life applications of science.

• Physics: Why Matter Matters! by Simon Basher and Dan Green
  • Illustrator: Simon Basher
  • Genre(s): Educational, Science
  • Synopsis: Presented with quirky illustrations, this book introduces the basic concepts of physics, including atoms, electrons, and the laws of motion, in a very accessible and fun way.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its unique visual style and clear, simple explanations help demystify complex concepts, making physics approachable and enjoyable.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and readers who appreciate a bit of humor with their education.

• Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson
  • Genre(s): Science, Astrophysics, Educational
  • Synopsis: Adapted from his bestselling book for adults, Tyson offers young readers an easy-to-understand overview of the universe, explaining how it works, from the big bang to black holes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It distills complex ideas into clear, exciting concepts that are accessible to younger audiences, sparking curiosity about the universe.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young astronomers and anyone curious about the cosmos and its workings.

• The New Way Things Work by David Macaulay
  • Genre(s): Science, Technology, Engineering
  • Synopsis: Through detailed illustrations and engaging text, this book explains the mechanics behind how things work, from simple machines to modern technology.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive look at the physical principles and inventions that shape our world, explained in a way that is both educational and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Young tech enthusiasts and budding engineers curious about the inner workings of machines.

Educational Physics Books for 12-Year-Olds

• How Things Work: The Physics of Everyday Life by Louis A. Bloomfield
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book explores the physics behind everyday objects and actions, such as why you don't fall out of a roller coaster and how your spoon heats up in a cup of hot soup.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic physics concepts, critical thinking, understanding of everyday phenomena
  • Why we recommend this book: It applies physics to real-world situations, making the subject relatable and easier to understand for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who enjoy discovering the science behind daily activities.

• The Physics Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained by DK
  • Genre(s): Reference, Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book covers essential concepts and milestones in physics through clear, concise explanations accompanied by engaging visuals and illustrations.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of key physics concepts, historical context of scientific discoveries, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It breaks down complex ideas into simple explanations and offers a visual journey through the history of physics.
  • Perfect for: Students who appreciate clear, visual explanations and those interested in the history of science.

• Physics for Future Presidents: The Science Behind the Headlines by Richard A. Muller
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This book explains the science behind major modern issues such as terrorism, energy, and nuclear power, in terms that are accessible to non-scientists.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of physics in the context of current events, critical thinking, analytical skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a practical understanding of how physics principles apply to real-world issues, which is crucial for informed citizenship.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and how it impacts global issues.

• The Manga Guide to Physics by Hideo Nitta, Keita Takatsu
  • Illustrator: Keita Takatsu
  • Genre(s): Manga, Educational, Science
  • Synopsis: This manga follows Megumi, a high school student who learns about physics during her tennis matches, explaining concepts like force, velocity, and momentum in an engaging storyline.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Physics concepts, problem-solving, reading comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses the popular manga format to make learning physics fun and accessible, particularly appealing to visual learners.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love storytelling and those new to physics concepts.

Challenging Physics Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Six Easy Pieces: Essentials of Physics Explained by Its Most Brilliant Teacher by Richard P. Feynman
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: Derived from the legendary lectures of Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman, this book simplifies the essentials of physics, covering topics like atoms, basic physics, and quantum mechanics.
  • Why this book is challenging: Feynman introduces concepts that are foundational yet complex, demanding a higher level of abstract thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers insights from one of the most brilliant physicists in history, making complex subjects accessible and interesting.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are serious about diving deeper into the world of physics.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Illustrator: Diana Sudyka
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: While not strictly a physics book, this novel incorporates scientific and logical puzzles that involve physics concepts as part of the story's challenges.
  • Why this book is challenging: The puzzles and problems in the book require understanding of physics principles to solve, integrating science with critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively weaves physics into a thrilling narrative, making the learning process exciting and narrative-driven.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories where science and adventure intersect.

• The Cartoon Guide to Physics by Larry Gonick
  • Genre(s): Comic Book, Educational, Science
  • Synopsis: This illustrated guide explains physics concepts through engaging cartoons and clear, informative text.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a wide range of topics from mechanical to thermal physics, requiring readers to grasp varied concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: The combination of humorous illustrations and serious content makes complex topics more approachable and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and readers who prefer a lighter, more engaging approach to serious subjects.

• Quantum Physics for Kids: A Fun and Visual Exploration of the Science that Connects Everything! by Chris Ferrie
  • Genre(s): Educational, Science
  • Synopsis: This book introduces young readers to the principles of quantum physics, explaining complex theories through simple and engaging text.
  • Why this book is challenging: Quantum physics is a complex field often reserved for higher education, but this book introduces it at an accessible level.
  • Why we recommend this book: It simplifies a highly advanced topic, sparking interest in young readers about one of science's most fascinating fields.
  • Perfect for: Kids who have a strong curiosity about the universe and its fundamental workings.

• Understanding Physics by Isaac Asimov
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This series by renowned author and biochemist Isaac Asimov covers motion, sound, heat, light, and the electromagnetic spectrum in a detailed yet accessible manner.
  • Why this book is challenging: It dives deep into each topic, providing a thorough understanding that goes beyond surface-level knowledge.
  • Why we recommend this book: Asimov's clear and engaging writing makes challenging content understandable and interesting, providing a strong foundation in physics.
  • Perfect for: Students who are ready to explore the deeper aspects of physics with clarity and insight.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Diving into physics books can be a thrilling adventure for 12-year-olds, sparking curiosity about the world around them. To make the most out of their reading experience, here are some engaging exercises designed to enhance their understanding and enjoyment of physics.

• Create a Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Compile new and interesting terms found in physics books.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of key physics concepts and builds a stronger vocabulary.
  • Tips: Use a notebook or digital app to organize the words alphabetically and review them weekly.

• Summarize Each Chapter
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after reading.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Keep summaries short and focus on the main ideas and discoveries.

• Draw Concept Maps
  • What it is: Create visual diagrams that map out the relationships between different physics concepts covered in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize and better understand complex concepts.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to differentiate between ideas and make the maps more engaging.

• Teach What You Learn
  • What it is: Explain physics concepts learned from the book to family or friends.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention by articulating the information.
  • Tips: Try to use simple language and real-life examples to make the explanations clear and relatable.

• Connect Physics to Everyday Life
  • What it is: Identify and discuss how different physics concepts apply to everyday situations.
  • How it helps: Makes learning more relevant and interesting by connecting theory with real-world applications.
  • Tips: Keep a journal of daily activities and relate them to physics concepts discussed in the books.

These exercises are not just about reading; they're about interacting with the content in a meaningful way. By engaging actively with physics books, 12-year-olds can develop a deeper understanding and a lasting interest in the subject. So, grab that book, dive in, and let the wonders of physics light up your world!