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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that will transport your 10-year-old to other worlds and dimensions? You're in the right place! Our curated selection of Sci Fi Books for 10-Year-olds is sure to captivate young minds with thrilling adventures and imaginative journeys. Keep reading to discover our various lists that cater to every young sci-fi enthusiast's taste!

Fun Sci Fi Books for 10-Year-Olds

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The story follows Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe as they travel through space and time to rescue Meg's father from an evil force.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of science fiction and fantasy, providing a thrilling adventure that captivates young readers and stimulates their imagination.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love adventure and exploring new worlds.

• The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When robot Roz opens her eyes for the first time, she discovers that she is alone on a remote, wild island. She must learn to survive and adapt to her surroundings.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book teaches themes of friendship, survival, and technology, all wrapped up in a fun and engaging story.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in robots and nature.

• Space Case by Stuart Gibbs
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This story is set on a moon base where twelve-year-old Dashiell Gibson realizes he's caught up in a mystery when one of the scientists on the base dies under suspicious circumstances.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great combination of science fiction and mystery, perfect for keeping readers engaged while encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love a good mystery and have a fascination with space.

• Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Graphic Novel, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Zita finds herself a stranger on a distant planet after she pushes a button that transports her into the universe. She becomes a spacegirl who must rescue her friend.
  • Why we recommend this book: The graphic novel format is especially appealing to reluctant readers, and the story is full of action and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and readers who enjoy graphic novels and stories about heroism.

• The True Meaning of Smekday by Adam Rex
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: An alien race named the Boov invades Earth, and through this event, a young girl named Gratuity "Tip" Tucci goes on a road trip to find her mother.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's hilariously funny and creative, offering a unique take on alien invasion stories that also explores themes of friendship and diversity.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a good laugh and creative stories about alien encounters.

Educational Sci Fi Books for 10-Year-Olds

• George's Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy and Stephen Hawking
  • Illustrator: Garry Parsons
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: George's adventures begin when he finds a secret key that unlocks a portal to the universe, leading him on a journey across the cosmos with his new friend, Annie, and her scientist father.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic astronomy, understanding of the universe, scientific curiosity
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines real science with a thrilling story, co-written by one of the most famous physicists, Stephen Hawking.
  • Perfect for: Young astronomers and any kid curious about space and science.

• The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer L. Holm
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Ellie's scientist grandfather has found a way to reverse aging, and as a result, he turns into a teenager and goes to middle school with her, leading to funny and insightful adventures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific method, ethics in science, intergenerational relationships
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a funny, heartwarming story that encourages critical thinking about the implications of scientific discoveries.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love science and stories that mix humor with thought-provoking ideas.

• Frank Einstein and the Antimatter Motor by Jon Scieszka
  • Illustrator: Brian Biggs
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Humor, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Young inventor Frank Einstein creates a robot that can think for itself, and together they embark on experiments and adventures that involve physics and engineering.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Physics, engineering, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a hilarious and educational series that makes complex scientific concepts accessible and fun.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists and inventors, and anyone who enjoys a good laugh along with learning.

• The Search for WondLa by Tony DiTerlizzi
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Eva Nine is a girl raised by a robot in an underground shelter. When her home is destroyed, she steps outside for the first time to search for other humans in a bizarre and wondrous world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Ecology, biodiversity, adaptation
  • Why we recommend this book: The story is richly illustrated and filled with imaginative creatures and landscapes, encouraging exploration and appreciation of biodiversity.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love adventure and exploring alien ecosystems.

• Cosmic by Frank Cottrell Boyce
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: Liam is a 12-year-old who is often mistaken for an adult, which leads him to pose as a dad to go on a thrilling space adventure that tests his courage and wit.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Astronomy, ethics, leadership skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with a thought-provoking look at what it means to be responsible and brave.
  • Perfect for: Kids who dream of space travel and enjoy stories with both laughs and life lessons.

Challenging Sci Fi Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Supernaturalist by Eoin Colfer
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a future world where life is harsh and death is easy, a young orphan named Cosmo Hill escapes his dreadful life only to encounter a group of kids who can see supernatural Parasites that feed on human life force.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel introduces complex themes of dystopia, corporate control, and existential questions, which are advanced topics for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's action-packed and thought-provoking, providing a gripping narrative along with a critique of societal issues.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fast-paced stories with a deep narrative and critical thinking about the future.

• The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: The city of Ember was built as a last refuge for the human race. Two hundred years later, the great lamps that light the city are beginning to flicker. When Lina finds part of an ancient message, she’s sure it holds a secret that will save the city.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes like societal decay, resource management, and the search for truth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a mystery-filled adventure and encourages problem-solving and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love puzzles and mysteries, as well as stories about overcoming odds to save one’s community.

• The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm by Nancy Farmer
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure, African Folklore
  • Synopsis: In 2194 in Zimbabwe, three children escape from their home’s high-tech security only to find themselves embroiled in a series of dangerous adventures. They are pursued by detectives with unusual powers.
  • Why this book is challenging: It integrates advanced science fiction elements with African folklore, creating a unique and complex narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book blends cultural richness with futuristic speculation, offering a unique perspective not often found in children’s literature.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in diverse cultures and futuristic settings.

• The Time Hackers by Gary Paulsen
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When Dorso and his friend Frank find themselves being randomly transported through time, they must figure out who or what is causing these time warps before they are trapped in the past or future forever.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex concepts of time travel and the consequences of tampering with time.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure that challenges the imagination and introduces the principles of cause and effect in time.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fascinated by the concept of time travel and enjoy fast-paced, suspenseful stories.

• Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The gifted foursome are on a global scavenger hunt to find Mr. Benedict, who has been kidnapped. The journey becomes a challenging test of their intelligence and courage.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book requires readers to solve puzzles and riddles along with the characters, involving complex problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking and creativity, wrapped up in an engaging narrative of friendship and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy brain teasers, mysteries, and stories of adventure and teamwork.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the exciting world of sci-fi books and you're around 10 years old, you're in for a treat! Sci-fi books not only spark imagination but also improve reading skills. To make the most out of your reading adventure, here are some exercises that can help you develop good reading habits:

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you want to read.
  • How it helps: Setting goals can keep you motivated and make reading a regular part of your day.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually challenge yourself as you get more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home where you can read without interruptions.
  • How it helps: Having a dedicated space can help you focus and enhance your reading experience.
  • Tips: Make sure your reading area is well-lit and comfortable, and maybe add some fun decorations like posters of your favorite books!

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you read with friends or family members who are also reading them.
  • How it helps: Discussing a book can help you understand it better and remember more of what you read.
  • Tips: Try to express what you liked about the book, your favorite characters, and what surprised you in the story.

• Map the Story
  • What it is: Draw a map or a timeline of the story as you read it.
  • How it helps: This helps you keep track of the plot and the different settings in the story.
  • Tips: You can use colors and symbols to mark important events or changes in the story.

• Predict the Next Chapter
  • What it is: Before you start a new chapter, guess what might happen next in the story.
  • How it helps: This exercise can increase your engagement and curiosity about the story.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many of them were right as you read.

These exercises are designed to make your reading time both fun and beneficial. By incorporating these habits into your routine, you'll not only enjoy your sci-fi adventures more, but you'll also strengthen your reading skills. Happy reading, young explorers!