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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to spark a love of learning in your young ones? Look no further! Our carefully curated selection of Science Books for 8-Year-Olds is designed to captivate curious minds and inspire future scientists. Whether your child is fascinated by stars, obsessed with insects, or eager to understand how things work, we've got something that will light up their world. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to engage and educate!

Fun Science Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Magic School Bus Inside the Earth by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Science, Adventure, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Join Ms. Frizzle and her class as they take a wild ride through the layers of the Earth aboard the Magic School Bus, exploring everything from rocks and minerals to volcanoes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It transforms complex geological concepts into an exciting adventure that makes learning effortless and fun.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who love science and adventure.

• National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Why by Amy Shields
  • Genre(s): Science, Reference
  • Synopsis: This book provides answers to common why questions asked by kids, covering a range of topics from simple machines to human body functions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It satisfies curious minds and encourages a deeper understanding of the world through accessible information and engaging questions.
  • Perfect for: Inquisitive kids who constantly ask "why?" and enjoy learning about a wide range of subjects.

• The Everything Kids' Science Experiments Book by Tom Robinson
  • Genre(s): Science, Experiments, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book offers easy and exciting experiments that can be done with everyday materials, helping kids understand scientific concepts practically.
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes science interactive and hands-on, which enhances learning and retention while keeping it fun.
  • Perfect for: Budding scientists who love experimenting and learning through doing.

• Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
  • Genre(s): Science, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Inspired by real-life makers such as Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie, Ada Twist is a very curious girl who embarks on fact-finding missions and conducts scientific experiments to understand the world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes curiosity, perseverance, and the importance of asking questions, all wrapped up in a charming story.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are curious about how things work and aren't afraid to think outside the box.

• The Curious Kid's Science Book: 100+ Creative Hands-On Activities for Ages 4-8 by Asia Citro
  • Genre(s): Science, Activity Book, Educational
  • Synopsis: The book offers a variety of science activities and experiments designed to help children question, experiment, and discover new things about the world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages creativity and critical thinking through science, providing countless hours of educational entertainment.
  • Perfect for: Creative kids who love to explore and learn through hands-on activities.

Educational Science Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Professor Astro Cat's Frontiers of Space by Dr. Dominic Walliman, illustrated by Ben Newman
  • Genre(s): Science, Space, Children's Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: This book takes young readers on a journey through the cosmos, exploring planets, stars, and galaxies with Professor Astro Cat as the guide.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Astronomy, critical thinking, understanding of complex scientific concepts
  • Why we recommend this book: It presents complex space science in a visually stimulating and easy-to-understand way.
  • Perfect for: Young space enthusiasts and future astronomers.

• The Street Beneath My Feet by Charlotte Guillain, illustrated by Yuval Zommer
  • Genre(s): Science, Earth Science, Children's Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: This unique fold-out book allows children to explore what lies beneath the city streets, from underground animals to the Earth's core.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Earth science, ecology, geography
  • Why we recommend this book: Its innovative format engages readers in a literal and metaphorical journey of discovery.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds fascinated by the natural world and how things work underground.

• How Things Work by T.J. Resler
  • Genre(s): Science, Technology, Children's Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: This book explains the mechanics behind how everyday objects and technologies function, from toasters to smartphones.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Engineering principles, technology, applied science
  • Why we recommend this book: It demystifies the gadgets and machines kids encounter daily, fostering a deeper understanding and curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Young engineers and inventors interested in technology and how things operate.

• The Bacteria Book: The Big World of Really Tiny Microbes by Steve Mould
  • Genre(s): Biology, Science, Children's Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: This book dives into the world of bacteria, viruses, and other microbes, explaining their roles in our ecosystem and human health.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Microbiology, health science, environmental awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes the invisible world of microbes visible and fascinating, encouraging respect and interest in biology.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are curious about biology and the microscopic elements that affect our lives.

• Exploratopia: More than 400 Kid-friendly Experiments and Explorations for Curious Minds by Pat Murphy, Ellen Macaulay, and the staff of the Exploratorium
  • Genre(s): Science, Experiments, Educational
  • Synopsis: Packed with activities and experiments, this book encourages children to explore and learn about physics, chemistry, biology, and psychology.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific methods, critical thinking, hands-on experimentation
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a wide range of engaging and educational activities that promote a love of science and experimentation.
  • Perfect for: Young experimenters and anyone who loves to learn by doing.

Challenging Science Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay
  • Genre(s): Science, Technology, Engineering
  • Synopsis: This updated classic explains the workings of machines and technologies from levers to lasers and digital technology.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into the mechanics of complex machines and technologies, requiring readers to grasp advanced scientific concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers detailed illustrations and clear explanations that demystify complex machinery, fostering a deeper understanding of how things work.
  • Perfect for: Young tech enthusiasts and budding engineers.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: This true story follows William Kamkwamba, a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to save his village from drought.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses complex issues like engineering and resilience in the face of adversity, which are advanced topics for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of innovation and persistence that shows how creativity can address real-world problems.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring inventors and kids interested in sustainable technologies.

• Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson
  • Genre(s): Astrophysics, Space Science
  • Synopsis: Adapted from his bestseller for adults, this version provides a clear explanation of the universe for younger readers.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex principles of astrophysics and cosmology, topics that are not typically covered in depth at this age level.
  • Why we recommend this book: Tyson's engaging style makes challenging content accessible and exciting, sparking a love for science and the mysteries of the universe.
  • Perfect for: Young readers fascinated by space and eager to understand the science behind it.

• Robotics: Discover the Science and Technology of the Future with 20 Projects by Kathy Ceceri
  • Genre(s): Science, Technology, Engineering
  • Synopsis: This hands-on guide introduces kids to the basics of robotics, including history, how robots work, and simple robotics projects.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes technical content and DIY projects that require problem-solving and critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines theoretical knowledge with practical activities, encouraging kids to learn by doing and enhancing their understanding of robotics.
  • Perfect for: Future scientists and engineers who love building and learning how things operate.

• Genius: The Most Astonishing Inventions of All Time by Deborah Kespert
  • Genre(s): Science, History, Technology
  • Synopsis: This book showcases brilliant inventions throughout history and the geniuses behind them, from ancient times to the modern day.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a wide range of historical and scientific content, presenting complex ideas and the evolution of scientific thought.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a historical perspective on innovation, inspiring creativity and appreciation for human ingenuity.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and inventors interested in the stories behind the greatest inventions and their impact on our world.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 8-year-old develop stellar reading habits while diving into the fascinating world of science books, you've come to the right place. Below are some engaging exercises that can make reading more fun and educational. Let’s get started!

• Create a Science Word Wall
  • What it is: Build a wall or a section in a room dedicated to new and interesting scientific words your child learns from their books.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and makes the connection between reading and learning very visual and tangible.
  • Tips: Encourage your child to decorate and add to the wall after finishing a book or a chapter.

• Summarize Science Stories
  • What it is: After reading, have your child summarize the book or a chapter in their own words.
  • How it helps: Boosts comprehension and retention of the scientific concepts learned.
  • Tips: Keep summaries brief and fun; they could even illustrate them to add a creative element.

• Question and Answer Match
  • What it is: Create a game where your child matches questions related to what they've read with the correct answers.
  • How it helps: Reinforces knowledge and helps with memory by turning learning into a playful challenge.
  • Tips: Use index cards for questions and answers, making it a fun mix-and-match activity.

• Science Book Club
  • What it is: Start a weekly book club for your child and their friends, focusing on a new science book each week.
  • How it helps: Encourages social interaction and verbal expression of thoughts and ideas about what they've read.
  • Tips: Let the kids take turns choosing the books to keep them excited and involved.

• Illustrate Concepts
  • What it is: Have your child draw or paint a concept or experiment from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps with understanding complex information by breaking it down into visual forms.
  • Tips: Provide various art supplies and let their imagination guide their artistic interpretation.

By incorporating these exercises into your child’s reading routine, you not only make reading more engaging but also enhance their understanding and enjoyment of science. It's all about making learning fun and accessible. So, grab those books, get creative, and watch your little scientist grow!