10+ Best Space Books for 14-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that will launch your 14-year-old into a universe of discovery? Look no further! Our curated selection of Space Books for 14-Year-Olds is packed with captivating tales that are just waiting to be explored. From thrilling adventures beyond the stars to mind-bending journeys through time and space, there's something here to ignite the imagination of every young reader. Keep reading to dive into our various lists of Space Books for 14-Year-Olds and find the perfect match for your aspiring astronaut!

Fun Space Books for 14-Year-Olds

• The Martian by Andy Weir
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Stranded on Mars, astronaut Mark Watney must rely on his ingenuity and wit to signal to Earth that he is alive and needs rescue.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a thrilling survival story packed with accurate science and a dash of humor, making complex concepts accessible and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in space exploration and science, and those who love suspense-filled narratives.

• Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Young Ender Wiggin is recruited into an elite military school in space to prepare for a future alien invasion.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines exciting space battles with deep ethical questions, perfect for young readers beginning to explore more complex themes.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy strategic games and moral dilemmas.

• Cosmic by Frank Cottrell Boyce
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Liam looks like he's thirty and somehow finds himself competing as a dad in a space-themed contest that leads to an extraordinary space adventure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a funny and heartwarming story that explores themes of friendship, family, and the challenges of growing up.
  • Perfect for: Young teens who enjoy humorous tales with relatable life lessons.

• See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Eleven-year-old Alex, a space enthusiast, sets out on a road trip to launch his iPod into space, recording his journey along the way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an uplifting adventure that captures the wonder of space through the eyes of a child, encouraging curiosity and determination.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers and aspiring astronomers who appreciate heartwarming stories.

• Space Case by Stuart Gibbs
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: A young boy living on a moon base must solve a murder mystery that could jeopardize the entire lunar colony.
  • Why we recommend this book: It mixes science fiction with a thrilling mystery, providing both entertainment and a glimpse into a futuristic setting.
  • Perfect for: Teens who love a good whodunit with a sci-fi twist.

Educational Space Books for 14-Year-Olds

• Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition by Margot Lee Shetterly
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This book tells the incredible true story of the African American female mathematicians at NASA who played a crucial role in America's space program during the mid-20th century.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, understanding of racial and gender equality, mathematical concepts
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the significant yet often overlooked contributions of these brilliant women, inspiring readers with their determination and intellect.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history, space exploration, and inspiring real-life stories.

• Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson, with Gregory Mone
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Astrophysics
  • Synopsis: Adapted from Tyson's bestseller for adults, this version provides young readers with a clear and concise introduction to the universe and its wonders.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific literacy, critical thinking, understanding of the cosmos
  • Why we recommend this book: It distills complex concepts into understandable chunks, making the vast universe accessible and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Teens curious about the fundamental principles of the universe and those who enjoy quick, thought-provoking reads.

• The Boundless Universe: Astronomy for Kids by Dr. Pamela Gay, illustrated by Thomas Webb
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This illustrated guide explores the universe, covering everything from the solar system to distant galaxies, and discusses the technology astronomers use to study space.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific knowledge, observational skills, understanding of technology in science
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a visually engaging and informative journey through space science, perfect for visual learners.
  • Perfect for: Young astronomers and anyone interested in learning about the universe in a visually stimulating way.

• George's Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy Hawking and Stephen Hawking
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: George's adventures begin when he finds a secret key that unlocks a portal to space, leading him on an extraordinary journey across the universe with the help of his new friend, Annie, and a super-intelligent computer.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of basic physics and astronomy, problem-solving, imagination
  • Why we recommend this book: Co-written by a renowned physicist, this book combines real science with a thrilling narrative.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love adventure mixed with real-world science.

• Rocket Boys: A Memoir by Homer Hickam
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Memoir, History
  • Synopsis: This is the true story of Homer Hickam, a coal miner's son who was inspired by the first Sputnik launch to take up rocketry against his father’s wishes.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical context of the space race, mechanical and engineering concepts, resilience and determination
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of how ambition and education can lead to extraordinary achievements, despite obstacles.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring engineers and anyone interested in the history of space exploration.

Challenging Space Books for 14-Year-Olds

• Anathem by Neal Stephenson
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: Set in a cloistered community dedicated to intellectual pursuits, the protagonist, Erasmas, is drawn into a cosmic adventure when a mysterious spacecraft arrives at his planet.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel integrates complex philosophical concepts and an invented language, challenging readers to engage deeply with both the narrative and the underlying ideas.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique blend of science fiction and philosophy, encouraging readers to think critically about science, technology, and their role in society.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy deep thought and complex narratives in their reading material.

• 2312 by Kim Stanley Robinson
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Space Opera
  • Synopsis: In the year 2312, humanity has colonized the solar system, and Swan Er Hong, a former space designer, becomes involved in a complex conspiracy that could alter the future of humanity.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book presents a detailed and scientifically plausible depiction of future human civilization, requiring readers to understand advanced scientific and technological concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a visionary exploration of future technologies and the environmental and political challenges that might come with them.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in environmental science and futuristic technologies.

• The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin, translated by Ken Liu
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Hard Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: This first book in a trilogy deals with humanity's first contact with an alien civilization and the complex consequences that unfold from this event.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex scientific theories and a deep philosophical exploration of civilization, technology, and power.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thought-provoking look at the potential impacts of first contact, driven by deeply intellectual and scientific storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Teens who are fans of high-concept science fiction and complex plot structures.

• Seveneves by Neal Stephenson
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Apocalyptic and Post-Apocalyptic
  • Synopsis: When the moon explodes, humanity faces a potential extinction event, leading to a desperate race to establish a viable space colony.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel spans thousands of years, exploring detailed scientific and technical challenges associated with space survival and colonization.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines a gripping survival narrative with realistic scientific innovation, making it a compelling read for those interested in the logistics of space colonization.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about survival and the human spirit in the face of catastrophic events.

• Hyperion by Dan Simmons
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Space Opera
  • Synopsis: On the eve of Armageddon with the entire galaxy at war, seven pilgrims set forth on a voyage to the planet Hyperion and the Shrike, a creature that may hold the key to the salvation of humanity.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure is complex, incorporating multiple storylines and a vast array of themes ranging from religion to the nature of time.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its rich, multi-layered narrative and deep thematic content provide a profound reading experience.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers who appreciate intricate plots and are ready to tackle more adult themes.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of space books and you're around 14 years old, developing a solid reading habit can really enhance your experience and learning. Here are some exercises that will not only make your reading sessions more effective but also more enjoyable. Let’s get started!

• Set Specific 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: Helps create a consistent reading habit and keeps you motivated.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Set up a specific area in your home where you can read without interruptions.
  • How it helps: Reduces distractions and helps you focus solely on your book.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books with friends, family, or online book clubs.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to express what you liked, what you didn’t, and any questions you might have.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Read your space books out loud to yourself or to others.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps you process the information better.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pace to match the narrative to make it more engaging.

• Summarize Each Chapter
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you finish reading it.
  • How it helps: Helps reinforce what you’ve learned and improves comprehension.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and focus on the main points.

• Visualize While Reading
  • What it is: Picture the scenes as you read them.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading experience more vivid and enjoyable.
  • Tips: Pause occasionally to imagine the scenes and characters in detail.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Look up any words you don’t understand.
  • How it helps: Expands your vocabulary and improves understanding.
  • Tips: Keep a dictionary or use a dictionary app nearby when you read.

These exercises are designed to be fun and effective, helping you get the most out of your space-themed books. Remember, the key to developing good reading habits is consistency, so try to incorporate these exercises into your daily routine. Happy reading!