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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math in your young learner? Look no further! Our curated selection of Stem Books for 10-Year-Olds is designed to captivate and educate, sparking curiosity and a love for learning. Whether your child is a budding scientist or a technology enthusiast, these books cater to all interests. Keep reading to discover our varied lists of Stem Books for 10-Year-Olds that promise to engage and inspire!

Fun Stem Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, STEM
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Rosie, a young girl who dreams of becoming an engineer. Through her journey, she learns about the trials and triumphs of pursuing her passion.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages creativity and perseverance, especially in the face of failure. It's a great story to boost problem-solving skills and confidence in young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and creators who love building and tinkering.

• Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, STEM
  • Synopsis: Ada Twist is a curious girl who embarks on fact-finding missions and conducts scientific experiments to understand the world around her.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes curiosity and scientific inquiry, which are crucial for a budding scientist. The book is also a celebration of the spirit of learning through discovery.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who always ask "why?" and "how?"

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Genre(s): Nonfiction, Biography, STEM
  • Synopsis: This inspiring true story follows William Kamkwamba from Malawi, who builds a wind turbine to save his village from drought.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling example of how innovation and determination can change communities. It teaches resilience and the importance of sustainable practices.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring engineers and young environmentalists interested in renewable energy and DIY projects.

• Nick and Tesla's High-Voltage Danger Lab by Bob Pflugfelder and Steve Hockensmith
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Mystery, STEM
  • Synopsis: Follow twins Nick and Tesla as they solve mysteries and face challenges using science and technology.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines science with adventure, making learning fun and engaging. The book includes actual science experiments that kids can do at home.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and scientists who enjoy hands-on activities and solving puzzles.

• Explorers of the Wild by Cale Atkinson
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Adventure, STEM
  • Synopsis: An adventurous boy and a bear both love exploring the wild. They meet one day in the woods and learn that exploring is always better with a friend.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the joy of exploration and the beauty of nature. The story also teaches about friendship and overcoming fears.
  • Perfect for: Nature lovers and young explorers eager to learn about the great outdoors and friendship.

Educational Stem Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin by Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated by Daniel Rieley
  • Genre(s): Children's Nonfiction, Biography, STEM
  • Synopsis: This book tells the inspiring story of Dr. Temple Grandin, a scientist and autism spokesperson who revolutionized practices for the humane handling of livestock.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of autism, animal science, empathy, and problem-solving.
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases how thinking differently can lead to groundbreaking solutions and emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in animal science and inspiring stories about overcoming challenges.

• Have You Thanked an Inventor Today? by Patrice McLaurin, illustrated by Dian Wang
  • Genre(s): Children's Nonfiction, STEM, History
  • Synopsis: This book explores the inventions created by various lesser-known inventors, highlighting how these innovations impact our everyday lives.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, appreciation for innovation, critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It educates children on the contributions of diverse inventors and promotes gratitude for the conveniences we often take for granted.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and inventors who are curious about how things work and who is behind them.

• Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson, adapted by Gregory Mone
  • Genre(s): Nonfiction, Science, Astrophysics
  • Synopsis: Adapted from the adult bestseller, this version provides young readers with an overview of the universe and the laws that govern it.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic astrophysics, scientific literacy, critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It distills complex concepts into understandable chunks, sparking curiosity about the universe.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists and anyone interested in learning about the cosmos in a simplified, engaging way.

• Coding for Kids: Python by Adrienne B. Tacke
  • Genre(s): Nonfiction, Technology, Coding
  • Synopsis: This interactive book introduces children to Python programming through fun, engaging projects and easy-to-understand explanations.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Coding skills, logical thinking, problem-solving.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a practical introduction to programming that encourages logical thinking and creativity through coding.
  • Perfect for: Budding tech enthusiasts and young coders looking to get a solid start in programming.

• How Things Work: Inside Out by T.J. Resler
  • Genre(s): Nonfiction, Technology, Science
  • Synopsis: This book uncovers the secrets of how everyday objects and complex machines work, from toasters to hoverboards.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mechanical knowledge, curiosity about engineering, scientific understanding.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fascinating peek into the mechanics of everyday items, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of technology.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who have always wondered about the inner workings of things around them.

Challenging Stem Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Four gifted children are recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict to go on a secret mission at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where they must solve a series of puzzles and stop a global crisis.
  • Why this book is challenging: The complex puzzles and moral questions posed in the book require advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It enhances logical reasoning and teamwork, while also being a thrilling adventure that keeps readers engaged.
  • Perfect for: Young puzzle solvers and mystery lovers who enjoy challenges.

• The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When Roz the robot washes ashore on a remote, wild island, she must learn to survive and navigate the wilderness among the island's animal inhabitants.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces themes of nature, technology, and survival in an imaginative setting that prompts reflection on the interaction between technology and the natural world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thought-provoking story that explores the harmony between nature and technology, encouraging empathy and environmental awareness.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are fascinated by robotics and nature, and enjoy stories about survival and friendship.

• Secret Coders by Gene Luen Yang, illustrated by Mike Holmes
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Mystery, Coding
  • Synopsis: Hopper and her friend Eni solve puzzles and mysteries at their school, which leads them to uncover its secret history and learn coding along the way.
  • Why this book is challenging: The integration of coding lessons into the narrative introduces complex computational thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uniquely combines storytelling with learning code, making it an interactive experience that teaches real coding skills.
  • Perfect for: Young tech enthusiasts and future coders who love solving puzzles and reading graphic novels.

• George's Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy and Stephen Hawking
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure, Educational
  • Synopsis: George's adventures begin when he finds a secret key that unlocks portals to other planets. With the help of his new friends, he explores the universe and learns about science and astronomy.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents complex scientific concepts, including physics and astronomy, in an engaging narrative format.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a fascinating journey through the cosmos, making complex scientific ideas accessible and exciting.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring astronomers and scientists who dream of space exploration and enjoy thrilling adventures.

• Maker Lab: 28 Super Cool Projects by Jack Challoner
  • Genre(s): Nonfiction, Science, Project-Based
  • Synopsis: This book offers 28 kid-friendly projects that range from building a volcano to creating a lemon battery, each encouraging hands-on learning and scientific inquiry.
  • Why this book is challenging: The projects involve real scientific principles and require critical thinking, precision, and problem-solving.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages active participation in scientific discovery through DIY projects that are both educational and fun.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and makers who enjoy crafting and learning through doing.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 10-year-old dive into the fascinating world of STEM books, encouraging good reading habits is key. Here are some fun and effective exercises designed to enhance their reading experience and comprehension skills. These exercises are not only educational but also interactive, making reading a more engaging activity.

• Create a Reading Schedule
  • What it is: Set specific times and durations for reading throughout the week.
  • How it helps: Helps in building a consistent reading habit and improves time management.
  • Tips: Use a colorful calendar or planner to make the schedule exciting and visually appealing.

• Summarize the Story
  • What it is: After reading a chapter, the child writes a brief summary of what happened.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Encourage them to use their own words and share their summaries with you.

• Character Connection
  • What it is: Pick a character from the book and relate their experiences to personal life.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding of the character’s actions and decisions.
  • Tips: Discuss these connections during family time to reinforce learning.

• Question Corners
  • What it is: Write down questions about the story before and after reading.
  • How it helps: Stimulates curiosity and critical thinking.
  • Tips: Review these questions together and try to answer them using evidence from the book.

• Book Club Buddy
  • What it is: Pair up with a friend or a family member to read the same book.
  • How it helps: Encourages discussion and provides different perspectives on the same material.
  • Tips: Set up regular meetings to discuss each chapter and share insights.

• Illustrate the Ideas
  • What it is: Draw scenes or concepts from the book based on the child’s interpretation.
  • How it helps: Boosts creativity and helps in visualizing scientific concepts.
  • Tips: Use a variety of materials like colored pencils, markers, or digital drawing tools.

• Connect with Current Events
  • What it is: Relate themes or discoveries in the book to real-world events or news.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading material more relevant and interesting.
  • Tips: Help them find articles or news clips that relate to the story.

By incorporating these exercises into your child’s reading routine, they'll not only enjoy their STEM books more but also develop a stronger foundation in both science and literature. Remember, the goal is to make reading fun and educational, so feel free to adapt these ideas to better suit your child’s interests and needs. Happy reading!