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

Looking for the perfect read to capture the imagination of your ten-year-old? You're in the right spot! Usborne books for 10-year-olds offer a fantastic array of choices that are sure to engage and inspire young readers. Whether your child is into adventures, mysteries, or something entirely unique, Usborne has something to offer. Keep reading to discover our curated lists of Usborne books tailored just for 10-year-olds, and find the perfect book to keep your child hooked!

Fun Usborne Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Secret Mermaid: Enchanted Shell by Sue Mongredien, illustrated by Maria Pearson
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When Molly discovers a magical shell that transforms her into a mermaid, she's whisked away to the Undersea Kingdom where adventure awaits.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating tale that combines the thrill of underwater adventures with the joy of discovering new worlds. It's great for sparking imagination in young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love fantasy and dream of underwater adventures.

• Stories of Dragons by Russell Punter, illustrated by Andy Elkerton
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Short Stories
  • Synopsis: A collection of thrilling dragon tales from around the world, each packed with excitement and adventure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces children to mythical creatures in a fun and engaging way, enhancing their creativity and interest in folklore.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fascinated by mythical creatures and love thrilling adventures.

• Lift-the-Flap Questions and Answers About Science by Katie Daynes, illustrated by Marie-Eve Tremblay
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This interactive book explores intriguing science questions with fun flaps to lift and discover the answers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes learning science interactive and fun, encouraging curiosity and a love for learning.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love to ask "why?" and "how?" about the world around them.

• The Usborne Science Encyclopedia by Kirsteen Robson and various contributors
  • Genre(s): Reference, Educational
  • Synopsis: An extensive reference book covering a wide range of scientific topics with illustrations, diagrams, and QR links to further explore.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive introduction to scientific concepts, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the subject.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists and any kid who loves to learn through exploration and multimedia resources.

• Illustrated Stories from Shakespeare retold by Rosie Dickins, illustrated by Christa Unzner
  • Genre(s): Classics, Drama
  • Synopsis: A collection of Shakespeare's most famous plays, beautifully illustrated and rewritten for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces young readers to classic literature in an accessible and engaging way, promoting an early interest in dramatic and narrative arts.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories with complex characters and dramatic plots.

Educational Usborne Books for 10-Year-Olds

• See Inside How Things Work by Conrad Mason, illustrated by Colin King
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This interactive book delves into the mechanics of everyday objects, from toasters to televisions, explaining how they work with fun flaps to lift.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of basic physics and engineering, curiosity about technology
  • Why we recommend this book: It simplifies complex mechanisms into understandable concepts, making learning about technology engaging and accessible.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and curious minds fascinated by machinery and technology.

• The Usborne Beginners: Ancient Rome by Katie Daynes, illustrated by David Hancock
  • Genre(s): History, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book provides a vivid introduction to Ancient Rome, covering daily life, the army, gladiators, and more, with engaging illustrations.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, understanding of ancient civilizations
  • Why we recommend this book: It brings history to life with engaging facts and visuals, encouraging an interest in historical and cultural studies.
  • Perfect for: Kids who show an interest in history and ancient cultures.

• The Usborne Book of the Moon by Laura Cowan, illustrated by Diana Toledano
  • Genre(s): Science, Space
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book explores the history, science, and cultural significance of the moon.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Astronomy, understanding of celestial events, scientific inquiry
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines scientific facts with historical narratives, providing a multidimensional view of the moon’s impact on our planet.
  • Perfect for: Young space enthusiasts and future astronomers.

• Look Inside Your Body by Louie Stowell, illustrated by Kate Leake
  • Genre(s): Science, Human Body
  • Synopsis: This interactive book uses flaps to explore the human body, explaining how different systems and organs function.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Anatomy, health science
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a hands-on approach to learning about the human body, making complex information easy and fun to understand.
  • Perfect for: Kids curious about how their body works and aspiring medical professionals.

• The Usborne Book of Planet Earth by Megan Cullis and Matthew Oldham, illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman
  • Genre(s): Earth Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers on a journey through Earth’s structure, from the deepest sea to the highest mountain, explaining various ecological and geological processes.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Earth science, environmental awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive overview of our planet, encouraging environmental stewardship and curiosity about the natural world.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and geologists in the making.

Challenging Usborne Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Usborne Complete Book of the Microscope by Kirsteen Rogers
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book explores the world of microscopes and microscopic life, detailing the parts and functions of microscopes, and how they're used to reveal the hidden details of the world around us.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into scientific concepts and technical details that require focus and comprehension, making it a more advanced read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers detailed insights into microscopic science, fostering a love for biology and encouraging scientific exploration.
  • Perfect for: Budding scientists and curious minds interested in biology and microscopy.

• The Usborne Book of Greek Myths by Anna Milbourne, illustrated by Elena Temporin
  • Genre(s): Mythology, History
  • Synopsis: This collection presents various famous Greek myths, introducing characters like Zeus, Athena, and Hercules, and their adventures.
  • Why this book is challenging: The complex themes and ancient language of myths present a higher reading level and require analytical thinking to understand the underlying messages.
  • Why we recommend this book: It enriches vocabulary and comprehension while providing a captivating look into Greek culture and its impact on the world.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love history and mythology, and enjoy stories with moral and philosophical depth.

• The Usborne Encyclopedia of World History by Fiona Chandler, Sam Taplin, and Jane Bingham
  • Genre(s): History, Educational
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive guide covers world history from prehistoric times to the modern day, including timelines, maps, and detailed illustrations.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a wide range of historical events and concepts that require concentration and an ability to connect historical dots.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thorough overview of global history, promoting a better understanding of how past events shape our present world.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and any reader interested in a deeper understanding of global cultures and events.

• The Usborne Introduction to Art by Rosie Dickins
  • Genre(s): Art, Educational
  • Synopsis: This introductory guide to art history features famous artworks and artists from various periods, explaining their techniques and the stories behind them.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex artistic concepts and historical contexts that are typically explored at higher educational levels.
  • Why we recommend this book: It fosters an appreciation for art and encourages analytical thinking about visual expression and historical contexts.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring artists and those interested in art history and cultural exploration.

• The Usborne Illustrated Dictionary of Math by Tori Large and Kirsteen Rogers
  • Genre(s): Mathematics, Educational
  • Synopsis: An extensive resource that explains mathematical concepts and terms with clear definitions and illustrations, covering everything from basic arithmetic to more complex topics like geometry and algebra.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles a wide range of mathematical theories and problems that are advanced for young learners.
  • Why we recommend this book: It aids in building a strong mathematical foundation, enhancing problem-solving skills and logical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Young mathematicians and students who want to excel in their math studies.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Reading can be a thrilling adventure, especially with the right books and habits in place! If you're diving into the world of Usborne books at 10 years old, here are some fun exercises to enhance your reading experience and develop lasting reading habits. Let's make reading even more engaging!

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and helps in completing books regularly.
  • Tips: Start with a small, manageable goal and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Provides a comfortable and distraction-free environment that can enhance focus and enjoyment.
  • Tips: Add some cozy cushions, good lighting, and maybe even a small shelf for your favorite books.

• Book Club with Friends
  • What it is: Start a book club where you and your friends read the same book and discuss it.
  • How it helps: Allows for sharing different perspectives and enhances comprehension through discussion.
  • Tips: Keep the group small and choose books that all members will enjoy.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize a digital app to track your reading habits and discover new books.
  • How it helps: Offers recommendations and helps you keep track of what you’ve read and what you’d like to read next.
  • Tips: Look for apps that offer rewards or badges for milestones to keep you motivated.

• Read Aloud to Others
  • What it is: Spend some time reading stories aloud to family members or friends.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and builds confidence in reading out loud.
  • Tips: Try using different voices for different characters to make the reading session more fun and engaging.

• Illustrate a Scene
  • What it is: Draw a scene or a character from the book you are reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and recall of the story, and allows you to express creativity.
  • Tips: Don't worry about artistic perfection; focus on how the scene makes you feel and represent that.

• Write a Book Review
  • What it is: After finishing a book, write a short review summarizing your thoughts and opinions.
  • How it helps: Helps with comprehension and critical thinking about what you’ve read.
  • Tips: Include what you liked, didn’t like, and whether you would recommend the book to others.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you're not just flipping through pages; you're building a stronger relationship with books. Usborne books offer a fantastic range of topics and stories perfect for your age, so using these exercises will only enhance your journey through each book. Happy reading!