10+ Best Usborne Books for 11-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for your tween? Look no further than Usborne Books for 11-year-olds, a treasure trove of engaging and educational picks that are just right for curious minds. Whether your child is into adventures, mysteries, or something entirely unique, Usborne has something that will capture their imagination and keep them hooked. Keep reading to discover our various lists of Usborne Books for 11-year-olds that are sure to be a hit!

Fun Usborne Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Train to Impossible Places by P.G. Bell, illustrated by Flavia Sorrentino
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Join Suzy as she boards a magical train that travels through fantastical realms. On her journey, she becomes involved in delivering a cursed package that could doom the Union of Impossible Places.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sparks imagination with its creative world-building and fast-paced plot, making reading a thrilling adventure.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love whimsical tales and have a keen sense of adventure.

• The Secret of Platform 13 by Eva Ibbotson, illustrated by Beatriz Castro
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Beneath a busy train station lies a magical island accessible only every nine years. When the island's young prince is kidnapped, a rescue party ventures into London to bring him back.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor and fantasy, offering a captivating and enjoyable reading experience that helps build a love for storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy magical adventures and stories about secret worlds.

• The Usborne Science Encyclopedia by Kirsteen Robson and Phillip Clarke
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Encyclopedia
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive guide covers a wide range of scientific topics, including technology, biology, chemistry, physics, and more, with internet links to further explore each subject.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's educational and engaging, perfect for satisfying curious minds and encouraging a deeper interest in science.
  • Perfect for: Inquisitive young minds who are eager to learn more about the world around them and how things work.

• The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone by Jaclyn Moriarty, illustrated by Karl James Mountford
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Bronte Mettlestone is sent on an epic quest to deliver gifts to her ten aunts after her parents are killed by pirates. Each gift unleashes its own adventure and piece of her family's mystery.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's filled with quirky characters and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged and entertained.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories with strong female protagonists and a mix of humor and adventure.

• Lift-the-Flap Questions and Answers About Science by Katie Daynes, illustrated by Marie-Eve Tremblay
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Interactive
  • Synopsis: This interactive book explores intriguing science questions through flaps that little hands can lift to discover the answers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes learning about science interactive and fun, which is great for keeping children engaged and encouraging them to explore more.
  • Perfect for: Curious kids who enjoy hands-on learning and discovering answers to the hows and whys of everyday science.

Educational Usborne Books for 11-Year-Olds

• See Inside Your Body by Katie Daynes, illustrated by Colin King
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Anatomy
  • Synopsis: This engaging book uses over 50 flaps to explore the human body, explaining how different systems and organs work.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Anatomy knowledge, understanding of human biology
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a hands-on approach to learning with detailed illustrations and interactive flaps that make complex subjects accessible and fun.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in science and how the human body works.

• The Usborne Illustrated Dictionary of Math by Tori Large and Kirsteen Rogers
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Mathematics, Reference
  • Synopsis: An essential guide that introduces key math concepts and terms, filled with illustrations and examples to help clarify complex ideas.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mathematical vocabulary, understanding of key concepts, problem-solving skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great resource that supports school learning and helps students feel more confident in math.
  • Perfect for: Students who need a little extra help in math or anyone who wants to strengthen their mathematical understanding.

• The Usborne Book of the Moon by Laura Cowan, illustrated by Diana Toledano
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Space, Astronomy
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of the moon from ancient myths to its role in space exploration.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Knowledge of astronomy, historical perspectives, scientific inquiry
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines history, science, and mythology to give a comprehensive view of the moon's influence on our lives.
  • Perfect for: Young astronomers and any child curious about space and the night sky.

• Lift-the-Flap General Knowledge by Alex Frith and James Maclaine, illustrated by Marco Palmieri
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, General Knowledge, Interactive
  • Synopsis: A fascinating exploration of a wide range of topics including history, geography, science, and more, with over 135 flaps to lift.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: General knowledge, curiosity, research skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a playful and interactive way to learn about the world, encouraging questions and discovery.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love to explore a bit of everything and enjoy interactive learning.

• The Usborne Geography Encyclopedia by Gillian Doherty and Anna Claybourne
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Geography, Encyclopedia
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive encyclopedia covers geographical topics from climates and ecosystems to cities and cultures around the world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Geographic literacy, understanding of global cultures, environmental awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides detailed and visually appealing maps and facts that enhance understanding of the world.
  • Perfect for: Students and young learners who are passionate about understanding the planet and different cultures.

Challenging Usborne Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Usborne Complete Book of Art Ideas by Fiona Watt, illustrated by Antonia Miller
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Art, Creative
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive art guide offers a wide range of projects in various mediums, from painting and drawing to collage and printing.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces advanced art techniques and concepts that are typically not explored deeply at this age.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages creativity and provides a solid foundation in different art techniques, helping to develop both artistic skills and an appreciation for art.
  • Perfect for: Young artists who are ready to explore and expand their creative skills.

• The Usborne Encyclopedia of World History by Jane Bingham, Fiona Chandler, and Sam Taplin
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, History, Encyclopedia
  • Synopsis: This detailed encyclopedia covers the history of the world from ancient times to the modern age, including civilizations, revolutions, wars, and major figures.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a vast amount of historical information and concepts that require higher-level thinking and comprehension skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a thorough overview of world history, enhancing the reader's understanding of how past events shape our world today.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and learners who are eager to delve deeper into the events and cultures that have shaped our world.

• The Usborne Book of Greek Myths by Anna Milbourne and Louie Stowell, illustrated by Elena Temporin
  • Genre(s): Mythology, History
  • Synopsis: This book introduces young readers to the fascinating world of Greek mythology, featuring gods, goddesses, heroes, and monsters.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex narratives and themes found in ancient myths, which can be sophisticated for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating introduction to mythology that not only entertains but also offers insights into the beliefs and values of ancient Greece.
  • Perfect for: Readers fascinated by mythology and ancient cultures, and those who enjoy stories full of adventure and fantasy.

• The Usborne Introduction to Art by Rosie Dickins and Mari Griffith
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Art, History
  • Synopsis: This book provides an overview of art history, exploring major movements, works, and artists from ancient times to the present.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a broad range of artistic expressions and historical contexts, requiring readers to engage with both visual analysis and historical interpretation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It helps develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of art, encouraging critical thinking and cultural awareness.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with an interest in art history and those who wish to understand the evolution of artistic styles and concepts.

• The Usborne Introduction to Genes & DNA by Anna Claybourne
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Biology
  • Synopsis: This informative book explores the concepts of genetics, including the structure of DNA, genetic inheritance, and modern genetic science.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into complex scientific concepts that are usually introduced at higher educational levels.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a solid foundation in genetics, fostering a curiosity about biological sciences and an understanding of how genetics impact our lives.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and any young reader interested in biology and the building blocks of life.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of Usborne books for 11-year-olds, you're in for a treat! These books are not only engaging but also a fantastic way to enhance reading skills. To make the most of your reading experience, here are some exercises that can help develop good reading habits. These are simple, fun, and really effective for young readers.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on how many books to read in a month or how many pages to read each day.
  • How it helps: Setting goals can motivate and give a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific spot at home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Having a special place can make reading a more enjoyable and regular activity.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, comfortable, and has good lighting.

• Read Aloud or to Someone
  • What it is: Read books aloud to yourself, a family member, or even a pet.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and builds confidence in reading skills.
  • Tips: Try to express different emotions with your voice to make it more fun.

• Join or Start a Book Club
  • What it is: Gather a group of friends who read the same book and discuss it.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and enhances comprehension through discussion.
  • Tips: Choose books that all participants will enjoy and be excited about.

• Mix It Up
  • What it is: Rotate between different genres and styles of books.
  • How it helps: Prevents reading from becoming monotonous and broadens knowledge.
  • Tips: Try alternating between fiction, non-fiction, science fiction, mystery, etc.

• Use Bookmarks with Questions
  • What it is: Use bookmarks that have questions or discussion points about the book.
  • How it helps: Keeps the reader engaged and thinking critically about the story.
  • Tips: Write questions before you start a new chapter to think about as you read.

• Summarize Each Chapter
  • What it is: Write a short summary of each chapter after reading it.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Keep summaries brief and in your own words to better grasp the content.

Wrapping up, integrating these fun and simple exercises into your reading routine can significantly enhance your enjoyment and understanding of Usborne books. Not only will these activities keep you engaged, but they'll also develop lasting reading habits that will benefit you for years to come. Happy reading!