*~Sharing with you a carefully curated recommended reading list full of old favorites and new wonders. Get your library lists/ bookshelf wish-lists ready to go, and check out a sneak peek of these Fascinating Nonfiction Books for Kids~*

As an adult, I am still captivated by children’s books. The stories are charmingly clever, sincerely touching, thought-provoking, light-hearted and humorous, and surprisingly suspenseful. However, one genre of children’s books that I marvel at the most is *Nonfiction.* The amount of information, and the way it is presented to kids, is fascinating to captivate my own attention and wonder. Because the books are geared towards children, the artwork is incredible~ providing visual details and illustrated explanations to support concepts and facts. The visuals paired with the enthusiastic presentation of information ~ anything to engage the child and capture their attention~ makes for a riveting and *Educational* read.

As the school year begins again, and we find ourselves in a hybrid of distance learning and in-person learning with our littles~ one way to dive back into learning-mode at home is to stock the bookshelves with some of these engrossing nonfiction reads. Marvel over the pages and fun facts with your littles as you combine story time and cuddle time with an educational twist.

Is your little interested in animals? Volcanoes? Words? Mythology? Science? Do you have a little philosopher in your midsts? I’ve curated a collection of Nonfiction Books for children to help jumpstart your learning adventures. Get ready to explore the world with famous women adventurers, scale volatile volcanoes, delve into the realms of gods and goddesses, and experiment with chemistry and mathematical calculations!  If you have any Nonfiction favorites of your own, please comment below and share your own Nonfiction Reads. Together, let’s raise a new generation of readers!

Recommended Reading List: Nonfiction Books for Kids

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Big Ideas for Young Thinkers: 20 Questions About Life and the Universe by Jamie Wilson, Illustrated by Andrea Pippins

From the author-illustrator duo who brought you “Young, Gifted, and Black” today’s featured read guides young thinkers as they explore 20 of the biggest questions of the day. Readers are inspired to think critically as they tackle questions such as “Is Race Real?” “What Is Gender?” “What Is Right and Wrong?” and “Is an Ideal Society Possible?” Rather than being given the answers to these questions, readers are offered multiple perspectives of looking at an issue, challenging them to form their own ideas and understandings.  A great read for older children, ages 10+, younger ones can also engage in these ideas and discussions with guided support~ you are never too young for *Big Ideas* .

Pop-Up Volcano! by Fleur Daugey & Bernard Duisit, Illustrated by Tom Valliant

How are volcanoes formed? How do you know when they are going to erupt? Are there different types of eruptions? Here to tell you everything you ever needed and wanted to know about volcanoes, this children’s book features stunning illustrations, and pop-ups~ creating scenes that erupt straight from the pages. Dive deep below the the Earth’s crust as you discover the inner-working of these mountains of fire, investigate the science behind volcanoes and what happens when magma meets water, explore the surrounding habitat and what creatures make their homes next to volcanoes, and witness some of the most destructive eruptions in history.

Literally: Amazing Words and Where They Come From by Patrick Skipworth, Illustrated by Nicholas Stevenson

Many of the words in the English language come from other countries and languages around the globe~ And while their meaning and use may have slightly changed, a look into their origins reveals a rich history and cultural diversity that our language stems from. For example, did you know that the word *companion* is originally a Latin word meaning *with bread* (because the best buddy is the one you can share a meal with, of course) ? Or that *karaoke* is originally a Japanese word meaning *empty orchestra*? .If you’re curious like me to learn more, check out this featured read!

Mythologica: An Encyclopedia of Gods, Monsters and Mortals from Ancient Greece by Dr. Stephen P. Kershaw, Illustrated by Victoria Topping

Get ready to discover the epic, heroic, and sometimes *horrific* lives of mortals, monsters, and gods. Journey back in time to Ancient Greece to uncover the thrilling lives of 50 powerful gods and goddesses, heroic mortals, and terrifying monsters. The *over-sized* dimensions of this book make the vibrant illustrations even more enrapturing. Each page spread is bold designed to represent a figure form the myths~ including their Greek name, their defining attributes, a summary of their tale, and additionally fascinating facts. Illustrator Victoria Topping’s artwork fuses photography, painting, and paper collage to express a blending of human and mythical traits. This is the perfect introduction to the radiant world of Greek mythology.

Once Upon an Alphabet: Short Stories for All the Letters by Oliver Jeffers

Oliver Jeffers is one of my favorite author/illustrators. His work is irresistibly clever, blending the perfect balance of humor, gorgeous illustrations, and with to attract both children and adult readers. In this alphabet book, Oliver Jeffers has created a collection of 26 short, interconnected stories for each of the 26 letters of the alphabet. The stories are whimsical, wry, occasionally tragic~ but overall delightfully entertaining. Surprise endings, alliterations, and the occasional rhyming keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. The illustrations are quirky and also portray a sly humor. An excellent deeper exploration into  abecedarian concepts, this one is perfect for all ages!

Norse Myths: Tales of Odin, Thor and Loki by Kevin Crossley-Holland, Illustrated by Jeffrey Alan Love

Enter into the realm of Viking folklore with this collection of Norse Myths. From the creation of the nine worlds, to the final battle of Ragnarok, readers will pore over the exploits of mighty Thor and his hammer; the infamous tricker, Loki; and the almighty Odin. Prepare to become entangled in the ceaseless struggle for power between giants, gods, and dwarfs through tales of love, thrilling adventure, and dazzling magic. With dramatic, lavish illustrations, and exquisite narrative details, this is the perfect read for both newcomers to Norse mythology and hardcore fans of Viking tales.

Every Second: 100 Lightning Strikes, 8,000 Scoops of Ice Cream, 200,000 Text Messages, 1 Million Gallons of Cow Burps … and Other Incredible Things That Happen Each Second Around the World by Bruno Gibert

Ever wonder what is happening *Right This Second* around the world? This factual, number read has all the statistics laid out in a visually captivating composition. From how many text messages are being sent in one second, to how many scoops of ice cream are eaten around the world, this is a great read for math connections and for a greater understanding and concept of working around the world. Plus, this read also includes though-provoking statistics that can spark discussion over issues such as environmentalism and economics. Juxtaposing statistics of how many trees are cut down vs. planted each second, around the world, and how much money is spent oh humanitarian causes versus arms and weapons development highlight issues that children can begin to process and take a stand on.

The Not BAD Animals by Sophie Corrigan

An excellent read for animal lovers, this book focuses on all the animals some of us may find *creepy, spooky, and icky*~ and busts their bad reputation to share how each creature plays an important role in our world. The hilarious, cartoon style illustrations and bite-sized bits of facts and info selectively scattered around the page create an educational and entertaining read. Read along as over 30 critters that humans have *mis-labeled* as ugly or dangerous, present their case to set the record straight once and for all and dispel and false acquisitions to their character. After all, these aren’t bad animals~ just misunderstood animals!

Book of Bones: 10 Record- Breaking Animals by Gabreille Balkan, Illustrated by Sam Brewster

This gorgeous, graphic book is a world record book of *Bones.* This interactive *over-sized* picture book is written in a guessing-game format, with each set of animal bones presented with clues~ challenging readers to examine the skeletons and guess whom they belong to. A turn of the page reveals the answer with a vibrant, full-color illustration of the animal in their natural habitat. Furthermore, the illustrations include textures parts, creating touch-and-feel finishes that bring the bones to life! With all information presented in a humorous way, this engaging read introduces children to the connection between anatomy and animal behavior.

Music is My Life: Soundtrack Your Mood with 80 Artists for Every Occasion by Myles Tanzer, Illustrated by Ali Mac

If you have a music lover~ this is just the book to excite your readers and encourage their reading adventures. *Mood Music*~ Music can be a soundtrack to our lives. When we are happy, we may blast music we can shimmy and dance to~ when we are sad, we turn on the melancholy tunes, the notes and lyrics reflecting our own inner feelings. In this nonfiction read, 80 of the finest musical artists from decades past to present day, are organized by mood to help guide readers through the good, bad, and sad times. Each artist entry is packed full of information, including a bio, a list of must-listen to songs, and musical analysis by the author and journalist Myles Tanzer. Plus, striking visuals in a full-color, pop-rock-art style capture each artist in their music-making zone. At the end of the book, readers can also find information on hot to listen to and how to make their own music.

Let’s Learn About Chemistry by Stephanie Ryan Ph.D, Illustrated by Christine Cagara

Want to raise a mini chemist? With this introductory book to chemistry for children, there is no science degree required to help instill in your child a lifelong love for STEM and science. This interactive board book uses a game-like format to introduce littles to different basic chemistry and science concepts. Play along with your readers as they ascertain, “Which of these is not like the other.” Children learn and explore concepts such as: different states of matter; the differences between macroscopic, microscopic, and submicroscopic; scientific words and terminology that are broken down by syllables~ and much more!

Endangered Animals: And How You Can Help by Sam Hutchinson, Illustrated by Sarah Dennis

Explore seven different habitats ~ from polar ice caps to tropical rain forests ~ and discover the different challenges that affect the animal kingdom’s ability to survive and thrive in that area. Discover over seventy species that are endangered in those habitats~ struggling due to either habitat loss, pollution, climate change, or various other reasons. Readers will also learn about animals that are thriving in these areas due tis successful conservation efforts. Each habitat section features fascinating facts, and actionable items for how kids can help in conservation efforts. Plus, each page features an interactive seek-and-find feature where readers search for hidden animals in beautiful paper, laser-cut illustrations.

Cool Math: 50 Fantastic Facts for Kids of All Ages  by Tracie Young, Illustrated by Katie Hewett

Jump back into math this school year with these 50 fantastic facts, tricks, and tips to help you crack any month problem and solve any number puzzle. From simple multiplication hacks to complex calculus problems, budding mathematicians young and old will advance their math skills through this engaging, illustrated book of math. Explore topics such as how much to tip at a restaurant, how to figure out the distance of a storm, how to crack codes, and so much more!

Goddesses and Heroines: Women of Myth and Legend by Xanthe Gresham-Knight, Illustrated by Alice Pattullo

Move aside Gods and Heroes, and clear the pedestals for the *Goddesses and Heroines* who have shaped the wonders of our world. This radiant collection of 13 tales features magical and intelligent women whose bravery, wit, and strength will inspire us all. British performance storyteller, Xanthe Gresham-Knight, recounts the stories of: Inannam, the daughter from Iraq who ruled the world; Mayahuel, the sleepyhead from Mexico with infinite energy; Hekate, the Greek math whiz who put Zeus into a spin~ and many more legendary women! Illustrator Allice Pattullo’s colorful and quirky illustrations portray the cultural diversity of these mighty women with energy and grace. A splendid read aloud, or an independent read for littles 9+, audiences will marvel at these myths, and be empowered to create their own legendary life story.

A World of Information by Richard Platt, Illustrated byJames Brown

Another *overs-sized* picture book, this giant read presents a visually stunning collection of facts and figures~ including everything from who invited the pencil to how much do clouds weight; from skeletons to solar systems; from how many ways can you tie a knot to all about music notation. This elegant parcel of general knowledge dives deep into a plethora of topics~ pairing fascinating facts with stylish infographics and intriguing commentary. This book holds a world of information.

Everything You Need to Ace Computer Science and Coding in One Big Fat Notebook: The Complete Middle School Study Guide by Enmi Press

With some extra time at home due to distance learning, now is the perfect time to start a new extracurricular/ learn a new skill. Excellent for older readers, ages 9+, this book takes everything you need to know about coding and computer science and presents it in an accessible way to children. The information is shared with an engaging voice, and is filled with mnemonic devices, diagrams, doodles, key concepts, and definitions to help readers understand computer science. Topics covered include: computing systems, binary code, algorithms, computational thinking, loops, events, and procedures, programming in Scratch and Python, Boolean Expressions, Web Development, Cybersecutiry, HTML code, CSS, and more! The perfect read for a clear, basic explanation of coding and computer science that is easy to understand.

The Atlas of Women Explorers by Riccardo Francaviglia, Illustrated by Margherita Sgarlata

Set off to discover the world with these 18, bold women explorers who defied conventions and gender expectations to pursue their dreams. Readers will be inspired by these women who broke the rules and went the extra mile to reach their goals and persist for the freedom to follow their passions. This beautifully illustrated atlas shares these 18 women’s stories, following them across the globe as they travel by bike, airplane, sailboat, train~ traversing through the Asian tundra, over mountaintops, across Australian deserts, and even into the final frontier~ space! Audacious explorers int his atlas include: Laura Dekker who sailed around the world solo at 16; Osa Johnson who filmed a documentary of her expeditions through the South Pacific, Borneo, and Africa; Lady Hay Drummond-Hay who flew around the world in a Zeppelin; and many others!

Courageous First Ladies Who Changed the World by Heidi Poelman, Illustrated by Giovana Medeiros

It’s not just all eyes on the President~ the First Ladies of the White House also work ceaselessly to inspire change and change the world. In this board book for younger readers, littles are introduced to the initiatives and contributions of 11 presidential women including:  Martha Washington, Abigail Adams, Dolley Madison, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jacqueline Kennedy, Betty Ford, Lady Bird Johnson, Laura and Barbara Bush, Hilary Clinton, and Michelle Obama. Each spread includes a quote from the First Lady, a colorful portrait, and an illustrated scene of the First Lady in action.

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I hope you found some reading recommendations to add to your own shelves, or next library haul, to share with your own little ones. Please comment below and share your favorite Nonfiction Reads to add to this themed collection.

*~Also, I’d love to  see and hear about your own fascinating facts you’ve been learning with your children, so please share your story times below in the comments – tag me on Instagram @MaiStoryBookLibrary  – or post on MaiStoryBook’s FaceBook page! You can also find me on TikTok for bookish fun!~*

Plus, checkout out MaiStoryBook’s Interactive Read Aloud Video Playlist of Diverse Reads here.

*~Until Next Time, Happy Reading~*

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