There are so many good picture books that introduce STEM topics to young readers in fun and engaging ways. Here are a few that are my go-to gifts for budding young scientists!
Chemistry & Physics
Mary Had a Little Lab: A brilliant take on a kid’s classic, complete with cloned sheep! Kids will love the quirky illustrations and the core message of friendship and acceptance at the heart of this familiar tale full of puns and lab goggles.
Baby University Board Book Set: Quantum and Newtonian Physics, Rocket Science and General Relativity explained in simple terms with clean illustrations. Parents might even begin to understand these difficult concepts after exploring these books with their kids!
Ada Twist, Scientist: Ada Twist steals our hearts with her curiosity about the world around her. But will she be able to figure out the source of the terrible stink with her diligent application of the scientific method? Written with a punchy rhyme, this one is a joy to share and read aloud.
Pluto Gets the Call will have readers learning about the solar system as they follow Pluto’s heartwarming and hilarious journey from planet to – well – not. A sure hit for both kids and their parents who grew up with nine planets.
Biology & Nature
Pando: a Living Wonder of Trees: with soft, lyrical language, Kate Allen Fox introduces quaking aspen trees, how they are all connected to each other, and how we can be better connected to nature. A beautiful and informative read.
The Secret Code Inside You: all about your DNA is a fun-filled look at what makes us into who we are – and who we are not! Cute and informative; perfect for the youngest biologists!
Math
Dozens of Donuts: At first glance this is a story of donuts and hibernation, but as Lou Ann’s friends learn not to take her generosity for granted, readers are also learning how to divide a dozen donuts into an increasingly large group!
Twinderella: A Fractioned Fairy Tale. What if Cinderella had a twin who was really good at fractions? Young readers will love the rhyme and the key themes of sibling rivalry and learning to share; they won’t even realize they are learning math!
Engineering
Rosie Revere, Engineer: Rosie can’t help but dream up new things, but she’s devastated when her inventions don’t go to plan. In this heartwarming tale, she must learn to overcome her fear of failure to learn how to fly as an engineer.
T is for Turbo: an alphabet book for the budding mechanic, this book teaches both the alphabet and the most important parts of a car.