Best Children's Inventors Books of 2026

Wilson Cook Avatar
Wilson Cook
Last Updated: May 11, 2023

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Children's Inventors Books are a great way to introduce young minds to the world of invention and innovation. These books come in many different forms, from picture books to chapter books, and they all tell the stories of inventors and their inventions. Children can learn about the history of inventors and their contributions to society, as well as the creative process behind invention. These books can inspire children to think creatively and come up with their own ideas for inventions. Overall, Children's Inventors Books are a fun and educational way to encourage children to explore the world of science and technology.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison (Turnabout Tales) Cover #TOP 1
The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison (Turnabout Tales)
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids: A Fascinating Collection of True Tales to Inspire & Amaze Young Readers Cover #TOP 2
Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids: A Fascinating Collection of True Tales to Inspire & Amaze Young Readers
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids: 1272 Fun Facts About Science, Animals, Earth and Everything in Between Cover #TOP 3
Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids: 1272 Fun Facts About Science, Animals, Earth and Everything in Between
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Children's Inventors Books

The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison (Turnabout Tales)

Arroyo, Raymond
Gehrmann, Kristina
Mar 21, 2023
The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison (Turnabout Tales) Cover
The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison (Turnabout Tales)

The Unexpected Light of Thomas Alva Edison, the first book in the Turnabout Tales series by Raymond Arroyo, is a picture book biography of the famous inventor. It tells the story of how Edison's imagination and curiosity were encouraged by his mother, leading to his groundbreaking inventions. The book teaches readers about the power of curiosity and imagination, and how failures and struggles can lead to achievements. The realistic illustrations by Kristina Gehrmann and the annotated list of resources and suggested reading make this book a valuable addition to any child's library. Overall, this book is an inspiring and educational read for children.

Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids: A Fascinating Collection of True Tales to Inspire & Amaze Young Readers

Sullivan, Jesse
Ratkovic, Davor
Aug 31, 2021
Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids: A Fascinating Collection of True Tales to Inspire & Amaze Young Readers Cover
Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids: A Fascinating Collection of True Tales to Inspire & Amaze Young Readers

Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids is a fascinating collection of 100 true tales that will ignite the curiosity of young readers. Written specifically for them, this book is a gift for kids who revel in reading or those who find it tedious. Each story is an adventure, and each tale a discovery, dripping with captivating tales from history and scientific wonders. The purpose of this book is to fascinate but also to empower and uplift. This book will inspire awe and fascination in both reluctant readers and budding aficionados of the written word. Overall, a must-have for children's bookshelves!

Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids: 1272 Fun Facts About Science, Animals, Earth and Everything in Between

Moore, Jordan
Sep 25, 2022
Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids: 1272 Fun Facts About Science, Animals, Earth and Everything in Between Cover
Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids: 1272 Fun Facts About Science, Animals, Earth and Everything in Between

Super Interesting Facts For Smart Kids: 1272 Fun Facts About Science, Animals, Earth and Everything in Between is a must-have for inquisitive young minds. With 1272 fascinating facts, readers can explore the world in detail, from space and history to words and language. The book is divided into themed sections, making it easy to navigate and capture the attention of even the smartest kids. The final Pot Luck section covers a wide range of topics, including dance, business, fashion, and technology. This book is a fantastic addition to any child’s library, offering endless entertainment and knowledge.

Mistakes That Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions & How They Came to Be

Jones, Charlotte Foltz
O'Brien, John
Delacorte Press
May 1, 1994
Mistakes That Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions & How They Came to Be Cover
Mistakes That Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions & How They Came to Be

Mistakes That Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions & How They Came to Be is an entertaining and informative book that tells the stories of how everyday items were invented by mistake. From sandwiches to Coca-Cola, the book is filled with fascinating anecdotes and hilarious cartoons that will keep readers engaged. The book is perfect for children aged 8 and up, and it is a great way to introduce them to the world of science and experimentation. Overall, Mistakes That Worked is a gem of a book that is sure to entertain and educate readers of all ages.

The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons

Biebow, Natascha
Salerno, Steven
Clarion Books
Mar 19, 2019
The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons Cover
The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons

The Crayon Man is a beautifully illustrated picture book biography about Edwin Binney, the inventor of Crayola crayons. The book tells the inspiring story of how Binney and his team created one of the world's most enduring, best-loved childhood toys – empowering children to dream in COLOR! The book's back matter provides attention-grabbing photographs of crayon production today. This book is an excellent addition to the children's money & saving reference books category, and it is published by HMH Books for Young Readers. Overall, this book is a must-read for children who love to color and learn about the history of their favorite crayons.

#TOP 6

Brain Games - Sticker by Letter: Space

Publications International Ltd.
Brain Games
New Seasons
Jul 16, 2022
Brain Games - Sticker by Letter: Space Cover
Brain Games - Sticker by Letter: Space

Brain Games Sticker by Letter: Space is a compelling activity to keep your child's brain engaged to create totally cool art.Includes 10 space themed images to sticker.Spiral binding and perforated pages make the book easy to use!8 x 10 inch pages.  Similar to color or paint by number, this sticker activity book features designs that are divided into spaces, each with a letter, that corresponds to a sticker. Find the sticker, peel it, and place it in the right space. Watch as a full colored image emerges from the original unfinished illustration.

#TOP 7

Brain Games - Sticker by Letter: Robots (Sticker Puzzles - Kids Activity Book)

Publications International Ltd.
Brain Games
New Seasons
Publications International, Ltd.
Jul 15, 2019
Brain Games - Sticker by Letter: Robots (Sticker Puzzles - Kids Activity Book) Cover
Brain Games - Sticker by Letter: Robots (Sticker Puzzles - Kids Activity Book)

Brain Games Sticker by Letter: Robots is an excellent activity book for children who love art and puzzles. The book includes 10 robot images, each with a joke, and features designs that are divided into spaces, each with a letter that corresponds to a sticker. The book's spiral binding and perforated pages make it easy to use, and the 8 x 10 inch pages are perfect for kids. Similar to color or paint by number, children can find the sticker, peel it, and place it in the right space to create a full colored image. Overall, Brain Games Sticker by Letter: Robots is a fun and engaging way to keep kids' brains active while also providing them with a creative outlet.

Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids STEM Edition: Fascinating Tales from Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics to Inspire & Amaze Young Readers

Sullivan, Jesse
Ratkovic, Davor
Aug 1, 2022
Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids STEM Edition: Fascinating Tales from Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics to Inspire & Amaze Young Readers Cover
Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids STEM Edition: Fascinating Tales from Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics to Inspire & Amaze Young Readers

The "Spectacular Stories for Curious Kids STEM Edition" is a captivating book that offers a collection of fascinating tales from the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The stories in this 200-page book have been specifically curated and written for young readers, inspiring them to discover, wonder, explore, and imagine. The book aims to fascinate and empower children, filling its pages with captivating tales from history and scientific wonders. This book is an excellent gift for both reluctant readers and budding aficionados of the written word, as it ignites the curiosity of children and inspires them to learn.

Edwards, Roberta
Who HQ
Kelley, True
Penguin Workshop
Sep 8, 2005
Who Was Leonardo da Vinci? Cover
Who Was Leonardo da Vinci?

"Who Was Leonardo da Vinci?" is a children's book that provides an accessible portrait of the fascinating man who lived during the Renaissance in Italy. The book showcases Leonardo da Vinci's exceptional talents in painting, music, science, and invention. However, the book also highlights his struggle to finish things, with only thirteen paintings known to be his. The book is written by Roberta Edwards and illustrated by Ken Call. Overall, the book is a great introduction to Leonardo da Vinci's life and works, and it is an excellent addition to any children's Renaissance book collection.

#TOP 10

Who Were the Wright Brothers? (Who Was?)

Buckley Jr., James
Who HQ
Foley, Tim
Penguin Workshop
May 1, 2014
Who Were the Wright Brothers? (Who Was?) Cover
Who Were the Wright Brothers? (Who Was?)

"Who Were the Wright Brothers? (Who Was?)" by James Buckley Jr. is a captivating children's book that tells the story of Orville and Wilbur Wright, two brothers who invented and flew the world's first successful airplane. The book highlights their journey from childhood, where they developed their love for all things mechanical, to adulthood, where they worked together to achieve their dream of flying. The Wright brothers' invention changed the world, and this book is an excellent way to introduce young readers to their incredible story. Overall, "Who Were the Wright Brothers?" is a must-read for children interested in aviation, innovation, and history."

Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who invented children books?

In 1744, John Newbery published A Little Pretty Pocket-Book. The volume was heralded as the true first book intended for children's pleasure reading. As paper and printing became more economical, the children's book industry veritably boomed during the 1800s.

2. What is the most successful children's book of all time?

The world's most beloved children's storiesEncyclopedia for Kids - Great Inventors and Inventions in History - Children's Education & Reference BooksFamous Inventors & Inventions: Children's BooksBrainstorm!: The Stories of Twenty American Kid InventorsBlack Inventors: 15 Inventions That Changed the World [Book]Most Important Inventions Of All Time | Inventions for Kids | Children's Inventors Books [Book]Inventors [Book]Kids Inventing!: A Handbook for Young InventorsGreat Inventors and Their Inventions (Yesterday's Classics) [Book]A Kids Guide to American InventorsThe InventorsScientists, Healers, and Inventors: An Introduction for Young Readers [Book]Inventors You Should Know: Profiles for Kids [Book]Inventions & Inventors: Farming, food & biotechnologyGreat InventorsThe Renaissance Inventors: With History Projects for Kids [Book]Young Trailblazers: The Book of Black Inventors and Scientists [Book]American Inventors & InnovatorsTinkerlab: A Hands-On Guide for Little InventorsInventors: My First Heroes

Editor's Notes

During our children's inventors book research, we found 1,000+ children's inventors book products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 31,212 customer reviews through our big data system to write the children's inventors books list. We found that most customers choose children's inventors books with an average price of $7.24.

Written by
Wilson Cook Avatar

Wilson Cook is a talented writer who has an MFA in creative writing from Williams College and has published more than 50 books acquired by hundreds of thousands of people from various countries by now. He is an inveterate reading lover as he has read a vast amount of books since childhood.