Best Children's Science Biographies Books of 2026

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 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 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.

This children's science biography book, published by Penguin Workshop, tells the fascinating story of Amelia Earhart, a woman of many "firsts." From her groundbreaking solo flights across the Atlantic and Pacific to her mysterious disappearance while attempting to fly around the world, readers will be captivated by Earhart's life. Written by award-winning author Kate Jerome, this book is an excellent tool for introducing young readers to the importance of science literacy and the power of perseverance. Overall, this book is a must-read for children interested in aviation and history.

Shark Lady by Jess Keating is an inspiring children's book that tells the true story of Eugenie Clark, a fearless marine biologist who dedicated her life to studying sharks. Despite facing discrimination as a woman in science, Eugenie pursued her passion and became known as the "Shark Lady" for her groundbreaking discoveries. The book is beautifully illustrated and includes interesting shark facts and a timeline of Eugenie's life. Overall, Shark Lady is a must-read for children interested in marine biology, and it serves as a great role model book for both girls and boys.

The Girl Who Drew Butterflies by Joyce Sidman is a beautiful nonfiction biography that introduces readers to one of the first female entomologists, Maria Sibylla Merian. The book is richly illustrated with full-color original paintings by Merian herself, documenting the metamorphosis of the butterfly. The book is an exceptional visual biography of a pioneering entomologist and naturalist who lived a life devoted to discovery. The marvelous account of Merian's life by Sidman is fascinating and beautiful, portraying the miracle of a woman becoming an artist and scientist in the 17th century. This book is a must-read for young scientists and anyone interested in the history of science and the contributions of women to the field.

This board book edition of Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World by Vashti Harrison is a perfect introduction for children to learn about the inspiring lives of women creators. The book features eighteen women who have made significant contributions in various fields, including art, science, and environmental activism. The colorful illustrations make the Dreamers accessible and relatable, inspiring young readers to follow their dreams and make a difference in the world. Think Big, Little One is a must-have addition to any child's library, and it is a great gift for parents who want to encourage their little ones to think big and achieve their goals.

This beautifully illustrated picture book biography of Mary Anning is a must-read for children who are interested in the discovery of dinosaurs and the importance of female scientists. Mary Anning loved scouring the beach near her home in England for shells and fossils, fearlessly climbing over crumbling cliffs and rocky peaks, searching for new specimens. Mary's discoveries helped create a brand-new field of study: paleontology. Educational backmatter includes a timeline of Mary Anning's life and lots of fantastic fossil facts. This book is perfect for parents and teachers looking for dinosaur books for kids, feminist picture books, and kids STEM books.

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin (Amazing Scientists) is an inspirational children's book that tells the story of a remarkable woman who overcame the odds and became one of the most powerful voices in modern science. The book is part of the Amazing Scientists series and includes a complete biography, fun facts, a colorful timeline of events, and even a note from Temple herself. The rhyming verse and appealing cartoon illustrations capture Grandin's spirit while providing an exciting, informative look at her remarkable life. It's a must-read for kids who feel different and don't quite fit in.

This children's physics book, published by Penguin Workshop, provides an engaging and interesting account of the life of Albert Einstein. The author, Jess Brallier, explores Einstein's early struggles, relationships, and most significant scientific discoveries. The book also delves into Einstein's political views and activities, including his exile from Germany and his role in creating the atomic bomb. Despite being a poor student who was expelled from school, Einstein became one of the most brilliant people the world has ever known. This biography is a great addition to any child's library, providing a fun and informative read about one of the most influential scientists in history.