Best Physics Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2025

The Way Things Work Now is an updated version of the New York Times Bestseller, The New Way Things Work. David Macaulay, the explainer-in-chief, has brilliantly explained the fundamental principles of machines using charming illustrations and a lucid text. This book covers everything from simple machines to modern microcompressors, and it captures the latest developments in technology that most impact our lives. The book closes with an illustrated survey of significant inventions, a glossary of technical terms, and an index. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of modern technology.

The Super Simple Physics book by DK Children is a comprehensive guide that covers all core physics topics in an easy-to-understand manner. The book is filled with fascinating facts and illustrations that make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for visual learners. The key facts box and step-by-step calculations and graphs make the book an excellent revision guide for students. The book is part of an exciting new series that aims not only to educate but also to inspire. Overall, this book is a must-have for any student looking to excel in physics.

The 100+ Series Physical Science Workbooks by Carson Dellosa are a great resource for students in grades 5-12 who want to strengthen their knowledge of physics and chemistry. With over 128 pages of interesting puzzles and problems, this workbook is a perfect supplement to any advanced science curriculum. It covers a wide range of topics, including metrics, motion, energy, electricity, and the periodic table. The exercises and activities included in the book are sure to appeal to students and teachers alike. Overall, this book is an excellent skill-building resource for both home and school, and it's no surprise why the 100+ series is a favorite among teachers for daily review and reinforcement.

Barron's Visual Learning: Physics is an excellent resource for learners of all ages who want to understand science concepts in an easy and engaging way. This book breaks down complex physics topics, including motion, electricity, and thermodynamics, with captivating illustrations and clear supporting text. The author, Kurt Baker, holds a Ph.D. in Astrophysics and has taught physics in schools for over 14 years. The book is published by Barrons Educational Series, which has been helping students prepare for exams for over 80 years. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn physics in an enjoyable way.

The Story of Science: Aristotle Leads the Way by Joy Hakim is the first book in a three-book series that explores the evolution of scientific thought from ancient times to the present. This book takes readers on a journey to ancient Babylonia, Egypt, and Greece to meet the world's first astronomers, mathematicians, and physicists, including Aristotle, one of the greatest philosophers of all time. With hundreds of color photographs, charts, maps, and diagrams, as well as informative sidebars and excerpts from the writings of great scientists, this book is a fascinating and engaging read for anyone interested in the history and philosophy of science.

The 5 Steps to a 5: 500 AP Physics 1 Questions to Know by Test Day, Fourth Edition is an updated study guide that provides 500 AP-style questions and answers, along with a 20-question diagnostic quiz to test the reader's knowledge. Written by expert AP teachers, the book covers the latest exam requirements and includes detailed review explanations for both right and wrong answers. This guide is ideal for last-minute practice and building the necessary skills in a minimal amount of time. Overall, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to ace the AP Physics 1 test.

The Story of Science: Newton at the Center is the second book in The Story of Science series by Joy Hakim. The book narrates the evolution of scientific thought from ancient times to the present, highlighting the achievements of some of the world's greatest scientists, including Copernicus, Galileo, Kepler, and Newton. The book includes hundreds of color photographs, charts, maps, and diagrams, making it an informative and engaging read for students and science enthusiasts alike. The detailed index makes finding specific information easy. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the history and philosophy of science.

The Must Know High School Physics book by Chris Bruhn is an innovative approach to learning physics that focuses on the essential concepts rather than rote memorization. The book includes over 250 practice questions and an app with 100+ flashcards to help reinforce learning. The author, a former aerospace engineer, has won awards for his teaching and is a certified College Board AP consultant. The book covers physics topics aligned with national and state education standards, and offers special help for more challenging subjects. Overall, this book is a lightning bolt to the brain and a valuable resource for high school students studying physics.

The Jazz of Physics is an intriguing exploration of the connections between music and science, particularly jazz and physics. Author Stephon Alexander, a physicist and jazz musician, draws on the work of great minds like Pythagoras, Kepler, Newton, Einstein, and Rakim to explore the concept of the "Music of the Spheres" and its potential to clarify issues in physics. The book is part memoir, part history of science, and part physics popularization, making for a compelling read. Overall, The Jazz of Physics is a unique and fascinating book that will appeal to anyone interested in the mysteries of the universe, music, and life itself.

Barron's Science 360: A Complete Study Guide to Physics with Online Practice is an essential resource for high school and college students, homeschoolers, and virtual learners. The book covers all the basics of physics, including motion, forces, electricity, magnetism, and introduction to nuclear physics. It is well-organized, with easy-to-follow explanations and numerous step-by-step examples. The book also includes practice exercises at the end of each chapter and provides access to online practice questions. Written by Kenneth Rideout, a physics teacher for over fifteen years, this book is an excellent study aid for anyone looking to improve their understanding of physics.