Science Friday 2024’s Best Science Books For Kids
Mahnaz Dar, the young readers’ editor at Kirkus Reviews, and Carrie Wolfson, a collection development librarian at the Boulder Public Library, dive into the world of children's science literature for 2024. They highlight captivating titles like 'The Observologist' and 'Oliver's Great Big Universe' that spark curiosity and creativity. The duo also addresses listener questions, recommending books that blend fun with learning across various themes, from nature to STEM, ensuring kids' imaginations soar. Perfect for gift-giving!
18:43
Choosing Science Books for Kids
- Consider kids' interests when choosing science books.
- The best book is one they will enjoy reading.
Matching Books to Learning Styles
- Consider the child's learning style when selecting a science book.
- Active kids might prefer interactive books, while story-loving kids might enjoy narrative nonfiction.
Kids vs. Adult Preferences
- Kids may not always appreciate books that adults find appealing.
- Prioritize fun, engaging books that cater to children's interests.
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Intro
00:00 • 2min
Engaging Science Reads for Kids
01:55 • 7min
Engaging Children's Books for Young Explorers
08:42 • 7min
Engaging STEM Books for Curious Young Minds
15:55 • 5min
Exploring Color: The Intersection of Science and Art in Children's Literature
20:32 • 2min
#11211
• Mentioned in 6 episodes
Oliver's Great Big Universe
Volcanoes Are Hot
Jorge Cham
In this book, Oliver delves into the world of earth sciences, specifically volcanoes, with the help of his friend Sven and Aunt Dee, a volcanologist.
The story uses vivid real-life comparisons to explain scientific concepts, such as the similarities between volcanic eruptions and human bodily functions.
Oliver and his friends aim to win the science fair, facing challenges and learning valuable lessons about friendship and science.
The book is illustrated with cartoon-style drawings and is part of the 'Oliver’s Great Big Universe' series.
#61019
All the Rocks We Love
Lisa Varshall Perrone
David Shearer
Taylor Perrone
All the Rocks We Love is a comprehensive guide designed to help readers identify and understand different types of rocks and minerals.
The book, co-authored by Lisa Varshall Perrone, Taylor Perrone, and David Shearer, provides detailed information and illustrations to make geology accessible to a wide audience.
It is particularly useful for students, hobbyists, and anyone interested in earth sciences.
#93021
Frozen in Time
What Ice Cores Can Tell Us About Climate Change
Carmella Van Vleet
This book takes readers on an ice core expedition, explaining each step in the collecting and transporting process, and explores the fascinating components of an ice core.
It features interviews with paleoclimatologists, full-color photographs, diagrams, a glossary of terms, and simple experiments for budding scientists.
The book emphasizes how studying ice cores helps in understanding past climate patterns and in protecting the planet against future climate change.
#109553
All Charged Up!
Big Ideas that Changed the World #5
Don Brown
This book, part of the Big Ideas That Changed the World series, narrated by Jagadish Chandra Bose, delves into the fascinating story of electricity.
It covers the earliest discoveries, such as Thales' observation of electric charges in amber, to key inventors and breakthroughs like Musschenbroek’s Leyden jar, Benjamin Franklin’s kite experiment, and the rivalry between Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison.
The book explains complex concepts like atoms, current, and electromagnetism in a kid-friendly manner, highlighting how electricity has become an integral part of our daily lives.
#130388
Hello Hello Opposites
Brendan Wenzel
This colorful board book, part of the Hello Hello series, introduces young children to opposites using pairs of animals such as a heavy walrus and a light butterfly, a tough rhino and a gentle fawn, and a loud tiger and a quiet salamander.
The book features simple rhythmic text and engaging illustrations, making it fun to read aloud.
It also includes an answer key at the back to identify each animal, promoting learning and an appreciation for the variety of animals in nature.
The series gently emphasizes the importance of saving endangered species and caring for the environment.
#98025
My Antarctica
True Adventures in the Land of Mummified Seals, Space Robots, and So Much More
Corban Wilkin
G. Neri
In this book, G. Neri recounts his journey to Antarctica, a land of extremes known for its cold, wind, and scientific research.
The narrative is filled with wide-eyed wonder as Neri meets various scientists, encounters unique creatures like mummified seals and space robots, and experiences the stark beauty of the continent.
The book includes full-color photographs, annotated comics, and illustrations by Corban Wilkin.
It also features robust back matter with additional facts, history, and answers to questions about Antarctica, making it an informative and engaging read for young readers.
#114901
What is Color? The Global and Sometimes Gross Story of Pigments, Paint, and the Wondrous World of Art
Steven Weinberg
This book takes readers on a global journey through the history and science of colors.
It introduces readers to talented individuals from scientists to famous artists, highlighting the messy, stinky, and sometimes dangerous origins of various pigments.
The book is filled with engaging illustrations, fun facts, and interactive backmatter, including recipes for making natural dyes and a color toolbox.
It covers the differences between pigment, vehicle, and medium, and discusses how color is used in art across different cultures and eras.
#85587
The Observologist
A Handbook for Mounting Very Small Scientific Expeditions
Giselle Clarkson
This book introduces the concept of 'observology,' the study of looking and making small scientific expeditions every day.
It guides readers on how to observe and record details in various everyday environments such as damp corners, pavement, weedy patches, and behind curtains.
The book is filled with humorous cartoon illustrations, detailed drawings, and interesting facts about tiny creatures, plants, and fungi.
It aims to spark a lifelong habit of looking closely at the natural world and is designed for children aged 7-11, though it is also enjoyable for older kids and adults.
#125365
The Next Scientist
The Unexpected Beginnings and Unwritten Future of the World’s Great Scientists
Julia Kuo
Kate Messner
This book, written by Kate Messner and illustrated by Julia Kuo, delves into the childhood interests and early beginnings of some of the world’s most fascinating scientists.
It highlights how these scientists, before their professional careers, engaged in activities common to many children, such as taking things apart, putting things together, and exploring.
The book aims to inspire young readers by showing that the future scientists could be anyone, including themselves.
It features a diverse range of scientific luminaries and is praised for its engaging and informative approach to introducing young learners to the sciences.
#15886
• Mentioned in 4 episodes
Spooky Lakes
25 Strange and Mysterious Lakes that Dot Our Planet
Geo Rutherford
This book takes readers on an adventure through weird and wild waters, highlighting lakes such as Lake Natron, Lake Maracaibo, and Lake Superior.
It delves into the science of hydrology and emphasizes the importance of understanding the natural world to protect it from pollution and climate change.
The book includes a glossary, bibliography, author’s note, and index.
It’s that time of the year when you’re making your list, checking it twice, for gifts that spark a love of science for the kids in your life.
Ira talks with Mahnaz Dar, young readers’ editor at Kirkus Reviews and Carrie Wolfson, collection development librarian at the Boulder Public Library to round up some of the top kids’ science books of 2024 and make recommendations based on listener questions.
See their full list of recommendations on sciencefriday.com.
Transcripts for each segment will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com.
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