The Ultimate Nonfiction Book List for Your 2nd to 9th Grader

If you’re seeking to spark your child’s interest in the world, instill lifelong learning habits, or simply provide them with educational entertainment, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve curated a list of the best nonfiction books for kids from grades 2 through 9. Each book is not only a bestseller but also serves as a fantastic tool to engage young minds in a fun and educational way.

2nd Grade

The Boo-Boos that Changed the World: A True Story About an Accidental Invention (Really!) by Barry Wittenstein.

This delightful story of how Band-Aids were invented can inspire your budding inventor. It presents a charming blend of history and creativity.

Hawk Mother: The Story of a Red-tailed Hawk Who Hatched Chickens by Kara Hagedorn.

This book introduces kids to the concept of animal behavior and empathy in a fun and easy-to-understand manner.

The Watcher: Jane Goodall’s Life with the Chimps by Jeanette Winter.

It’s a lovely introduction to Jane Goodall’s work, instilling a love for animals and nature in your child.

Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist by Jess Keating.

This book will nurture a love for marine life and encourage your young one to defy stereotypes.

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly.

This book empowers children with the story of the remarkable women who played crucial roles in the NASA space program.

3rd Grade

Whoosh!: Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions by Chris Barton.

This engaging biography of the Super Soaker inventor will motivate your child to see innovation and problem-solving everywhere.

Her Right Foot by Dave Eggers.

This beautifully illustrated book gives a fresh perspective on the Statue of Liberty, encouraging kids to think about history and freedom in new ways.

Life on Mars by Jon Agee.

This unique blend of reality and fantasy sparks curiosity about space and exploration.

Giant Squid by Candace Fleming.

This fascinating book unveils the mystery of the deep sea creature, feeding the curiosity of young marine biologists.

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin by Julia Finley Mosca.

This book highlights the importance of thinking differently and inclusivity, perfect for encouraging empathy and understanding.

4th Grade

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer.

This inspiring autobiography promotes problem-solving, resilience, and the power of a dream.

Kid Presidents: True Tales of Childhood from America’s Presidents by David Stabler.

It gives a unique, child-friendly perspective on the early lives of US presidents, making history fun and relatable.

Dinosaur Empire! by Abby Howard.

This book brings prehistoric creatures to life with engaging illustrations and amazing facts – a must-read for dino enthusiasts!

Ada Lovelace, Poet of Science: The First Computer Programmer by Diane Stanley.

This biography of the pioneering woman in STEM encourages kids to aim high, break barriers, and think creatively.

The Great White Shark Scientist by Sy Montgomery. It blends adventure and education, perfect for your future marine biologist or adventurer.

5th Grade

The Playbook: 52 Rules to Aim, Shoot, and Score in This Game Called Life by Kwame Alexander.

This motivational book will resonate with sports lovers and teach life lessons beyond the game.

The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos by Deborah Heiligman.

This story nurtures a love for numbers and showcases the beauty of a curious, unique mind.

The Thrifty Guide to the American Revolution: A Handbook for Time Travelers by Jonathan W. Stokes.

This witty guide makes learning history an absolute joy.

Some Writer!: The Story of E. B. White by Melissa Sweet.

A beautiful homage to the author of beloved classics like “Charlotte’s Web,” this book will inspire your budding writer.

Rad Women Worldwide: Artists and Athletes, Pirates and Punks, and Other Revolutionaries Who Shaped History by Kate Schatz.

Empower your child with stories of incredible women throughout history.

6th Grade

The Faithful Spy: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Plot to Kill Hitler by John Hendrix.

This intriguing book presents a tale of courage and conviction during dark times, offering an accessible way to approach complex history.

Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin.

This gripping narrative of atomic power development will thrill young scientists and history buffs.

How We Got to Now: Six Innovations That Made the Modern World by Steven Johnson.

This book fosters an appreciation for everyday conveniences and the inventions behind them.

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson.

An emotional and inspiring memoir about growing up as an African American in the 1960s and 70s. It encourages empathy and understanding.

Chasing Lincoln’s Killer by James L. Swanson.

A thrilling manhunt story that makes history feel like a suspense novel, perfect for history enthusiasts and young detectives.

7th Grade

Elon Musk and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance.

It offers an in-depth look into the life of one of today’s most innovative entrepreneurs. This book will inspire your child to dream big and persist.

The Omnivore’s Dilemma: The Secrets Behind What You Eat, Young Readers Edition by Michael Pollan.

This engaging book will give your child a newfound understanding and curiosity about where food comes from.

Courage Has No Color, The True Story of the Triple Nickles by Tanya Lee Stone.

This book sheds light on the first African American paratroopers in World War II, promoting appreciation for diversity and equality.

The Notorious Benedict Arnold: A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery by Steve Sheinkin.

A thrilling and eye-opening read about one of the most infamous characters in American history.

The Boys Who Challenged Hitler: Knud Pedersen and the Churchill Club by Phillip Hoose.

This riveting story of bravery and resistance during WWII is perfect for history lovers and those who admire courage.

8th Grade

March Trilogy by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin.

These graphic novels provide a powerful and personal look at the Civil Rights Movement, fostering empathy, understanding, and a passion for justice.

I Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World by Malala Yousafzai.

An inspiring story of a young girl’s courage in the face of adversity. It’s a must-read for fostering global awareness and the value of education.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot.

This book blends science, ethics, and history as it explores the story behind the HeLa cells, fostering critical thinking.

The Family Romanov: Murder, Rebellion, and the Fall of Imperial Russia by Candace Fleming.

This engaging account of the last Tsar and his family provides a vivid introduction to Russian history.

Hidden Figures: Young Readers’ Edition by Margot Lee Shetterly.

This inspiring story showcases the important roles African American women played in the space race, promoting equality and perseverance.

9th Grade

In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex by Nathaniel Philbrick.

This thrilling sea adventure will captivate future historians, sailors, or anyone who loves a good survival story.

An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793 by Jim Murphy.

This fascinating book blends science and history, perfect for your budding epidemiologist or historian.

Steve Jobs: The Man Who Thought Different by Karen Blumenthal.

This balanced biography of the Apple co-founder will inspire creative thinking and tenacity.

The Port Chicago 50: Disaster, Mutiny, and the Fight for Civil Rights by Steve Sheinkin.

This powerful book introduces readers to a lesser-known event of racial inequality in American history.

Code Talker: The First and Only Memoir By One of the Original Navajo Code Talkers of WWII by Chester Nez.

This memoir provides an enlightening perspective on WWII, underscoring the value of diversity and teamwork.

That’s it, folks! Remember, nurturing a love for reading in our children is one of the greatest gifts we can give them. Each of these books is a gateway to a new world, a new perspective, or a new idea. Happy reading!

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