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← All 4th Grade AR Books

4th Grade Nonfiction AR Books

AR levels 4–5 · 410 books

These 410 4th grade nonfiction AR books tackle substantive topics in greater depth, from historical events to scientific concepts, matching readers' growing curiosity and skill.

The Magic School Bus book cover

The Magic School Bus

Joanna Cole

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction curiosityscientific inquiry

Ms. Frizzle takes her class on a wild field trip deep beneath the surface to explore rocks, minerals, and the layers of the Earth. Blending a funny classroom story with clear science facts, this book makes geology exciting and easy to understand. Kids love the lively art, side notes, and speech bubbles that pack in fascinating details without feeling like homework. Perfect for young readers who are curious about how our planet works.

The Magic School Bus at the Waterworks book cover

The Magic School Bus at the Waterworks

Joanna Cole

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 19m
Nonfiction curiosityscience and discovery

Ms. Frizzle takes her class on a field trip to the city’s waterworks to discover how water is cleaned and delivered to homes. With lively illustrations, speech bubbles, and fun facts, kids see the water cycle and community infrastructure in action. It’s an engaging mix of story and science that makes complex ideas easy to understand. Perfect for young readers who love hands-on learning and a little humor with their facts.

And Tango Makes Three book cover

And Tango Makes Three

Justin Richardson, Peter Parnell

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction familylove and caregiving

Based on a true story from New York’s Central Park Zoo, this picture book follows two male penguins who long for a family and are given an egg to care for. With gentle text and warm illustrations, it shows how love and teamwork can create a home in many forms. Perfect for young listeners and early readers, it invites conversations about families, kindness, and inclusion. Kids enjoy the adorable animal characters and the heartwarming, real-life twist.

More Sideways Arithmetic from Wayside School book cover

More Sideways Arithmetic from Wayside School

Louis Sachar

AR 4.3 2 pts 1.3h
Nonfiction logic and problem-solvinghumor and wordplay

Head back to the wacky halls of Wayside School—this time to tackle brain-bending math and logic puzzles wrapped in Louis Sachar’s trademark humor. Short scenes with favorite classmates lead into riddles, codes, and word problems that invite readers to think sideways. It’s great for puzzle lovers and fans of the series who enjoy witty challenges that sharpen reasoning skills. Accessible explanations and plenty of laughs make it engaging for independent solvers or families to try together.

Koko's kitten book cover

Koko's kitten

Francine Patterson

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal friendshipempathy

This true story follows Koko, the famous gorilla who learned to communicate with sign language, as she gently cares for a tiny kitten. Through photographs and simple, engaging text, readers see Koko’s curiosity, kindness, and surprising sense of responsibility. The book offers a window into animal emotions and intelligence in a way that resonates with young readers. Perfect for animal lovers and early elementary students who enjoy real-life stories with heart.

The Magic School Bus Explores the Senses book cover

The Magic School Bus Explores the Senses

Joanna Cole

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 23m
Nonfiction curiosityscientific inquiry

Ms. Frizzle takes her class on a wild ride through an eye, an ear, a tongue, skin, and even a dog's super-powered nose to explore how we sense the world. Lively art, speech bubbles, and sidebars pack in real science about human and animal senses without overwhelming young readers. It’s a fun, facts-first adventure perfect for curious kids and classroom units on the body. Fans of The Magic School Bus will love the humor and hands-on explanations that make science feel exciting and accessible.

Hiroshima book cover

Hiroshima

Laurence Yep

AR 4.7 1 pts 53m
Nonfiction war and peacesurvival

Laurence Yep’s Hiroshima offers a clear, compassionate look at the day the atomic bomb fell on the city and the lives it changed forever. Drawing on eyewitness accounts, the book follows young people and families as they face the blast and its aftermath. Written in accessible language for middle-grade readers, it helps students understand a pivotal moment in history without graphic detail. Readers are drawn to its human focus, short chapters, and powerful message about the costs of war and the value of peace.

My light book cover

My light

Molly Bang

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction renewable energyscience and discovery

Speaking in the voice of the Sun, this picture book shows how sunlight becomes the energy that lights our cities and powers our world. With clear diagrams and glowing art, Molly Bang explains electricity, the water cycle, wind, and even how fossil fuels store ancient sunlight. It’s a friendly introduction to big science ideas for curious kids and families to explore together. Perfect for elementary readers who love learning how things work and for classrooms studying energy and the environment.

Ashanti to Zulu book cover

Ashanti to Zulu

Margaret Musgrove

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction cultural diversitytraditions and customs

This Caldecott Medal–winning picture book presents an A-to-Z tour of 26 African peoples, highlighting a unique tradition from each group. Short, engaging paragraphs pair with striking, detailed illustrations by Leo and Diane Dillon to bring daily life and customs to vivid life. It’s a wonderful introduction to world cultures for young readers and a springboard for classroom discussion. Kids enjoy the alphabet format, rich art, and the chance to compare communities and traditions across a continent.

Amazon fever book cover

Amazon fever

Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld

AR 4.3 0.5 pts 25m
Nonfiction biodiversityexploration

This engaging nonfiction reader takes kids deep into the Amazon rainforest to discover its incredible plants, animals, and people. Clear text, vivid photos, and maps introduce one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems and explain why it matters. Young nature lovers will enjoy the sense of exploration while learning how scientists study the rainforest and how we can help protect it. A great pick for elementary readers who like real-world adventure and wildlife.

Bermuda Triangle book cover

Bermuda Triangle

Andrew Donkin

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction mysteryexploration

This short, photo-filled nonfiction reader introduces the mysteries and facts behind the Bermuda Triangle. Andrew Donkin explains famous disappearances, maps the Triangle’s location, and explores scientific explanations in kid-friendly language. Perfect for curious readers who enjoy real-life puzzles, it encourages critical thinking and separates myth from evidence. Ideal for elementary students ready to read on their own.

Children Around the World book cover

Children Around the World

Donata Montanari

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction cultural diversityglobal citizenship

This picture book introduces young readers to children from many countries and shows what their daily lives are like—home, family, food, school, play, and traditions. Simple text and warm, engaging illustrations highlight both differences and the many things kids have in common. It’s a gentle, classroom-friendly introduction to world cultures and community. Perfect for early elementary readers exploring geography and social studies.

Danger! Volcanoes book cover

Danger! Volcanoes

Seymour Simon

AR 4.9 0.5 pts
Nonfiction earth sciencenatural disasters

This photo-packed nonfiction book introduces young readers to how volcanoes form, why they erupt, and what scientists observe to keep people safe. Seymour Simon explains tricky ideas with clear language and dramatic images of lava, ash, and famous volcanic sites. It’s a quick, fascinating read for kids who love natural disasters and earth science. Perfect for elementary readers ready to explore real-world geology.

Dinosaur book cover

Dinosaur

Sarah Walker

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction prehistoric lifescience and discovery

This photo-rich DK Eyewonder book introduces young readers to the world of dinosaurs—what they looked like, what they ate, and how they lived. Bite-size facts, labels, and captions make complex ideas easy to understand and fun to explore. It’s ideal for curious kids who love browsing pictures and picking up cool facts about T. rex, Triceratops, fossils, and more. A great choice for independent reading or for sharing together.

Emperor penguins up close book cover

Emperor penguins up close

Carmen Bredeson

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal adaptationsurvival

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to emperor penguins and their icy Antarctic world. Simple, engaging text explains how these birds stay warm, what they eat, and how parents care for their chicks. Close-up photographs and clear captions make the science accessible for early elementary students. Great for animal lovers and classroom reports alike.

Here comes the garbage barge! book cover

Here comes the garbage barge!

Winter, Jonah, 1962-

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction environmental responsibilityrecycling and waste

This witty picture book tells the true story of a barge piled high with garbage that set off down the East Coast in 1987, only to be turned away again and again. With dramatic, sculpted illustrations and a playful narrator’s voice, it turns a real environmental fiasco into an unforgettable tale. Young readers learn how our trash doesn’t just disappear—and why communities and leaders have to work together to solve big problems. Perfect for read‑alouds that spark conversations about recycling, responsibility, and how one big mess can make everyone think.

Hooray for dairy farming! book cover

Hooray for dairy farming!

Bobbie Kalman

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction agriculture and food productionanimals and animal care

This photo-rich nonfiction book takes readers onto a modern dairy farm to see how cows are cared for and how milk is collected, tested, and sent to stores. Clear captions and simple explanations break down daily chores, equipment, and the journey from farm to table. It’s a great fit for curious kids who love animals and want to know where their food comes from. Engaging images and kid-friendly facts make it an appealing choice for early elementary readers and classrooms.

Insect detective book cover

Insect detective

Steve Voake, Charlotte Voake

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction nature explorationobservation and inquiry

This gentle nonfiction picture book invites children to become nature detectives, searching for bugs in gardens, parks, and meadows. Simple, inviting text pairs with delicate watercolor art to show where insects hide, what clues to look for, and how they live. Short fact boxes add fascinating details without overwhelming young readers, making it great for read-alouds and early independent reading. Perfect for budding naturalists ages 5–8 who love exploring outdoors.

Killer whales up close book cover

Killer whales up close

Jody Sullivan Rake

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal behaviorpredator and prey

Packed with vivid photos and clear facts, this nonfiction book takes readers up close to killer whales in the wild. Kids learn how orcas hunt, communicate, and care for their young, with simple text, captions, and diagrams that make science easy to understand. Sidebars, a glossary, and a map support early research skills. Perfect for animal lovers in elementary school who enjoy fast, fascinating facts.

Linnea in Monet's garden book cover

Linnea in Monet's garden

Christina Björk

AR 4.9 1 pts 35m
Nonfiction art appreciationcuriosity and discovery

Linnea travels with her elderly friend Mr. Bloom to Paris and to Claude Monet’s beloved garden at Giverny. Through paintings, photographs, and gentle storytelling, she learns who Monet was and how he captured light, color, and nature in his art. The book blends a cozy travel story with real art history, making impressionism feel friendly and fun. It’s perfect for young artists and curious readers who enjoy beautiful pictures and learning something new.

Maps & Globes book cover

Maps & Globes

Jack Knowlton

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction geographymap skills

This classic introduction to geography explains what maps and globes are and how to read them. With clear illustrations, it covers symbols, scale, direction, and latitude and longitude, helping kids see how maps represent the real world. It’s perfect for early elementary readers who are curious about places and how to find them. Children enjoy the hands-on feel of learning practical map skills they can use at school or on trips.

Mary Geddy's Day book cover

Mary Geddy's Day

Kate Waters

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction daily lifefamily and responsibility

Step into Colonial Williamsburg with Mary Geddy as she spends a busy day helping her family and exploring her bustling town. Through vivid photographs and clear, friendly text, readers see how an 18th-century girl cooks, shops, learns skills, and hears talk about taxes and freedom. This engaging slice-of-life nonfiction makes history feel close and real for younger readers. It’s a great pick for kids curious about everyday life in early America.

Saltopus and other first dinosaurs book cover

Saltopus and other first dinosaurs

Dougal Dixon

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction prehistoric lifepaleontology

This photo-rich introduction looks at some of the very first dinosaurs, including the small, speedy Saltopus and its Triassic relatives. Clear, simple text explains when and where these early dinosaurs lived and how scientists use fossils to learn about them. Labeled illustrations, fact boxes, and a glossary make it friendly for young dino fans and emerging readers. Perfect for kids who love prehistoric creatures and want quick, fascinating facts.

Sarah Morton's Day book cover

Sarah Morton's Day

Kate Waters

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction daily life in colonial Americaresponsibility

This photo-essay follows Sarah Morton, a Pilgrim girl living in 1627 Plymouth, through a full day of chores, learning, worship, and play. Shot on location at Plimoth Plantation with historical reenactors, the book shows what daily life was really like for children in colonial times. The clear text and rich photographs make history feel immediate and real for young readers. Kids enjoy the behind-the-scenes details of clothing, food, and games—and imagining themselves in Sarah’s shoes.

The Magic School Bus on the Ocean Floor book cover

The Magic School Bus on the Ocean Floor

Joanna Cole

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 23m
Nonfiction scientific inquiryexploration and discovery

Ms. Frizzle turns the bus into a submarine and takes her class on a lively tour of the ocean—from tide pools and coral reefs to the deep sea. Kids learn how the ocean is layered, how creatures are adapted to their habitats, and what the ocean floor looks like, all through funny dialogue, diagrams, and side notes. The mix of cartoon panels and clear science makes big concepts easy to grasp and fun to explore. Great for young ocean lovers and curious readers who enjoy fact-packed adventures.

Your Pet Gerbil book cover

Your Pet Gerbil

Elaine Landau

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction responsibilityempathy for animals

This photo-filled guide introduces young readers to what gerbils are like and how to care for them. Kids learn about choosing a healthy pet, setting up a safe habitat, feeding and handling, and noticing signs that a gerbil needs help. Clear text and simple tips make it great for new or soon-to-be pet owners. Animal-loving readers enjoy the friendly tone, fun facts, and practical advice they can use right away.

If You Made a Million book cover

If You Made a Million

David M. Schwartz, Steven Kellogg

AR 4.1 0.5 pts 18m
Nonfiction money and financessaving and spending

If You Made a Million playfully explains how money works—from earning and saving to spending, making change, and even collecting interest. With Steven Kellogg’s lively illustrations and David M. Schwartz’s clear, funny explanations, big ideas about dollars and cents feel friendly and doable. It’s perfect for curious kids who like numbers and real-life problem solving. Families and teachers love how it turns everyday money questions into lightbulb moments.

Wild flamingos book cover

Wild flamingos

Bruce McMillan

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animals and wildlifehabitats and ecosystems

This photo-rich nonfiction picture book invites readers into the world of wild flamingos, showing how these striking birds live, feed, and care for their chicks. Bruce McMillan’s clear text and vivid photographs make complex ideas about habitat and adaptation easy for young readers to grasp. It’s a great choice for animal lovers and budding naturalists who enjoy real-life stories from the wild. Perfect for read-alouds or early independent reading.

Hooray for sheep farming! book cover

Hooray for sheep farming!

Bobbie Kalman

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction agricultureanimal care

This photo-rich nonfiction title introduces young readers to how sheep are raised and how wool becomes clothing and other products. Clear, simple text explains daily care, shearing, and the journey from fleece to finished goods. Kids who love animals and farm life will enjoy the behind-the-scenes look and real-world facts. It’s a great pick for early elementary readers curious about where everyday materials come from.

Shih Tzus Are the Best! book cover

Shih Tzus Are the Best!

Elaine Landau

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction responsibilityanimal care

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to the shih tzu—its cheerful personality, royal roots, and what it takes to be a responsible owner. Clear chapters explain the breed’s history in China and Tibet, typical behavior, grooming needs, and basic training and care. Short facts, captions, and vivid images make it engaging for dog lovers and report writers alike. Perfect for kids who dream of owning a small, friendly companion dog.

20-Minute (Or Less) Meme Hacks book cover

20-Minute (Or Less) Meme Hacks

Sheela Preuitt

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction creativitymedia literacy

This hands-on guide shows kids how to design and share their own memes by combining images, text, and basic coding concepts. Step-by-step projects connect to Vidcode activities, making it easy for beginners to jump in and experiment. Clear visuals, quick builds, and lots of humor keep creators engaged while they learn media literacy and design skills. Great for classrooms, clubs, or anyone curious about internet culture.

A Kid’s Guide to How Flowers Grow book cover

A Kid’s Guide to How Flowers Grow

Patricia Ayers

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction plant life cyclegardening

This clear, photo-supported guide explains how flowers grow—from seed and sprout to bud and bloom—and what plants need to thrive. Step-by-step tips show kids how to start and care for a simple flower garden, making science hands-on and fun. Straightforward text and diagrams are great for elementary readers studying life cycles or starting their first gardening project. Ideal for curious young botanists and classroom science units.

Actual Size book cover

Actual Size

Steve Jenkins

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animals and wildlifemeasurement and scale

This striking nonfiction picture book shows animal parts—and some whole animals—at their actual size using Steve Jenkins’s signature cut-paper collages. Kids compare their own hands to a gorilla’s, or their faces to a tiger’s teeth, building a concrete sense of scale. Simple, fascinating facts invite curious readers to look closely and ask questions. It’s a perfect pick for young animal lovers and budding scientists who enjoy dramatic visuals and bite-size information.

Adorable But Deadly Creatures book cover

Adorable But Deadly Creatures

Charles C. Hofer

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal adaptationsappearances can be deceiving

This photo-rich nonfiction title explores cute-looking animals that pack surprising defenses, from venom and toxins to claws and powerful bites. Short chapters and bold facts make it a fast, high-interest read for animal lovers and curious minds. It’s great for reluctant readers who enjoy dramatic nature facts and real-world science. Along the way, kids learn to respect wildlife and understand how adaptations help creatures survive.

African buffalo book cover

African buffalo

Lynn M. Stone

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction wildlifesurvival

African Buffalo introduces young readers to one of Africa’s most powerful herd animals. Clear, simple text and vivid photographs explain how buffalo live, find food, and protect their calves from predators like lions and hyenas. Readers learn about horns, herd behavior, and the grassland and wetland habitats where these animals thrive. Perfect for early elementary students who enjoy real-life animal facts and striking wildlife images.

All about maps book cover

All about maps

Chambers, Catherine

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction geographymap skills

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to the basics of maps—what they are, how they work, and why we use them. Children learn about symbols and keys, the compass rose, scale, and different kinds of maps from neighborhood plans to world maps. Clear explanations and simple diagrams make tricky ideas easy to understand. It’s a friendly first step for kids curious about finding their way and making their own maps.

Anacondas book cover

Anacondas

Anne Welsbacher

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction wildlifepredators and prey

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to anacondas, some of the largest snakes in the world. Clear, concise chapters explain where they live, what they eat, and how they survive in the rainforest. Diagrams, captions, and a glossary support school reports and curious animal lovers. A great pick for kids who enjoy learning amazing facts about wild creatures.

Animal Eyes book cover

Animal Eyes

Beth Fielding

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal adaptationssurvival

This engaging nonfiction picture book explores how animal eyes work and why they come in so many shapes and sizes. Readers learn how vision helps creatures find food, avoid predators, and thrive in their habitats. Clear explanations, close-up photos, and kid-friendly comparisons make tricky science easy to understand. Perfect for curious animal lovers and budding scientists in the early elementary grades.

Animal Senses book cover

Animal Senses

Janine Scott

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction animal adaptationssurvival

This photo-filled nonfiction book explains how animals use their senses to find food, avoid danger, and survive in their habitats. Short chapters and clear captions highlight sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch—plus special abilities like echolocation and heat sensing. It’s written for elementary readers who love nature facts and real-life examples. Kids enjoy the vivid images, surprising facts, and quick, easy-to-read sections perfect for reports or curiosity-driven reading.

Animals in disguise book cover

Animals in disguise

Martine Duprez

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction camouflageadaptation

Animals in Disguise introduces young readers to the clever ways creatures hide in plain sight. Through clear explanations and engaging examples, the book explores camouflage and mimicry—from color changes to shapes and patterns that fool predators and prey. It’s a bite-sized tour of animal adaptations that invites kids to look closely at the natural world. Perfect for curious elementary readers who love animal facts and surprising nature tricks.

Animals in Rivers and Lakes (Looking at) book cover

Animals in Rivers and Lakes (Looking at)

Moira Butterfield

AR 4.9 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal adaptationshabitats

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces children to the animals that live in freshwater habitats like rivers, streams, and lakes. Short sections explain how creatures find food, stay safe, and adapt to moving or still water. Clear captions and diagrams make science ideas easy to grasp for young readers. It’s a great pick for kids who love nature facts and exploring the outdoors.

Ankylosaurus and Other Mountain Dinosaurs book cover

Ankylosaurus and Other Mountain Dinosaurs

Dougal Dixon

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction prehistoric lifehabitats

This early-reader nonfiction book introduces ankylosaurus and other dinosaurs that lived in mountainous habitats. Simple text, labeled illustrations, and fast facts explain what these dinosaurs looked like, what they ate, and how they survived in rugged terrain. Maps, a glossary, and a timeline help young readers learn how scientists know about these prehistoric animals. Great for dinosaur fans in the primary grades who enjoy clear pictures and bite-size facts.

Antelopes book cover

Antelopes

Lynn M. Stone

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction wildlifehabitats

This short nonfiction book introduces young readers to antelopes—their habitats, diet, family groups, and the ways they stay safe on open grasslands. Clear sentences and vivid photographs make complex ideas about speed, horns, and camouflage easy to understand. It’s a good fit for early elementary students curious about wild animals and life on the African savanna. Great for beginning researchers and animal lovers alike.

Apatosaurus book cover

Apatosaurus

Elaine Landau

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction dinosaurspaleontology and fossils

This accessible nonfiction title introduces young readers to Apatosaurus, one of the largest plant-eating dinosaurs to roam prehistoric North America. Through clear text, labeled photos, and diagrams, it explains what scientists know about its size, diet, defenses, and how fossils reveal its world. Sidebars and a glossary support vocabulary and research skills, making it a good fit for elementary readers who love dinosaurs. Kids enjoy the vivid visuals and fascinating facts that bring this gentle giant to life.

Apple trees book cover

Apple trees

Dorothy Hinshaw Patent

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 19m
Nonfiction plant life cycleseasons and nature

This photo-filled nonfiction book follows apple trees through the seasons, showing how they grow from blossoms to ripe fruit. Dorothy Hinshaw Patent explains pollination, pruning, and harvest in clear, kid-friendly language with real-world examples from orchards. It’s a great choice for elementary readers curious about where their food comes from and how plants live and change. Engaging visuals and straightforward text make it ideal for school reports and science units.

Aquariums and terrariums book cover

Aquariums and terrariums

Ray Broekel

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction responsibilityobservation and inquiry

This photo-rich introduction shows kids how aquariums and terrariums work as small, living habitats. Simple text explains what plants and animals need to survive, how to set up a safe container, and how to observe changes over time. It’s geared to young readers and classroom projects, encouraging curiosity and careful stewardship of living things. Kids enjoy the clear steps, real-world examples, and the excitement of creating a mini world of their own.

Ask Dr. K. Fisher About Animals (Ask Dr. K Fisher) book cover

Ask Dr. K. Fisher About Animals (Ask Dr. K Fisher)

Claire Llewellyn

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction animal adaptationshabitats and ecosystems

Animals write funny letters to Dr. K. Fisher, an advice expert who answers their big questions about life in the wild. Each reply blends humor with clear science facts about habitats, bodies, food, and survival. Short, browsable sections and lively art make it perfect for curious younger readers. Kids enjoy the playful Q&A format while picking up real animal knowledge they can share.

Ask Dr. K. Fisher About Dinosaurs (Ask Dr. K Fisher) book cover

Ask Dr. K. Fisher About Dinosaurs (Ask Dr. K Fisher)

Claire Llewellyn

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction dinosaursprehistoric life

This playful nonfiction book answers kids’ dinosaur questions in a fun advice-column format. Letters from prehistoric creatures get witty replies from Dr. K. Fisher, packed with facts about habitats, diets, behavior, and extinction. The short sections, humorous art, and bite-size facts make it engaging for dinosaur fans and reluctant readers alike. Great for early elementary students who love science and dinosaurs.

At home in the coral reef book cover

At home in the coral reef

Katharine Muzik

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction biodiversityinterdependence

This photo-rich nonfiction picture book invites young readers to explore a bustling coral reef and meet the animals that call it home. Clear, simple text explains how fish, corals, and other sea creatures find food, hide from predators, and help one another survive. It’s a friendly introduction to ocean science for early elementary readers and curious animal lovers. Kids enjoy the vivid underwater scenes and the fascinating facts about how a coral reef works like a neighborhood.

At the Edge of the Pond book cover

At the Edge of the Pond

Jennifer Owings Dewey

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 23m
Nonfiction habitatsinterdependence

This quiet, detailed nature book invites readers to explore the lively border where land meets water. Page by page, children observe shrews, insects, frogs, and other pond-edge creatures as they hunt, hide, and share a small but bustling habitat. Clear, realistic art and precise language encourage close looking and curiosity about how living things connect. It’s a great pick for young naturalists and classroom studies of habitats and food webs.

Autumn Leaves book cover

Autumn Leaves

Ken Robbins

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction natureseasons

This photo-rich nonfiction picture book invites children to explore the colors, shapes, and textures of leaves in autumn. With close-up photographs and simple explanations, it shows how to tell different trees apart and why leaves change color and fall. The clear, poetic text makes science feel approachable for young readers and sparks curiosity about the natural world. Perfect for classroom units on seasons or a family nature walk.

Bald Eagle book cover

Bald Eagle

Gordon Morrison

AR 4.9 0.5 pts
Nonfiction wildlife biologylife cycle

This richly illustrated nonfiction picture book follows a pair of bald eagles as they build a nest, hunt, and raise their young along a North American waterway. Gordon Morrison’s detailed art and clear explanations show how these powerful raptors survive and care for their chicks. It’s a great pick for animal lovers and classroom nature units, offering real-life drama and fascinating facts without being overwhelming. Young readers enjoy the close-up look at wildlife behavior and the sense of wonder in observing the natural world.

Ballet of the elephants book cover

Ballet of the elephants

Leda Schubert

AR 4.9 0.5 pts
Nonfiction creativitycollaboration

This lively nonfiction picture book tells the true story of how choreographer George Balanchine and composer Igor Stravinsky created a whimsical ballet for the Ringling Bros. circus—starring 50 elephants. With playful language and dynamic illustrations, it introduces young readers to music, dance, and the magic of showmaking. Kids enjoy the surprising mix of high art and circus fun, plus fascinating details about rehearsals, costumes, and performance. A great pick for children who love animals, the arts, or unusual true stories.

Bambiraptor and other feathered dinosaurs book cover

Bambiraptor and other feathered dinosaurs

Dougal Dixon

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction scientific inquirydiscovery

This short, photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young dinosaur fans to Bambiraptor and other feathered dinosaurs. Clear text explains what fossils reveal about feathers, how these animals may have lived, and why scientists think many dinosaurs were more bird-like than we once believed. The accessible layout and bold visuals make it a good fit for early elementary readers and budding paleontologists. Kids who love fast facts and amazing prehistoric creatures will enjoy exploring these surprising dino discoveries.

Baseball in the barrios book cover

Baseball in the barrios

Henry Horenstein

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction teamworkcommunity

This photo-rich nonfiction book takes readers into Latino barrios where kids make baseball their own—playing in streets, vacant lots, and makeshift fields with boundless energy and creativity. Through candid images and clear text, it shows how the game brings families and neighborhoods together. Readers see the resourcefulness of young players and the pride they take in their teams. A great pick for sports fans and students curious about everyday life and culture beyond the U.S. diamond.

Baseball book cover

Baseball

Ray Broekel

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction teamworksportsmanship

This photo-filled introduction explains the basics of baseball—equipment, positions, rules, and how a game is played—using clear language young readers can understand. It also touches on the sport’s history and famous ballparks, making it a solid choice for reports or independent reading. Short chapters, captions, and diagrams help new fans connect terms they hear on TV or at the field with what happens in the game. Perfect for kids who love sports or are just starting Little League.

Baseball's greatest hitters book cover

Baseball's greatest hitters

Sydelle Kramer

AR 4.3 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction perseverancetalent and hard work

This Step into Reading title introduces young baseball fans to some of the greatest hitters in the history of the sport. In short, lively chapters with photos and illustrations, kids learn what made these players stand out—practice, persistence, and love of the game. It’s written for developing readers who are ready for longer paragraphs and real facts. Sports-loving kids enjoy the fun trivia, record-breaking moments, and inspiring true stories.

Baseball's greatest pitchers book cover

Baseball's greatest pitchers

Sydelle Kramer

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction sportsmanshipperseverance

This Step into Reading nonfiction title spotlights legendary pitchers from baseball history, introducing kids to their records, famous games, and what made their arms so special. Short chapters, lively facts, and illustrations make it easy for young fans to dip in and out. It’s perfect for emerging readers who love sports and want real stories about real athletes. Kids enjoy the quick bios, amazing stats, and inspiration to practice and play hard.

Bat Loves the Night book cover

Bat Loves the Night

Nicola Davies

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction nocturnal animalsadaptation

Follow a mother bat as she leaves her roost to hunt, using echolocation to navigate the dark and return to her waiting pup. Nicola Davies blends lyrical storytelling with clear facts, supported by detailed watercolor art, to show how bats live and survive at night. Young readers who love animals and nature will enjoy the gentle narrative and engaging science sidebars. It’s a perfect pick for early elementary students curious about nocturnal creatures and how they find their way in the dark.

Battleships book cover

Battleships

Green, Michael

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction technology and engineeringmilitary history

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces readers to battleships, from their armored design and big guns to how they were used in major naval conflicts. Clear text, diagrams, and fact boxes explain how these ships worked and what life was like for sailors on board. It’s a strong pick for report writers and for kids who love military machines and history. Best for upper elementary and middle grade readers.

Beaver book cover

Beaver

Glen Rounds

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal behaviorhabitat and ecosystems

This illustrated nonfiction picture book follows the busy life of a North American beaver—how it builds dams and lodges, gathers food, and raises its young. Glen Rounds’ detailed line drawings and straightforward text make complex animal behavior easy to understand. It’s a strong choice for early elementary readers and classroom animal reports. Kids enjoy seeing how beavers ingeniously shape their habitat and work together as a family.

Beavers book cover

Beavers

Emilie U. Lepthien

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction animal adaptationsengineering in nature

This clear, photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to beavers—their bodies, homes, and the amazing dams and lodges they build. Short chapters explain how beavers find food, raise their kits, and shape their wetland habitats. With straightforward text, captions, and a glossary, it works well for reports and for curious animal lovers. Kids enjoy the real-life “engineering” feats and up-close look at one of North America’s most fascinating mammals.

Beginner's United States Atlas book cover

Beginner's United States Atlas

AR 4.6 1 pts 57m
Nonfiction geographymaps and map skills

This colorful beginner’s atlas introduces young readers to all 50 states with easy-to-read maps, fun facts, and bright photos. Kids learn state capitals, symbols, landmarks, and regional features while practicing basic map skills like using legends and keys. Short bursts of text and lots of visuals make it accessible for emerging readers. It’s a great pick for curious kids who love trivia and for classrooms or families exploring U.S. geography together.

Beginner's United States Atlas book cover

Beginner's United States Atlas

National Geographic Society (U.S.)

AR 4.9 1 pts 1.1h
Nonfiction geographymap skills

This colorful National Geographic Kids atlas introduces readers to all 50 U.S. states with easy-to-read maps, striking photos, and bite-size facts. Kids can explore regions, capitals, landmarks, and natural features while building real map-reading skills. Designed for elementary readers, it’s a fun way to learn geography and discover what makes each state unique. Families and classrooms appreciate the clear layout and engaging visuals that invite curious browsing.

Bicycle Book book cover

Bicycle Book

Gail Gibbons

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction transportationsafety and responsibility

Gail Gibbons introduces young readers to bicycles—how they work, the parts that make them go, and the basics of safe riding. Clear diagrams and labeled illustrations explain different kinds of bikes and a brief history of cycling. The text is friendly and informative, perfect for kids curious about how things work. Families appreciate its emphasis on safety and its easy-to-understand nonfiction style.

Big blue whale book cover

Big blue whale

Nicola Davies

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction marine lifeanimal adaptations

This engaging nonfiction picture book introduces young readers to the largest animal on Earth—the blue whale. Nicola Davies uses clear, friendly language to explain how these giants eat, breathe, communicate, and live in the open ocean. Gentle illustrations and vivid comparisons help kids imagine the whale’s immense size and everyday habits. Perfect for curious early elementary readers who love animals and nature facts.

Birds that don't fly book cover

Birds that don't fly

Bobbie Kalman

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal adaptationssurvival

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to birds that cannot fly, such as ostriches, emus, kiwis, rheas, cassowaries, and penguins. Clear text explains how these birds are built for life on the ground or in the water, highlighting their special feathers, strong legs, habitats, and behaviors. It’s a solid pick for animal lovers and early elementary students researching birds. Kids enjoy the surprising facts and the global tour of flightless species.

Body Cycles book cover

Body Cycles

Michael Ross

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction human bodyrhythms and cycles

Body Cycles explores the everyday rhythms that keep us alive—breathing, heartbeat, digestion, sleep, growth, and more—through clear text and engaging photos. Young readers learn how the body works in patterns and why those patterns matter. Short explanations, kid-friendly sidebars, and simple observations encourage curiosity and make science feel accessible. It’s a smart pick for early elementary students studying the human body or health.

Brass book cover

Brass

Wendy Lynch

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction materials scienceproperties of matter

This short nonfiction book introduces readers to brass—what it is, how it’s made from copper and zinc, and why its properties make it useful. Clear photos and simple explanations show brass in everyday objects like musical instruments, fixtures, and hardware. Kids learn about how brass is shaped, finished, and recycled, with glossary terms to build science vocabulary. It’s a great pick for curious readers who enjoy learning how materials work in the real world.

Bridges book cover

Bridges

Norman V. Carlisle

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction engineering and designproblem-solving

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to how bridges are designed and built. With clear explanations and examples of arches, beams, and suspension bridges, it shows how engineers solve problems to span rivers, valleys, and busy roads. Kids who like learning how things work will enjoy the simple text, diagrams, and real-world examples. It’s a solid pick for elementary readers curious about engineering and famous bridges around the world.

Bug faces book cover

Bug faces

Darlyne Murawski

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction adaptationbiodiversity

Bug Faces pairs dramatic, up‑close photographs with simple text to show what insects really look like when you zoom in. Kids learn how eyes, mouthparts, and antennae help bugs survive, hunt, and hide. The brief facts and striking images spark curiosity and make science feel exciting, not scary. It’s a great pick for young nature lovers and budding entomologists.

Bugs Up Close book cover

Bugs Up Close

Diane Swanson

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction nature and wildlifeobservation and curiosity

Bugs Up Close zooms in on the tiny details that make insects so fascinating, from compound eyes and delicate wings to clever camouflage and surprising behaviors. Clear, engaging text pairs with striking magnified photos to help young readers notice things they’ve never seen before. It’s a great pick for curious kids who love nature and for classrooms studying life science. Short sections and vivid visuals make it inviting for developing readers and budding naturalists.

Burps, Boogers, and Bad Breath book cover

Burps, Boogers, and Bad Breath

David Conrad

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction human bodyhygiene

This short, funny nonfiction book explains why our bodies make burps, boogers, and bad breath—and how they actually help keep us healthy. With simple text and eye‑catching photos, it breaks down gross topics in a way that’s easy to understand and hard to put down. Great for curious kids who love fascinating facts and a little humor, it also offers practical tips for good hygiene. Perfect for elementary readers exploring how the human body works.

California book cover

California

Capstone Press. Geography Department

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 23m
Nonfiction state historygeography and landforms

This photo-filled state guide introduces California’s land, people, and past, from the Sierra Nevada and Pacific Coast to Gold Rush history, technology, and agriculture. Clear chapters, maps, and sidebars make it a strong choice for elementary research projects and curious readers. Kids enjoy the quick facts, timelines, and striking images that bring famous landmarks and diverse regions to life. Ideal for grades 3–5 looking for reliable, report-friendly information.

California, Here We Come! book cover

California, Here We Come!

Pam Muñoz Ryan

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction state historygeography

Climb aboard for a kid-friendly tour of the Golden State. From beaches and deserts to redwood forests and bustling cities, this picture book highlights California’s geography, history, and famous landmarks with easy-to-read text and fun facts. It’s a great pick for elementary readers curious about how one state can hold so many different places and stories. Perfect for classrooms, road trips, or state reports.

Capyboppy book cover

Capyboppy

Bill Peet

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction responsibilityfamily life

Bill Peet tells the true story of the time his family adopted a capybara—an enormous, curious rodent—whose antics turn everyday life upside down. With expressive illustrations and lively, conversational text, the book shows both the joy and challenges of caring for an unusual pet. Perfect for read‑alouds and confident early readers, it sparks conversations about responsibility and respecting wild animals. Kids enjoy the humor, the relatable family moments, and the fascinating glimpse at a real capybara.

Cars book cover

Cars

Chris Oxlade

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 21m
Nonfiction technology and engineeringtransportation history

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces how cars work—from early automobiles to modern designs—covering engines, materials, safety, and manufacturing. Clear explanations, diagrams, and captions make complex ideas approachable for curious readers. It’s a solid fit for elementary and middle grade students who like machines and real-world science. Kids enjoy the crisp visuals and bite-size facts that show the evolution and everyday science behind the cars they see on the road.

Castle: How It Works book cover

Castle: How It Works

David Macaulay, Sheila Keenan

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction engineering and designmedieval history

This engaging nonfiction picture book opens the gates to a medieval castle and shows how every part—from towers to drawbridges—was designed to protect the people inside. Clear, concise text pairs with David Macaulay’s signature cutaway illustrations to explain defenses and daily life in a fortress. It’s perfect for curious kids who love learning how things work and who enjoy history brought to life through detailed visuals. A great pick for early elementary readers and budding engineers or historians.

Cave book cover

Cave

Diane Siebert

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction natureexploration

This lyrical nonfiction picture book takes readers on a journey from the mouth of a cave into its shadowy chambers. With rich, poetic language, it introduces stalactites and stalagmites, underground streams, and the animals that have adapted to life in the dark. The art and rhythm create a sense of quiet adventure that invites careful observation. It’s a great pick for curious kids who love nature, geology, and exploring new environments.

Chanukah book cover

Chanukah

Dana Meachen Rau

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction traditionsfamily and community

This clear, photo-filled nonfiction book explains the story and traditions of Chanukah, from the Maccabees to the modern menorah. Readers learn about the holiday’s symbols, foods, songs, and ways families celebrate around the world. Written for elementary students, it’s an accessible introduction that supports school reports and curiosity. Kids enjoy the vivid images, quick facts, and step-by-step look at how the eight nights are observed.

Cherokee Indians book cover

Cherokee Indians

Bill Lund

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction Native American history and culturecommunity

This introductory nonfiction book gives young readers a clear look at the Cherokee people—their homelands, traditions, government, and daily life—past and present. With simple text and photos, it explains important topics like Cherokee language and crafts and touches on major historical events in age-appropriate ways. It’s designed for early elementary students and works well for reports or independent reading. Kids enjoy the straightforward facts and pictures that help them connect culture and history to real people today.

Children of Israel book cover

Children of Israel

Laurie M. Grossman

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 23m
Nonfiction daily lifecultural diversity

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces readers to the everyday lives of children growing up in Israel. Through short chapters and captions, it highlights school, family life, holidays, and the many cultures and traditions that make up Israeli society. Clear text and engaging images help kids connect with peers their age living in cities, towns, and kibbutzim. It’s a great pick for social studies projects or for readers curious about life in another part of the world.

Chilling Ancient Curses book cover

Chilling Ancient Curses

Tracy Nelson Maurer

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 25m
Nonfiction superstition vs. evidencecritical thinking

This high-interest nonfiction book explores famous so-called curses—from King Tut’s tomb to the Hope Diamond—and asks what the evidence really shows. Short chapters, photos, and sidebars invite readers to weigh facts against spooky legends. It’s a fun, slightly creepy read that encourages critical thinking without being too scary. Great for curious elementary and middle grade readers who love history with a shiver.

Christmas book cover

Christmas

Trudi Strain Trueit

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction traditionsfamily

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces the history and traditions of Christmas, from decorated trees and nativity scenes to songs, foods, and gift-giving. Clear, simple text explains how families celebrate and how customs vary around the world. It’s a friendly resource for young readers learning about a major winter holiday. Kids enjoy the colorful images, fun facts, and easy-to-understand explanations.

Civil War Sub: The Mystery of the Hunley book cover

Civil War Sub: The Mystery of the Hunley

Kate Boehm Jerome

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction innovation and inventionbravery

This engaging nonfiction reader tells the true story of the C.S.S. Hunley, the small Confederate submarine that made history in 1864 when it became the first sub to sink an enemy ship—and then mysteriously disappeared. With clear text and archival images, the book follows the invention, daring mission, and modern scientific efforts to uncover what happened. It’s written for young readers who love history, technology, and real-life mysteries. Kids enjoy the blend of adventure, discovery, and easy-to-digest facts about the Civil War and underwater archaeology.

Coal book cover

Coal

Kate Jackson Bedford

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction natural resourcesenergy production

This informational book introduces how coal forms, how it is mined, and how people use it to make electricity. Clear photos, diagrams, and short chapters help elementary readers grasp big ideas about fossil fuels and where our power comes from. It also touches on safety and environmental concerns in a balanced, age-appropriate way. Great for science reports and for curious kids who like to see how things work.

Coca-Cola 600 book cover

Coca-Cola 600

Eric Ethan

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction sportsmanshipcompetition

This photo-filled introduction explains the history and excitement of the Coca-Cola 600, NASCAR’s longest race held each Memorial Day weekend in Charlotte, North Carolina. Young readers learn what makes the event unique, from the grueling 600 miles to pit stops, strategy, and famous drivers. Clear text and fast facts make it an easy, high-interest read for budding motorsports fans. It’s great for kids who love cars, speed, and real-world sports action.

Cocker spaniels book cover

Cocker spaniels

Stuart A. Kallen

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction pets and animal careresponsibility

This short, photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to the cocker spaniel breed. It covers the dog’s history, appearance, temperament, and basic care in clear, kid-friendly language. Perfect for elementary students researching pets or dreaming of a dog, it offers practical facts and fun visuals. Dog-loving kids enjoy learning how cocker spaniels make loyal, affectionate companions.

Coelophysis and Other Dinosaurs of the South book cover

Coelophysis and Other Dinosaurs of the South

Dougal Dixon

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction prehistoric lifepaleontology and fossils

This introductory dino guide tours the prehistoric American South, spotlighting swift, slender Coelophysis and the other dinosaurs that once roamed the region. Clear text, bold illustrations, and simple maps help young readers connect fossils and places to the animals that lived there. It’s a great pick for dinosaur fans in early elementary grades who enjoy quick facts, pronunciations, and eye-catching visuals. Parents and teachers will appreciate the glossary, timeline, and geography tie-ins that support science and social studies learning.

Come Back, Salmon book cover

Come Back, Salmon

Molly Cone

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction environmental stewardshipteamwork

This photo-essay follows a class of students who adopt a polluted urban stream, Pigeon Creek, and work with their community to restore it as a healthy habitat for salmon. Through real-world science and teamwork, the kids test water, clean debris, plant vegetation, and track the creek’s recovery. The clear text and compelling photographs show how young people can make a tangible difference for wildlife and their neighborhood. It’s an inspiring true story for environmentally minded readers in upper elementary and middle grades.

Computer Evidence book cover

Computer Evidence

Amy Kortuem

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction forensic sciencetechnology

This introduction to digital forensics shows how investigators recover deleted files, track digital footprints, and use computer evidence to solve crimes. Clear text, photos, and real-world examples make complex ideas easy for middle-grade readers to grasp. It’s a great pick for tech-curious kids who enjoy true crime science and problem-solving. Short chapters and visuals support research projects and independent reading.

Conductors and insulators book cover

Conductors and insulators

Angela Royston

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction electricityproperties of materials

This clear, photo-rich science book explains how electricity moves through some materials but not others, introducing the ideas of conductors and insulators in everyday objects. Short chapters and simple experiments help kids see concepts in action while reinforcing safety around electricity. It’s a friendly introduction for early elementary readers curious about how lights, wires, and gadgets work. Perfect for classrooms, science units, and young tinkerers.

Connecticut book cover

Connecticut

Anne Welsbacher

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction U.S. states and regionsgeography

This short nonfiction book introduces the state of Connecticut through easy-to-read text, photos, and maps. Readers learn about the state’s history, geography, people, and symbols, along with its cities and industries. It’s a clear, kid-friendly overview that works well for reports or curious readers. Elementary and middle grade students enjoy the fast facts and vivid visuals about life in a New England state.

Conservation book cover

Conservation

Richard Gates

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 30m
Nonfiction environmental stewardshipnatural resources

This short nonfiction book introduces children to the idea of conservation—how we can protect water, soil, forests, wildlife, and other natural resources. Clear text and photos explain everyday ways people help the planet, from recycling to using resources wisely. Written for young readers, it builds basic vocabulary about the environment and encourages responsible choices. It’s a helpful first look at caring for the Earth at home and in the community.

Continents book cover

Continents

Dennis B. Fradin

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction geographyearth science

This photo-filled introduction explains what continents are, how they formed, and how they differ in landforms, climates, animals, and people. Clear headings, maps, and simple diagrams help young readers make sense of basic geography terms. It’s a solid starting point for school reports and curious kids learning about our world. Ideal for elementary readers who want straightforward facts with supportive visuals.

Cool Comics book cover

Cool Comics

Pamela S. Price

AR 4.4 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction collectingresponsibility

This short, photo-filled guide introduces kids to the world of comic book collecting—how to start a collection, find issues, and keep them in great condition. It explains basic terms and grading, where to look for comics, and how to store and protect them. Clear text and sidebars make it easy for beginners to jump in. Perfect for hobby-curious readers who love superheroes and pop culture.

Cool Customs book cover

Cool Customs

Janine Scott

AR 4.1 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction world culturestraditions

Cool Customs introduces young readers to traditions and everyday practices from cultures around the world. With short sections, clear text, and supporting photos, it explains how people greet one another, celebrate holidays, dress, and share meals in different places. It’s a friendly starting point for classroom discussions about respect and differences, ideal for upper–elementary students. Kids enjoy comparing their own routines to customs highlighted from other countries.

Count Your Way Through Israel book cover

Count Your Way Through Israel

James Haskins

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction world cultureslanguage and numbers

This picture-book nonfiction title introduces Israel by teaching children to count in Hebrew while exploring key aspects of the country’s culture, places, and daily life. Each number highlights a simple fact—from landmarks and holidays to foods and traditions—paired with clear, kid-friendly explanations. Short text and strong visuals make it accessible for young readers and classrooms. It’s a fun way to blend early numeracy with learning about a different country and language.

Countries book cover

Countries

David Stienecker

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction world culturesgeography

This photo-filled introduction explains what countries are, how borders and governments work, and the many ways people around the world live, speak, and celebrate. Clear headings and simple text make big geography ideas easy for young readers to understand. It’s a helpful starting point for school reports or curious kids learning about the wider world.

Cowboys book cover

Cowboys

Teri Martini

AR 4.3 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction frontier liferanching and cattle drives

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to the world of cowboys—what they wore, the tools they used, and the jobs they did on the range. Clear, simple text explains cattle drives, branding, and life on a ranch, with plenty of real-world details to spark curiosity. It’s a friendly first look at the American West for kids who love horses and outdoor adventures. Great for elementary readers just beginning to explore history and everyday life long ago.

Crayfish book cover

Crayfish

Phyllis W. Grimm

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction animals and habitatsadaptation

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to crayfish—their bodies, habitats, and surprising behaviors. Clear text explains how crayfish eat, hide, and protect themselves, and how they grow by molting. Sidebars, captions, and a glossary support early research and classroom reports. Perfect for animal lovers curious about life in streams and ponds.

Crime Busters book cover

Crime Busters

Andrew Donkin

AR 4.5 1 pts 25m
Nonfiction forensic scienceproblem-solving

Crime Busters introduces young readers to the world of forensic science—how investigators use fingerprints, footprints, fibers, and DNA to solve mysteries. Clear, level-appropriate text pairs with vivid DK photos to show real tools and techniques in action. It’s a great pick for curious kids who love mysteries, STEM topics, and figuring out how things work. Engaging sidebars and captions make it easy for developing readers to dip in and explore.

Deadly snakes book cover

Deadly snakes

Lisa McCourt

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction wildlifepredator and prey

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces some of the world’s most dangerous snakes and explains what makes them so deadly. Readers learn how venom works, how snakes hunt and defend themselves, and where these reptiles live around the globe. Clear text, captions, and exciting visuals make science facts accessible for younger readers. Perfect for animal lovers who enjoy fascinating (and a little scary!) true facts.

Deltadromeus and Other Shoreline Dinosaurs book cover

Deltadromeus and Other Shoreline Dinosaurs

Dougal Dixon

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction dinosaurshabitats

This photo-packed nonfiction title explores Deltadromeus and other dinosaurs that lived along ancient shorelines, rivers, and deltas. Readers learn how these dinosaurs hunted, moved, and survived near the water, with bite-size facts, captions, and a helpful glossary. Clear text and vivid illustrations make it a great pick for young dinosaur fans and early elementary researchers. Perfect for kids who love learning how animals fit into their habitats.

Desert Elephants book cover

Desert Elephants

Helen Cowcher

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction wildlife conservationhuman–animal coexistence

Each year, Mali’s desert elephants trek hundreds of miles to find water, sharing a fragile landscape with the people who live there. Through bold, dramatic artwork and clear text, this picture book shows how communities work together to protect wildlife and balance scarce resources. It’s perfect for young animal lovers and budding conservationists who enjoy real-world nature stories. Kids are drawn to the majestic elephants, the sense of journey, and the inspiring message of cooperation and care for the environment.

Desert Giant: The World of the Saguaro Cactus (Reading Rainbow Book) book cover

Desert Giant: The World of the Saguaro Cactus (Reading Rainbow Book)

Barbara Bash

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction ecosystemsinterdependence

This beautifully illustrated nonfiction picture book explores the life of the saguaro cactus and the desert community that depends on it. Readers follow the cactus through the seasons as birds, mammals, and insects use it for food and shelter. Clear, lyrical text and detailed art make complex ecology easy to understand. It’s a great pick for young nature lovers and classrooms studying desert habitats.

Desert Iguanas book cover

Desert Iguanas

Judith Jango-Cohen

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction adaptationsurvival

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces the desert iguana, a quick and hardy lizard of the American Southwest. Readers discover its habitat, diet, and clever ways of keeping cool in extreme heat. Clear, concise text with captions and a glossary supports early researchers and classroom reports. Perfect for animal lovers and kids curious about desert ecosystems.

Did You Hear That? Animals with Super Hearing (Animals with Amazing Abilities) (Animals with Amazing Abilities) book cover

Did You Hear That? Animals with Super Hearing (Animals with Amazing Abilities) (Animals with Amazing Abilities)

Caroline Arnold

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal adaptationssurvival

This engaging nonfiction picture book explores how different animals use super hearing to find food, avoid danger, and communicate. From echolocating bats to big-eared foxes, clear explanations and vivid examples make complex science easy for young readers. Short sections and accessible language are perfect for early elementary students and animal lovers. Kids enjoy the surprising facts and the way the book links animal ears and sounds to real-life survival.

Dimetrodon book cover

Dimetrodon

Tamara Green

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction prehistoric lifeadaptation

This short nonfiction book introduces Dimetrodon, the sail-backed reptile that lived long before the dinosaurs. Clear text and vivid illustrations explain how its body worked, what it might have eaten, and where scientists find its fossils. Young readers learn key facts and vocabulary while discovering why Dimetrodon isn’t actually a dinosaur. Great for early elementary dino fans who like quick, fact-filled reads.

Dingoes book cover

Dingoes

Lynn M. Stone

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction wildlifeadaptation

This short nonfiction book introduces young readers to dingoes, the wild dogs of Australia. With simple text and clear photos, it explains where dingoes live, how they hunt, and how they care for their pups. The book also touches on how dingoes fit into the Australian ecosystem. It’s a great pick for early elementary students who love animals or need a straightforward source for reports.

Discovering Dinosaurs book cover

Discovering Dinosaurs

Janine Scott

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction prehistoric lifescientific discovery

This photo-rich nonfiction title introduces young readers to the world of dinosaurs—what they were, when they lived, and how scientists learn about them from fossils. Clear chapters, captions, and a glossary make complex ideas easy to understand. It’s a solid pick for elementary readers who love facts and amazing prehistoric creatures. Kids enjoy the vivid images, bite-size facts, and exciting discoveries from real dig sites.

Does a Cat Really Have Nine Lives? book cover

Does a Cat Really Have Nine Lives?

Capstone Classroom

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal adaptationshabitats

This short nonfiction title invites kids to explore how animals survive in different habitats, from deserts to oceans and forests. Written in a student-friendly voice, it uses simple explanations and engaging photos to explain adaptations like camouflage, special body parts, and behaviors. Along the way, readers consider fun questions—like whether a cat really has nine lives—while learning to separate myths from facts. It’s a quick, confidence-building read for budding animal lovers and curious young scientists.

Draw anything you like book cover

Draw anything you like

Robin Lee Makowski

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 23m
Nonfiction creativityskill-building

This beginner-friendly guide shows kids how to draw a wide variety of subjects using simple shapes and step-by-step instructions. Short tips on tools, shading, and perspective help young artists build skills and confidence as they practice. Clear visuals and bite-size text make it approachable for upper elementary readers. Perfect for budding artists who want fast, fun results they can be proud of.

Dromaeosaurus and Other Dinosaurs of the North book cover

Dromaeosaurus and Other Dinosaurs of the North

Dougal Dixon

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction prehistoric lifepredator-prey relationships

This photo-illustrated nonfiction title introduces Dromaeosaurus and other dinosaurs that lived in the far north. Short chapters, captions, and a glossary help young readers learn how these predators hunted, stayed warm, and survived in tough, chilly habitats. Clear diagrams and comparisons make tricky science easy, with pronunciations to build confidence. Perfect for dinosaur fans in early elementary who love bite-size facts and bold art.

Earth book cover

Earth

Steven L. Kipp

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction space scienceplanetary science

This introductory nonfiction book explains what makes Earth special in our solar system, from its land, water, and air to how it supports life. Clear text and labeled photos help young readers understand basic Earth science concepts. It’s a good fit for early elementary students curious about planets and our home world. Kids enjoy the simple facts, vivid images, and bite-sized chapters that make big ideas easy to explore.

Emergency medical technician book cover

Emergency medical technician

E. Russell Primm

AR 4.8 1 pts 33m
Nonfiction community servicebravery

This hi/lo nonfiction title introduces readers to the fast-paced world of emergency medical technicians. Clear text and action photos explain what EMTs do, the equipment they use, and how they train to help people in crisis. Short chapters and accessible vocabulary make it a good fit for reluctant readers who like real-life hero stories. Perfect for kids curious about medical careers and first responders.

Epic Stunts book cover

Epic Stunts

Danielle S. Hammelef

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction filmmakingteamwork

Epic Stunts takes readers behind the scenes of movie action to show how professional stunt teams design, rehearse, and safely pull off daring sequences. Clear text and vivid photos explain the gear, planning, and physics that make leaps, crashes, and fight scenes look real. It’s a quick, high-interest read perfect for kids curious about how movies are made. Fans of action films and STEM-in-the-real-world will enjoy the mix of thrills and safety smarts.

Esports Revolution book cover

Esports Revolution

Daniel Montgomery Cole Mauleón

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction teamworkcompetition

Esports Revolution introduces readers to the fast-growing world of competitive video gaming. With clear text, vivid photos, and quick facts, it explains how teams train, how tournaments work, and why millions of fans tune in to watch. Kids learn about strategy, teamwork, and the technology that powers big events, all in an accessible, high-interest format. Great for gamers and reluctant readers alike.

Everest book cover

Everest

Megan Lappi

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction explorationhuman endurance

This concise nonfiction title introduces readers to Mount Everest, the highest peak on Earth, explaining where it is, how high it stands, and why climbing it is so challenging. Clear text, maps, and photos highlight weather, terrain, gear, and notable climbing attempts. It’s a great fit for curious kids who like extreme places and real-world adventure facts. Perfect for elementary and middle grade readers exploring geography and natural wonders.

Everyday Science Experiments in the Kitchen (Hartzog, Daniel.) book cover

Everyday Science Experiments in the Kitchen (Hartzog, Daniel.)

John Daniel Hartzog

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction scientific inquirycuriosity

This short, photo-rich guide shows kids how to turn everyday kitchen items into simple science experiments. Using easy steps and clear explanations, it connects real-world observations to basic scientific ideas. It’s perfect for young readers who like to tinker and try things themselves, with an emphasis on safety and using common household materials. Families and classrooms will enjoy the quick, hands-on activities that make science feel fun and approachable.

Experiments with electricity book cover

Experiments with electricity

Helen J. Challand

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction scientific inquirycuriosity and discovery

This hands-on science book introduces kids to the basics of electricity through clear explanations and easy-to-follow experiments. Using common household materials, readers explore static electricity, simple circuits, conductors and insulators, and safety around electrical devices. The step-by-step activities build confidence and curiosity, making abstract ideas feel concrete. It’s a great pick for budding scientists in upper elementary and middle grades.

Experiments with light book cover

Experiments with light

Ray Broekel

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction scientific inquiryexperimentation

This hands-on science book introduces kids to how light works through simple, safe experiments using everyday items like flashlights, mirrors, water, and prisms. Clear step-by-step directions and photos help young readers explore reflection, refraction, shadows, and color. It’s great for curious kids and classrooms, encouraging observation and scientific thinking. Perfect for budding scientists who like to learn by doing.

Experiments with straws and paper book cover

Experiments with straws and paper

Ray Broekel

AR 4 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction scientific inquiryexperimentation

This hands-on book shows kids how to use simple materials like drinking straws and paper to explore air, motion, and sound. Clear, step-by-step directions and illustrations make the activities easy to try at home or in the classroom. Young scientists learn to ask questions, make predictions, and see real science in action with everyday items. It’s a fun, low-cost way to spark curiosity and build STEM confidence.

Extreme Bicycle Stunt Riding Moves (Behind the Moves) book cover

Extreme Bicycle Stunt Riding Moves (Behind the Moves)

Danny Parr

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 27m
Nonfiction perseverancerisk and safety

Learn how BMX riders pull off jaw-dropping tricks with clear, step-by-step guidance and action photos. This high-interest introduction explains essential gear and safety, basic moves, and how to practice responsibly. It’s perfect for kids who love extreme sports or want to try freestyle biking for the first time. Readers enjoy the fast facts, bold visuals, and practical tips that build confidence.

Extreme Halfpipe Snowboarding Moves (Behind the Moves) book cover

Extreme Halfpipe Snowboarding Moves (Behind the Moves)

Mary Firestone

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction perseveranceskill-building

This high-energy nonfiction title breaks down how snowboarders ride the halfpipe, from basic stance and safety gear to grabs, spins, and combos. Short chapters, bold photos, and clear captions make it a great pick for reluctant and sports-loving readers. Kids learn the lingo, see how pros build skills step by step, and get tips for staying safe while pushing their limits. Perfect for fans of extreme sports who want a fast, exciting read.

Festival in Valencia book cover

Festival in Valencia

Anne Miranda

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction cultural traditionscommunity

This nonfiction reader takes kids to Valencia, Spain, to experience Las Fallas, the city’s famous festival of towering sculptures, music, and spectacular fireworks. Readers learn how artisans build the colorful fallas, how neighborhoods prepare, and how the celebration ends with blazing bonfires. Clear, engaging text and vivid details make it perfect for elementary social studies and cultural exploration. Kids who enjoy learning about traditions around the world will love the excitement and pageantry on every page.

Figuring Out Fossils book cover

Figuring Out Fossils

Sally M. Walker

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction scientific inquirydiscovery

This accessible nonfiction title explains how fossils form and what they can teach us about plants and animals from long ago. Clear photos, captions, and simple diagrams walk readers through sediment, pressure, and time, then introduce how scientists study fossil clues. Young rockhounds will find tips for careful observation and where fossils might be found. Perfect for budding scientists in the early grades who love digging, collecting, and learning about the past.

First Big Book of the Ocean book cover

First Big Book of the Ocean

Catherine D. Hughes

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 30m
Nonfiction ocean habitatsanimal behavior

This photo-rich National Geographic Kids title introduces young readers to ocean life, from playful dolphins and speedy sharks to waddling penguins and clever sea otters. Short, friendly paragraphs, captions, and fun facts make big science ideas easy to understand and spark curiosity. It’s perfect for kids who love animals and nature documentaries, and for families looking to explore the wonders of the sea together. A great choice for emerging readers and curious kids in the primary grades.

Fishing in action book cover

Fishing in action

Hadley Dyer

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction outdoor recreationskills and techniques

Fishing in Action introduces young anglers to the basics of freshwater and saltwater fishing—gear, bait, knots, and easy-to-follow techniques. Clear photos and diagrams explain how to cast safely, follow local rules, and protect fish and habitats. Short chapters and sidebars make it great for reports and independent reading in upper elementary. Outdoor-loving kids enjoy the practical tips and real-world examples that build confidence for a first fishing trip.

Football for Fun! book cover

Football for Fun!

Kenn Goin

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction teamworksportsmanship

This beginner-friendly nonfiction book introduces kids to American football—what the game is, basic rules, player positions, and the equipment you need to play safely. Clear text, bright photos, and simple diagrams help young readers understand how the game works and how to try it themselves. Short chapters, captions, and a glossary make it easy for grades 2–4 to browse and learn. Perfect for new fans who love fast action and want to get in the game.

Football book cover

Football

Ray Broekel

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction teamworksportsmanship

This photo-filled introduction explains the basics of American football—positions, rules, scoring, equipment, and safety—in clear, kid-friendly language. Short chapters and captions make it easy for new readers and report writers to find facts fast. It’s a great pick for sports fans who want to understand how the game works and what happens on the field. Kids enjoy the straightforward explanations and action images that bring each play to life.

Forces and Motion book cover

Forces and Motion

Angela Royston

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction scientific inquirycause and effect

This clear, photo-rich introduction explains how pushes and pulls make things move, stop, and change direction. Angela Royston breaks down gravity, friction, and magnetism with simple language and real-world examples kids recognize. Short sections and diagrams make it easy to understand and perfect for science units or independent reading. A good pick for curious readers who like trying hands-on ideas and seeing how science works in everyday life.

Forces Around Us book cover

Forces Around Us

Sally Hewitt

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction scientific inquirycause and effect

This engaging introduction to physics explains forces as pushes and pulls we encounter every day. With clear language, photos, and simple activities, it explores gravity, wind, water, magnetism, and weight. Young readers learn to observe cause and effect and try hands-on experiments that make big ideas feel approachable. Perfect for curious elementary students beginning to explore how the world works.

France book cover

France

Teresa Fisher

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction global awarenessdaily life

This photo-rich country book follows a French child who writes letters to a pen pal, sharing what everyday life in France is like. Readers peek into home routines, a typical school day, favorite foods, religious traditions, and festivals, with maps, fact boxes, and a glossary to build knowledge. The friendly letter format and clear, simple text make geography and culture easy to understand for young readers. Kids enjoy the real-life details and pictures that help them imagine living in France themselves.

Frog Song book cover

Frog Song

Brenda Z. Guiberson

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction biodiversityhabitats

Frog Song is a lyrical tour of frogs from around the world, celebrating the sounds they make and the watery places they call home. Each spread spotlights a different species with vivid art and rhythmic language that begs to be read aloud. Back matter adds fascinating facts for curious kids and budding naturalists. Perfect for early elementary readers and families who enjoy nature books and read-aloud science.

Frogs, toads, and turtles book cover

Frogs, toads, and turtles

Diane L. Burns

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction nature studyanimal habitats

This Take-Along Guide invites kids to head outdoors and discover frogs, toads, and turtles up close. Clear facts, identification tips, and simple activities help young naturalists learn how to spot these animals and understand their basic habits and habitats. Friendly illustrations and kid-sized information make it perfect for backyard exploring or trips to ponds and streams. Ideal for curious readers who love nature and hands-on learning.

From path to highway book cover

From path to highway

Gail Gibbons

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction transportation historyinnovation

Gail Gibbons traces how simple footpaths grew into roads and modern highways, showing how people have traveled and moved goods across time. Clear illustrations and concise text explain why roads are designed the way they are and how transportation changed communities. This engaging nonfiction picture book is ideal for curious early elementary readers who like to see how things work and how the past connects to the present. Kids enjoy the detailed diagrams and the big-picture look at everyday infrastructure.

Fun with Roman numerals book cover

Fun with Roman numerals

David A. Adler

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction numeracypatterns and rules

This clear, friendly picture book introduces kids to Roman numerals and shows how to read and write them using simple rules and lots of visual examples. David A. Adler connects the numerals to places children see them in real life—on clocks, book chapters, the Super Bowl, and more. Cheerful illustrations and step-by-step explanations turn decoding Roman numerals into a fun puzzle. It’s a great pick for elementary readers learning about numbers and patterns at school or at home.

Ghosts of the White House book cover

Ghosts of the White House

Tammy Gagne

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction American historypresidents

From Abigail Adams hanging laundry in the East Room to Abraham Lincoln’s lingering presence, this short nonfiction book explores famous ghost stories tied to the White House. Clear text, archival photos, and sidebars share who claimed to see what—and why these tales have lasted. It’s a fun blend of spooky folklore and history that invites readers to think about evidence and legend. Great for kids who love presidents, famous places, and a little chill down the spine without being too scary.

Ghoulish Ghosts book cover

Ghoulish Ghosts

Craig Boutland

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction the supernaturalmystery

Ghoulish Ghosts explores the long-standing question of whether spirits are real by looking at historical accounts, famous sightings, and modern theories. Short chapters, eye-catching photos, and sidebars invite readers to weigh the evidence and think like investigators. It’s a high-interest pick for curious kids who enjoy spooky topics but want facts and critical thinking, not just jump scares. Ideal for grades 3–6 and reluctant readers who like mysteries and the paranormal.

Giant machines book cover

Giant machines

Seymour Simon

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction engineeringtechnology

This photo-filled nonfiction picture book showcases some of the biggest machines on Earth and what they do— from massive dump trucks and cranes to tunnel borers and snowplows. Seymour Simon explains how each machine works and where you’ll find it on the job, using clear language perfect for young engineers-in-the-making. Kids who love vehicles and real-world facts will pore over the striking images and bite-size explanations. A great pick for early elementary readers and read-alouds with adults.

Giant Octopuses book cover

Giant Octopuses

Christine Zuchora-Walske, Christine Zuchora Walske

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction adaptationcamouflage

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to the mysterious world of giant octopuses. Short, kid-friendly chapters explain how these clever creatures use eight powerful arms, camouflage, and a sharp beak to hunt and stay safe. Clear text and captions make ocean science easy to understand, perfect for early reports or curious animal lovers. Kids enjoy the amazing facts and up-close images that show how octopuses live and thrive beneath the waves.

Glaciers book cover

Glaciers

D. V. Georges

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction earth scienceforces of nature

This clear, photo-filled nonfiction book explains what glaciers are, how they form and move, and the ways they carve valleys and shape the land. Short chapters, captions, and diagrams make complex earth-science ideas approachable for elementary and middle-grade readers. It’s a solid choice for reports or curious kids who like learning about our planet’s natural forces. Readers enjoy the real-world examples and striking images of ice fields and mountains around the world.

Grizzly Bears book cover

Grizzly Bears

Kathleen W. Deady

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction wildlifepredator and prey

This photo-rich nonfiction title introduces readers to the powerful grizzly bear—how it hunts, what it eats, where it lives, and how it raises its young. Clear text, captions, and diagrams make facts easy to grasp for elementary and middle-grade readers. Kids who love wild animals and true facts will enjoy the dramatic images and bite-size sections. It’s a great pick for reports or for any animal enthusiast.

Gross Jobs Working with Animals book cover

Gross Jobs Working with Animals

Nikki Bruno

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction STEM careersanimals and wildlife

From whale snot collectors to maggot farmers, this high-interest nonfiction title spotlights some of the grossest animal-related jobs—and why they matter. Short chapters, vivid photos, and sidebars show the science and problem-solving behind these careers. It’s perfect for curious readers who love yuck-factor facts and want to see how STEM skills help animals and the environment. Engaging and funny without being over-the-top, it turns ‘eww’ into ‘aha!’

Gross Out! book cover

Gross Out!

Ginjer L. Clarke

AR 4.3 1 pts 13m
Nonfiction animal adaptationssurvival strategies

From blood-squirting horned lizards to slime-making hagfish, this high-interest reader dives into the grossest animal behaviors—and explains the science behind them. Short chapters, vivid photos, and easy-to-digest facts keep curious and reluctant readers turning pages. Kids will discover how "disgusting" tricks actually help animals survive in the wild. A fun pick for animal lovers who enjoy weird, wild, and wonderfully icky facts.

Growing House Plants (Maurer, Tracy, Green Thumb Guides.) book cover

Growing House Plants (Maurer, Tracy, Green Thumb Guides.)

Tracy Maurer

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction responsibilityobservation

This beginner-friendly guide shows kids how to choose, pot, water, and care for common house plants. Clear photos and step-by-step tips explain light, soil, and fertilizer needs, plus how to solve simple plant problems. It’s perfect for budding gardeners and classroom projects that bring science to life indoors. Young readers enjoy the hands-on advice and the satisfaction of helping something grow.

Hair Care Tips & Tricks book cover

Hair Care Tips & Tricks

Karen Latchana Kenney

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 23m
Nonfiction self-careconfidence

This practical guide helps tweens understand how to care for every kind of hair—straight, wavy, curly, thick, or fine. Readers learn healthy habits, how to pick the right products and tools, and which cuts and styles flatter different face shapes. Clear tips and step-by-step ideas make it easy to try fun looks and create simple DIY accessories. Perfect for kids who want confidence-boosting, everyday solutions for great hair days.

Haiti book cover

Haiti

Suzanne Paul Dell'Oro

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction world culturesgeography

This beginner-friendly country book introduces Haiti’s land, people, languages, and traditions through simple text and vivid photos. Young readers learn basic facts about geography, history, food, music, and holidays, with maps and a glossary to support understanding. It’s a helpful pick for early elementary research projects or curious kids exploring the world. Short chapters and clear captions make the information easy and inviting to read.

Haystack book cover

Haystack

Bonnie Geisert

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction family and communityteamwork

This picture book follows a farm family through the busy days of cutting, hauling, and stacking hay, showing how a towering haystack is built and why it matters for the animals all year long. Clear, simple text and detailed illustrations walk readers step-by-step through real farm work and tools. It’s perfect for young readers curious about how things are made and how families work together. Kids enjoy the satisfying, hands-on process and the cozy glimpse of rural life across the seasons.

Health book cover

Health

Karen Jacobsen

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction personal healthnutrition

This introductory nonfiction book explains the basics of staying healthy, from eating well and exercising to getting enough sleep and keeping clean. Clear text and photos break down everyday choices kids can make to feel their best. It’s written for young readers and works well for early reports or classroom health units. Kids enjoy the simple explanations and real-life tips they can use right away.

Hear the Wind Blow book cover

Hear the Wind Blow

Doe Boyle

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction weatherscience and nature

This lyrical nonfiction picture book invites readers to feel and understand wind, from a whispering breeze to a howling gale, through poetic verse and clear science. Using the Beaufort wind scale, it pairs vivid art with easy-to-grasp explanations that show how wind affects trees, water, and our world. It’s a great pick for curious kids who love weather and for classrooms exploring observation and measurement. Engaging language and visuals make complex ideas approachable for young readers.

Her Right Foot book cover

Her Right Foot

Dave Eggers

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 14m
Nonfiction immigrationfreedom

This lively nonfiction picture book looks closely at the Statue of Liberty—and the surprising message hidden in her right foot stepping forward. With conversational humor and striking art, Dave Eggers and Shawn Harris connect the statue’s movement to America’s ideals of welcome and inclusion. It offers kid-friendly history and big ideas about immigration and kindness, sparking thoughtful discussion without feeling heavy. Perfect for elementary readers and read-alouds that invite questions and curiosity.

Heroes of the Revolution book cover

Heroes of the Revolution

David A. Adler

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction braverypatriotism

This short, fact-filled book introduces young readers to several key figures of the American Revolution and the roles they played in winning independence. David A. Adler’s clear, accessible text and supportive illustrations make complex history easy to grasp for elementary students. It’s a great pick for early research projects or for kids who love learning about real heroes from the past. Engaging snapshots of courage and leadership keep readers turning the pages without overwhelming them.

Hispanic Culture book cover

Hispanic Culture

Christy Steele

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 32m
Nonfiction cultural heritagetraditions and celebrations

This introductory nonfiction book explores the traditions, languages, holidays, foods, music, and family life found in Hispanic cultures around the world and in the United States. Clear text, photos, and sidebars make complex ideas accessible for elementary readers. It’s a helpful overview for school projects and for students curious about their own heritage or their neighbors’. Kids enjoy the inviting visuals and the way the book connects celebrations and daily life across different countries.

Hockey for Fun! book cover

Hockey for Fun!

Sandra Will

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction teamworksportsmanship

Hockey for Fun! introduces beginning players to the fast-paced world of ice hockey with clear explanations of rules, positions, and basic skills. Readers learn about essential gear, skating, passing, and shooting, along with safety tips and simple practice drills. Short chapters, action photos, and step-by-step guidance make it approachable for new athletes. It’s a great pick for sports-loving kids who want to try hockey or understand the game better.

Holidays around the world book cover

Holidays around the world

Carol Greene

AR 4 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction world culturestraditions

This nonfiction picture book introduces children to a variety of holidays celebrated in countries around the globe. With simple text and photos, it explains what people do, why the traditions matter, and how celebrations can be both different and alike. It’s ideal for early elementary readers learning about world cultures and classroom discussions of community and traditions. Kids enjoy the clear, friendly explanations and the chance to compare their own celebrations with those of others.

Hooray for beekeeping! book cover

Hooray for beekeeping!

Bobbie Kalman

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction naturepollination and ecology

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to the world of beekeeping—what hives look like, the roles of queen, workers, and drones, and how beekeepers safely care for bees. Clear captions and simple explanations show how bees make honey and why pollination matters to our food. It’s a friendly, fact-filled look at a fascinating hobby that supports the environment. Perfect for early elementary readers who love insects, nature, and hands-on science.

Horseback Riding for Fun! book cover

Horseback Riding for Fun!

Beth Gruber

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction animal careresponsibility

This photo-filled guide introduces kids to the basics of horseback riding—from safety gear and grooming to mounting, steering, and caring for a horse. Clear explanations and step-by-step tips make it easy for beginners to understand what to expect in a first lesson. The book highlights different riding styles and emphasizes safety and responsibility around animals. It’s a great pick for horse-loving readers who want to try the sport or learn more about life at the stable.

How do we move? book cover

How do we move?

Carol Ballard

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction human bodyanatomy and physiology

This clear, photo-rich nonfiction book explains how our bodies move using bones, muscles, joints, and the signals sent by the brain and nerves. Short chapters and diagrams break down complex ideas into manageable pieces for elementary and middle-grade readers. Kids enjoy the real-life examples, labeled illustrations, and simple experiments that show how movement works. It’s a helpful pick for science units on the human body or for curious readers who like to see how things work.

How Many Baby Pandas? book cover

How Many Baby Pandas?

Sandra Markle

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction wildlife conservationanimals and their young

This photo-rich nonfiction book follows real giant panda mothers and their cuddly cubs at panda research and breeding centers in China. Readers count along as more baby pandas arrive and learn how keepers help them grow strong and healthy. Clear, accessible text blends adorable moments with facts about panda behavior and conservation. Perfect for animal lovers in early elementary grades who enjoy true stories and eye-catching photography.

How Scientists Work book cover

How Scientists Work

Natalie M. Rosinsky

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 21m
Nonfiction curiosityinquiry and investigation

This clear, photo-rich introduction shows how scientists ask questions, design experiments, and use tools to study the world. Readers learn about lab and field work, data, safety, and how discoveries are shared. Short chapters and real-world examples make the scientific process easy to understand. Perfect for curious kids who like to figure out how things work and want to see what scientists really do.

Ice-cream cones for sale! book cover

Ice-cream cones for sale!

Elaine Greenstein

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction inventioninnovation

This lively picture book traces the curious history behind the ice-cream cone and the inventors who claimed it, with a special spotlight on the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. Simple text and vintage-style art make a fun, tasty tour through history for young readers. Kids enjoy the playful tone, surprising facts, and debate over who really deserves credit. It’s a sweet pick for early elementary readers who like true stories about everyday inventions.

Ice Cream book cover

Ice Cream

Jules Older

AR 4.9 0.5 pts
Nonfiction food historyscience of food

This lively nonfiction picture book serves up the story of ice cream—where it came from, how it’s made, and fun facts that will surprise young readers. With a playful voice and clear explanations, it takes kids from farm to factory to the freezer case. It’s perfect for curious elementary readers who love food facts and quick, engaging reads. Expect giggles and plenty of “did you know?” moments without getting too technical.

Ice Wreck book cover

Ice Wreck

Lucille Recht Penner

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction survivalexploration

Ice Wreck tells the true story of Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic expedition and what happened when his ship, the Endurance, became trapped in the ice. Written for developing readers, it uses short chapters, strong visuals, and clear language to bring a real-life survival adventure to life. Kids who like true stories of explorers and teamwork will be hooked by the dangerous setting and the crew’s grit. A great pick for young readers ready to try longer nonfiction.

If Sharks Disappeared book cover

If Sharks Disappeared

Lily Williams

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction ecosystemsfood webs

This compelling nonfiction picture book explores what could happen to our oceans if sharks disappeared. With clear, kid-friendly text and bold illustrations, it shows how sharks help keep marine ecosystems in balance and what a food web collapse might look like. Perfect for curious elementary readers and budding conservationists, it turns big science ideas into something easy to understand. Kids enjoy the striking art, fascinating shark facts, and hopeful message about how people can help protect the oceans.

If You Grew Up with Abraham Lincoln book cover

If You Grew Up with Abraham Lincoln

Ann McGovern

AR 4.9 1 pts 48m
Nonfiction frontier lifeperseverance

What was it like to be a kid when Abraham Lincoln was growing up? This illustrated Q&A-style book shows everyday life on the American frontier—school, chores, cabins, clothing, and play—through the lens of Lincoln’s boyhood years. Clear, friendly text and period drawings make history relatable for elementary readers. Great for kids who enjoy learning how real children lived in the past and for classrooms studying Lincoln or the early 1800s.

If You Lived With the Sioux Indians book cover

If You Lived With the Sioux Indians

Ann McGovern, Anne Kamma

AR 4.9 1 pts 50m
Nonfiction daily life and culturefamily and community roles

This question-and-answer book invites readers to imagine life with the Sioux on the Great Plains. It explains how families lived in tipis, how children helped at home, how the buffalo shaped daily life, and the importance of community and tradition. Clear, accessible text and detailed illustrations make history easy to understand and great for school reports. A strong choice for upper elementary readers curious about Native American cultures.

Iguanas book cover

Iguanas

Wil Mara

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction animal adaptationshabitats and ecosystems

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces readers to iguanas—their habitats, diets, life cycle, and the ways they survive in the wild. Clear text and labeled photos explain key features like spines, tails, and camouflage. It’s a good pick for animal lovers who want straightforward facts and eye-catching visuals. Great for elementary and early middle-grade readers researching reptiles or reading for fun.

Incredible Amphibians (Freestyle Express: Incredible Creatures) book cover

Incredible Amphibians (Freestyle Express: Incredible Creatures)

John Townsend

AR 4.8 1 pts 33m
Nonfiction animal adaptationlife cycles

This high‑interest nonfiction title explores the amazing world of amphibians—from frogs and toads to salamanders and newts. Short chapters, eye‑catching photos, and quick facts explain how these animals grow, hunt, and survive in wetlands, rainforests, and backyard ponds. It’s written for middle‑grade readers and reluctant readers who like fast, visual information. Kids enjoy the surprising facts, close‑up images, and real‑world science connections.

Indians book cover

Indians

Teri Martini

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 19m
Nonfiction culture and traditionscommunity

This short nonfiction book introduces young readers to the diverse Native American peoples of North America. With clear text and photos, it touches on daily life, homes, clothing, traditions, and early encounters with Europeans. It’s written at an accessible level for elementary students and is useful for beginning research or classroom reports. Kids enjoy the straightforward facts and visuals that make big topics easy to understand.

Insects in the garden book cover

Insects in the garden

D. M. Souza

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 20m
Nonfiction nature observationecosystems

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces the many insects that make their homes in a backyard garden. Readers learn how bees, butterflies, beetles, and other tiny creatures find food, avoid predators, and help plants grow. Clear, accessible text and close-up images invite kids to observe nature right outside their door. It’s a great pick for budding naturalists and classroom science units on habitats and life cycles.

Investigating Light book cover

Investigating Light

Sally M. Walker

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction scientific inquiryobservation and evidence

This photo-rich science book invites readers to explore how light works through clear explanations and simple, safe experiments. Kids investigate reflection, refraction, shadows, and color while learning to observe, ask questions, and record results like real scientists. Diagrams and step-by-step activities make tricky concepts approachable for elementary readers. Perfect for grades 3–5, curious tinkerers, and science-fair inspiration.

Investigating Magnetism book cover

Investigating Magnetism

Sally M. Walker

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction scientific inquiryexperimentation

This accessible science book invites kids to explore how magnets work through clear explanations and simple, hands-on experiments. Readers learn about poles, magnetic fields, and everyday uses of magnetism while following safe, step-by-step activities. Engaging photos and diagrams support understanding, making it a great fit for curious elementary scientists. Ideal for classroom or at-home learning, it builds inquiry skills and confidence with real-world STEM connections.

It's a Hummingbird's Life book cover

It's a Hummingbird's Life

Irene Kelly

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal life cycleadaptation

This lively nonfiction picture book zooms in on the tiny but mighty hummingbird—how it hovers, sips nectar, builds a nest, and raises its young. Clear, engaging text pairs with bright illustrations and sidebars to share fun facts and science vocabulary. It’s a great pick for animal-loving kids in the early elementary grades and for classroom units on birds, habitats, and pollination. Young readers enjoy the close-up details, quick facts, and the wow factor of these speedy, colorful birds.

It's Not the Stork! book cover

It's Not the Stork!

Robie H. Harris

AR 4.2 1 pts 47m
Nonfiction body awarenessfamily diversity

This friendly, factual picture book answers kids’ big questions about bodies, babies, and families with clear language and warm, humorous art. Guided by a curious bird and bee, children learn what makes girls’ and boys’ bodies similar and different, how babies begin and grow, and the many ways families are formed. It emphasizes respect, correct terminology, and safety in an age-appropriate way. Perfect for reading together, it helps caregivers start open, reassuring conversations with young children.

Jaguars book cover

Jaguars

Don Middleton

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction wildlife and biodiversitypredator-prey relationships

This short nonfiction book introduces young readers to jaguars, the largest cats in the Americas. Clear text and vivid photos explain how jaguars hunt, where they live, and how their spots help them blend into the rainforest. Kids learn basic facts about diet, size, and behavior, along with why jaguars need protected habitats. Perfect for animal lovers and early report writers who enjoy fascinating big-cat facts.

Jeeps book cover

Jeeps

Thomas Streissguth

AR 4.3 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction transportationinnovation and design

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces readers to Jeep vehicles—from their World War II beginnings to modern off-road models. Clear, concise text explains how four-wheel drive works, what makes Jeeps tough, and how they’re used on and off the road. It’s a great pick for kids who love cars and trucks and want real facts with lots of visuals. The short chapters and accessible language make it friendly for middle-grade readers and vehicle enthusiasts.

Judges and Lawyers book cover

Judges and Lawyers

Zachary A. Kelly

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 23m
Nonfiction civic responsibilityjustice and fairness

This informational book introduces how judges and lawyers work within the court system, from everyday responsibilities to the meanings of key legal terms. Clear explanations, photos, and examples help readers see what happens in court and why these roles matter in a community. It’s well suited for upper elementary students studying government or careers. Kids enjoy the behind-the-scenes look at real-world jobs and the easy-to-understand vocabulary support.

Jump rope magic book cover

Jump rope magic

Afi Scruggs

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction physical fitnessteamwork

This lively how-to book shows kids how to turn a simple rope into hours of fun. With clear tips, safety pointers, and step-by-step ideas for single-rope and Double Dutch, it helps readers build coordination and confidence while getting active. Short sections, photos, and sidebars make it easy to try new tricks and games right away. Great for recess, PE, or backyard play, it appeals to kids who like to move, learn skills, and play with friends.

Kids in pioneer times book cover

Kids in pioneer times

Lisa A. Wroble

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction daily lifewestward expansion

This short nonfiction book introduces what daily life was like for children on the American frontier—long wagon journeys, chores on homesteads, one-room schoolhouses, and simple games and pastimes. Clear text and period images help readers picture the challenges and ingenuity of pioneer families. It’s a good fit for elementary students studying westward expansion or curious about how kids lived long ago. Engaging details and visuals make history feel close and real without overwhelming young readers.

Kids who are Changing the World book cover

Kids who are Changing the World

Sheila Sweeny Higginson

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction activisminnovation

This inspiring early reader highlights four real kids who used their ideas and compassion to make a difference. From helping the environment to solving everyday problems at school and in their communities, the stories show that you don’t have to be a grown-up to create change. Simple text, photos, and engaging facts make it accessible for young readers. It’s a great pick for kids who like true stories and want to see how their own actions can matter.

Komodo Dragons book cover

Komodo Dragons

Anne Welsbacher

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal adaptationspredator and prey

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to the world’s largest lizard, the Komodo dragon. It explains where these reptiles live, what they eat, how they hunt, and the special adaptations that help them survive on their island homes. Clear text and captions make complex ideas easy to understand, with maps and diagrams that support early research skills. Perfect for animal lovers and school reports alike.

Lamborghini book cover

Lamborghini

Randal C. Hill

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction technologyinnovation

This high-interest nonfiction title introduces readers to the world of Lamborghini supercars—how they’re built, what makes them fast, and the story behind the famous Italian brand. Clear text and dynamic photos highlight iconic models and standout design features like powerful engines and sleek aerodynamics. Sidebars, a glossary, and fast facts support young car enthusiasts and developing readers. A great pick for grades 3–6 who love speed, engineering, and eye-catching machines.

Learning martial arts book cover

Learning martial arts

Steve Potts

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 25m
Nonfiction disciplinerespect

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces kids to the world of martial arts—what classes are like, basic techniques, safety, and the meaning of belts and rank. Clear text and captions explain different styles such as karate, judo, and taekwondo, along with the discipline and respect they teach. It’s a friendly starting point for beginners or curious readers who want to know what to expect before stepping onto the mat. Great for elementary and middle grade students interested in sports, fitness, and self-improvement.

Leopard & Silkie book cover

Leopard & Silkie

Brenda Peterson

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction wildlife conservationempathy

This photo-rich nonfiction picture book follows a boy who volunteers with Seal Sitters to watch over vulnerable harbor seal pups resting on Pacific Northwest beaches. Readers learn why pups come ashore, how people can observe them safely, and the kindness it takes to protect wildlife. Clear text and compelling images make it an engaging choice for young animal lovers and budding conservationists. Perfect for elementary readers who enjoy true stories about helping animals and the environment.

Let's Celebrate Thanksgiving (Let's Celebrate (Millbrook)) book cover

Let's Celebrate Thanksgiving (Let's Celebrate (Millbrook))

Peter Roop, Connie Roop, Gwen Connelly

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction gratitudefamily and community

This accessible nonfiction picture book explains the history of Thanksgiving and how people celebrate it today. Readers learn about the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag, traditional foods, and modern customs like parades and family gatherings. Clear text and inviting illustrations make it a good fit for elementary students researching the holiday or reading for fun. Kids enjoy the fun facts and the emphasis on gratitude and traditions they recognize at home or school.

Let's Take a Field Trip to a Tide Pool (Furgang, Kathy. Neighborhoods in Nature.) book cover

Let's Take a Field Trip to a Tide Pool (Furgang, Kathy. Neighborhoods in Nature.)

Kathy Furgang

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction nature explorationmarine life

This photo-rich nonfiction book invites young readers to explore the fascinating world of tide pools. Kids discover how crabs, sea stars, anemones, and other creatures survive where the ocean meets the shore. Clear text, captions, and simple diagrams support early elementary learners and curious nature lovers. It’s a great pick for classroom units on habitats and for children who enjoy real-life science adventures.

Let's Take a Field Trip to an Ant Colony (Furgang, Kathy. Neighborhoods in Nature.) book cover

Let's Take a Field Trip to an Ant Colony (Furgang, Kathy. Neighborhoods in Nature.)

Kathy Furgang

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal behaviorcooperation and teamwork

Readers take a guided “field trip” into an ant colony to see how queens, workers, and soldiers live and work together. Clear text and close-up photos explain tunnels, food gathering, and how ants communicate, all in kid-friendly language. It’s a quick, engaging science read that builds observation skills and curiosity about the natural world. Perfect for early elementary students who love bugs and short nonfiction with lots of visuals.

Life cycle of a frog book cover

Life cycle of a frog

Angela Royston

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction life cyclesmetamorphosis

This photo-rich nonfiction book follows a frog’s life cycle from jelly-like eggs to tadpole, froglet, and adult. Short chapters, clear captions, and diagrams make complex science easy for young readers. It’s a great fit for early elementary life-science units, reports, or curious animal lovers. Kids enjoy the close-up images and the step-by-step look at metamorphosis in real habitats.

Life Cycle of a Salmon (Life Cycle of A...) book cover

Life Cycle of a Salmon (Life Cycle of A...)

Angela Royston

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction life cyclesmigration

This photo-filled nonfiction book traces the salmon’s journey from tiny egg to ocean traveler and back again to spawn. Clear headings, diagrams, and glossary terms make complex science ideas easy for young readers. It’s a strong choice for early researchers and classroom life cycle units. Kids enjoy the dramatic migration story and the close-up look at a remarkable animal’s survival challenges.

Life cycle of an oak tree book cover

Life cycle of an oak tree

Angela Royston

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction life cyclesnature and ecology

This photo-filled nonfiction book follows an oak tree’s life from acorn to towering adult, explaining each stage in clear, simple language. Young readers learn how seeds sprout, how trees grow through the seasons, and how oaks support wildlife. Diagrams, captions, and a glossary make science vocabulary approachable. It’s an engaging choice for early elementary students curious about nature and plant life cycles.

Life Cycles book cover

Life Cycles

Michael Ross

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction life sciencegrowth and change

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces how living things grow and change, from plants sprouting to animals hatching and metamorphosing. Clear, accessible text explains each stage in a life cycle and shows that all organisms follow patterns of birth, growth, reproduction, and death. It’s a strong choice for early elementary readers curious about nature and science. Kids enjoy the vivid examples and simple comparisons that make big biology ideas easy to understand.

Life in a Hopi Village (Picture the Past) book cover

Life in a Hopi Village (Picture the Past)

Sally Senzell Isaacs

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction culture and traditioncommunity and cooperation

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces the daily life, homes, farming, and traditions of the Hopi people of northern Arizona. Short chapters, captions, and a glossary make it accessible for elementary readers studying Native cultures and early American history. Students enjoy the clear visuals, artifacts, and maps that help them picture how children and families live and work together on the mesas. A strong choice for social studies units and reports.

Life in a Sioux Village (Picture the Past) book cover

Life in a Sioux Village (Picture the Past)

Sally Senzell Isaacs

AR 4.9 0.5 pts
Nonfiction community and rolestraditions and culture

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces readers to daily life in a traditional Sioux (Lakota/Dakota) village on the Great Plains. Short chapters and captions explain homes, food, clothing, roles, and seasonal activities, helping kids picture how communities worked together. It’s a clear, respectful overview ideal for elementary researchers and curious readers. Students enjoy the vivid images and concrete details that make history feel real and relatable.

Life in St. Augustine book cover

Life in St. Augustine

Sally Senzell Isaacs

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction daily lifeexploration and colonization

This photo-packed nonfiction book introduces young readers to daily life in St. Augustine, America’s oldest continually occupied European-founded city. Short chapters, maps, and archival images show how Spanish settlers, Native peoples, soldiers, and families built homes, worshiped, traded, and defended the city. Students learn about landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, coquina stone walls, and the city’s changing cultures over time. It’s a clear, engaging resource for elementary social studies and Florida history units.

Life on a Cattle Farm (Life on a Farm) book cover

Life on a Cattle Farm (Life on a Farm)

Judy Wolfman

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 20m
Nonfiction rural liferesponsibility

This photo-rich nonfiction book takes readers onto a working cattle farm to see how beef cattle are cared for year-round. Step by step, it follows daily chores, seasonal work, and the roles each family member plays, from feeding and veterinary care to moving herds and preparing for market. Clear explanations and real-life images make complex farm processes easy to understand. Perfect for curious elementary readers who like learning how our food is produced and what life is like in rural communities.

Life on a Horse Farm (Life on a Farm) book cover

Life on a Horse Farm (Life on a Farm)

Judy Wolfman

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal careresponsibility

This photo-filled nonfiction book takes readers behind the scenes of a working horse farm. Children see how caretakers feed, groom, exercise, and care for horses, while learning about stalls, tack, training, and vet visits. Clear text and real-life photos make the routines easy to understand and fascinating for young animal lovers. Great for elementary readers who want a close-up look at how farms run and what horses need to stay healthy.

Life on a pig farm book cover

Life on a pig farm

Judy Wolfman

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 14m
Nonfiction farm lifeanimal care

This photo-rich nonfiction book takes readers behind the scenes of a modern pig farm, following farmers as they care for sows, boars, and piglets through each stage of growth. Clear text and captions explain daily chores, housing, feeding, and veterinary care, showing how pigs are raised responsibly. Kids who love animals and machinery will enjoy the detailed photographs and real-world facts. It’s a great pick for elementary readers curious about where food comes from and what farm life is really like.

Life on a pioneer homestead book cover

Life on a pioneer homestead

Sally Senzell Isaacs

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction pioneer lifefamily

This short nonfiction book takes readers onto a 19th‑century American pioneer homestead to see how families built cabins, grew food, made clothes, and handled daily chores. Clear text, photos, and diagrams explain tools and traditions in a kid-friendly way. It’s a strong pick for elementary readers curious about frontier life and U.S. history. Kids enjoy the vivid details of how things were made by hand and the compare-and-contrast moments with modern life.

Life on the Trail of Tears (Picture the Past) book cover

Life on the Trail of Tears (Picture the Past)

Laura Fischer

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction resilienceinjustice

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces the Cherokee people’s forced removal and what daily life was like along the Trail of Tears. Short chapters, maps, and period images help readers understand where families traveled, how they found food and shelter, and the hardships they faced. Written for elementary and middle-grade learners, it offers clear, age-appropriate context and vocabulary. Kids who enjoy history and primary-source visuals will appreciate how the book brings a difficult chapter of American history to life with empathy and clarity.

Life on the Underground Railroad book cover

Life on the Underground Railroad

Sally Senzell Isaacs

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction freedomcourage

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces the secret network known as the Underground Railroad, explaining how enslaved people traveled by night, used codes and signals, and relied on brave conductors for help. Maps, primary-source images, and simple captions make complex history accessible to elementary readers. It’s a strong choice for school projects or curious kids who like true stories of courage and clever problem-solving. Clear text and engaging visuals keep readers turning pages without overwhelming them.

Lights! Camera! Action! book cover

Lights! Camera! Action!

Gail Gibbons

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction filmmakingteamwork

Gail Gibbons takes young readers behind the scenes to show how a movie gets made—from the first idea and script to filming, editing, and the big premiere. Clear, labeled illustrations explain jobs on a set and the tools filmmakers use. It’s perfect for curious kids who like to see how things work and enjoy movies. Engaging visuals and simple text make complex steps easy to understand.

Lightship book cover

Lightship

Brian Floca

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction duty and responsibilityteamwork

This lyrical nonfiction picture book takes readers aboard a lightship—an anchored vessel that stands guard where lighthouses can’t—guiding ships safely past hidden shoals and through stormy seas. Brian Floca’s detailed art and precise, poetic text show the daily work of the crew, the power of weather, and the quiet bravery required to keep the light shining. It’s perfect for young readers fascinated by boats, the ocean, and how things work. Families and classrooms will appreciate its blend of history, maritime science, and beautifully crafted language.

Lions on the Hunt book cover

Lions on the Hunt

Alicia Z. Klepeis

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction predator-prey relationshipssurvival

This photo-rich nonfiction book explores how lions stalk, chase, and work together to capture prey, as well as how they live and communicate within a pride. Clear text, captions, and diagrams introduce young readers to habitat, diet, and key adaptations that make lions top predators. It’s a great pick for animal lovers and budding scientists who enjoy exciting nature facts without scary details. Perfect for elementary readers building research skills and curiosity about wildlife.

Little Kids First Big Book of Bugs book cover

Little Kids First Big Book of Bugs

Catherine D. Hughes

AR 4.7 1 pts 47m
Nonfiction curiosity and discoverybiodiversity

This colorful National Geographic Kids title introduces young readers to bugs of all kinds—from ladybugs and fireflies to exotic insects found in rain forests and deserts. Short, friendly facts and big photos make complex ideas easy to understand and spark curiosity. It’s great for early elementary readers who love nature and want to learn how bugs live, eat, and grow. Kids enjoy the fascinating close-ups, fun comparisons, and bite-sized sections that invite browsing or reading straight through.

Locusts book cover

Locusts

Sandra Markle

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction animal behavioradaptation

When a swarm of locusts descends on a field, it can strip plants bare in hours. This photo-rich nonfiction book explains how locusts live, why they swarm, and the science behind their incredible appetites. Interactive augmented reality elements bring close-up insect behavior to life, making complex ideas engaging and easy to visualize. A great pick for curious readers who love nature, life cycles, and real-world science.

Locusts book cover

Locusts

Sandra Markle

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal behavioradaptation

This photo-rich nonfiction title takes readers inside one of nature’s most dramatic events: a locust swarm. Sandra Markle explains how locusts live, what triggers their sudden swarming behavior, and how these insects can devastate crops. Interactive augmented reality elements help kids visualize swarms, life cycles, and movement in engaging ways. Perfect for curious elementary and middle-grade readers who like high-interest science with striking visuals.

Looking at Ethiopia book cover

Looking at Ethiopia

Kathleen Pohl

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction culture and traditionsgeography

This photo-rich introduction invites young readers to explore Ethiopia’s landscapes, people, and traditions. Short chapters and captions highlight daily life, major cities like Addis Ababa, and famous places such as the highlands and Rift Valley. Students learn about languages, foods, holidays, and wildlife, building global awareness in an age-appropriate way. Perfect for elementary researchers and curious kids who enjoy learning about countries around the world.

Looking at Japan book cover

Looking at Japan

Jillian Powell

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction culture and traditionsgeography and landmarks

Looking at Japan introduces young readers to the people, places, and traditions of modern Japan. Clear text, maps, and vivid photos explain the islands’ geography, cities, schools, foods, festivals, and famous landmarks. Short chapters and fact boxes make it perfect for elementary researchers and social studies units. Kids enjoy the quick facts and comparisons to everyday life in other countries.

Lowriders book cover

Lowriders

Ann Parr

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction engineering and designcreativity

This short nonfiction book introduces readers to the world of lowriders—cars customized with eye-catching paint, chrome details, and hydraulic systems that make them hop and glide. It explains where the lowrider movement began, how builders personalize their rides, and what you might see at a car show. Clear text, photos, and diagrams make it accessible for elementary and middle-grade readers. Kids who love cars, engineering, and creative design will enjoy learning about this unique car culture.

Magic School Bus Inside the Human Body book cover

Magic School Bus Inside the Human Body

Joanna Cole

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 18m
Nonfiction curiosityscience and discovery

Ms. Frizzle’s class takes a wild ride—inside Arnold! Shrinking down to travel through his digestive system, bloodstream, and brain, the kids explore how the human body works from the inside out. Lively cartoons, dialogue bubbles, and fun facts make complex science clear and funny. Perfect for curious elementary readers who love gross-but-cool details and learning by adventure.

Making Basic Origami Shapes Step by Step book cover

Making Basic Origami Shapes Step by Step

Michael G. LaFosse

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction creativityfollowing directions

This photo-illustrated guide teaches kids how to fold classic origami bases and simple models, one clear step at a time. Michael G. LaFosse introduces basic techniques, symbols, and tips so beginners can build confidence quickly. Short text and large, helpful images make it perfect for classrooms, after-school programs, or crafting at home. Young makers will enjoy turning a flat sheet of paper into recognizable shapes while strengthening patience and problem-solving skills.

Making Origami Toys Step by Step book cover

Making Origami Toys Step by Step

Michael G. LaFosse

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction creativityfollowing directions

This step-by-step guide shows kids how to fold simple paper toys that flip, fly, and move. Clear photos and diagrams teach basic origami techniques, materials, and tips for success. It’s great for hands-on learners who enjoy crafts, quick projects, and seeing their creations come to life. Perfect for elementary readers building confidence in following directions and fine motor skills.

Maps and globes book cover

Maps and globes

Ray Broekel

AR 4.3 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction geographymap skills

This introductory nonfiction book explains what maps and globes are and how they help us understand our world. With clear language and simple diagrams, it covers basic map features like symbols, the compass rose, and scale, and shows how a globe represents Earth. It’s designed for young readers building geography and map-reading skills. Kids enjoy the real-world connections and the confidence they gain using maps in everyday situations.

Market! book cover

Market!

Ted Lewin

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction global culturescommunity

This vibrant picture book invites readers on a world tour of bustling markets, from wool sellers in Ecuador to horse traders in Ireland, fruit stalls in Uganda, and the famous Fulton Fish Market in New York City. Ted Lewin’s luminous watercolors and succinct text capture the sounds, colors, and energy of open-air marketplaces. It’s a great pick for kids curious about how people live, work, and shop in different cultures. Families and classrooms will enjoy poring over the details and comparing markets around the globe.

Mars book cover

Mars

Dennis B. Fradin

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction space explorationastronomy

This photo-filled introduction explores the Red Planet—its rocky surface, thin atmosphere, seasons, and tiny moons. Dennis B. Fradin explains what scientists have learned from telescopes and early spacecraft, using clear text for young readers. Kids curious about space will enjoy quick facts, captions, and diagrams that make big ideas easy to understand. A great starting point for elementary students researching planets or dreaming of future exploration.

Maryland facts and symbols book cover

Maryland facts and symbols

Muriel L. Dubois

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction state symbolscivics and government

This short nonfiction book introduces Maryland’s key facts and state symbols, from the flag and state bird to important landmarks and history. Clear photos and simple text make it a helpful resource for reports and for curious readers learning about U.S. states. It’s geared to early elementary readers and builds basic research skills. Kids enjoy the quick facts, pronunciations, and the visual guides to each symbol.

Meet the Orchestra book cover

Meet the Orchestra

Ann Hayes

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction music appreciationteamwork

Meet the Orchestra introduces young readers to the families of instruments—strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion—through playful animal musicians and a friendly conductor. Clear, lively text explains what each instrument looks and sounds like, helping kids connect names to tones. The humorous art and simple comparisons make music concepts approachable for beginners. It’s a fun pick for budding musicians, classroom music units, or any child curious about how an orchestra comes together.

Mission to Mars book cover

Mission to Mars

Franklyn M. Branley

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction space explorationcuriosity

This Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science book introduces young readers to what it would take for astronauts to travel to Mars. With clear language and engaging illustrations, it explains rockets, the long trip, living and working on the Red Planet, and the science behind such a mission. It’s perfect for space-loving kids who enjoy real facts presented in a friendly, imaginative way. A great choice for curious readers in the early grades and for classroom discussions about space exploration.

Monday on the Mississippi book cover

Monday on the Mississippi

Marilyn Singer

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction travel and explorationgeography

This lyrical picture book takes readers on a day-by-day journey down the Mississippi River, from its quiet headwaters in Minnesota to its wide delta at the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way, the text highlights towns, wildlife, and the changing landscapes that make the river so important to American life. Gentle, rhythmic language and vivid illustrations make it inviting for read-alouds and early independent readers. It’s perfect for kids who love geography, nature, and discovering new places.

Monkeys and apes book cover

Monkeys and apes

Kathryn Wentzel Lumley

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction animal classificationhabitats and ecosystems

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to the world of primates, from playful monkeys to powerful great apes. Clear, accessible text explains how these animals live, what they eat, how they care for their young, and how scientists group them. It’s a friendly first look at habitats, behavior, and basic classification. Great for curious animal lovers and school reports alike.

Monster truck wars book cover

Monster truck wars

Jeff Savage

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 21m
Nonfiction motorsportstechnology and engineering

This high-energy nonfiction book dives into the world of monster trucks—how they’re built, the stunts they perform, and what it’s like at a roaring arena show. With dynamic photos and clear explanations, readers learn about famous trucks and drivers, safety gear, and the skills behind big-air jumps and car-crushing runs. It’s a great pick for kids who love vehicles, action, and sports. Short chapters and visuals make it approachable for reluctant readers, too.

Moon, Sun and Stars book cover

Moon, Sun and Stars

John Lewellen

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 16m
Nonfiction space and astronomycuriosity and discovery

This True Book introduces young readers to the basics of astronomy—what the moon is like, how the sun affects Earth, and what stars are. Clear, simple text pairs with photos and diagrams to explain big ideas such as day and night, seasons, and moon phases. It’s a great fit for curious kids in early elementary grades and for simple science reports. Children enjoy the bite-size facts, vivid images, and easy-to-understand explanations that make space feel close to home.

Moonshot book cover

Moonshot

Brian Floca

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction explorationteamwork

This lyrical nonfiction picture book takes readers aboard Apollo 11, from the thunder of liftoff to the quiet wonder of the Moon and the journey home. Brian Floca’s detailed illustrations and rhythmic text make complex science and history feel exciting and accessible. The expanded edition adds new art and factual back matter, perfect for curious kids and classroom discussions. Ideal for young space enthusiasts and families who enjoy immersive read‑alouds.

Mosquito book cover

Mosquito

Jill Bailey

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction life cyclesadaptation

This clear, photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to the mosquito—what it looks like, where it lives, and how it grows from egg to adult. Short chapters and captions explain how mosquitoes feed, their role in ecosystems, and the ways people can stay safe around them. It’s a helpful choice for early researchers and animal lovers who enjoy learning fascinating facts about tiny creatures. The accessible text and vivid images make science feel close to home—right in the backyard.

Motocross Freestyle book cover

Motocross Freestyle

Matt Doeden

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction extreme sportscourage

This high-energy nonfiction book introduces readers to the world of freestyle motocross, where riders launch off ramps to perform gravity-defying tricks. Clear text, dynamic photos, and sidebars explain bikes, safety gear, famous moves, and how competitions like the X Games work. It’s written for developing readers who love extreme sports and fast facts. Kids enjoy the thrilling action shots and bite-size information that makes the sport easy to understand.

Motorbikes book cover

Motorbikes

Chris Oxlade

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction transportationtechnology and engineering

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to motorbikes—how they work, what parts they have, and the many ways people use them. Clear text and labeled images explain engines, brakes, safety gear, and different types of bikes from street models to racing machines. Short chapters, diagrams, and a glossary make it friendly for report writing and curious vehicle fans. Great for kids who love speed, machines, and real-world technology.

Mount Everest book cover

Mount Everest

Lisa M. Bolt Simons

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction natural wondersexploration

This photo-rich nonfiction guide explores Mount Everest from its formation and extreme weather to the people, wildlife, and cultures of the Himalayas. Clear, fact-filled text and engaging infographics explain famous expeditions and current environmental challenges. Ideal for grades 3–6, it supports geography and science learning while satisfying curiosity about the world’s highest peak. Kids enjoy the dramatic images, quick facts, and accessible layout that make complex ideas easy to understand.

Mountains book cover

Mountains

Erinn Banting

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction earth sciencegeology

This concise nonfiction book introduces readers to mountains—how they form, the different types, and the plants and animals that live there. Clear text, photos, and diagrams explain concepts like plate tectonics, erosion, and famous mountain ranges around the world. It’s a great pick for elementary students curious about Earth science and geography. Kids enjoy the crisp facts, striking images, and real‑world examples that make big ideas easy to understand.

Mummies book cover

Mummies

Edith Kunhardt

AR 4.3 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction ancient civilizationsarchaeology

This accessible nonfiction picture book introduces young readers to ancient Egyptian mummies—how people were prepared for the afterlife and what archaeologists learn from them today. Clear text and engaging images guide kids through the steps of mummification, tombs, and treasures without getting too scary. It’s a great pick for curious kids who love history and museums, and for early elementary readers ready for real facts. Parents will appreciate the straightforward explanations and age-appropriate treatment of a fascinating topic.

Mummy book cover

Mummy

Kathleen Duey

AR 4.9 1 pts 1.0h
Nonfiction archaeologyancient civilizations

This high‑interest nonfiction book explores how and why ancient Egyptians created mummies, from preparation and burial rituals to the treasures and traps found in tombs. Clear, concise text and striking photos make complex history accessible to reluctant and middle‑grade readers. The book also touches on archaeology and how scientists separate facts from myths about curses and hidden chambers. It’s a fast, fascinating read for kids who like history, mysteries, and a little bit of creepiness.

My First Book of the Solar System book cover

My First Book of the Solar System

Collins, HarperCollins UK Staff

AR 4.4 0.5 pts 30m
Nonfiction space explorationcuriosity and discovery

This photo-rich introduction to space takes young readers on a tour of the Sun, planets, dwarf planets, moons, asteroids, and comets that make up our solar system. Clear captions, bite-size facts, and labeled diagrams help kids build vocabulary and understanding without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a friendly first reference for curious space fans and a helpful support for early research and homework. Perfect for independent readers or for sharing with an adult.

My New York book cover

My New York

Kathy Jakobsen

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction city lifeexploration

A folk-artist’s love letter to the Big Apple, My New York takes readers on a child-friendly tour of the city’s parks, museums, parades, and bustling streets. Lush, detail-packed paintings invite kids to pause, look closely, and discover something new on every page. It’s a lively read-aloud and a fun pick for curious city explorers and classroom units about communities and landmarks. Perfect for young readers who enjoy seek-and-find artwork and real-world settings.

My pet lizards book cover

My pet lizards

Lee Engfer

AR 4.8 1 pts 47m
Nonfiction responsibilityanimal care

This photo-filled guide introduces kids to the world of pet lizards, from choosing a species to setting up a safe habitat. Readers learn about feeding, handling, health, and daily care with clear explanations and practical tips. It’s a great pick for reptile fans and first-time pet owners in upper elementary. The book encourages responsible pet care and respect for animals.

My pet rat book cover

My pet rat

Arlene Erlbach

AR 4.9 1 pts 35m
Nonfiction responsibilityanimal care

This photo-filled guide introduces kids to the joys and responsibilities of keeping a pet rat. It covers choosing a healthy rat, setting up a habitat, feeding, gentle handling, and basic health care, with clear tips for first-time owners. Simple text and engaging sidebars make the information easy to follow. Perfect for animal-loving readers who want a friendly, realistic look at what rat ownership involves.

Narwhal book cover

Narwhal

Candace Fleming

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal behavioradaptation

This lyrical nonfiction picture book invites readers to slip beneath the Arctic ice and experience a narwhal’s day-to-day life. Short, vivid text and dramatic art show how these shy whales travel with their pods, use echolocation to hunt, and navigate seasonal changes in a harsh environment. Back matter adds accessible science for curious kids. Perfect for animal lovers and budding marine biologists who enjoy immersive, fact-filled nature books.

Nascar book cover

Nascar

Michael Johnstone

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction competitionteamwork

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to the fast-paced world of NASCAR. It explains how stock cars are built, what happens on race day, and the important roles of drivers, crews, and safety teams. Clear text and dynamic images make the sport easy to understand for newcomers. Perfect for motorsports fans and curious readers who like real-world action and mechanical know-how.

National Geographic Kids Beginner's World Atlas book cover

National Geographic Kids Beginner's World Atlas

National Geographic Kids

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 30m
Nonfiction geographymaps and mapping

Created by National Geographic’s map experts, this beginner-friendly atlas helps young readers explore continents, countries, people, animals, and environments around the globe. Bright maps, lively photos, and bite-size facts make geography clear and exciting for early elementary learners. It’s ideal for kids who love maps and trivia and for building classroom and homework-ready geography skills. A fun browse-and-learn resource that sparks curiosity about our world.

National Geographic Readers: Ellis Island book cover

National Geographic Readers: Ellis Island

Elizabeth Carney

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction immigrationfamily

This Level 3 National Geographic Reader introduces kids to the story of Ellis Island—from its early days to its role as America’s busiest immigration station and its present-day museum. Clear text, vivid photos, and helpful captions explain why so many families came through its doors and what they experienced. It’s a strong choice for independent readers who enjoy real-world history and fascinating facts. Perfect for grades 2–3 curious about immigration and American heritage.

National Geographic Readers: Titanic book cover

National Geographic Readers: Titanic

Melissa Stewart

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction historical eventsengineering and technology

This National Geographic Kids reader introduces young history buffs to the RMS Titanic—how it was built, why it was called “unsinkable,” what happened on its maiden voyage, and how Dr. Robert Ballard later discovered the wreck. Clear text, captions, and timelines pair with stunning photographs and diagrams to keep emerging readers engaged. It’s a great choice for curious kids who love real-world history, technology, and true-life adventures. Perfect for elementary readers building nonfiction skills and background knowledge.

Neptune book cover

Neptune

Gregory Vogt

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction space explorationscientific discovery

This short nonfiction book introduces young readers to Neptune, the distant blue ice giant at the edge of our solar system. Clear text and vivid photographs explain the planet’s size, atmosphere, rings, and moons, including what scientists learned from the Voyager 2 flyby. Readers also see how astronomers discovered Neptune and continue to study it today. It’s a great pick for kids who are curious about space and enjoy fast, fact-filled reads.

New England Patriots book cover

New England Patriots

Nate Leboutillier

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction teamworkperseverance

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces the New England Patriots, covering the team’s history, key seasons, star players, and home stadium. Short chapters and clear text make it approachable for elementary readers who love football facts and stats. Fans will enjoy learning how the team built its winning tradition and what makes the Patriots unique in the NFL. A great pick for reports or for young sports enthusiasts building background knowledge.

New York Giants book cover

New York Giants

Nate Leboutillier

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction teamworkperseverance

This photo-filled introduction traces the New York Giants’ history, famous seasons, and standout players, giving young football fans a quick, engaging overview of the franchise. Short chapters and clear captions make it easy for elementary readers to follow along. Kids who love the NFL enjoy the action shots, fast facts, and team traditions. It’s a great pick for new readers who want to learn about a favorite team or get ready for game day.

Newfoundlands Are the Best! book cover

Newfoundlands Are the Best!

Elaine Landau

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal careresponsibility

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces the gentle, hard‑working Newfoundland dog. Readers learn the breed’s history, famous water‑rescue skills, and what it takes to keep such a large, loyal pet healthy and happy. Clear text and sidebars explain grooming, exercise, and training in kid-friendly terms. Perfect for young dog lovers deciding if a Newfoundland could be the right fit for their family.

North Pole, South Pole book cover

North Pole, South Pole

Nancy Smiler Levinson

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction habitatsanimal adaptation

This engaging nonfiction picture book compares the Arctic (North Pole) and Antarctica (South Pole), showing how they are alike and how they differ. Readers learn about the animals that live in each region, the land and ice, the seasons of light and darkness, and how people do—or don’t—live there. Clear explanations and lively illustrations make complex science and geography easy to understand. Kids enjoy the side-by-side contrasts and fun facts that spark curiosity about Earth’s coldest places.

Not So Different book cover

Not So Different

Shane Burcaw

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction empathyinclusion

In this candid and funny picture book, author Shane Burcaw answers the questions kids really have about what it’s like to live with a disability. Through friendly, straightforward text and engaging photos, he explains how his spinal muscular atrophy affects daily life while showing the many things he loves to do. The Q&A style invites curiosity and empathy, making tricky topics feel safe and approachable. It’s a great pick for classroom conversations and for families who want to talk about differences with warmth and honesty.

Oceans book cover

Oceans

Kristin Ward

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction ocean habitatsbiodiversity

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to the world’s oceans and the creatures that live in them. Clear, simple text explains major habitats, how animals survive, and why oceans are important to our planet. With engaging images and bite-sized facts, it’s a great choice for early elementary students curious about sea life. Perfect for classroom reports or independent reading.

Off road racing book cover

Off road racing

A. T. McKenna

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction competitionperseverance

This photo-filled introduction explains how off-road racing works, from the vehicles and safety gear to the rugged courses they tackle. Young motorsports fans learn about trucks, buggies, and bikes built for dirt, mud, and desert terrain. Clear text and captions keep the reading accessible while fueling curiosity about speed and engineering. It’s a quick, high-interest read perfect for elementary readers who love action and machines.

Oil Spill! book cover

Oil Spill!

Melvin Berger

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction environmental stewardshippollution and cleanup

This Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science book explains what oil is, how spills happen, and what they do to oceans, animals, and shorelines. With clear language and engaging illustrations, it shows the tools and teamwork used to clean up spills. Young readers learn simple science concepts and ways people can help protect the environment. Great for curious kids and classrooms discussing oceans, conservation, and real-world problem solving.

Olympic National Park book cover

Olympic National Park

Mike Graf

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction nature and wildlifeecosystems

This photo-rich introduction takes readers on a tour of Washington State’s Olympic National Park, from mossy temperate rain forests to rugged Pacific beaches and glacier-capped mountains. Clear text explains how the park protects plants and animals, highlights unique features like tide pools and elk, and touches on how rangers care for the land. With maps, captions, and a glossary, it’s a friendly first look at national parks and what makes Olympic special. Great for early elementary readers who love nature and geography.

Open Wide book cover

Open Wide

Laurie Keller

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction dental healthhygiene

It’s the first day at Tooth School, and Dr. Flossman’s class of incisors, canines, premolars, and molars are ready to learn how to keep a mouth healthy. With jokes, charts, and chatty speech bubbles, this lively picture book explains brushing, flossing, cavities, and what different teeth do. Kids love the silly personalities and visual humor while picking up real facts about dental care. Perfect for elementary readers, classrooms, and anyone curious about what’s going on in their grin.

Opossums book cover

Opossums

Sally M. Walker

AR 4.3 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction animal adaptationssurvival

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to North America’s only marsupial—the opossum. Clear, simple text explains what opossums look like, where they live, what they eat, and the clever ways they survive, including their famous ‘playing possum.’ Kids will enjoy surprising facts about their prehensile tails, nocturnal habits, and life in the pouch. It’s a strong choice for animal lovers and early elementary students doing research projects.

Orangutans book cover

Orangutans

Lynn M. Stone

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal behaviorrainforest habitat

This concise photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to orangutans—the great apes of the rain forest. It explains what they look like, where they live, what they eat, and how mothers care for their young. Clear text and close-up photographs make complex ideas about habitat and behavior easy to understand. Perfect for early elementary readers who love animals and nature facts.

Paralegal book cover

Paralegal

Kathryn A. Quinlan

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction careersjustice and law

This high-interest, low-reading-level nonfiction title introduces what paralegals do and how they support attorneys in law offices and the court system. With clear text and photos, readers see day-to-day tasks like researching cases, organizing documents, and working with clients. The book also touches on training, skills, and career paths, making it a good fit for older students exploring jobs. Struggling and reluctant readers appreciate the short chapters and accessible language.

Peculiar Nature book cover

Peculiar Nature

John Micklos Jr., John Micklos Jr

AR 4.8 1 pts 43m
Nonfiction wonders of naturescientific inquiry

From Antarctica’s Blood Falls to the sliding stones of Death Valley, this high-interest nonfiction book spotlights some of Earth’s strangest natural phenomena. Short, photo-filled chapters explain what scientists know, what remains a mystery, and how investigators explore these puzzling places. It’s a great pick for curious readers in grades 3–6 who love weird facts and real-world science. Clear text and striking images make it easy to browse and hard to put down.

Penguins book cover

Penguins

Emilie U. Lepthien

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction animal behavioradaptation

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to penguins—their bodies, habitats, and how they survive in icy places. Clear, simple text explains what penguins eat, how they care for their chicks, and the different kinds found in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s a friendly first research resource with plenty of facts for animal lovers. Kids enjoy the crisp images and bite-size chapters that make learning about wildlife fun and approachable.

People of Alaska book cover

People of Alaska

Lynn M. Stone

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction cultural diversitycommunity

This short nonfiction book introduces the many peoples who call Alaska home, including Alaska Native groups and more recent residents. Clear text and photos highlight daily life, traditions, and how communities adapt to the state’s rugged land and climate. Written for early elementary readers, it offers simple facts, maps, and visuals to build background knowledge. Kids enjoy the real-life photos and quick, interesting details about culture and place.

Percussion book cover

Percussion

Wendy Lynch

AR 4.9 0.5 pts
Nonfiction music appreciationrhythm and sound

This photo-rich introduction explores the wide world of percussion—from drums and cymbals to xylophones and tambourines. Readers learn how these instruments make sound, the difference between tuned and untuned percussion, and where they’re played in bands and orchestras around the world. Clear captions, fact boxes, and a glossary support early research and classroom reports. A great pick for elementary music lovers and beginning musicians.

Pioneers book cover

Pioneers

Dennis B. Fradin

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction frontier lifewestward expansion

This accessible nonfiction book introduces young readers to the lives of American pioneers—how they traveled, built homes, found food, and worked together to survive on the frontier. Clear text, photographs, and illustrations explain everyday challenges in ways elementary students can understand. It’s a strong pick for reports or classroom units on westward expansion, and for kids who like learning how people lived long ago. Short chapters and plenty of visuals make it inviting for developing readers.

Planet Earth/Inside Out book cover

Planet Earth/Inside Out

Gail Gibbons

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction earth sciencegeology

Gail Gibbons takes readers on a clear, visual tour of our planet—from Earth’s place in the solar system to the layers beneath our feet. Labeled diagrams and simple explanations show how the crust, mantle, and core work, and how landforms, volcanoes, and earthquakes connect to Earth’s structure. It’s a friendly, fact-packed introduction perfect for early elementary science units and curious kids who love to see how things work. Bright illustrations and bite-size facts make complex ideas easy and engaging.

Plateosaurus and Other Desert Dinosaurs book cover

Plateosaurus and Other Desert Dinosaurs

Dougal Dixon

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction dinosaurshabitats and ecosystems

This informational picture book explores Plateosaurus and other dinosaurs that lived in dry, desert-like habitats long ago. Clear text, labels, and vivid illustrations show how these prehistoric animals found food and water and stayed safe in harsh environments. It’s a friendly introduction for young dino fans and early researchers, with glossary terms and fast facts that make learning fun. Great for beginning readers who love science and dinosaurs.

Private investigator book cover

Private investigator

Jan Goldberg

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 21m
Nonfiction investigationproblem-solving

This high-interest, low-reading-level nonfiction title introduces what private investigators do, from gathering evidence and interviewing people to using technology to solve cases. Readers learn about training, tools of the trade, and the real-world challenges investigators face. Clear text, photos, and sidebars make it accessible for reluctant readers. Kids who enjoy mysteries and behind-the-scenes looks at crime-solving will be drawn to its fast, factual style.

Products of Alaska book cover

Products of Alaska

Lynn M. Stone

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction natural resourceseconomy and industry

This short nonfiction book introduces young readers to the goods and natural resources that come from Alaska—like seafood, timber, oil, and minerals—and explains how people and communities depend on them. Simple text and clear photos show where these products come from and how they’re used every day. It’s a helpful companion for state studies and early social studies units. Kids enjoy the vivid images of Alaska and the easy-to-understand explanations.

Pterodactyls book cover

Pterodactyls

Elaine Landau

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction prehistoric lifeadaptation and survival

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to pterodactyls—flying reptiles that lived alongside dinosaurs but weren’t dinosaurs themselves. Clear, simple text explains how they flew, what they ate, and where their fossils have been found. Diagrams, captions, and a glossary support developing readers and budding paleontologists. It’s a great pick for elementary students who love prehistoric creatures and want fast, fascinating facts.

Pumpkins book cover

Pumpkins

Ken Robbins

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction seasons and natureplant life cycles

This photo-rich nonfiction picture book takes readers through the life of a pumpkin—from seed and sprout to harvest and jack-o’-lanterns. Ken Robbins’ crisp photographs and clear text explain how pumpkins grow and why they’re such a big part of autumn traditions. It’s a friendly, informative read for younger elementary students curious about plants, farms, and fall holidays. Kids enjoy the vivid images, familiar seasonal scenes, and fun connections to carving and pumpkin patches.

Quakers in early America book cover

Quakers in early America

Melinda Lilly

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction religious freedomtolerance and equality

This short nonfiction book introduces the Quakers and their role in early American history. Readers learn about Quaker beliefs like peace, simplicity, and equality, and how William Penn helped establish Pennsylvania as a place for religious freedom. Clear text, photos, and features like a glossary make it approachable for elementary and middle-grade students studying colonial America. It’s a quick, informative read that builds background knowledge for social studies units.

Rabbits, rabbits, & more rabbits! book cover

Rabbits, rabbits, & more rabbits!

Gail Gibbons

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animals and naturelife cycles

This accessible nonfiction picture book introduces young readers to rabbits—how they live in the wild, the differences between wild and domestic breeds, what they eat, and how they care for their young. Clear, labeled illustrations and simple diagrams explain body parts, behavior, and life cycle. Gail Gibbons’s friendly style makes science facts easy to understand for early elementary students. Perfect for animal lovers and budding researchers, it’s a great choice for read-alouds or beginning independent reading.

Race cars book cover

Race cars

Sallie Stephenson

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 18m
Nonfiction technology and engineeringcompetition

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to the fast-paced world of race cars, from how they’re built to what happens on the track and in the pit. Clear text and labeled images explain engines, aerodynamics, safety gear, and different types of racing. It’s a great pick for kids who love machines, speed, and fun facts. Short chapters and strong visuals make it accessible for elementary readers who are ready for more detailed information.

Rain, rain, rain forest book cover

Rain, rain, rain forest

Brenda Z. Guiberson

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction biodiversityhabitats

This vivid nonfiction picture book takes readers on a day-long walk through a steamy tropical rain forest, meeting creatures from leafcutter ants and poison dart frogs to sloths and toucans. Lyrical text highlights how plants and animals depend on each other for food, shelter, and survival. It’s a great choice for early elementary readers curious about habitats, biodiversity, and the water cycle. Kids enjoy the rhythmic language, striking nature details, and the sense of discovery on every page.

Rap book cover

Rap

David Armentrout, Patricia Armentrout

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction music historyculture and identity

This short, photo-rich nonfiction book introduces readers to rap—where it began, how it grew, and the key elements that define the music. Clear text and examples help kids understand rhythm, rhyme, DJing, and MCing, along with rap’s cultural roots. It’s a solid pick for music-loving students and reports, with approachable chapters and vocabulary. Perfect for upper elementary and middle grade readers curious about popular music and its history.

Recycling materials book cover

Recycling materials

Sue Barraclough

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction environmental stewardshipreduce, reuse, recycle

This clear, photo-rich nonfiction book explains what recycling is, how common materials like paper, plastic, metal, and glass are collected and turned into new products, and why it helps the planet. Short sections, labels, and diagrams make the science easy to understand for young readers. Students learn simple ways they can sort waste at home and school and make smart choices to reduce trash. Perfect for early elementary classrooms and budding environmentalists.

Reducing And Recycling Waste (Improving Our Environment) book cover

Reducing And Recycling Waste (Improving Our Environment)

Carol Inskipp

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction environmental stewardshiprecycling and waste reduction

This clear, photo-rich nonfiction book explains where our trash goes and how simple choices—like reusing items and sorting recyclables—can protect the planet. Short chapters and diagrams break down complex ideas into manageable steps kids can try at home and school. It’s ideal for elementary and middle-grade readers studying environmental science or civic responsibility. Students enjoy the real-world tips and the empowering message that small actions add up.

Reinventing Invention book cover

Reinventing Invention

Jennifer Boothroyd

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction innovationperseverance

This colorful nonfiction book explores how real inventions come to be—not by overnight genius, but through persistence, problem-solving, and lots of trial and error. With engaging examples like the lifesaving gas mask and the splashy Super Soaker, it shows the steps inventors take from idea to improvement. Clear text and vibrant photos make innovation feel accessible to young readers. Great for curious kids who like to tinker and for classrooms encouraging a growth mindset.

Research Primary Source Audio book cover

Research Primary Source Audio

Kelly Boswell

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction research skillsmedia literacy

This accessible guide shows kids how to use audio primary sources—like speeches, songs, and oral histories—to learn about the past. Clear examples, photos, and tips teach readers how to listen closely, ask good questions, and evaluate where recordings come from. Perfect for elementary researchers, it helps build media literacy and research confidence without being overwhelming. Students enjoy the quick, real-world connections and the chance to become history detectives using sounds from long ago.

Research Primary Source Documents book cover

Research Primary Source Documents

Kelly Boswell

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction research skillshistorical inquiry

This short, kid-friendly guide shows readers how historians use diaries, letters, journals, photos, and other artifacts to learn about the past. Clear examples and prompts help students ask good questions, spot clues, and think critically about who created a source and why. It’s perfect for elementary researchers beginning projects or learning note-taking and evaluating evidence. Engaging visuals and bite-size text make it approachable and confidence-building.

Researching Rocks book cover

Researching Rocks

Sally M. Walker

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction geologyscientific inquiry

This clear, photo-rich introduction to geology shows kids how scientists study rocks to learn where they formed and what conditions created them. Readers discover tools and tests used to identify rocks and minerals, like hardness, streak, and luster. Step-by-step explanations and real-world examples encourage observation and inquiry. Perfect for budding geologists and classroom research projects.

Rocks and minerals book cover

Rocks and minerals

Illa Podendorf

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction earth sciencescientific inquiry

This introductory nonfiction book explains what rocks and minerals are, how they form, and how we can identify them by their properties. With clear text and photos, it covers igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks, plus common minerals found in everyday life. Young readers learn basic geology vocabulary and simple ways to start a rock collection. Perfect for curious kids who like to explore the natural world.

Rocks, minerals, and fossils book cover

Rocks, minerals, and fossils

Rebecca Hunter, Pamela Goodchild

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction earth sciencecuriosity and exploration

This photo-rich introduction explains how rocks form, what minerals are, and how fossils help us learn about Earth’s past. Clear headings, captions, and a glossary support young readers as they explore identification tips and simple facts. It’s a solid pick for elementary students researching geology or kids who love collecting rocks. Engaging visuals and bite-size text make complex ideas easy to understand.

Roller skating book cover

Roller skating

Eileen Kulper

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction learning new skillsperseverance

This photo-filled nonfiction guide introduces beginning skaters to roller-skating basics—choosing gear, staying safe, and learning simple moves like starting, stopping, and turning. Short chapters and clear captions make it friendly for early elementary readers. Kids who are curious about a new hobby will enjoy the practical tips and encouragement to get rolling. A good pick for active readers and classroom units on fitness or sports.

Rough and ready cowboys book cover

Rough and ready cowboys

A. S. Gintzler

AR 4.4 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction frontier lifeAmerican West

This engaging nonfiction reader introduces the real lives of cowboys—what they wore, the jobs they did, and how they worked with horses and cattle on the open range. Short chapters and clear captions explain cattle drives, branding, roping, camp life, and trail challenges in kid-friendly language. It’s a strong pick for reports and for readers who enjoy history, animals, and outdoor adventure. Ideal for elementary students building background knowledge about the American West.

Russia book cover

Russia

Kremena Spengler

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction world culturesgeography

This photo-filled question-and-answer book introduces kids to Russia’s land, people, and culture. Short, easy-to-digest sections explain government, schools, transportation, food, holidays, sports, and the arts, with maps and fast facts to support understanding. It’s a friendly starting point for reports or curious readers exploring world cultures. Kids enjoy the clear Q&A format, vivid images, and bite-sized facts they can remember and share.

Salmon summer book cover

Salmon summer

Bruce McMillan

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction family and traditionsubsistence living

This photo-essay follows an Alaska Native family during the summer salmon run at their fish camp. Through clear text and vivid photographs, readers see how children help catch, clean, and dry salmon while learning why the fish is vital to their family and community. The book gently introduces cultural traditions and the life cycle of salmon, making real-world connections to nature and food. It’s a great pick for young readers who love true stories, animals, and outdoor adventures.

Saltwater Fishing book cover

Saltwater Fishing

Laura Purdie Salas

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction outdoor skillsresponsibility

This high-interest nonfiction title introduces kids to the basics of saltwater fishing—where to go, what gear to use, and how to stay safe by the shore or on a boat. Clear text and dynamic photos explain bait, tackle, tides, and common ocean species. Short chapters and sidebars make it accessible for reluctant and developing readers. It’s a great pick for outdoorsy kids who like hands-on hobbies and learning new skills.

San Francisco 49ers book cover

San Francisco 49ers

Nate Leboutillier

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction teamworkperseverance

This short, photo-rich introduction traces the San Francisco 49ers from their early years through memorable seasons and championship moments. Readers learn basic facts about the franchise, famous players like Joe Montana and Jerry Rice, and what makes the team unique. Clear text, captions, and stats make it an easy entry point for football fans and report writers. Perfect for kids who love the NFL and want a quick, trustworthy team overview.

Savage sharks book cover

Savage sharks

Lynn Huggins-Cooper

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction predators and preyadaptation

Savage Sharks dives into the world of ocean predators with vivid photos and bite-sized facts. Readers learn how different shark species hunt, sense their prey, and survive in diverse marine habitats. The book separates myth from reality and highlights why sharks matter in ocean ecosystems. It’s a fast, high-interest read for animal lovers and reluctant readers alike.

Scary Alien Abductions book cover

Scary Alien Abductions

Craig Boutland

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction unexplained phenomenaskepticism vs. belief

This high-interest nonfiction title explores the mystery of alien abductions through eyewitness accounts, famous cases, and competing theories. Short chapters, clear text, and eerie photos keep readers engaged while encouraging them to weigh evidence and think critically. It’s a great pick for curious kids who love the unexplained and want to separate fact from fiction. Best for middle-grade readers who enjoy spooky topics without gore.

Scooby-Doo! A Science of Electricity Mystery book cover

Scooby-Doo! A Science of Electricity Mystery

Megan Cooley Peterson

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction teamworkscientific inquiry

Scooby-Doo and the gang investigate a creepy "mutant" crocodile and a suspicious power plant, using real science to uncover the truth. Along the way, readers learn basics about electricity—circuits, conductors and insulators, and how power plants work—presented in a fun, mystery format. Short chapters, colorful art, and clear explanations make it inviting for young readers curious about how things work. Great for kids who love Scooby-Doo, STEM topics, and solving puzzles.

Scotland book cover

Scotland

MaryCate O'Sullivan

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction culture and traditionsgeography and landscapes

This introductory nonfiction book explores Scotland’s land, people, and culture for elementary readers. Children learn about famous places like the Highlands and Edinburgh, traditional music and dress, and everyday life in towns and countryside. Clear text, maps, and photos make it a helpful resource for country reports and curious travelers-in-training. A good fit for readers ready to discover world cultures and geography.

Sea of Ice book cover

Sea of Ice

Monica Kulling

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction survivalcourage

This early reader nonfiction book tells the true story of Ernest Shackleton’s 1914 expedition and the ship Endurance, which became trapped in Antarctic ice. Clear text and vivid illustrations introduce young readers to real-life adventure, danger, and problem-solving in one of the coldest places on Earth. It’s a great pick for kids who love true survival stories and history, presented at a step-into-reading level. Parents will appreciate its inspiring themes of courage, teamwork, and perseverance.

Seashore and tides book cover

Seashore and tides

Claire Llewellyn

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction ecosystemsadaptation

This accessible nonfiction book introduces young readers to the seashore, explaining how tides work and how shorelines change with waves and weather. Clear text and photos show tide pools, sandy and rocky coasts, and the plants and animals that live there. A glossary and simple diagrams help kids build science vocabulary and understand patterns in nature. Perfect for elementary students curious about oceans and coastal life.

Seymour Simon's Book of Trains book cover

Seymour Simon's Book of Trains

Seymour Simon

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction transportationtechnology and engineering

Seymour Simon introduces young train enthusiasts to the amazing world of railroads with clear text and striking photographs. Readers learn about different kinds of trains—freight, passenger, subways, and high-speed—along with what powers them and how they move people and goods. The book explains parts of a train and the jobs people do to keep railways running. It’s a great choice for early elementary readers and read‑alouds, especially for kids who love big machines and how things work.

Sharks! book cover

Sharks!

Laurence Pringle

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction marine lifeadaptation

This illustrated nonfiction book introduces young readers to the world of sharks—how they live, hunt, and survive in the oceans. Laurence Pringle separates shark facts from myths in clear, engaging language supported by detailed art. Kids learn about different species, unique adaptations, and why sharks are important to ocean ecosystems. It’s a great pick for curious animal lovers and budding scientists in the early elementary grades.

She's wearing a dead bird on her head! book cover

She's wearing a dead bird on her head!

Kathryn Lasky, DAVID CATROW

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction conservationactivism

This lively picture book tells the true story of two Boston society women who take a stand against the fashion of wearing bird feathers—and even whole birds—on hats. Their witty, determined campaign helps spark a conservation movement that leads to the founding of the Massachusetts Audubon Society. Kathryn Lasky’s engaging narration pairs with David Catrow’s humorous, detailed art to make history accessible and fun. Great for animal lovers and budding activists in grades 2–5, it invites conversations about speaking up and protecting wildlife.

Skateboarding streetstyle book cover

Skateboarding streetstyle

Joel Shoemaker

AR 4.8 1 pts 30m
Nonfiction perseveranceindividuality

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces the fast-growing world of street skateboarding, from basic gear and safety to foundational tricks and skate-park etiquette. Clear text and action shots show how skaters practice balance, build skills, and express creativity on curbs, rails, and ramps. It’s a confidence-building read for beginners and curious fans alike. Kids enjoy the step-by-step approach, real-world tips, and the culture of style that goes with the sport.

Slam Dunk Basketball (Sports Starters) book cover

Slam Dunk Basketball (Sports Starters)

John Crossingham, Bobbie Kalman

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction teamworksportsmanship

This photo-rich introduction to basketball explains basic rules, equipment, and positions while showing kids how to dribble, pass, and shoot. Short chapters, captions, and a glossary make the sport easy to understand for new readers. It’s perfect for young sports fans who want quick facts and clear how-to tips. Kids enjoy the action photos and simple, encouraging guidance that helps them get started on the court.

Sleeping and dreaming book cover

Sleeping and dreaming

Rita Milios

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 14m
Nonfiction sleepdreams

This short nonfiction book explains why we sleep, what happens during the stages of sleep, and where dreams come from. Clear text, photos, and diagrams introduce the brain’s role in rest and dreaming, along with simple tips for healthy sleep habits. It’s written for elementary readers who are curious about how their bodies work. Kids enjoy the mix of fascinating facts and approachable science about something they do every night.

Slinky, Scaly, Slithery Snakes book cover

Slinky, Scaly, Slithery Snakes

Dorothy Hinshaw Patent

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animals and wildlifeadaptation

This photo-rich nonfiction picture book introduces young readers to the fascinating world of snakes—how they move, hunt, protect themselves, and thrive in many different habitats. Clear, engaging text explains tricky concepts in kid-friendly language while separating snake facts from common myths. Budding animal lovers will enjoy the close-up images and surprising details that make snakes less scary and more amazing. A great choice for early elementary readers curious about nature and wildlife.

Snakes That Squeeze and Snatch (Stone, Lynn M. Eye to Eye With Snakes.) book cover

Snakes That Squeeze and Snatch (Stone, Lynn M. Eye to Eye With Snakes.)

Lynn M. Stone

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animalspredator and prey

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to snakes that hunt by squeezing and ambushing their prey, such as boas and pythons. Clear text, bold captions, and close-up images explain how these reptiles sense, stalk, and swallow their meals. It’s a quick, high-interest read perfect for animal lovers and early elementary students building nonfiction reading skills. Kids enjoy the dramatic photos, surprising facts, and easy-to-understand science vocabulary.

Sneeze! book cover

Sneeze!

Alexandra Siy

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction human bodygerms and hygiene

This lively science book explores why our bodies sneeze and what triggers the reflex, from dust and pollen to tiny germs. Clear explanations and vivid close-up images invite kids to look closely at the science behind everyday life. Along the way, readers learn how the nose protects us and simple ways to stay healthy. It’s a fun, fact-filled pick for curious elementary readers and classroom discussions.

Snowboarding basics book cover

Snowboarding basics

Jackson Jay

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction perseverancelearning new skills

This introductory guide explains how snowboarding works—from choosing the right board and gear to basic stances, balance, and safe first turns. Clear text and captioned photos walk readers through fundamentals and trail etiquette. It’s written for kids who are curious about trying the sport or who enjoy reading about extreme winter activities. Young riders love the action shots and straightforward tips that build confidence.

Snowboarding: Check It Out! (Reading Power: Extreme Sports Series) book cover

Snowboarding: Check It Out! (Reading Power: Extreme Sports Series)

Kristin Eck

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction extreme sportsperseverance

This short, photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to the exciting world of snowboarding. It explains basic equipment, safety tips, and beginner techniques, along with where riders practice and compete. Clear text and action images make it engaging for sports fans and reluctant readers alike. Perfect for kids curious about extreme sports or looking to try something new on the slopes.

Snowboarding in Action (Sports in Action) book cover

Snowboarding in Action (Sports in Action)

John Crossingham

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction perseverancesportsmanship

This photo-rich introduction explains how snowboarding works—from choosing the right gear and learning basic stances to staying safe on the slopes. Readers get a look at freestyle, alpine, and boardercross styles, plus how competitions are scored. Clear text and captions make it easy for sports fans and curious beginners to follow along. Perfect for elementary and middle grade readers who enjoy fast-paced winter sports and want practical tips.

Snowmobiles book cover

Snowmobiles

Matt Doeden

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction technology and machineswinter sports

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces how snowmobiles work, what they’re used for, and how riders stay safe on snowy trails. Clear, concise text explains engines, tracks, and steering, along with the history and different types of machines. It’s a quick read that appeals to kids who love vehicles, winter sports, and high-speed machines. Great for report writing or for curious readers who want facts and action-packed images.

Sound and hearing book cover

Sound and hearing

Angela Royston

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction the sensessound and vibrations

This clear, photo-rich nonfiction book explains how sounds are made by vibrations, how they travel, and how our ears turn them into something we can hear. Angela Royston uses simple language, diagrams, and everyday examples to make tricky science ideas easy to understand. Kids learn about pitch, volume, and ways to protect their hearing, with quick activities that invite them to observe and explore. Perfect for early elementary readers curious about how the world works.

Southern 500 book cover

Southern 500

Eric Ethan

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction competitionperseverance

This photo-packed nonfiction book introduces readers to the history and excitement of the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. It explains why the track is called “Too Tough to Tame,” highlights famous moments and drivers, and shows how teams prepare for race day. Clear text and captivating images make it a great pick for racing fans and curious newcomers alike. Perfect for elementary and middle grade readers who enjoy fast facts, big machines, and high-speed competition.

Spain book cover

Spain

Mary Berendes

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction world culturesgeography

This introductory nonfiction book tours Spain’s landscapes, cities, and traditions for young readers. Short chapters and photos highlight everyday life, famous landmarks, foods, festivals, and a bit of history. It’s written clearly for elementary students beginning to explore world cultures. Kids enjoy the colorful visuals and fun facts that make a faraway country feel familiar.

Sparrow, Eagle, Penguin, and Seagull book cover

Sparrow, Eagle, Penguin, and Seagull

Brian P. Cleary

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal classificationadaptations

This lively nonfiction picture book explains what makes an animal a bird—feathers, beaks, laying eggs, and other key traits. Brian P. Cleary spotlights a range of species, from sparrows and seagulls to penguins and ostriches, to show how different birds share the same defining features. Clear, kid-friendly text and bold visuals build science vocabulary and support early readers. Perfect for K–3 classrooms and curious backyard birdwatchers.

Speed, Strength, and Stealth book cover

Speed, Strength, and Stealth

Jody Sullivan Rake

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction adaptationsurvival

This high-interest nonfiction book explores how animals use speed, strength, and stealth to hunt, hide, and survive. Clear text, vivid photos, and engaging sidebars introduce real-life examples of adaptations in action. It’s a quick, fact-packed read perfect for curious readers who love wildlife and extreme animal facts. Great for grades 3–6 and for building vocabulary and science knowledge.

Spices book cover

Spices

Jane Wilsher

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction food and cultureworld geography

This short nonfiction book introduces children to spices—what they are, where they come from, and how they add flavor and color to foods. With simple text and vivid photos, readers explore familiar and exotic spices from markets and kitchens around the world. It highlights how spices are grown, dried, and used in everyday cooking. Perfect for curious younger readers who enjoy learning about food and world cultures.

Sports Shorts book cover

Sports Shorts

Joseph Bruchac, Jamie McEwan, David Lubar, Marilyn Singer, Terry Trueman, Dorian Cirrone, Alexandra Siy, Tanya Dean

AR 4.7 4 pts 2.9h
Nonfiction sportsmanshipperseverance

Sports Shorts gathers eight true, bite-size stories from popular children's authors about memorable moments on courts, fields, tracks, and stages. From dodgeball and wrestling to softball, track, and even ballet, each piece shows what it feels like to try hard, mess up, and keep going. The voices are funny, honest, and encouraging, making this a great pick for athletes and non-jocks alike. Perfect for middle graders who enjoy quick reads, real-life drama, and plenty of heart.

States of Matter: A Question and Answer Book (Questions and Answers: Physical Science) book cover

States of Matter: A Question and Answer Book (Questions and Answers: Physical Science)

Fiona Bayrock

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction scientific inquirycuriosity

This Q&A-style nonfiction book introduces young readers to solids, liquids, and gases through clear questions and kid-friendly answers. Bright photos and simple examples show how matter changes state and where we see these changes in everyday life. Perfect for early elementary scientists, it supports classroom learning with accessible explanations and glossary terms. Kids enjoy the quick question-and-answer format and the real-world connections that spark curiosity.

Stegosaurus and Other Plains Dinosaurs book cover

Stegosaurus and Other Plains Dinosaurs

Dougal Dixon

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction prehistoric lifeanimal adaptation

This photo-filled nonfiction reader introduces Stegosaurus and other dinosaurs that roamed broad prehistoric plains. Simple text, bold headings, and captions share how these herbivores lived, what they ate, and how their plates and spikes helped them stay safe. Maps, timelines, and a glossary make it approachable for young dino fans and early researchers. Great for kids who love fast facts and big, eye-catching dinosaur art.

Stock Car Kings book cover

Stock Car Kings

Andrew Gutelle

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 20m
Nonfiction perseverancecompetition

Stock Car Kings spotlights some of NASCAR’s biggest legends, introducing young readers to the drivers, teams, and tracks that make stock car racing so exciting. Short, punchy profiles and action photos explain what happens on race day and in the pit. It’s a fast read for racing fans who want facts, famous names, and a taste of the sport’s history. Great for kids who love cars, competition, and high-speed action.

Stories of mummies and the living dead book cover

Stories of mummies and the living dead

Eric Kudalis

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 19m
Nonfiction legends and folkloreancient civilizations

This high-interest nonfiction book explores eerie tales of mummies and legends of the living dead, blending spooky stories with real-world facts. Readers learn how ancient Egyptians practiced mummification and discover undead myths from different cultures. Clear text, photos, and sidebars make it accessible for middle-grade readers who love creepy topics. It’s a fun, shiver-inducing way to compare myth and history without being too scary.

Story of the Liberty Bell book cover

Story of the Liberty Bell

Natalie Miller

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction freedom and libertyAmerican Revolution

This short history book traces the Liberty Bell from its casting and first ring in Philadelphia to how it became a lasting symbol of American freedom. Clear text and archival photos explain why the bell cracked, how people cared for it over time, and what it has come to represent. It’s a solid choice for reports and for readers curious about American symbols. Kids enjoy the straightforward storytelling and the connection to real events from the Revolution and early United States.

Stringed instruments book cover

Stringed instruments

M. J. Knight

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction music appreciationhow things work

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces the family of stringed instruments and how they make sound, from violins and cellos to guitars and harps. Clear text explains parts, playing techniques like bowing and plucking, and how strings are used in orchestras and around the world. Diagrams, captions, and a glossary support readers who are curious about music and how instruments work. Great for elementary and middle grade students beginning band or orchestra or anyone who loves learning how music is made.

Strings book cover

Strings

Wendy Lynch

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction music appreciationsound and vibration

This photo-rich introduction explains what string instruments are, how they make sound, and the roles they play in bands and orchestras. Clear text highlights parts of instruments like the violin, guitar, and cello, and shows basic ways musicians pluck, bow, and strum. It’s a helpful pick for reports or music class, with labeled images and quick facts that make concepts easy to grasp. Kids who love music enjoy seeing real instruments up close and learning how they work.

Studying Soil book cover

Studying Soil

Sally M. Walker

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction earth scienceobservation and inquiry

This accessible science book introduces young readers to what soil is made of and why it matters. With clear explanations and vivid photos, it compares different types of soil—like sand, clay, and loam—and shows how they form over time. Kids learn how soil helps plants grow, supports animals, and shapes ecosystems. It’s a great pick for curious elementary readers and classrooms studying Earth science.

Stupendous sports stadiums book cover

Stupendous sports stadiums

Michael Sandler

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction engineering and designsports culture

This high-interest nonfiction title takes readers on a tour of the world’s most impressive sports stadiums. Packed with striking photos and bite-size facts, it explains how these giant arenas are designed, from retractable roofs and massive scoreboards to eco-friendly features. Kids who love sports and big machines will enjoy learning how engineering and teamwork make game day possible. Great for elementary readers who like quick, visual reads and amazing facts.

Sunken Treasure book cover

Sunken Treasure

Gail Gibbons

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction explorationdiscovery

Gail Gibbons introduces young readers to the exciting world of shipwrecks and the scientists and divers who search for them. With clear, labeled illustrations, the book explains how tools like sonar, submersibles, and maps help locate and explore sunken ships. Kids learn about careful artifact recovery and what these discoveries teach us about history. It’s a great pick for early elementary readers who love oceans, adventure, and real-life discoveries.

Super sports cars book cover

Super sports cars

Jackson Jay

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction technology and engineeringspeed and performance

This high-interest nonfiction book takes readers on a tour of the world’s fastest sports cars, showcasing iconic models and the engineering that makes them roar. Clear text and vivid photos explain features like aerodynamics, horsepower, braking, and materials, along with brief histories and fun facts. It’s a great pick for car fans in upper elementary and middle school who enjoy specs, speed, and striking designs. The accessible format and short chapters make it engaging for reluctant readers, too.

Surfing book cover

Surfing

Bill Gutman

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 20m
Nonfiction perseveranceadventure

This photo-rich introduction explains the basics of surfing—how waves form, the gear riders use, and the skills needed to catch and ride a wave safely. Readers also learn a bit of the sport’s history, famous breaks, and how competitions work. Clear text and action photos make it engaging for middle-grade sports fans and reluctant readers alike. Great for kids who love extreme sports or the ocean and want to know how surfers do what they do.

Survival Facts Or Fibs book cover

Survival Facts Or Fibs

Kristin J. Russo

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction survival skillscritical thinking

Is that survival tip a lifesaver or a tall tale? This high-interest nonfiction title tests common beliefs about staying alive in the wild and during emergencies, separating real strategies from popular myths. Short chapters, bold photos, and quick fact-or-fib callouts keep readers engaged while they learn practical safety and critical-thinking skills. Perfect for curious kids who love outdoor adventures and debunking myths.

Survival of the salmon book cover

Survival of the salmon

Amanda Lumry

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction ecosystemsanimal life cycles

Riley and his family head to the Pacific Northwest to learn how salmon survive their epic journey from river to ocean and back again. Blending a fast-paced adventure with real-world science, the book explains habitats, life cycles, and the challenges salmon face from predators and people. Photos, maps, and fact boxes support curious young readers. Perfect for elementary kids who love animals and nature and enjoy learning through an exciting story.

Tennis in Action book cover

Tennis in Action

Bobbie Kalman, John Crossingham

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 20m
Nonfiction sportsmanshippractice and perseverance

Tennis in Action introduces young readers to the fast-paced world of tennis, from basic rules and equipment to scoring, shots, and court etiquette. Clear photos and diagrams show how to serve, rally, and play doubles, with tips on training and safety. It’s a great pick for sports fans in elementary and middle grades who want to learn how the game works and try new skills. Kids enjoy the action-packed visuals, straightforward explanations, and inspiring examples of players in motion.

Tennis book cover

Tennis

Keith Reynolds

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction sportsmanshippractice and perseverance

This accessible introduction explains how tennis is played—from basic strokes and scoring to equipment and court layout. Clear text, photos, and captions make it friendly for developing readers and sports fans just getting started. Kids enjoy the action images, quick facts, and easy tips that help them understand the game and try it themselves.

That Bull Is Seeing Red! book cover

That Bull Is Seeing Red!

Christine Zuchora-Walske

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction critical thinkingscientific method

Bulls don’t actually rage at the color red, and that’s just one of the many myths this lively nonfiction book busts. Through clear explanations, photos, and engaging sidebars, readers see how scientists once believed some pretty wild ideas about animals and plants—and how new evidence corrected them. It’s a fun, fast read that encourages critical thinking and shows how science changes as we learn more. Great for curious kids who like surprising facts and want to learn how to tell myth from truth.

The Blue Jays That Grew a Forest book cover

The Blue Jays That Grew a Forest

Lynn Street (Children's literature author)

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction ecologyanimal behavior

Glide through the seasons with a flock of blue jays as they stash acorns, forget a few, and help new oak trees take root. This lyrical, fact-filled picture book follows a year in the life of these clever birds, showing how their everyday habits shape whole forests. Clear, inviting text and rich art make big ecology ideas easy for young readers. Perfect for nature lovers and classroom studies of habitats, food webs, and keystone species.

The Boat Alphabet Book book cover

The Boat Alphabet Book

Jerry Pallotta

AR 4.4 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction transportationengineering and design

From canoes and tugboats to Viking ships and modern aircraft carriers, this A-to-Z picture book explores how boats work and where they travel. Each letter highlights a different type of vessel with clear facts and vivid, dramatic art that brings waterways to life. Young readers who love transportation and the ocean will enjoy learning new vocabulary and surprising boat facts. It’s a great pick for curious kids in early elementary grades and for shared reading at home or in the classroom.

The Circulatory Story book cover

The Circulatory Story

Mary Corcoran

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction human bodyscience and discovery

This lively nonfiction picture book follows a red blood cell on a tour through the body, showing how the heart, lungs, and vessels work together to keep us alive. With clear, humorous text and comic-style art, it breaks down big science ideas like oxygen exchange, fighting germs, and plaque buildup. It’s a great fit for elementary readers who are curious about how their bodies work. Kids enjoy the fast-paced ‘inside-the-body’ journey and the funny visuals that make complex science easy to understand.

The Cleverest Dinosaurs book cover

The Cleverest Dinosaurs

Don Lessem

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal intelligenceadaptation and survival

Which dinosaurs were the brainiest—and how can scientists tell? This nonfiction title explores what makes a dinosaur seem clever, from problem-solving and senses to pack behavior and caring for young. Clear explanations, fossil evidence, and profiles of species like Troodon help young readers compare brain size to body size and think like paleontologists. Perfect for dinosaur fans in early elementary grades who enjoy fun facts and vivid illustrations without heavy technical detail.

The Family Christmas Tree Book book cover

The Family Christmas Tree Book

Tomie dePaola

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction family traditionsholidays

As one family decorates their Christmas tree, they share the story of how Christmas trees began, how ornaments and lights were introduced, and how traditions have changed over time. Tomie dePaola blends friendly narration, charming illustrations, and fun historical facts to make holiday history easy to enjoy. It’s a warm, cozy read-aloud that celebrates family traditions and curiosity. Perfect for young readers who love learning the “why” behind favorite holiday customs.

The Flower Alphabet Book book cover

The Flower Alphabet Book

Jerry Pallotta

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction natureplants and botany

This A-to-Z nonfiction picture book introduces children to a wide variety of flowers, from familiar backyard blooms to surprising plants with special uses. Each letter features a different flower and bite-sized facts that spark curiosity about nature, gardening, and how plants are part of everyday life. Bright, detailed illustrations make the blooms easy to recognize and fun to explore. Perfect for early elementary readers and young naturalists who love facts and colorful art.

The Gold Rush book cover

The Gold Rush

n/a

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 21m
Nonfiction ambitionperseverance

This accessible history title explores how the California Gold Rush began, what everyday life was like in the mining camps, and how the boom changed the land and the people who rushed west. Short chapters, archival photos, and clear captions make complex events easy to understand. It’s a strong fit for elementary and middle grade readers studying U.S. history or who enjoy true stories about adventure and discovery. Kids are drawn to the dramatic decisions prospectors faced and the surprising long-term effects on California.

The Greatest Dinosaur Ever book cover

The Greatest Dinosaur Ever

Brenda Z. Guiberson

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction dinosaursscientific inquiry

Which dinosaur was truly the greatest? This lively picture book presents contenders—from the tallest and fastest to the best-armored and sharpest-eyed—inviting kids to weigh the evidence and decide for themselves. Engaging facts pair with striking illustrations to spark curiosity about prehistoric life and how scientists learn about it. Perfect for young dinofans who love comparing creatures and sharing fun facts.

The Groundhog Day Book of Facts and Fun book cover

The Groundhog Day Book of Facts and Fun

Wendie C. Old

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction holidaystraditions

This lively nonfiction picture book explains what Groundhog Day is, how it started, and why people look to a groundhog for weather predictions. Kids learn fun facts about groundhogs and the science behind shadows and seasons. Jokes, riddles, and party ideas keep the tone playful, making it perfect for classroom celebrations or curious readers. Ideal for early elementary students who enjoy animal facts and holiday traditions.

The Guys' Guide to Making City Life More Awesome book cover

The Guys' Guide to Making City Life More Awesome

Eric Braun

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction urban explorationindependence

This upbeat handbook shows boys how to turn any city into an adventure, with quick tips, simple activities, and smart suggestions for exploring streets, parks, museums, and transit. Short sections, photos, and lists make it easy to dip in and try something right away. Safety and courtesy are woven throughout, helping kids be street‑smart while having fun. Great for curious, hands‑on readers in grades 3–6, especially those who like practical, do‑it‑now ideas.

The In the Time of the Dinosaurs (The Magic School Bus) book cover

The In the Time of the Dinosaurs (The Magic School Bus)

Joanna Cole

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction curiosity and inquiryscience and discovery

Ms. Frizzle turns the Magic School Bus into a time machine and whisks her class back to the age of dinosaurs. Along the way, the kids explore different species, habitats, diets, and even a nesting ground, all through lively text, funny sidebars, and detailed illustrations. Perfect for young dinosaur fans and curious readers, it mixes story and science in an engaging, kid-friendly way. Families love it for its humor, clear explanations, and packed-in facts.

The Living Rain Forest book cover

The Living Rain Forest

Paul Kratter

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction biodiversityanimal adaptations

From A to Z, this beautifully illustrated alphabet book introduces young readers to fascinating animals that live in tropical rain forests around the world. Each letter features a different creature, paired with clear, engaging facts and vivid artwork by Paul Kratter. It’s a great choice for read‑alouds and for curious kids who love animals and nature. Perfect for early elementary readers building vocabulary and science knowledge.

The Long, Long Journey book cover

The Long, Long Journey

Sandra Markle, Mia Posada

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal migrationsurvival

This lyrical nonfiction picture book follows a young bar-tailed godwit from hatching in Alaska to an astonishing nonstop flight all the way to New Zealand. Clear, engaging text and dynamic collage art show how the bird learns to feed, avoids predators, and builds the strength needed for migration. Back matter with maps and facts supports curious readers and budding birders. Perfect for primary grades, it inspires wonder about animal journeys and the natural world.

The Magic School Bus and the Science Fair Expedition book cover

The Magic School Bus and the Science Fair Expedition

Joanna Cole

AR 4.8 1 pts 28m
Nonfiction curiosityscientific inquiry

Ms. Frizzle whisks the class on a whirlwind tour through the history of science to spark ideas for their school’s science fair. From ancient thinkers to modern inventors, the kids see how curiosity, questions, and experiments lead to big discoveries. Packed with humorous art, speech-bubble side notes, and quick facts, it makes complex ideas friendly and fun. Perfect for elementary readers who like hands-on learning and need inspiration for their own projects.

The Magic School Bus book cover

The Magic School Bus

Joanna Cole

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction curiosity and inquiryscience and discovery

Ms. Frizzle takes her class on a wild field trip back to the age of dinosaurs, where curious kids observe prehistoric creatures up close. Fun dialogue, comic-style sidebars, and detailed art pack the pages with facts about different species and how scientists learn about them. It’s perfect for dinosaur fans who like a mix of story and science. Engaging and accessible for elementary readers, it encourages questions, observation, and a love of discovery.

The Magic School Bus on the Ocean Floor book cover

The Magic School Bus on the Ocean Floor

Joanna Cole

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction scientific inquirycuriosity and discovery

Ms. Frizzle takes her class on an unforgettable underwater field trip to explore the ocean from the shoreline to the deep sea. Packed with humor, dialogue bubbles, and vivid illustrations, the book explains ocean zones, sea creatures, and how scientists study the sea. It’s perfect for curious elementary readers who love facts woven into a fun story. Kids enjoy the adventurous format and the way big science ideas are made clear and exciting.

The Quicksand Book book cover

The Quicksand Book

Tomie DePaola

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction science facts vs. mythscuriosity and discovery

Tomie dePaola turns a tricky topic into a playful, fact-filled adventure as Jungle Girl accidentally steps into quicksand and Jungle Boy explains what it is and how it works. With clear explanations, cartoon humor, and safety tips, kids learn how to spot quicksand and what to do if they ever encounter it. A simple experiment invites young scientists to explore at home. Great for curious readers who like real-world science with a silly twist.

The Shortest Day book cover

The Shortest Day

Wendy Pfeffer

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction seasons and astronomycultural traditions

This clear, engaging picture book explains why daylight grows shorter in winter and how the winter solstice marks the turning point toward longer days. Wendy Pfeffer blends simple science with snapshots of how different cultures have celebrated the solstice through history, and includes easy activities for hands-on learning. It’s a friendly introduction for curious kids and a helpful resource for classrooms exploring seasons and traditions. Lively illustrations and accessible text make big ideas about the Sun and Earth feel close to home.

Those calculating crows! book cover

Those calculating crows!

Ali Wakefield

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal intelligenceobservation and inquiry

This lively picture book explores how clever crows really are—how they count, remember, and outsmart both animals and people. With engaging anecdotes and clear explanations, it introduces young readers to simple experiments and observations scientists use to study animals. Kids who love nature and surprising facts will enjoy meeting these brainy birds and seeing everyday wildlife in a new way. A great pick for budding scientists and animal lovers.

Three young pilgrims book cover

Three young pilgrims

Cheryl Harness

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction immigrationperseverance

This richly illustrated history book follows three siblings as they journey on the Mayflower and help their family build a life in Plymouth Colony. Cheryl Harness blends detailed art, maps, and clear explanations to show what daily life was like for Pilgrim children. It’s an engaging doorway into early American history, perfect for elementary readers studying Thanksgiving or colonial times. Kids enjoy the vivid scenes, timelines, and real-world details that make the past feel close and understandable.

Tigress book cover

Tigress

Helen Cowcher

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction wildlife conservationendangered species

This illustrated nature book follows a mother tiger and her cubs through the forests of India, showing how they hunt, survive, and share their habitat with people. Simple, informative text and bold artwork introduce young readers to the challenges tigers face and the efforts to protect them. It’s a gentle, engaging look at wildlife conservation for early elementary readers. Kids who love big cats and real-animal stories will be drawn to the striking images and clear, accessible facts.

Time book cover

Time

Feenie Ziner

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 20m
Nonfiction measurement and timehistory of technology

This accessible nonfiction book explains what time is and how we measure it with clocks, calendars, and time zones. Using clear language, photos, and diagrams, it explores the history of timekeeping from sundials to modern clocks and why time matters in everyday life. Short chapters and straightforward explanations make it a good fit for young readers beginning to read nonfiction independently or for classroom research.

To the Top book cover

To the Top

S.A. Kramer

AR 4.7 1 pts 12m
Nonfiction explorationperseverance

This Step into Reading title introduces young readers to the dramatic quest to climb Mount Everest. With clear, engaging text, it follows Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s historic 1953 ascent and the many attempts that came before it. Vivid scenes of icy cliffs, thin air, and careful teamwork make the challenges of high-altitude climbing easy to picture. It’s a great pick for curious kids who enjoy true adventure and real-world heroes.

Tooth tales from around the world book cover

Tooth tales from around the world

Marlene Targ Brill

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction cultural traditionsfolklore and mythology

This lively nonfiction picture book explores what children in different countries do with their lost baby teeth—from tossing them on a roof to leaving them for a helpful mouse or fairy. Short, engaging passages share customs and beliefs from many cultures, highlighting both fun differences and surprising similarities. The clear text and colorful art make it easy for young readers to compare traditions and spark conversations at home or in the classroom. Perfect for kids curious about the Tooth Fairy and the wider world.

Track and field book cover

Track and field

Donna Bailey

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction perseverancesportsmanship

This short nonfiction book introduces the basics of track and field—sprints, distance races, relays, jumps, and throws—using clear text and photos. Young readers learn how events work, what equipment is used, and the skills athletes practice. It’s a friendly overview for kids curious about the sport or getting ready for a school track meet. Fans enjoy the easy explanations and action images that make each event come alive.

Tracks, scats, and signs book cover

Tracks, scats, and signs

Leslie A. Dendy

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 20m
Nonfiction nature explorationobservation skills

This kid-friendly field guide helps young naturalists identify animals by the clues they leave behind—footprints, droppings, nests, and other signs. Clear illustrations and simple explanations show what to look for on hikes or in the backyard. Handy tips, safety notes, and quick facts encourage curiosity and respectful observation of wildlife. It’s a great pick for nature-loving kids and families who enjoy exploring outdoors together.

Tractors book cover

Tractors

Thomas Streissguth

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction technologyinnovation

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces how tractors work and the many jobs they do on farms. Readers learn about tractor parts, power, and attachments, along with a look at how these machines have changed over time. Clear text, captions, and diagrams make complex ideas accessible to elementary readers. Perfect for kids who love big machines and want to explore modern farming.

Treasure hunt in the jungle book cover

Treasure hunt in the jungle

David Clemson, Wendy Clemson

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction problem-solvingteamwork

Set out on a puzzle-filled expedition through a tropical jungle to uncover hidden treasure. Each page challenges readers to use math skills—like measuring, mapping, logic, and patterns—to move the team closer to their goal. Short texts, diagrams, and codes make the adventure interactive and perfect for independent problem-solvers. Great for grades 3–5 who enjoy hands-on challenges and story-driven puzzles.

Treasures from China book cover

Treasures from China

David Armentrout

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction cultural heritageart and craftsmanship

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces the treasures of China—jade carvings, porcelain, silk, bronzes, the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and more. Short chapters explain what these artifacts are, how they were made, and why they matter to Chinese history and culture. Written for elementary and middle grade readers, it’s clear and accessible with plenty of captions and facts. Kids who are curious about world cultures and ancient civilizations will enjoy exploring the stories behind these famous objects.

Trees, Leaves, and Bark (Take-Along Guide) book cover

Trees, Leaves, and Bark (Take-Along Guide)

Diane L. Burns

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 19m
Nonfiction nature explorationobservation skills

This handy field guide invites kids to head outside and learn how to identify common trees by their leaves, seeds, and bark. Clear illustrations, simple explanations, and fun facts make it easy for young naturalists to observe what’s growing in their own neighborhoods and parks. Step-by-step activities like leaf rubbings and nature crafts encourage hands-on discovery and appreciation of the outdoors. It’s a great pick for families, classrooms, and scout groups exploring nature together.

Triceratops and Other Forest Dinosaurs book cover

Triceratops and Other Forest Dinosaurs

Dougal Dixon

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction dinosaurshabitats and ecosystems

This photo-illustrated nonfiction book introduces Triceratops and other dinosaurs that lived in forest habitats. Young readers learn what these dinosaurs looked like, what they ate, and how the forest environment shaped their lives. Clear captions, glossaries, and simple maps support emerging researchers. Perfect for dinosaur fans who enjoy quick facts and vivid visuals.

Truck and tractor pulling book cover

Truck and tractor pulling

Jeff Savage

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction machines and engineeringcompetition

This high-interest nonfiction book introduces the loud, power-packed world of truck and tractor pulling. Readers learn how pulling sleds work, how vehicles are modified for maximum power, and what drivers do to compete safely and successfully. Clear text, action photos, and fast facts make it a great pick for motorsports fans and reluctant readers. Perfect for kids who love big machines and want to know how they work.

True-life treasure hunts book cover

True-life treasure hunts

Judy Donnelly

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction explorationperseverance

This short nonfiction book shares real stories of people who searched for lost riches—on land and under the sea. With clear, kid-friendly writing and photos/illustrations, it explains how explorers use clues, maps, and science to track down treasure. It’s a quick, exciting read for young adventure fans and budding history buffs. Kids enjoy the true-life mysteries and the sense of discovery on every page.

Tunneling Earthworms book cover

Tunneling Earthworms

Suzanne Paul Dell'Oro

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal adaptationsecosystems

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to earthworms and the tunnels they create beneath our feet. Clear, simple text explains how worms move, what they eat, and why they are so important for healthy soil. With labeled diagrams, glossary terms, and close-up images, it’s perfect for early elementary students curious about nature in their own backyards. Kids enjoy the fascinating facts and the easy-to-understand science connections.

Twist, Wiggle, and Squirm book cover

Twist, Wiggle, and Squirm

Laurence P. Pringle

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction nature and ecosystemslife cycles

This clear, friendly introduction explains how earthworms move, eat, and help the soil we grow food in. With simple science and vivid examples, it shows young readers the hidden world beneath their feet. Pringle’s engaging voice and close-up details make real-life nature feel exciting and approachable. Perfect for classroom life-science units or curious kids who love to explore the backyard.

U.S. Air Force fighters book cover

U.S. Air Force fighters

Carrie A. Braulick

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction military technologybravery and service

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces readers to the fast, powerful fighter jets flown by the U.S. Air Force. It explains what fighters do, how pilots train, and the special features that help these planes complete their missions. Clear text, sidebars, and vivid images make it a great pick for aviation fans and reluctant readers alike. Perfect for kids who like military technology and high-speed action without heavy technical detail.

U.S. Air Force Spy Planes book cover

U.S. Air Force Spy Planes

Carrie A. Braulick

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction technology and innovationespionage and intelligence

This photo-packed introduction explains how the U.S. Air Force uses reconnaissance aircraft to gather information and keep missions safe. Readers learn about famous spy planes like the U-2 and SR-71, as well as modern high-tech sensors and drones. Clear text, captions, and sidebars make complex ideas accessible for curious readers. Perfect for aircraft fans and budding tech buffs who enjoy fast facts and real-world military technology.

U.s. Army Infantry Fighting Vehicles book cover

U.s. Army Infantry Fighting Vehicles

Martha E. H. Rustad

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction military technologyteamwork

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces the U.S. Army’s infantry fighting vehicles, such as the Bradley, and explains how they protect soldiers and move them into action. Short chapters and clear text highlight design features, weapons, and how crews train and work together. It’s a quick, high-interest read for upper elementary and middle-grade students who like military tech and machines. Vivid images, captions, and a glossary make it accessible for report writing and independent reading.

U.S. Army tanks book cover

U.S. Army tanks

Carrie A. Braulick

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction military technologyteamwork

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces how U.S. Army tanks are built, how crews operate them, and the roles they play on modern battlefields. Clear, simple text and bold visuals explain parts, weapons, and safety in a kid-friendly way. It’s a quick, high-interest read perfect for students who love military machines and real-world technology. Great for report writers and reluctant readers alike.

U.S. Coast Guard Cutters book cover

U.S. Coast Guard Cutters

Carrie A. Braulick

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction serviceteamwork

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces readers to U.S. Coast Guard cutters and the vital jobs they do—patrolling coasts, rescuing people at sea, enforcing laws, and responding to emergencies. Short chapters, clear captions, and diagrams explain different types of cutters and the gear crews use. It’s a strong pick for kids who like real-world machines and military rescue missions. Engaging visuals and accessible text make it ideal for developing readers in upper elementary and middle grades.

U.s. Marine Corps Assault Vehicles book cover

U.s. Marine Corps Assault Vehicles

Angie Peterson Kaelberer

AR 4.3 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction military technologyteamwork

This high-interest nonfiction title introduces the U.S. Marine Corps’ assault vehicles, from amphibious transports to light armored vehicles, and shows how they move Marines into action. Clear text, photos, and captions explain what each vehicle does, how crews work together, and the gear that keeps them safe. Short chapters and sidebars make it an easy pick for military fans and reluctant readers. Perfect for grades 3–6 who enjoy fast facts, action photos, and technology.

U.S. Marines by the Numbers book cover

U.S. Marines by the Numbers

Elizabeth Raum

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction service and dutyteamwork

This fact-filled introduction to the U.S. Marine Corps uses numbers, statistics, and eye-catching infographics to explain who Marines are and what they do. Readers learn about training, missions, gear, and history through short text, charts, and visuals that make complex ideas easy to understand. It’s a quick, high-interest read that appeals to fans of military topics and to reluctant readers who like data and pictures. Great for grades 3–6 and anyone curious about how the Marines work by the numbers.

U.S. Navy submarines book cover

U.S. Navy submarines

Thomas K. Adamson

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction military technologyteamwork

This nonfiction title introduces readers to the powerful submarines used by the U.S. Navy. Clear text and vivid photos explain how subs dive and surface, what life is like for sailors underwater, and the missions these vessels can perform. Short chapters, captions, and diagrams make it accessible for developing readers. Kids who love military technology and machines will enjoy the facts and action-packed images.

Urban Roosts: Where Birds Nest in the City book cover

Urban Roosts: Where Birds Nest in the City

Barbara Bash, Sierra Club Books

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction urban wildlifeadaptation

Urban Roosts introduces young readers to the surprising places city birds make their homes—on ledges, under bridges, in signs, and more. Barbara Bash’s clear, engaging text and detailed watercolor art show how familiar species have adapted to bustling streets and tall buildings. It’s a great pick for curious kids who love animals, nature, and exploring their own neighborhoods. Perfect for elementary readers and classroom discussions about habitats and human–wildlife connections.

Using Electricity book cover

Using Electricity

Angela Royston

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction electricity and energycause and effect

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to how electricity works and how we use it every day. Clear text and labeled diagrams explain simple circuits, switches, and sources of power, with tips on staying safe around electricity. Short sections and glossary support early elementary readers and classroom science units. It’s a friendly first look at a big idea that sparks curiosity.

Using Wheels and Axles (Machines Inside Machines) book cover

Using Wheels and Axles (Machines Inside Machines)

Wendy Sadler

AR 4.9 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction simple machinesforces and motion

This nonfiction book explains how wheels and axles work together to make jobs easier, from doorknobs and skateboards to cars and bicycles. Clear photos, diagrams, and labeled examples help young readers see the science hidden in everyday objects. Short chapters and straightforward text make it a good fit for elementary students learning about simple machines. Kids enjoy spotting real-life uses and trying the hands-on ideas that connect science to the world around them.

Vampire Bats book cover

Vampire Bats

Anne Welsbacher

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal behavioradaptation

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to the surprising world of vampire bats. It explains where they live, what they eat, and how they find food at night using keen senses. Clear text and vivid images bust common myths while sharing fascinating facts, like how bats help one another in their colonies. It’s a great pick for animal lovers in early elementary who enjoy quick, true stories about unusual creatures.

Velociraptor book cover

Velociraptor

Elaine Landau

AR 4.8 0.5 pts
Nonfiction prehistoric lifepredator and prey

This photo-filled nonfiction title introduces the swift, feathered Velociraptor and the world it lived in. Readers learn how scientists use fossils to uncover what these predators ate, how they hunted, and where they roamed. Clear text, diagrams, and captions make complex ideas easy to understand for elementary readers. Dinosaur fans will enjoy the vivid facts, comparisons to other raptors, and up-to-date science presented in short, accessible chapters.

Vote! book cover

Vote!

Eileen Christelow

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction democracycivic engagement

This lively nonfiction picture book explains how elections work in the United States, from registering to vote and campaigning to casting ballots and counting results. With comic-style art, speech bubbles, and clear examples, it breaks down big ideas like primaries, debates, and recounts in a kid-friendly way. It’s great for elementary readers learning about civics or classrooms preparing for Election Day. Kids enjoy the humor, real-world connections, and the behind-the-scenes look at how communities choose their leaders.

Wakeboarding: Check It Out! (Reading Power: Extreme Sports) book cover

Wakeboarding: Check It Out! (Reading Power: Extreme Sports)

Kristin Eck

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction extreme sportspractice and skill-building

This photo-filled introduction explains the basics of wakeboarding—from gear and safety to how riders get up on the board and try simple moves. Short chapters and clear captions make it easy for developing readers to follow along. Kids who love action sports and being on the water will enjoy the exciting images and approachable facts. It’s a great pick for younger readers curious about a fast-growing sport.

Washington Redskins book cover

Washington Redskins

Nate Leboutillier

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction teamworkperseverance

This photo-rich introduction traces the Washington NFL franchise’s history, key seasons, and standout players through the early 2000s. Clear, concise text, sidebars, and stats make it a solid pick for football fans and quick reports. Kids enjoy the action highlights and fun facts that show how teamwork and strategy shape the game. A glossary, timeline, and index support young readers building sports knowledge.

Watching Water Birds book cover

Watching Water Birds

Jim Arnosky

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction nature observationwildlife

Naturalist Jim Arnosky invites young readers to the water’s edge to watch herons, ducks, loons, and other water birds in their habitats. Gentle text and detailed paintings point out field marks and behaviors kids can notice on their own walks. It’s a calm, inviting introduction to birdwatching that encourages patience, observation, and respect for wildlife. Perfect for early elementary nature lovers and classroom science units.

Water book cover

Water

Melissa Stewart

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction the water cycleecosystems

This National Geographic Kids title by Melissa Stewart explores Earth’s water—rivers, lakes, oceans, and the water cycle—and shows how water shapes climate and weather. Clear explanations, vivid photos, and diagrams make big science ideas easy to understand for elementary and middle-grade readers. The book also introduces water pollution and conservation, helping kids see how their choices matter. Young scientists will enjoy the fascinating facts, real-world connections, and engaging visuals.

Waterfalls book cover

Waterfalls

Andrew Donnelly

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction natural forceserosion

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces how waterfalls form and why they look and sound so powerful. Readers learn about gravity, erosion, rock layers, and the water cycle, with examples of famous falls around the world. Short chapters, simple diagrams, and a glossary make it great for early elementary readers and classroom reports. Kids will enjoy the dramatic images and fascinating facts about these amazing landforms.

Weather Experiments book cover

Weather Experiments

Vera Webster

AR 4.5 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction scientific methodcuriosity

This hands-on book invites kids to explore how weather works through simple, safe experiments using everyday materials. Step-by-step activities help readers test wind, air pressure, clouds, rain, and temperature while keeping observations like real scientists. Clear photos and diagrams make the directions easy to follow for home or classroom. Perfect for curious kids who love to tinker and learn by doing.

Weather forecasting book cover

Weather forecasting

Gail Gibbons

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction science and technologyobservation and data

This clear, colorful nonfiction picture book explains how meteorologists observe the atmosphere and use tools like thermometers, barometers, satellites, and radar to predict the weather. Gail Gibbons shows how to read simple weather maps and understand highs, lows, and fronts. With accessible diagrams and real-world examples, it helps young readers see how forecasts are made and why they matter. Perfect for early elementary students curious about storms, sunny days, and everything in between.

Weather patterns book cover

Weather patterns

Jen Green

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction weather and climatewater cycle

This clear, photo-rich introduction explains how wind, temperature, and moisture work together to create weather patterns around the world. Short chapters and simple diagrams help young readers understand fronts, seasons, and the water cycle. It’s a great pick for curious kids who like facts, charts, and real-life examples. Perfect for school projects or early independent readers who love science and nature.

Weaving the rainbow book cover

Weaving the rainbow

George Ella Lyon

AR 4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction creativitynature and seasons

A young fiber artist tends her sheep through the seasons and shows how wool becomes art. From shearing and carding to spinning, dyeing, and weaving, readers follow each step of creating a vibrant rainbow tapestry. Lyrical language and detailed paintings celebrate patience, nature, and creativity. Perfect for animal lovers and budding artists who enjoy learning how everyday materials are transformed.

Welcome to the river of grass book cover

Welcome to the river of grass

Jane Yolen

AR 4.6 0.5 pts
Nonfiction ecosystemsbiodiversity

This lyrical nonfiction picture book invites readers into the Everglades—the famed “river of grass”—to meet the animals and plants that call this unique wetland home. Jane Yolen’s poetic text pairs with vivid art to show alligators, herons, panthers, and more moving through a delicate ecosystem. Gentle, rhythmic language makes it a soothing read-aloud while rich vocabulary and back-matter details support early science learning. Perfect for young nature lovers and classrooms studying habitats and Florida wildlife.

Welcome to the World of Wolves book cover

Welcome to the World of Wolves

Diane Swanson

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction animal behaviorpredator–prey relationships

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces kids to wolves—their bodies, senses, and how they work together in packs. Readers learn about hunting strategies, communication, pups, and the habitats wolves need to survive. Clear, engaging text separates myth from fact and highlights how wolves fit into their ecosystems. It’s a great pick for animal lovers and curious readers who enjoy real-world nature facts.

What do illustrators do? book cover

What do illustrators do?

Eileen Christelow

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction creativityartistic process

This lively nonfiction picture book shows how illustrators turn ideas into pictures, from first sketches and research to storyboards, dummies, and final art. Eileen Christelow walks readers through the steps of working with an author and editor, revising, and preparing a book for printing. Clear examples and humorous asides make the process easy to understand and fun to follow. Perfect for young artists and budding book-makers who want to see how drawings become a real book.

What happens to a hamburger book cover

What happens to a hamburger

Paul Showers, Edward Miller, Anne F. Rockwell, Miller, Edward

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction digestionhuman body

This classic Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science title follows a hamburger on its journey through the digestive system. With clear, friendly text and bright illustrations, it explains how our bodies break down food, use nutrients for energy, and get rid of waste. Perfect for curious kids in the primary grades, it turns a familiar meal into a fascinating science lesson. Great for read‑alouds, early independent readers, and units on the human body or nutrition.

What If You Had Animal Eyes? book cover

What If You Had Animal Eyes?

Sandra Markle

AR 4.7 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal adaptationsvision and senses

What If You Had Animal Eyes? imagines what life would be like if kids had the super-seeing eyes of animals like chameleons, eagles, or squid. Each spread pairs funny, kid-friendly scenarios with clear science facts that explain how different eyes work and why human eyes are just right for us. Bright, humorous art makes the information memorable, while bite-size text keeps new readers engaged. Perfect for animal lovers and curious kids who enjoy STEM facts with a playful twist.

What If You Lived in Colonial America? book cover

What If You Lived in Colonial America?

n/a

AR 4.9 1 pts 33m
Nonfiction daily life in historycommunity and responsibility

What If You Lived in Colonial America? invites readers to step into everyday life in the thirteen colonies—where families farmed, cooked over hearths, learned in one-room schools, and built new communities. Short chapters, photos, and sidebars answer common questions about food, clothing, work, and play. It’s a friendly introduction to early American history that helps kids compare past and present. Perfect for grades 3–6, it supports social studies units and curious readers who like time-travel style nonfiction.

What's the Matter in Mr. Whiskers' Room? book cover

What's the Matter in Mr. Whiskers' Room?

Michael Elsohn Ross

AR 4.2 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction scientific inquirycuriosity

In this lively classroom science story, kids join Mr. Whiskers and his students as they explore solids, liquids, and gases through simple, hands-on investigations. Clear explanations and playful illustrations show how matter changes—melting, freezing, and evaporating—in ways kids can see and try themselves. It’s a friendly introduction to scientific thinking, perfect for curious young readers and budding experimenters. Families and teachers will appreciate how the book turns everyday observations into real science learning.

Where Does the Garbage Go book cover

Where Does the Garbage Go

Paul Showers

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction environmental stewardshiprecycling

This Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science book follows what happens to our trash after it’s tossed—from garbage trucks and landfills to recycling centers and ways to reduce waste. Clear text and engaging illustrations help young readers understand big environmental ideas in a simple, reassuring way. It’s perfect for early elementary students curious about how communities handle garbage and how kids can help the planet. Parents and teachers appreciate its real-world connections and easy-to-discuss tips.

White-tailed deer book cover

White-tailed deer

Joan Kalbacken

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 13m
Nonfiction wildlife biologyadaptation

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces the white-tailed deer—how it looks, where it lives, and how it survives through the seasons. Readers learn about diet, predators, antlers, and the deer’s life cycle with clear text and helpful captions. It’s a solid choice for animal lovers and school reports, offering just-right facts for elementary readers. Kids enjoy the close-up look at a familiar North American animal and the easy-to-understand explanations.

White Water! book cover

White Water!

Penn Mullin

AR 4.8 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction adventureteamwork

White Water! gives readers a fast-paced look at the thrills of white-water rafting and kayaking. Short chapters and vivid photos explain how rapids form, the gear paddlers use, and the safety skills teams rely on to navigate a rushing river. It’s a great pick for adventure-loving kids and reluctant readers who enjoy high-energy, real-world topics. Perfect for classroom discussions about outdoor safety, teamwork, and trying something new.

Who's that stepping on Plymouth Rock? book cover

Who's that stepping on Plymouth Rock?

Jean Fritz

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 11m
Nonfiction American historymyths vs. facts

Jean Fritz traces the real story of Plymouth Rock—how it became a symbol, got moved (more than once!), and even cracked along the way. With lively, humorous prose, this short nonfiction picture book turns a famous landmark into an engaging character in American history. It’s a great fit for young readers curious about the Pilgrims and how history and legend intertwine. Kids enjoy the surprising facts and Fritz’s playful voice that makes the past feel close and fun.

Wildfires (National Geographic Kids Readers, Level 3) book cover

Wildfires (National Geographic Kids Readers, Level 3)

Kathy Furgang

AR 4.9 0.5 pts
Nonfiction natural disastersscience of fire

This Level 3 National Geographic Kids reader explains what wildfires are, how they start, and what conditions make them spread. Vivid photos and clear captions show the science of fire and the brave work firefighters do to contain blazes. Kids learn about safety, prevention, and how forests recover after a burn. It’s a great pick for confident elementary readers who love real-life action and nature facts.

Wildlife of Alaska book cover

Wildlife of Alaska

Lynn M. Stone

AR 4.1 0.5 pts
Nonfiction wildlifeadaptation

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces young readers to the animals that make their homes in Alaska’s tundra, forests, mountains, and coastal waters. Short, clear text highlights how creatures like moose, caribou, bears, eagles, and seals survive in a rugged, cold environment. It’s a quick read that builds vocabulary and curiosity about nature and geography. Kids enjoy the striking wildlife photography and bite-sized facts that invite questions and further exploration.

Will We Miss Them? book cover

Will We Miss Them?

Alexandra Wright

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction conservationendangered species

This picture book introduces young readers to endangered animals from around the world and explains, in clear language, why they are at risk. Short, accessible text pairs with illustrations to show habitats, threats, and simple ways people can help. It’s a gentle, fact-filled starting point for kids curious about wildlife and our planet. Perfect for classrooms and families looking to spark conversations about caring for animals and the environment.

Woodwind book cover

Woodwind

Wendy Lynch

AR 4.3 0.5 pts
Nonfiction music appreciationinstrument families

This short nonfiction book introduces young readers to the woodwind family of musical instruments, from flutes and clarinets to oboes and bassoons. Clear text and photos explain how each instrument makes sound, what parts it has, and where you might hear it played. It’s a friendly first look for kids curious about band or orchestra instruments. Perfect for reports or for students considering which instrument to try.

Work animals book cover

Work animals

Kathryn Wentzel Lumley

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 17m
Nonfiction human–animal partnershipresponsibility

This photo-filled nonfiction book introduces the many ways animals help people, from farm fields to city streets. Readers learn how animals are trained, the jobs they do, and why their partnerships with humans matter. Clear text and accessible chapters make it a good fit for elementary and early middle-grade readers who love animals and real-world facts. Kids enjoy the fascinating examples and the behind-the-scenes look at teamwork between animals and handlers.

Work book cover

Work

Roseann Feldmann, Sally M. Walker

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction scientific inquirycause and effect

This clear, photo-rich introduction explains what scientists mean by work—moving something with a force—and shows how levers, pulleys, and other simple machines make it easier. Short, safe experiments invite kids to try ideas for themselves and connect science to everyday life. Accessible text, real-world examples, and visuals make tricky concepts click for young readers. Great for curious kids who like to build, tinker, and ask how things work.

World War II spies book cover

World War II spies

Tim O'Shei

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction espionagebravery

This high-interest nonfiction title introduces the real spies of World War II and the daring missions they carried out. Readers learn about codebreaking, disguises, gadgets, and how intelligence work helped shape the war’s outcome. Short chapters, vivid photos/illustrations, and clear text make it approachable for grades 4–6 and great for reluctant readers. Kids who like history, action, and true stories of bravery will be hooked.

Wrestling basics book cover

Wrestling basics

Jeff Savage

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 15m
Nonfiction sportsmanshipperseverance

This photo-rich nonfiction guide introduces the fundamentals of amateur wrestling, from basic stances and takedowns to escapes, scoring, and safety. Clear, step-by-step explanations and captions help beginners understand technique and rules. It’s a great pick for kids curious about trying wrestling or following a school team. Short chapters and vivid images make it approachable for reluctant readers, too.

Writing in Ancient Egypt (Writing in The Ancient World) book cover

Writing in Ancient Egypt (Writing in The Ancient World)

Jil Fine

AR 4.4 0.5 pts
Nonfiction communicationancient civilizations

This short nonfiction book introduces how ancient Egyptians recorded their world using hieroglyphs on stone and papyrus. Readers learn who the scribes were, what tools they used, and how messages were carved and painted in temples and tombs. Clear photos and simple text make the history of writing easy to understand for young learners. Kids enjoy trying to decode symbols and imagining how people communicated thousands of years ago.

You're Aboard Spaceship Earth book cover

You're Aboard Spaceship Earth

Patricia Lauber

AR 4.5 0.5 pts
Nonfiction environmental stewardshipinterdependence

This engaging science picture book invites kids to imagine Earth as a giant spaceship with limited supplies and systems that must work together. Through clear explanations and friendly illustrations, it shows how air, water, and soil cycle around us and why recycling and conservation matter. It’s perfect for curious elementary readers who like real-world science and big ideas explained simply. Families and teachers appreciate its hopeful, practical message about caring for our planet.

Your heart and blood book cover

Your heart and blood

Leslie Jean LeMaster

AR 4.6 0.5 pts 12m
Nonfiction how the body workshealth and wellness

This clear, photo-illustrated nonfiction book explains how the heart works and how blood travels through the body. Short chapters and simple diagrams introduce arteries, veins, and the circulatory system in kid-friendly language. It’s a solid choice for elementary readers curious about how their bodies keep them alive and healthy. Kids enjoy the real-world examples and easy-to-understand explanations.

Zebras book cover

Zebras

Anthony D. Fredericks

AR 4.7 0.5 pts 10m
Nonfiction animal adaptationshabitats

This photo-rich nonfiction book introduces young readers to zebras—their African habitats, family herds, and daily lives. Clear, accessible text explains what zebras eat, how their stripes help them, and how they protect their foals. Helpful features like a glossary, index, and captions support animal reports and curious readers. Perfect for early elementary students who love wildlife facts and vivid photography.

Zookeeper for a Day book cover

Zookeeper for a Day

David Clemson, Wendy Clemson

AR 4.2 0.5 pts
Nonfiction animal careresponsibility

Step behind the scenes to see what a zookeeper really does from morning rounds to feeding time. Clear photos and short, accessible text show how keepers care for different animals, keep habitats safe and clean, and use problem-solving (and a bit of math) to plan the day. Perfect for animal-loving readers in early elementary grades, it connects real-world jobs to skills kids are learning in school. Engaging scenarios and labels invite curious minds to imagine doing the job themselves—without any spoilers.