For 7th graders passionate about science and technology, nonfiction books provide an incredible gateway to explore the world of discoveries, innovation, and the people behind groundbreaking achievements. Whether it’s diving into the mysteries of the universe or learning how STEM fields solve real-world problems, this list features books that will both educate and inspire young minds.
1. The Dialogues: Conversations About the Nature of the Universe by Clifford V. Johnson (MIT Press)
- Why it’s great: A graphic novel that makes complex topics like black holes, quantum mechanics, and the Big Bang accessible through illustrated conversations between diverse characters. It’s a visually stunning exploration of physics and astronomy.
- What students will learn: Key concepts in physics, astronomy, and how scientists think about the universe.
- Perfect for: Students curious about the cosmos and scientific inquiry.
2. On the Origin of Species: Young Readers Edition by Charles Darwin, Adapted by Rebecca Stefoff
- Why it’s great: This adaptation of Darwin’s revolutionary work introduces the theory of evolution in a reader-friendly format with vibrant illustrations. It captures the excitement of scientific discovery and the diversity of life.
- What students will learn: Evolutionary biology, natural selection, and the significance of Darwin’s ideas.
- Perfect for: Aspiring biologists and nature lovers.
3. The Disappearing Spoon (Young Readers Edition) by Sam Kean
- Why it’s great: Discover the stories behind the periodic table, from scientific rivalries to groundbreaking discoveries. Each element is brought to life with quirky anecdotes that connect chemistry to history.
- What students will learn: Chemistry, history of science, and the human side of discovery.
- Perfect for: Budding chemists and curious minds.
4. Mountains Beyond Mountains (Adapted for Young People) by Tracy Kidder
- Why it’s great: This biography of Dr. Paul Farmer highlights his mission to bring healthcare to impoverished communities worldwide. His work battling diseases like tuberculosis and AIDS shows how STEM can make a difference.
- What students will learn: Global health, the importance of compassion in medicine, and how STEM solves real-world problems.
- Perfect for: Students interested in healthcare and social justice.
5. Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer
- Why it’s great: A blend of Indigenous knowledge, environmental science, and storytelling, this book teaches readers about the interconnectedness of plants, people, and the planet.
- What students will learn: Ecology, sustainability, and the importance of environmental stewardship.
- Perfect for: Students passionate about nature and environmental science.
6. All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys’ Soccer Team by Christina Soontornvat
- Why it’s great: A thrilling account of the 2018 Thai cave rescue, showcasing the science and teamwork behind the mission. Photos, diagrams, and firsthand accounts bring this real-life STEM challenge to life.
- What students will learn: Problem-solving, engineering, and global collaboration.
- Perfect for: Readers who enjoy engineering and true stories of resilience.
7. Hidden Figures (Young Readers’ Edition) by Margot Lee Shetterly
- Why it’s great: The story of African-American women mathematicians who broke barriers at NASA during the Space Race. Their contributions to STEM changed history and paved the way for future generations.
- What students will learn: The history of space exploration, diversity in STEM, and perseverance.
- Perfect for: Students inspired by math, science, and breaking boundaries.
8. Hello World: Being Human in the Age of Algorithms by Hannah Fry
- Why it’s great: This engaging book explores the power and limitations of algorithms in shaping the modern world, from healthcare to criminal justice. It raises questions about the role of technology in our lives and how we interact with AI.
- What students will learn: The basics of AI, ethical considerations in technology, and how algorithms impact society.
- Perfect for: Advanced readers curious about computer science and artificial intelligence.
9. Sapiens: A Graphic History by Yuval Noah Harari
- Why it’s great: This graphic adaptation of Harari’s bestselling book Sapiens explores the history of humanity, from the emergence of Homo sapiens to the development of technology and modern civilization. With engaging illustrations, it turns complex historical and scientific ideas into an exciting, accessible narrative.
- What students will learn: Anthropology, human evolution, and how science, culture, and technology have shaped our world.
- Perfect for: Advanced readers curious about the story of humankind and the interplay between science and society.
Also Recommended:
10. The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery
- A captivating exploration of octopus intelligence, behavior, and the connection between humans and marine life.
11. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (Young Readers Edition) by William Kamkwamba
- The inspiring true story of a boy in Malawi who brought electricity to his village using a homemade windmill.
12. The Genius of Birds by Jennifer Ackerman
- A fascinating look at the intelligence of birds, showcasing their problem-solving skills and behaviors.
13. Why Fish Don’t Exist: A Story of Loss, Love, and the Hidden Order of Life by Lulu Miller
- A blend of science and memoir that delves into the life of taxonomist David Starr Jordan and the mysteries of classification.
14. The Book of Eels: Our Enduring Fascination with the Most Mysterious Creature in the Natural World by Patrik Svensson
- An exploration of the life cycle of eels and humanity’s fascination with this enigmatic creature.
15. Buzz: The Nature and Necessity of Bees by Thor Hanson
- A deep dive into the importance of bees in our ecosystem, blending science with storytelling.
16. The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert
- A gripping narrative about the current extinction crisis and how human activity shapes the planet’s future.
17. Buzz: The Nature and Necessity of Bees by Thor Hanson
- A deep dive into the importance of bees in our ecosystem, blending science with storytelling.
18. The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert
- A gripping narrative about the current extinction crisis and how human activity shapes the planet’s future.
For 7th graders who love science and technology, nonfiction books provide a window into the real-world applications of STEM. From inspiring biographies to thrilling rescue stories and cutting-edge topics like AI, these books show how curiosity and innovation drive progress. Whether your child is a future scientist, engineer, or inventor, these titles will spark their imagination and deepen their understanding of the world.
Disclaimer: This list is by no means exhaustive but provides a strong foundation for young readers passionate about STEM.
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