Nonfiction Books 4th Graders Love

If your 4th grader loves hands-on projects, this book is an excellent choice. Over 50 “tried and tested” experiments explore science, technology, engineering, and math concepts in a way that makes learning engaging and fun. We especially appreciated the step-by-step instructions paired with illustrations and photographs, which make the experiments even easier for kids to follow.

This narrative picture book explores the reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone National Park and how their reintroduction affected the park’s ecosystem. A mix of poetry, sidebars, and comic panels help explore animal behavior, food chains, the impact of human behavior on the natural environment, and more. The book also has extensive backmatter, including maps, a glossary, and notes from the award-winning author, Roxanne Parry. 

Business-minded readers will love learning about marketing and entrepreneurship by discovering how Nike became the successful sneaker empire it is today. This book explores the origin of Nike’s famous “swoosh” logo, the company’s first celebrity campaign, and how it successfully expanded from running into other sports. Engaging visuals and “fun facts” help  make business concepts more accessible and interesting for young readers.

This graphic novel nonfiction book is structured like an exciting game show: six animal contestants compete to create the most useful, inventive, and brilliant designs inspired by nature. Readers will love the fascinating facts, vibrant cartoon panels and comical shark judges. Survival of the Fittest is a fast-paced read–with plenty of information–that takes a unique approach to learning about animal adaptations. 

This illustrated middle grade book explores the history of garbage, answering big questions like: How has our relationship with trash changed over time? What is the connection between garbage and climate change? And perhaps most importantly: Why should you care? Total Garbage challenges readers to think critically about their consumption habits and offers encouraging real-world solutions to help reduce waste. 

Mountain of Fire delves into the catastrophic eruption of Mount St. Helens in 1980. Through vibrant storytelling and llustrations, the book details the events leading up to the eruption, the science of volcanoes, and the experiences of those affected. Actual interviews woven throughout the compelling narrative highlight the bravery of first responders and the strength of the community. The fast-paced narrative will engage those readers who care about the stories behind the nonfiction facts and figures. 

This inspiring book highlights 35 young inventors who dreamed big, asked questions, and worked hard to invent solutions to a variety of problems. Kid-Ventors showcases both famous and lesser-known young inventors from around the world. With detailed profiles and mini-chapters that guide kids on becoming inventors themselves, the book is ideal for advanced 4th grade readers but could also make a great read aloud. 

This illustrated guide is designed to introduce young readers to the wonders of the night sky, helping them learn how to identify and locate constellations, planets, and other celestial objects. Each chapter focuses on one of these “heroes” and combines scientific information with folklore and mythology. The stunning illustrations make this a perfect coffee table book for the whole family. 

This collection of hands-on experiments introduces curious kids to chemistry and the periodic tables. Each chapter focuses on a single element, discussing its properties, discovery, and potential danger level. Then, kids conduct fun experiments using items easily found around the house. Our family loves this book, and I’ve ordered several copies for my 12-year-old son’s STEM-loving friends

This “Who HQ” graphic novel brings artist Frida Kahlo’s captivating story to life. Readers follow Kahlo’s challenges and triumphs as she travels from Mexico to New York City for her first solo exhibition. With vivid illustrations and an compelling narrative, the book offers a glimpse into her personal life and the cultural influences that shaped her art. A wonderful way to introduce young readers to an iconic figure in art history.

This “Who HQ” graphic novel brings artist Frida Kahlo’s captivating story to life. Readers follow Kahlo’s challenges and triumphs as she travels from Mexico to New York City for her first solo exhibition. With vivid illustrations and an compelling narrative, the book offers a glimpse into her personal life and the cultural influences that shaped her art. A wonderful way to introduce young readers to an iconic figure in art history. 

Sports fans will love this inspiring graphic memoir of basketball superstar Stephen Curry. Brightly colored, comic-style illustrations explore the challenges and obstacles Curry faced as he tried to fullfill his dream of succeeding in the NBA. In addition to an engaging narrative, quotes from an actual scouting report describe Curry as “not a true point guard” and having “average athleticism,” and performing best as a “career backup.” His underdog story will resonate with young readers, encouraging them to believe in themselves.

The popular Weird But True World is updated each year with new and “weird” animals, news, facts, and events from around the world. The book is packed with information and is a must-read for anyone who loves quirky facts, silly trivia, and captivating photography. Kids will especially love learning about the strange dates to celebrate in 2025– like national sock monkey day in March, no homework day in May, or pet rock day in September! These books are a hit with readers of all ages and make perfect holiday gifts. 

This fascinating encyclopedia explores a wide range of subjects, from space and science to history and the human body. This refreshed edition uncovers the answers to questions kids are curious about, such as: could people live on the moon? What’s the biggest spider? How do cell phones work? When did people build the first houses? This question-and-answer format, paired with brightly colored artwork, photographs, and infographics, makes learning exciting for any curious young reader. 

This atlas blends history and myth to explore the lost kingdoms, phantom islands, and legendary continents once sought by explorers. Maps, manuscripts, and carvings give readers “clues” to where these lost kingdoms might be. Atlas of Lost Kingdoms was shortlisted for the 2023 Children’s Travel Book of the Year and is an excellent choice for kids who love mythology, geography, and travel. 

This book is perfect for nature-loving kids who want to learn more about birds. This edition for young readers was adapted from the bestselling guide by David Sibley, a respected ornithologist author, and illustrator. The book is text-heavy but accompanied by gorgeous illustrations that bring the fascinating world of birds to life. 

4th grade readers will love learning about 22 of the world’s most fascinating “superheroes” of the animal kingdom. Each two-page spread features an eye-catching portrait of animals like dolphins, elephants, and honeybees along with plenty of information that highlights their superhero qualities (super-speed, super-sonar, super-sight, etc). Kids will be drawn in by the superhero angle, but the bright, bold colors and design will keep them flipping the pages. 

This collection gathers 50 true stories from national parks throughout the United State. Each story is linked to a particular park, focusing on animals, plants, communities, individuals, or key events, offering readers a fresh look at these stunning locations. Young readers will be inspired by stories from Denali National Park and Preserve, Grand Canyon National Park, Badlands National Park, and dozens more. This book is a wonderful gift for any young adventurer with a passion for travel and the great outdoors. 

This book explores how maps are made and the ways they’ve changed throughout history. Readers into history, geography, or art will love the illustrations that show how cartographic technology has developed and how various cultures took different approaches to creating maps. The text is simple and poetic, perfect for elementary school readers. The extensive backmatter includes an illustrated timeline, simple explanations, and a list of the skills needed in mapmaking. 

This newly revised Eyewitness takes readers on a “picture-led” journey of both the North and South Poles through photographs, personal accounts from experts, and page after page of updated facts. Readers see how indigenous people follow a nomadic lifestyle, how polar bears avoid frostbite, and which plants are hardy enough to survive the frozen tundra. Kids will love flipping through this eye-catching, information packed book.