10 Nonfiction Series for Beginning Readers
Nonfiction titles often get overlooked for young kids as an option for reading practice. Typically because nonfiction books tend to be more in-depth, with a higher vocabulary. But they don’t have to be! Below are ten nonfiction stories that are great for readers looking for something a little different. Some kids will be more inclined to gravitate to nonfiction work over fiction and there are dozens of titles to choose from in these “series” below. Unlike fiction, nonfiction series are more likely to be the same style, reading level, and layout. Topics ranging from animals, space, the human body, STEM, culture, travel, biographies, and more! You’re sure to find the right reading level and topic right for your beginning reader!
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10 Nonfiction Series for Beginning Readers
National Geographic Kids: A Zebra’s Day
by Aubre Andrus
Perfect for beginning and young readers, National Geographic Pre-readers include simple, expert-vetted text and large, engaging photos on every page. A vocabulary tree at the beginning of the book introduces kids to keywords in concept groups, helping them make connections between words. Plus, a wrap-up activity gives kids a chance to use what they’ve learned, while expanding their knowledge of the world.
Truth or Lie: Inventors!
by Erica S. Perl, illustrated by Michael Slack
Though this engaging early reader is 100% fun, 25% of it is FALSE! In a unique Q&A format, proficient readers are quizzed about inventions and their inventors to see if they can separate facts from “lies.” The book’s mascot–the Truth Sleuth–guides readers through this funny and fact-packed book, which features photos and illustrations of a wide variety of inventions–from the printing press to velcro to a light-up soccer ball.
Fly Guy Presents: Space
by Tedd Arnold
During a visit to a space museum, Fly Guy and Buzz learn all about planets, space crafts, space suits, and even dirty snowballs (i.e. comets!)! With straightforward fun facts, humorous illustrations of Fly Guy and Buzz, and vivid photographs throughout, this book is sure to be a hit with budding astronauts everywhere!
Who Would Win? Jaguar vs. Skunk
by Jerry Pallotta, illustrated by Rob Bolster
This nonfiction reader compares and contrasts two ferocious animals. Readers will learn about each animal’s anatomy, behavior, and more. Then compare and contrast the battling pair before finally discovering the winner! This nonfiction series is full of facts, photos, and realistic illustrations, and it includes a range of mammals, sea creatures, insects, and dinosaurs to satisfy all kinds of animal fans.
Eye: How It Works
by David Macaulay, illustrated by Shelia Keenan
Celebrated author-illustrator and master explainer David Macaulay brings his unique voice and style to high-interest nonfiction books for newly independent readers. With his unique blend of informative text and illustration, David Macaulay shows how this extraordinary organ works to capture light and send signals to our brains.
Science of Fun Stuff: The Thrills and Chills of Amusement Parks
by Jordan D. Brown, illustrated by Mark Borgions
Did you know that a rollercoaster does not need an engine or power source of its own? And how exactly does a bumper car go without gas? Young science lovers will flip when they learn about the science behind amusement parks in this fun, fact-filled Level 3 Ready-to-Read!
Wonders of America: The Appalachian Trail
by Marion Dane Bauer, illustrated by John Wallace
The Appalachian Trail is one of the longest trails in the world! It crosses fourteen states between Georgia and Maine. Hikers from all over the world come to explore and discover the natural wonders along the trail. Beginning readers will enjoy trailing along in this informative Ready-to-Read.
You Should Meet: Mae Jemison
by Laurie Calkhoven, illustrated by Monique Dong
Meet Mae Jemison, the first African-American female astronaut! Did you know before Mae was an astronaut, she went to medical school and joined the Peace Corps? But she never forgot her childhood dream to travel to outer space. So in 1985 she applied to NASA’s astronaut training program. On September 12, 1992, Mae flew into space with six other astronauts aboard the space shuttle Endeavour and made history—just like you can if you follow your dreams!
Living In… South Africa
by Chloe Perkins, illustrated by Tom Woolley
Each book in our Living in… series is narrated by a kid growing up in their home country and is filled with fresh, modern illustrations as well as loads of history, geography, and cultural goodies that fit perfectly into Common Core standards. Join kids from all over the world on a globe-trotting adventure with the Living in… series—sure to be a hit with children, parents, educators, and librarians alike!
History of Fun Stuff: The Sweet Story of Hot Chocolate
by Stephen Krensky, illustrated by Rob McClurkan
Did you know that for thousands of years, chocolate was a beverage and not a solid candy? Or that soldiers in the Revolutionary War received a monthly ration of chocolate for drinking? Learn all about the history of America’s favorite wintertime treat in this fun, fact-filled Level 3 Ready-to-Read!
If you’re interested in purchasing any of the titles above from my list of 10 Nonfiction Series for Beginning Readers, please use my affiliate links for Amazon. When you purchase from the links above, I will earn a commission as an affiliate.
