Books About Genetics

The Best Genetics Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about genetics? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Genetics

The Smallest Spot of a Dot
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2023

The Smallest Spot of a Dot

By Linsey Davis, Michael Tyler, Lucy Fleming (Illustrator)

Discover how a tiny genetic dot makes us unique yet so alike.

32 pages
4.0 Goodreads · 253 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: In 'The Smallest Spot of a Dot,' children explore the magic of genetics with playful rhymes. Discover how a mere 0.1% of our DNA makes us unique, while 99.9% unites us all. This enchanting picture book invites young readers to celebrate individuality and shared humanity, sparking curiosity about what makes us different and the same. Perfect for ages 4-8, it's a journey of connection and acceptance, beautifully illustrated to captivate young minds. What will your unique dot reveal?
Grow
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2020

Grow

By Nicola Davies, Emily Sutton (Illustrator) · Our Natural World series

Explore how DNA shapes life, growth, and our unique connections.

40 pages· 994 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud
4.3 Goodreads · 276 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Dive into the world of DNA, the blueprint of life that guides growth and change in all living things. Discover how this genetic code connects us to every creature on Earth while making each of us unique. Through engaging language and vibrant illustrations, uncover the secrets of how plants, animals, and humans grow and adapt. What mysteries does your DNA hold, and how does it link you to the vast tapestry of life?
Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun
Sale price
$1697
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2022

Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun

By Tolá Okogwu · Book #1 in the Onyeka series

A girl discovers her hair has powers, leading her to a secret academy and a battle of truth and lies.

310 pages· 64,509 words· Est. 9 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 2,096 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Onyeka, a British Nigerian girl, discovers her Afro hair has psychokinetic powers after saving her friend from drowning. Her mother reveals she's a Solari, part of a secret group with unique abilities. Whisked away to the Academy of the Sun in Nigeria, Onyeka must navigate new friendships and challenges. As she hones her powers, she and her friends face a looming battle between truth and deception. Can Onyeka embrace her identity and protect those she loves in a world where nothing is as it seems?
I Miss My Grandpa
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2019

I Miss My Grandpa

By Jin Xiaojing

A girl imagines her unseen grandpa through family stories, seeking connection and love.

The New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Books Award (2019)
34 pages
3.6 Goodreads · 211 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: A young girl yearns to know her grandpa, who passed away before she was born. Guided by her grandma's vivid descriptions, she embarks on a journey to picture his face and feel his love. Can she bridge the gap of time and memory to connect with the grandfather she never met? Discover how family stories and imagination bring warmth and connection to her heart.
Mixed-Up Pups
Sale price
$379
Chapter Book · Ages 6–8 · 2013

Mixed-Up Pups

By Ed Masessa

Discover the quirkiest mixed-breed dogs in this fun exploration.

32 pages· 1,080 words· Est. 12 min read
4.3 Goodreads · 18 ratings
$3.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Dive into the world of mixed-breed dogs, where labradoodles, snorkies, and schnoodles charm with their unique traits. Explore these lovable, quirky pups and uncover the delightful surprises each breed mix offers. Perfect for young readers eager to learn about the cutest and most unusual canine companions.
Hooray for DNA!
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2023

Hooray for DNA!

By Pauline Thompson, Greg Pizzoli (Illustrator)

Discover the DNA that connects all life in this playful exploration of our shared genetic code.

40 pages
3.9 Goodreads · 95 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Dive into a rhythmic journey exploring DNA, the building blocks of life. This lively picture book reveals how humans, bugs, and even viruses share a hidden genetic connection. Perfect for curious minds, it celebrates the surprising similarities that unite all living things. Will you uncover the secrets of what makes us all alike?
Elephants!
Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 6–10 · 2021

Elephants!

By Laurence Pringle, Meryl Learnihan Henderson (Illustrator) · Strange and Wonderful series

Discover the secrets of elephants and their survival in the wild.

32 pages· 3,911 words· Est. 31 min read-aloud
3.8 Goodreads · 39 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Embark on a journey into the world of elephants, exploring their habitats, communication, and family dynamics. This beautifully illustrated book reveals how these majestic creatures use their trunks and what they eat, while also highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to ensure their survival. Perfect for young animal enthusiasts eager to learn about these gentle giants and their role in the ecosystem.
Rosalind Franklin
Sale price
$1498
Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2021

Rosalind Franklin

By Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Naomi Wilkinson (Illustrator) · Little People, BIG DREAMS series

Uncover the untold story of the scientist behind DNA's double helix discovery.

32 pages
4.2 Goodreads · 199 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Rosalind Franklin, a brilliant scientist from London, was pivotal in uncovering DNA's structure. Despite her groundbreaking 'photo 51,' her contributions were overshadowed. Discover her journey from Cambridge to Paris, and her uncredited role in the DNA breakthrough. How did her work remain hidden, and what legacy did she leave behind? This tale of ambition and discovery reveals the forgotten heroine of molecular biology, inspiring young dreamers to change the world.
Have a Nice DNA
Sale price
$1398
Picture Book · Ages 3–9 · 2002

Have a Nice DNA

By Fran Balkwill, Mic Rolph · Enjoy Your Cells series

Explore the hidden world of cells and DNA through vibrant stories and illustrations.

29 pages
3.9 Goodreads · 21 ratings
$14.95Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Dive into the fascinating world of cells with this vibrant series for young readers. Discover the secrets of DNA, proteins, and groundbreaking scientific advances. With lively language and colorful illustrations, children aged 7 and up will embark on an educational journey, unraveling the mysteries behind stem cells, cloning, and more. Perfect for curious minds eager to understand the science shaping our world, this series makes complex topics accessible and fun. No prior expertise needed—just a sense of wonder and a thirst for knowledge.
Gene Machines
Sale price
$1398
Picture Book · Ages 4–9 · 2002

Gene Machines

By Fran Balkwill, Mic Rolph · Enjoy Your Cells series

Discover the hidden world of cells and DNA through vibrant stories and science facts.

31 pages
4.1 Goodreads · 21 ratings
$14.95Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Dive into the vibrant world of cells with this engaging series for young readers. Explore the mysteries of DNA, proteins, and groundbreaking scientific advances like cloning and stem cells. With lively illustrations and simple explanations, children will uncover the secrets of biology and current scientific debates. Perfect for curious minds eager to understand the wonders of life and the science shaping our world.
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