Books About Natural History · 51 titles considered

The Best Natural History Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for our other guide?

Explore our editor-reviewed guide to Nature Books, featuring 13 favorites and recommendations by age.

View the guide

Looking for excellent children's books about natural history? 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 Natural History

Timeline
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$2849
Picture Book · Ages 8–11 · 2015

Timeline

By Peter Goes

Explore history's timeline from the Big Bang to future wonders.

80 pages
6.3/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 435 ratings
$29.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Embark on a vibrant journey through time, from the Big Bang to modern marvels. Discover dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and mythical legends. Witness humanity's triumphs and trials, from castles to climate change. Each page invites young and old to explore global events with playful illustrations and insightful connections. What stories will you uncover in this tapestry of time?
Dinosaur Days
Sale price
$379
Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 1985

Dinosaur Days

By Joyce Milton

A book about dinosaurs and their world.

48 pages· 829 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud
4.1 Goodreads · 450 ratings
$3.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Dive into a vibrant world where dinosaur names become easy to pronounce through phonics. Explore the colorful pages and discover how these prehistoric giants come to life, making learning fun and engaging for young readers. Will you master the names of these ancient creatures?
The Silver Balloon
Sale price
$858
Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 1997

The Silver Balloon

By Susan Bonners

A balloon connects two strangers, leading to mysterious gifts and an incredible discovery.

80 pages
3.7 Goodreads · 370 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Gregory releases a balloon with his address, hoping for a pen pal. Weeks later, a farmer named Pete responds, sparking a friendship through letters and mysterious gifts. When Pete sends a puzzling object, Gregory's curiosity leads him to the natural history museum, where he uncovers an astonishing surprise. What could this gift reveal about their connection?
Wonders of Nature
Sale price
$574
Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 1957

Wonders of Nature

By Jane Werner Watson, Eloise Wilkin (Illustrator)

Discover nature's magic as tadpoles and caterpillars transform in this poetic journey.

24 pages
4.2 Goodreads · 282 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Hardcover
Summary: Explore the wonders of nature through the eyes of a child. Watch as tadpoles grow into frogs and caterpillars become butterflies. This poetic journey, paired with stunning illustrations, invites young readers to marvel at life's transformations.
Fun with Nature
Sale price
$1597
Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 1998

Fun with Nature

By Mel Boring, Diane Burns, Leslie Dendy

Explore the wonders of nature right in your backyard with fun facts and activities.

275 pages
4.4 Goodreads · 103 ratings
$16.95Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Uncover the secrets of your backyard with 'Fun with Nature,' a treasure trove of fascinating facts and engaging activities. Dive into the world of caterpillars, frogs, snakes, and more, as you explore detailed descriptions and illustrations of over 150 animals and plants. From identifying tracks and signs to understanding the life cycles of various creatures, this book invites young explorers to embark on an exciting journey of discovery. What mysteries will you uncover in your own backyard?
Slow Down
Sale price
$2374
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2020

Slow Down

By Rachel Williams, Freya Hartas (Illustrator)

Discover hidden wonders as nature's magic unfolds around you.

111 pages
4.6 Goodreads · 620 ratings
$24.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Experience the enchanting world of nature's hidden wonders. This beautifully illustrated collection invites you to pause and observe 50 magical transformations happening every day. As you slow down, explore the small miracles that surround us, fostering mindfulness and a deeper connection to the world. What will you discover when you take the time to truly see?
Out of School and Into Nature
Sale price
$1597
Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2017

Out of School and Into Nature

By Suzanne Slade, Jessica Lanan (Illustrator)

A young naturalist defies norms, pioneering outdoor science education for children.

32 pages· 681 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud
4.3 Goodreads · 418 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Anna Comstock, a passionate naturalist, defies societal norms to pursue science. From observing ants to mapping stars, her curiosity knows no bounds. At Cornell, she challenges the belief that science is only for men. As a trailblazer, she inspires schools to teach nature outdoors, igniting a love for the environment in children. How will her legacy shape future female scientists?
It's Alive!
Sale price
$1049
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2017

It's Alive!

By Ammi-Joan Paquette, Laurie Ann Thompson, Lisa K. Weber (Illustrator) · Two Truths and a Lie series

Can you spot the truth among bizarre tales of nature's wonders and deceptions?

176 pages· 16,777 words· Est. 2 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 479 ratings
$10.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Dive into a world where truth and fiction blur. Discover mind-controlling fungi, zombie-scented flowers, and tree-dwelling octopuses. But beware—only two out of three stories are true. Can you discern fact from fabrication? With captivating photos and illustrations, this book challenges your perception of reality. Test your wits and amaze your friends as you unravel the mysteries of the natural world. Are you ready to separate the unbelievable truths from the clever lies?
Where Is the Amazon?
Sale price
$574
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2016

Where Is the Amazon?

By Sarah Fabiny, Who HQ, Daniel Colon (Illustrator) · Where Is . . . ? series

This book tells the story of the Amazon River and the surrounding rainforest, from its discovery by Spanish explorers to the present day.

112 pages· 8,367 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 343 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Journey into the Amazon, a vast rainforest teeming with life. From ancient human inhabitants to billions of trees and countless species, this natural wonder holds secrets of survival and peril. Can we truly understand its impact on our world? Explore the mysteries of a place where a single touch can heal or harm, and uncover the delicate balance that sustains life on Earth.
Little Kids First Big Book of How
Sale price
$1398
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2016

Little Kids First Big Book of How

By Jill Esbaum · Little Kids First Big Books series

Discover how everyday wonders work, from chameleons to tornadoes.

128 pages
4.4 Goodreads · 172 ratings
$14.99Save 7%
Hardcover
Summary: Unlock the mysteries of the world with this engaging guide that answers kids' burning questions about everyday phenomena. From the secrets of chameleons' color changes to the mechanics of tornadoes, this book offers a captivating exploration of how things work. With over 100 vibrant photos and interactive games, it encourages young minds to stay curious and explore the wonders around them. Perfect for sparking conversations and inspiring a lifelong love of learning, this book is a treasure trove of knowledge for inquisitive kids and their parents.
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Natural History Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about natural history for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Karl, Get Out of the Garden!
Sale price
$1899

Karl, Get Out of the Garden!

Ages 7–10 · 2017

A curious boy aims to name every living thing, revolutionizing science forever.

Once Upon Another Time
Sale price
$1899

Once Upon Another Time

Ages 4–8 · 2021

Discover a world untouched by humans and the secrets it holds.

Winter Sleep
Sale price
$1899

Winter Sleep

Ages 4–8 · 2019

Discover hidden winter secrets as a child and grandma explore a snowy forest.

Dinosaurs
Series
Sale price
$599

Dinosaurs

Ages 5–7 · 2014

A boy and his pet fly visit a natural history museum to learn about dinosaurs.

You're Snug With Me
Sale price
$1799

You're Snug With Me

Ages 4–8 · 2018

Two bear cubs explore the mysteries beyond their icy den.

Dinosaur Time
Series
Sale price
$499

Dinosaur Time

Ages 4–8 · 1974

Discover dinosaurs and learn their names in this engaging early reader.

What in the World?
Sale price
$1799

What in the World?

Ages 4–8 · 1999

Explore nature's numbers, from twos to countless stars.

View all natural history picture books
Browse by age

Natural History Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about natural history for developing and independent readers.

Grand Canyon
Sale price
$2099

Grand Canyon

Ages 6–10 · 2017

Journey through time in the Grand Canyon, uncovering ancient secrets and vibrant life.

What Was the Age of the Dinosaurs?
Series
Sale price
$599

What Was the Age of the Dinosaurs?

Ages 8–11 · 2017

A young doctor discovers a new species of dinosaur in the early 19th century, leading to a greater understanding of these prehistoric creatures and their eventual extinction

Dog
Series
Sale price
$1699

Dog

Ages 10–13 · 1991

Discover the evolution and secrets of man's best friend, from wolves to loyal companions.

The Mysteries
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1999

The Mysteries

2023

A kingdom plagued by mysteries sends knights; only one returns with secrets untold.

Crocodiles

Crocodiles

2009

Crocodiles are ancient reptiles that have lived for millions of years, adapting to life in water and on land while raising their young with surprising care.

Ankylosaurus
Series
Sale price
$2695

Ankylosaurus

Ages 8–12 · 2019

Discover the armored ankylosaurus, a plant-eating dinosaur with a powerful tail defense.

View all natural history chapter books
Keep exploring
Books about ancient civilizationsBooks about dinosaursBooks about EarthBooks about multi-generational friendshipsBooks about pen palsBooks about prehistoric timesBooks about presents and gifts