
Age rating and parents' guide:National Geographic Kids Almanac
by National Geographic Kids
Ages 9–14
National Geographic Kids Almanac by National Geographic Kids is best for children aged 9–14. It has no violence, nothing scary, no romance and no bad language.
This colourful annual is packed with fascinating facts, stunning photographs, and engaging features covering science, nature, geography, and world culture. Readers can explore incredible animal profiles, bizarre world records, interactive quizzes, and practical crafts and games. Its energetic, bite-sized format makes it easy to dip into for quick trivia or browse for hours, making it a hit with curious minds who love discovering surprising details about the planet.
Content ratings
How much of each a parent can expect, from none to strong.
- Violence
- None
- Scary moments
- None
- Romance
- None
- Bad language
- None
Content checked by Dhiraj Bodade, co-founder of Bookstaken, on .
At a glance
- Non-fiction
- Part of the Almanac series
- Easy to get into from the first page
- Some illustrations
- Emotionally light
- A good pick for reluctant readers
Great for kids who like
- Non-Fiction
- Animals
- Science
Reading mood
- Informative
Good to talk about
- Science
- History & biography
Books like National Geographic Kids Almanac
Similar stories for the same ages, none more intense than this one should be for its youngest readers.

Ages 9–11
Who Was Albert Einstein?
by Jess Brallier
This accessible biography introduces young readers to Albert Einstein, from his quiet childhood and rebellious school days to his groundbreaking discoveries in physics. Filled with black-and-white illustrations, clear explanations of his complex theories, and entertaining anecdotes about his quirky habits, the book paints a rounded portrait of the famous genius. Children enjoy learning about his eccentric personality and discovering how curiosity and unconventional thinking can change the world.

Ages 9–11
National Geographic Kids Why?
by Crispin Boyer
Packed with answers to quirky and fascinating questions, this colorful reference guide covers everything from the human body and animal behavior to outer space and everyday mysteries. Bright photographs, diagrams, and lively explanations make complex topics easy to grasp. Children who love trivia, science, and figuring out how the world works will enjoy browsing its bite-sized facts and surprising revelations.

Ages 9–14
Everything You Need to Ace Science
by Workman Publishing
Presented as the notebook of the smartest kid in class, this comprehensive guide covers middle school science from earth science and biology to physics and chemistry. Full of doodles, highlighter-style callouts, diagrams, and quick quizzes, it breaks complex scientific ideas into bite-sized, easy-to-digest summaries. Young learners appreciate the approachable notebook format and lighthearted tone, which make reviewing foundational concepts feel engaging and stress-free.

Ages 9–14
The Way Things Work Now
by David Macaulay
Packed with intricate cutaway diagrams, this classic guide explores the inner workings of everyday machines and modern technology. David Macaulay breaks down complex mechanical and digital principles—from simple levers and gears to smartphones and 3D printers—using clear explanations and whimsical woolly mammoths to demonstrate how forces operate. Inquisitive readers love the visual humor and detailed illustrations, making it easy to dip into for quick discoveries or study closely for hours.

Ages 9–14
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (Young Readers Edition)
by William Kamkwamba & Bryan Mealer
When a terrible drought strikes his village in Malawi, fourteen-year-old William Kamkwamba's family can no longer afford his school fees. Refusing to give up on learning, he visits the local library and discovers how electricity works. Using old bicycle parts, scrap metal, and sheer determination, he sets out to build a windmill that can bring light and water to his community. This inspiring true story shows how curiosity and resourcefulness can overcome hardship and change lives.

Ages 12–14
Women in Science
by Rachel Ignotofsky
This visually charming book highlights fifty trailblazing women in STEM, ranging from ancient philosophers to modern astronauts and geneticists. Each spread features a stylized portrait, an inspiring biography, and playful infographics detailing scientific concepts and achievements. Children appreciate the engaging graphic design and accessible, bite-sized facts that make history and complex discoveries fun to explore at their own pace.
On these book lists
A good book is the start. A mentor makes it stick.
In a free 1:1 session, a trained Bookstaken mentor reads with your child, asks what they think and helps the reading habit last.