12+ Must Have Books For Your STEM Library

Here’s a glimpse into our STEM library. Books about scientists, their lives, their struggles, and not just their academic successes, can be very helpful to young scientists who often misunderstand the process of scientific discovery. Many young people believe these discoveries came easily to these great minds. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. What better way to learn about the scientific process, with all its pitfalls and glowing moments, than from the greats? Knowing the stories behind these famous discoveries can help young people understand the value of perseverance, tenacity, and, most of all, dedication to a growth mindset.

Build your STEM library with these 12 must have booksDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links

The struggles scientists face come from a variety of sources. From failed experiments to faulty equipment, physical illness to mental illness, to more pervasive societal issues such as sexism and racism. Finding a book that is relatable to your child will help them face similar struggles with their STEM endeavours.

Below I have provided books for all levels, from young, child friendly picture books, to in-depth stories about some of our greatest minds. There is something for everyone here.

Build your STEM Library with these 12 books

The “Who Was” biography series
We love this book series. It’s written in a very accessible way for young scientists and they have so many topics covered, you are sure to find one to excite your young scientist. Here are just a few that we have in our collection, pick the perfect one to inspire your young reader!

 Who Was Albert Einstein? Who Was Leonardo da Vinci? Who Was Joan of Arc? Who Was Neil Armstrong? Who Was Galileo? Who Is Jane Goodall? (Who Was…?) Who Was Mother Teresa? Who Was Anne Frank? Who Was Amelia Earhart? Who Was Isaac Newton? Who Was Abraham Lincoln? Who Was Marie Curie? Who Was Helen Keller? Who Was Steve Jobs? Who Was Martin Luther King, Jr.? Who Is Barack Obama? (Who Was…?) Who Is George Lucas? (Who Was…?) Who is J.K. Rowling? Who Is Bill Gates? (Who Was…?) Who Was Alexander the Great?

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The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind
I’ve shared before how William’s story had such a profound impact on my son. Highly, highly recommended. There is even three versions of the story written for different ages, from picture book to novel.

 The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, Young Reader’s Edition The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Creating Currents of Electricity

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On A Beam Of Light – Albert Einstein
This is a beautiful book that is great for young children learning about Einstein for the first time.

Brilliant Blunders
Everyone makes mistakes and scientists are no different. Learning the power of mistakes is an important lesson and one illustrated beautifully in this book.

Girls Think of Everything – Stories of Ingenious Inventions By Women
A look into many women, of all ages (even a 10 year old), who changed the world with their inventions.

The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos
Uncle Paul was a fascinating person with a life story that is sure to interest young mathematicians. He is a great example of someone who can be brilliant at some things, but struggle with other things (like buttering toast!)

What Color Is My World
An excellent, child friendly, book about the achievements, struggles and inventions from African Americans.

Primates – The Fearless Science of Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, and Biruté Galdikas
A graphic novel that has captured the hearts of so many people, Primates explores the lives if three female scientists and the field of primatology.

Stephen Hawking – My Brief History
Who doesn’t find Hawking fascinating? His own personal look into his life and struggles is as fascinating as the man at the heart of it all.

Ada Byron Lovelace and The Thinking Machine
Did you know the first computer program was written by a woman? Ada Byron Lovelace was a brilliant mathematician and this illustrated story shares her story in an accessible way for young scientists.

Canadian Inventors
As a Canadian I had to include this glimpse into the lives of some great Canadian scientists and inventors.

If… A Mind-Bending New Way of Looking at Big Ideas and Numbers
Not about a specific scientist, this book takes a unique approach of showing a new way of looking at things. A change in perspective can change everything and this book is brilliant at providing exactly that. A perfect addition to any STEM library. A must read!

Looking for a more hands-on STEM activity book? Check out these favourites!

 STEAM Kids: 50+ Science / Technology / Engineering / Art STEAM Powered Kids – Learning The Senses Tinkerlab: A Hands-On Guide for Little Inventors Awesome LEGO Creations with Bricks You Already Have: 50 New

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Build your STEM library with these 12 must have books

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