We have compiled a list of 11 easy to read science fiction books for kids to read over the holidays. Science fiction as a genre can help build a child’s imagination and storytelling skills to look at the world through an unconventional perspective. Furthermore, some science fiction books tackle questions of the unknown, and this leaves us with a compelling sense of curiosity to uncover these answers for ourselves. It also enhances the process of creativity and can boost a child’s interest in understanding science, and its greatest mysteries.

1.The Wonderful Flight to the Mushroom Planet by Eleanor Cameron

This book explores the adventure of Chuck and David; two boys who travel to an Alien planet in a spaceship they construct from home. It explores the notion of teamwork, discovery and problem-solving skills to assist a civilization of creatures that are foreign to the boys.
Ages: 8-12 years
Questions to ponder:
1. What are some of the challenges space travel poses?
2. What are some issues when communicating with an alien race?
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2. Aliens for breakfast by Stephanie Spinner

This book explores Richard Bickerstaff who sits down for breakfast but instead has an alien come out of his cereal bowl. The two then go onto a mission to save planet earth.
Ages: 6-9 years
Questions to ponder:
1. How does the boy’s attitude about himself change by the end of the book?
2. How does the friendship between the boy and the alien grow? 
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3. Found (The Missing #1) by Margaret Peterson Haddix

This book explores the tale of thirteen-year-old Jonah who has always known that he was adopted. But once he starts receiving strange and mysterious letters, he goes on a journey to uncover the truth.
Ages: 8-12 years
Questions to ponder:
1. How is the notion of self-discovery depicted in this book?
2. How does Jonah mature as the book progresses?
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4. Eager by Helen Fox

This book is set at the end of the 21st century, where robots live alongside human beings to take care of their every need.
Ages: 8-12 years  
Questions to ponder:
1. How does the robot mimic human-like qualities?
2. What are the challenges of living in such a society?
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5. How We Got To Now: Six Innovations That Made the Modern World by Steven Johnson.

Steven Johnson explores the history of innovation over centuries, tracing facets of modern life (refrigeration, clocks, and eyeglass lenses, to name a few) from their creators, as well as their unintended historical consequences.
Ages: All
Questions to ponder:
1. What innovation has evolved the most in the 21st century?
2. Which innovation do you believe has made the most impact on society?
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6. How to be a Space Explorer by Lonely Planet Kids.

This book explores everything about space travel and exploration. For example have you ever wondered how astronauts pee in a spacesuit?
Ages: 8-12 years
Questions to ponder:
1. What do you believe is the most difficult thing about space travel?
2. Have you ever considered a job as an astronaut? Why?/Why not?
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7. We’re All Wonders by R. J. Palacio

This book explores Auggie Pullman who was born with an extraordinary face. Despite this, the novel showcases how fantasy can help the boy meet strange creatures and visit Pluto.
Ages: 6-10  years
Questions to ponder:
1. How are the concepts of difference and belonging depicted?  
2. How does the main character use his imagination escape?
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8. What Are Stars? (Very First Lift-the-Flap Questions & Answers) by Katie Daynes and Marta Alvarez Miguens

This book explores the night sky, the patterns they make, as well as some simple explanations about the world above us.
Ages: 6-9 years
Questions to ponder:
1. How has your understanding of the night sky changed after reading this book?
2. What was your favourite fact about stars? 
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9. The Darkest Dark by Chris Hadfield

This book explores the universe, through the perspective of the child Chris. Although he dares to dream the unimaginable, he is also afraid of the dark, yet strives to overcome his fears.
Ages: 8-12 years
Questions to ponder:
1. Who are your inspirations in life and how do they shape your behaviour?
2. Have you ever had to face your fear, and how did you go about doing so?
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10. Astronauts (First Explorers)  by Christiane Engel

This book explores what it’s like to be an astronaut, and the journey they take before heading into space.
Ages: 6-9 years
Questions to ponder:
1. What was your favourite fact about astronauts?
2. Is there an astronaut that inspires you? 
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11. Curiosity (The Story of a Mars Rover) by Markus Motum

This book introduces readers to Curiosity (NASA’s Mars Rover) and her mission to Mars, in order to find evidence of life.
Ages: 8-12 years
Questions to ponder:
1. Why do we send space rovers out of Earth and into space?
2. What tools does the space rover use to carry out the mission?
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Did you like our list of popular science fiction books for children? What are some other science fiction books that you would recommend to read? 

Also, we are thrilled to announce our VIP adventure. Give a child the gift of Christmas with our STEAM based subscription boxes. To celebrate, sign up now and receive half price off your first three months, starting with the month of February. Sign up here.

Extra reading: check out our posts on 12 popular science myths debunked and our blog on 15 science fiction movies to watch this weekend.