As someone who almost exclusively reads fiction for fun, I was stumped when my oldest seemed to only want to read non-fiction at bedtime. Cuddly story about a bear and its friends, no thanks. Gruesome details about the deadliest animals in the world, yes please.
Thankfully the world of non-fiction has produced some amazing books that are great for reading aloud. There are picture books, chapter books, even graphic novels, that will stretch the mind, match interests, and develop reading skills.
In addition to series, you can also find award-winning single titles. Each year, the Sibert Award goes to distinguished informational titles for kids of all ages, noting a winner and honors. These can be great options for exploring a range of topics, from the natural world to history, inventions to adventure.
So maybe your bedtime reading is more realistic than magical, it’s all good when it’s time spent reading together!
Click on the covers to go to our catalog and place a hold.
For Younger Listeners and Beginning Readers
Over and Under…series
By Kate Messner
Topics: Nature
Each book explores a different environment through its different layers.
I’m Trying to Love…series
By Bethany Barton
Topics: Animals, Science
Some topics get a bad rap, but Barton encourages young readers to love them instead.
Disgusting Critters…series
By Elise Gravel
Topics: Animals, Humor
These animals have a friendly attitude that offsets their less desirable qualities.
Little People, Big Dreams..series
By various authors
Topics: Biographies
From scientists to artists, politicians to athletes, this diverse collection is sure to educate and inspire.
A Beetle is Shy and others series
By Dianne Aston
Topics: Animals, Nature, Science
Beautiful words, gorgeous illustrations, there is so much to pour over on every page.
The Truth About…series
By Maxwell Eaton
Topics: Animals, Humor
Great for bridging readers, this comic book style mixes humor with facts.
For Older Listeners and Readers
Various books by Jason Chin
Topics: Nature, Space, Geography
With artistic detail and vivid storytelling, Chin delves into topics such as gravity, the Grand Canyon, and the Universe.
Science Comics…series
Various Authors
Topics: Animals, History, Human Body
Each comic takes a historical and scientific dive into a different subject.
Turtle Island and What the Eagle Sees
By Eldon Yellowhorn
Topics: Indigenous People, History
With small chapters and invitations to the reader to imagine, these books are amazing to share as a family.
Who Was…series
various authors
Topics: Biographies, History
From popular to lesser known figures, these illustrated chapter books read like a story!
2021 Sibert Award Winners
Honeybee
By Candace Fleming
Topics: Animals
Describes the busy life of the honeybee.
How We Got to the Moon
By John Rocco
Topics: Outer Space, Science
Beautiful illustrated, oversized guide to the first moon landing.
Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks
By Suzanne Slade
Topics: Biography, Poetry
A picture book biography of the celebrated poet and first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize.
All Thirteen
By Christina Soontornvat
Topics: Survival, Adventure
The incredible true story of the rescue of a soccer team stuck in a cave in Thailand.