Solvation Blog

STEM Books

Posted February 9, 2015

A recent Statistics Canada study found that the more exposure children have to books, the greater their chances of obtaining critical life skills that often lead to career success.

Since the number of books in a person’s home during their high school years is linked to their reading, writing, math and social skills later in life, we pulled together some of our top STEM suggestions.

1. Death from the Skies! The science behind the end of the world by Phil Plait

This collection of short stories examines how the Earth could be destroyed by menaces from outer space. Each chapter begins with a scenario and then Plait explains the oh-too-real science behind it.

2. You are Star Dust by Elin Kelsey and Soyeon Kim

A gorgeous and educational picture book instills a sense of connection to the natural world for children. A companion iPad app features sound effects, animation and build-your-own-dioramas.

3. Planesrunner by Ian McDonald

In this great read for young adults, Everett uses his computer expertise, soccer skills and math knowledge to travel to another universe in the search for his kidnapped father.

4. 100 Essential Things You Didn't Know You Didn't Know: Math Explains Your World by John D. Barrow

The short essay-style chapters make this easily readable. Snippets of handy reasons for all of life's common occurrences, like long lines and how to win the lottery, many interesting sports related math items and some "didn't know" facts, this is a fun read for showing how math is around us every day.

5. A Hero at the End of the World by Erin Claiborne

This is a truly terrific science fiction/fantasy book for teens. It takes a hilarious and insightful spin on the “chosen one” motif during this adventure through an unusual alternate world.