Are you looking for the best books to spark curiosity in kids? Curiosity is the foundation of lifelong learning. Studies show that children who display higher curiosity at a young age perform better academically, especially in reading and math. Research from Harvard also confirms curiosity strengthens memory, attention, and engagement with learning.
One of the best ways to nurture curiosity is through reading. Books don’t just build literacy—they introduce new worlds, encourage imagination, and inspire children to ask questions.
Why This Book List?
With thousands of children’s books available, parents often ask: “Which books will spark my child’s curiosity, not just entertain them?”
That’s why we’ve curated this list of 21 carefully selected books—grouped into themes like Imagination, STEM, Real-World Explorers, and Big Questions.
These books were chosen because they:
✅ Encourage kids to wonder and ask questions
✅ Inspire creativity and problem-solving
✅ Introduce science, exploration, or real-world heroes
✅ Are fun for both kids and parents to read together
Table of Contents
Books to Spark Curiosity in Kids through Imagination
1. Not a Box – Antoinette Portis
A simple cardboard box becomes anything a child imagines—a rocket, a mountain, a race car. This book reminds children that imagination transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, nurturing creativity and free thinking.
2. The Dot – Peter H. Reynolds
When a teacher encourages Vashti to make her mark, she discovers that creativity begins with just a dot. A powerful story about courage, self-expression, and how small beginnings can grow into big confidence.
3. Ish – Peter H. Reynolds
This tale teaches kids that drawings don’t have to be “perfect” to be valuable—they can be ish. It encourages children to embrace creativity without fear of mistakes, building resilience and joy in self-expression.
4. Sky Color – Peter H. Reynolds
When a girl tasked with painting a sky runs out of blue paint, she learns to see colors in a whole new way. A gentle, inspiring story that teaches children to think beyond limitations.
5. Journey – Aaron Becker
A wordless picture book where a red crayon opens doors to magical worlds. It sparks children’s storytelling abilities, encouraging them to create their own adventures through imagination.
6. Quest – Aaron Becker
The sequel to Journey continues the magical adventure, showing children the power of creativity and teamwork. Beautiful illustrations draw readers into imaginative problem-solving.
7. Return – Aaron Becker
The final book in Becker’s trilogy, blending fantasy and courage. It reminds children of the endless possibilities that curiosity and imagination can unlock.
8. What Do You Do With an Idea? – Kobi Yamada
A heartwarming story about nurturing an idea, even when others don’t understand it. It shows children that ideas grow when protected, valued, and allowed to flourish—sparking confidence in their creativity.
Best STEM Books to Spark Curiosity in Kids
9. Ada Twist, Scientist – Andrea Beaty
Ada’s endless “Why?” questions lead her to experiment and explore the world scientifically. A perfect story for encouraging curiosity, persistence, and critical thinking in young scientists.
10. Iggy Peck, Architect – Andrea Beaty
Iggy’s love for building is questioned until he proves how architecture can solve problems. Inspires children to value their passions and understand the real-world importance of design and innovation.
11. Aaron Slater, Illustrator – Andrea Beaty
This story celebrates creativity through drawing and storytelling. It encourages children who may struggle with words to find their voice through art, imagination, and perseverance.
12. Sofia Valdez, Future Prez – Andrea Beaty
Sofia shows leadership and determination when she works to transform her community. It empowers kids to see themselves as problem-solvers who can make positive change.
13. The Most Magnificent Thing – Ashley Spires
A young girl sets out to create something amazing but fails repeatedly. Through frustration and persistence, she learns resilience and the creative process, making it a perfect read for budding innovators.
14. If…: A Mind-Bending New Way of Looking at Big Ideas and Numbers – David J. Smith
Explains big concepts like population, distance, and time by scaling them into everyday comparisons. This book makes abstract ideas tangible and sparks mathematical curiosity.
15. How Big Is a Million? – Anna Milbourne
A delightful book that helps children visualize very large numbers through charming illustrations. It turns math into wonder, making numbers feel magical rather than intimidating.
Books about Real-World Explorers & Change-Makers
16. The Watcher: Jane Goodall’s Life with the Chimps – Jeanette Winter
The inspiring true story of Jane Goodall, whose childhood love for animals led her to groundbreaking discoveries. It shows children how curiosity and patience can change the world.
17. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (Young Readers Edition) – William Kamkwamba
The incredible true story of a boy from Malawi who built a windmill from scrap materials to bring electricity to his village. A powerful reminder of how creativity and perseverance can solve real problems.
18. Hidden Figures (Young Readers Edition) – Margot Lee Shetterly
Tells the story of four Black women mathematicians at NASA who helped launch rockets into space. It inspires kids with the importance of determination, diversity, and STEM.
19. Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World – Rachel Ignotofsky
An illustrated book celebrating women scientists, engineers, and innovators throughout history. It broadens children’s view of what’s possible by showing real-life role models.
Books to Spark Curiosity in Kids Who Ask Big Questions
20. The Big Book of Why – National Geographic Kids
Answers everyday questions like “Why is the sky blue?” or “Why do animals hibernate?” with fun facts and science. Perfect for fueling the endless curiosity of “Why-asking” kids.
21. National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Why 2 – National Geographic Kids
A follow-up with even more engaging explanations—covering topics from the human body to the natural world. It makes learning exciting while encouraging children to keep asking questions.
🌟 Final Thoughts & Tips for Parents
Curiosity isn’t about knowing all the answers—it’s about having the courage to keep exploring. These 21 books are excellent starting points to spark curiosity in children. And if you’d like to nurture your own curiosity as a parent, don’t miss our guide on 5 Books for Parents to Inspire Curiosity in Kids
Tips for Parents
- Read the books together with the child
- After reading, ask open-ended questions like “What do you think?” or “Why might this happen?”
- Let your child’s questions guide the conversation.
- Encourage them to create their own stories, drawings, or experiments inspired by these books.
- Re-read often—each time reveals something new.
