Science fiction is a fantastic way to spark a child’s imagination, introducing them to futuristic worlds, alien creatures, and mind-bending adventures. Whether your young reader loves space travel, time machines, or robots, there’s a sci-fi book out there for them. Below is a list of 15 amazing science fiction books designed specifically for kids, offering thrilling stories and thought-provoking themes.
1. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
Roz, a robot, finds herself stranded on a remote island with no memory of how she got there. As she learns to survive in the wild, she befriends animals and discovers what it means to be alive. This heartwarming and adventurous tale blends technology with nature, making it perfect for young readers.
2. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
This classic sci-fi novel follows Meg Murry and her brother Charles Wallace as they journey across space and time to rescue their father. With the help of three mysterious beings, they battle the forces of darkness in a story full of adventure, science, and heart.
3. The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
In the underground city of Ember, where the lights are starting to fail, two kids—Lina and Doon—must decipher an ancient message to find a way to the surface. This thrilling dystopian tale is filled with mystery, problem-solving, and a race against time.
4. The Green Book by Jill Paton Walsh
After Earth is destroyed, a small group of settlers must adapt to life on a strange new planet. Seen through the eyes of a young girl, this short yet thought-provoking novel explores survival, change, and hope in an unfamiliar world.
5. Space Case by Stuart Gibbs
In this fun, fast-paced mystery set on the first moon colony, 12-year-old Dash is convinced that a scientist’s death wasn’t an accident. Packed with humor, science, and intrigue, this book is perfect for kids who love space and detective stories.
6. The True Meaning of Smekday by Adam Rex
When aliens invade Earth, Gratuity “Tip” Tucci sets off on a road trip with a runaway alien named J.Lo. Their hilarious and action-packed journey is full of wacky adventures and unexpected friendships, making this a sci-fi book with plenty of laughs.
7. The Last Kids on Earth by Max Brallier
After a monster apocalypse, 13-year-old Jack and his friends must defend their town from zombies and massive creatures. This exciting mix of sci-fi, action, and humor is great for kids who love fast-paced adventures.
8. The Secret Keepers by Trenton Lee Stewart
When 11-year-old Reuben finds a mysterious, time-altering device, he gets caught in a dangerous battle between good and evil. With elements of science fiction, mystery, and adventure, this book is an exciting ride for young readers.
9. Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
This graphic novel follows Zita, a brave girl who gets transported to another planet and must rescue her best friend. Full of alien worlds, quirky creatures, and nonstop action, this is a great choice for kids who love adventurous and visually engaging stories.
10. The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer
Set in a futuristic world, this gripping novel follows Matteo, a young clone of a powerful drug lord, as he struggles with identity, morality, and the meaning of being human. While a bit darker, this book is an excellent introduction to ethical questions in sci-fi.
11. The Jamie Drake Equation by Christopher Edge
Jamie’s father is an astronaut on a mission, but when Jamie stumbles upon an alien signal, he might be the only one who can save his dad. This emotional and science-filled story explores space, family, and the unknown.
12. The Infinite Lives of Maisie Day by Christopher Edge
Maisie, a science prodigy, wakes up on her 10th birthday to find her house surrounded by darkness. As she unravels the mystery, the book weaves together quantum physics and adventure in a gripping and mind-bending story.
13. The Lion of Mars by Jennifer L. Holm
Bell has lived on Mars his entire life in a small colony, but when a mysterious illness spreads among the adults, the kids must work together to survive. This story blends space exploration, friendship, and adventure in a captivating way.
14. The Wild Robot Escapes by Peter Brown
The sequel to The Wild Robot finds Roz captured and forced to work on a farm. Determined to return to her island home, she must outsmart humans and machines alike. This continuation is just as thought-provoking and adventurous as the first book.
15. Pi in the Sky by Wendy Mass
Joss, the son of the Supreme Overlord of the Universe, is responsible for delivering extra pie, until an accident erases Earth from existence. Now, he must rebuild an entire planet in this quirky and imaginative science fiction adventure.