Best Non-Fiction Book Series for 11 and 12 year olds

As our young ones begin to get older, it's incredible seeing them grasp concepts that, just a few years ago, felt too complex.

Now, our children, students, nieces and nephews are learning complicated maths, discovering events that changed history forever, unravelling politics and even getting the latest on scientific discoveries. Our job is to kindle that fire, keep the curiosity alive and support our young ones by giving them books that feed their interests and maybe even ignite their spirits with more questions.

Non-fiction books are here to save the day! From books on brilliant historical biographies to series that explore the minutiae of cells and genes, our list of top non-fiction titles for readers aged 11 and 12 has something for every reader to enjoy.

Georgina Atwell

Toppsta

2025-03-20

2024-11-01

Best Non-Fiction Book Series for 11 and 12 year olds

Usborne Life Skills Series

Whether you're seeking out information for yourself or looking for the perfect gift for a young person in your life, the Usborne Life Skill books are our top recommendation. The books all cover a range of different topics, from online safety, mental health and friendships to helping the environment and managing our money. And in each title, readers get in-depth coverage of their topic of choice, long-term tips for support and links to professionally approved websites with more advice and support. We've found these books to be incredibly accessible, with illustrations throughout and infographics, and we think they are some essential reads for young people taking their first steps entering today's world on their own.

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What and Why Series

The books in this series are handy guides to topics of science for readers aged 11 and up. They are great at describing the world around us, as well as teaching readers a new thing or two when it comes to their favourite subjects. Looking at a range of topics from chemistry and biology to puberty and physics, these books are packed full of charts, stats, comic strips, fact boxes and 'nerdy notes' post-its. We love the conversational style and how easily explained important key subjects are explained – and why they apply to everyday life. Plus, some books even include simple experiments that give children working examples to learn from.

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Easy Languages Series

Forget Duolingo! These brilliant fast-track guides to learning languages for readers aged 11+ have clear, simple explanations for beginners. The books all include learning tips, a pronunciation guide and word lists, plus a comic book story to show how the language works in everyday situations.

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Explodapedia Series

Readers aged 11+, get ready for your mind to be blown. Each book in this non-fiction series focuses on a different area of science studies. We look at cells, genes, evolution, the brain and even rewilding. These books answer questions you may not even know are fuelling research and inspiring scientists, digging deep into each specific subject matter thanks to Ben Martynoga's expertise. The books are also fully illustrated in black-and-white, a feature which helps visualise each concept even better.

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True Adventures Series

For self-proclaimed history nerds, here is a series that turns the spotlight to the true adventurers of the past, each book about one awe-inspiring historical figure. Whether you want stories of those who fought for freedom, great spies, undercover doctors or outlaws fighting for the greater good, there is a book in this series for you, each written by a different author. From 11th century's kung fu prodigy Mu Guiying in Ancient China to the 18th century's Queen Nanny fighting for Jamaica's independence, these are stories meant to inspire.

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For Beginners Series

Each book in this informative series is a chunky, good-value-for-your-money 128 pages long, fully illustrated in colour throughout and written by an expert in the book's topic of choice. From politics and climate crisis to law and chemistry, this series covers an incredible variety of STEM subjects, offering full glossaries, how-to pages, infographics, diagrams and links to specialised websites.

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For more book series for readers aged 11 and 12, do take a look at our:

Best Magical and Fantasy Series for 11 and 12 year olds

Best Adventure book series for ages 11 and 12

Best Scary and Ghost book series for 11 and 12 year olds

Best Crime and Mystery book series for 11 and 12 year olds

Best Funny book series for 11 and 12 year olds

Best Family and Home book series for 11 and 12 year olds

Best Graphic Novel Series for 11 and 12 year olds

Best Historical Fiction Series for 11 and 12 year olds

Georgina Atwell

Toppsta

2025-03-20

2024-11-01

Best Non-Fiction Book Series for 11 and 12 year olds