10+ Best Non-Fiction Books for 8th Graders
Non-fiction books can be just as exciting and captivating as their fictional counterparts, especially for young readers. For 8th graders, in particular, non-fiction books can help expand their knowledge and understanding of the world around them. Here is a list of the best non-fiction books for 8th graders, guaranteed to entertain, educate, and inspire.
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is a memoir by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer. The book tells the story of Kamkwamba's journey from a young boy in Malawi to a self-taught inventor who builds a windmill to bring electricity to his village. Kamkwamba's inspiring story highlights the power of determination and the potential for innovation in even the most challenging circumstances. This book is a must-read for any young person interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields or who wants to be inspired by a true story of perseverance and creativity.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks is a biography by Rebecca Skloot that tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, a woman whose cancer cells were taken without her knowledge and used for scientific research. Skloot explores the ethical implications of this and provides insight into the history of medical experimentation on African Americans. This book is a great choice for young readers interested in science, medicine, or social justice issues.
Hidden Figures
Hidden Figures, by Margot Lee Shetterly, tells the story of the African American women who worked at NASA as mathematicians and played a crucial role in the success of the space program. This book highlights the contributions of these women who were often overlooked and marginalized due to their race and gender. Hidden Figures is a great choice for young readers interested in history, science, and the fight for civil rights.
The Boys in the Boat
The Boys in the Boat, by Daniel James Brown, is a non-fiction book that tells the story of the University of Washington rowing team and their quest for a gold medal at the 1936 Olympics in Nazi Germany. This book is a great choice for young readers interested in history, sports, and stories of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
The Omnivore's Dilemma
The Omnivore's Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, is a book about the food we eat and where it comes from. Pollan explores the industrial food system and the impact it has on our health, the environment, and animal welfare. This book is a great choice for young readers interested in environmental issues, sustainable agriculture, and nutrition.
The Right Stuff
The Right Stuff, by Tom Wolfe, is a book about the early days of the US space program and the test pilots who became the first astronauts. Wolfe's vivid storytelling and attention to detail make this book a thrilling read that captures the excitement and danger of the early days of space exploration. This book is a great choice for young readers interested in history, science, and the human drive to explore and push boundaries.
Born a Crime
Born a Crime is a memoir by Trevor Noah, the host of The Daily Show. In the book, Noah shares his experience growing up in South Africa during and after apartheid. He shares his journey of navigating life as a mixed-race child in a society where that was illegal, and the challenges he faced as he became a successful comedian. This book is a great choice for young readers interested in memoirs, comedy, and social justice issues.
How to Be an Antiracist
How to Be an Antiracist, by Ibram X. Kendi, is a powerful book that challenges readers to examine their own beliefs and behaviors when it comes to race. Kendi argues that being "not racist" is not enough, and that actively striving to be antiracist is necessary to create a more just and equitable society. This book is a great choice for young readers interested in social justice issues and who want to learn how they can make a positive difference in the world.
Tuesdays with Morrie
Tuesdays with Morrie, by Mitch Albom, is a memoir about Albom's relationship with his former professor, Morrie Schwartz, who was dying of ALS. The book explores themes of life, death, and the power of human connection. This book is a great choice for young readers interested in memoirs, philosophy, and exploring the meaning of life.
The Omnivore's Dilemma
The Omnivore's Dilemma, by Michael Pollan, explores the complex web of relationships between humans, food, and the environment. The book investigates the origins of the food we eat and the impact of our choices on our health and the planet. This book is a great choice for young readers interested in science, environmental issues, and the food industry.
The Emperor of All Maladies
The Emperor of All Maladies, by Siddhartha Mukherjee, is a biography of cancer. The book explores the history of cancer treatment, from its early beginnings to modern advances, and provides insight into the disease and its impact on society. This book is a great choice for young readers interested in science, medicine, and the fight against disease.
These books are just a few of the many great non-fiction options available for 8th graders. Reading non-fiction can help expand their horizons and give them a deeper understanding of the world around them. Whether they're interested in science, history, or personal narratives, there is a non-fiction book out there for every young reader.
