Having a balanced reading 'diet' is valuable, although sometimes parents worry that a child, often a boy, prefers non-fiction to fiction. That's okay, reading is not just about novels; non-fiction is good, too! As long as they're reading and curious about the book's contents, they are learning, expanding their vocabulary, and developing interests.
Non-fiction doesn't have to be boring, and done in the right way, it can be informative and incredibly entertaining (the popular Horrible Histories series is a perfect example). Many non-fiction books offer small chunks of information in an easy-to-read, and easy-to-remember, way that aids learning. The best non-fiction books also have a good-mix of words and visual elements.
Non-fiction can tap into something that excites your child, linking them with books about existing hobbies and interests; it can provide a way to engage with new subjects that might not otherwise be explored; and can hook reluctant readers into books via subjects that grab their attention.
Non-fiction covers an enormous and diverse range of topics. It’s often interactive, and easy to browse and come back to on a regular basis.
Check out a selection of a few of our more recent non-fiction reviews below:
Animation Studio
Bug Bingo
Cars: A Pop-Up Book of Automobiles
Compost: A Family Guide to Making Soil From Scraps
Explore! The Most Dangerous Journeys of All Time
History of Britain and Ireland
Pluto's Secret
Sarah Steed is our Consultant Librarian and reviewer. A former Children's and Young Adult Librarian, she has more than 18 years' experience working in public libraries. Sarah comes from a family of readers and has shelves full to bursting with books.