The 35+ Best Science Fiction Books For 5th Graders
Looking for ways to spark your child's interest in STEM subjects? Science fiction books are a great option, as they offer role models who demonstrate the importance of intelligence and resourcefulness for success.
In this article, we've compiled a list of the 35+ best science fiction books for fifth graders. From graphic novels to time-traveling adventures, there's something for every young reader. These books not only entertain but can also inspire a lifelong love of learning in fields like engineering, tech, and medicine.
Join us as we explore the best contemporary and classic science fiction books for kids!
NEWBERY & OTHER AWARD-WINNING SCI-FI BOOKS
1. Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien
Newbery Medal Winner, 1972 This delightfully imaginative tale is always a popular favorite among children. Mrs. Frisby, a field mouse who lives in a garden, must move her family before the farmer begins plowing. Will the rats of NIMH - a group of highly intelligent laboratory rats - help her find a solution to her dilemma?
Amazon Rating: 4.8 (Teacher’s Pick)
Ages: 7 - 11 years
2. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
Newbery Medal Winner, 1963 “A Wrinkle of Time* is a sci-fi fantasy novel by Madeleine L'Engle. The story is in many respects similar to the type of fiction that one would expect of CS Lewis' *The Chronicles of Narnia*, in that much religious mythology and symbolism are used. In some ways, this is more blatant, and in other ways, less blatant, than the *Narnia* books. – Amazon review by MereChristian
Amazon Rating: 4.6 (Teacher’s Pick)
Ages: 9 – 12 years
3. The Giver by Lois Lowry
In Lois Lowry’s Newbery Medal–winning classic, twelve-year-old Jonas lives in a seemingly ideal world. Not until he is given his life assignment as the Receiver does he begin to understand the dark secrets behind his fragile community. The Giver has become one of the most influential novels of our time. Don't miss the powerful companion novels in Lois Lowry's Giver Quartet: Gathering Blue, Messenger, and Son.
Amazon Rating: 4.7 (#1 Best Seller)
Ages: 10 years and up
4. The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
Follow along with the interactive story by pushing the corresponding audio button to play friendly forest sounds as you peruse the campsite and meet new fuzzy friends! Friendly forest sounds include hooting owls, howling wolves, insects buzzing, and frog ribbit A campfire storytime favorite that is perfect for family camping outdoor adventures!
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 1 – 3 years
5. The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer L. Holm
Believe in the possible . . . with this New York Times bestseller by three-time Newbery Honor winner Jennifer L. Holm. A perfect read about a child's relationship with her grandfather! I read this to my 7th grade science classes every year and they love it!! We've just started the second book because they were so sad that the first one was over. Even though it's science fiction, it has some really great science facts and there are parts that are absolutely hilarious! The kids love it!! – Amazon review by Becky C.
Amazon Rating: 4.7 (Teacher’s Pick)
Ages: 9 – 12 years
SCI-FI GRAPHIC NOVELS
6. Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
Zita the Spacegirl is a fun, captivating tale of friendship and redemption from Flight veteran Ben Hatke. This book, and others like it, is an answer to the alarmist outcry that kids just aren't reading books as much anymore. Granted, kids today have a lot more choices in how they spend their free time, but if publishers keep manufacturing books such as Zita the Spacegirl, they will develop an emotional connection to reading that is enjoyable and fun; these positive connections to reading will last for the rest of their lives. – Amazon review by D. Campbell
Amazon Rating: 4.8 (Teacher’s Pick)
Ages: 8 – 12 years
7. Cats vs. Robots by Margaret Stohl and Lewis Peterson
#1 New York Times bestselling author Margaret Stohl and Lewis Peterson’s hilarious middle-grade debut has it all: robot overlords, secret feline agents, and earthling humans who are in for a real catastrophe. Cats VS. Robots is fantastic. So much fun to read, also deeply touching, super smart, and crucial to understanding our identity as humans. Everyone needs to read it. And the illustrations are out of this world great! – Amazon review by Hilary R.
Amazon Rating: 4.5
Ages: 8 - 12 years
8. Frank Einstein and the Antimatter Motor (Series #1) by Jon Scieszka
My son loved this book and read it from start to finish. It has triggered a great reading habit and really suits a boy who likes science, daft stuff and robots! – Amazon review by J. Borland
Amazon Rating: 4.7 (Teacher’s Pick)
Ages: 7 – 11 years
9. Going Wild by Lisa McMann
Spider-Man meets Animorphs in this thrilling middle-grade series from Lisa McMann, New York Times bestselling author of the Unwanteds series. The Going Wild series is perfect for fans of Rick Riordan looking for a new twist on their middle-grade adventures. It blends science fiction with the animal kingdom, highlighting some of the incredible feats that animals can achieve, which might seem possible only in comic books but are actually completely true.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 8 – 12 years
CLASSIC SCI-FI NOVELS
10. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
The Little Prince is one of the best-selling and most translated books of all time, universally cherished by children and adults alike. This beloved classic is a profound tale about loneliness and loss, and love and friendship. There is now a special edition with the restored original artwork of the story of this young prince's travels throughout space.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 7 years and up
11. Escape to Witch Mountain by Alexander Key
With renewed interest in Alexander Key's extraordinary 1968 novel, fans can dive into Escape to Witch Mountain as this sci-fi classic returns to print in its true, best, and original form! The powerful, thrilling story of Tony and Tia―twins joined by their paranormal gifts, on the run from evil forces that seek to suppress their forgotten pasts―is more gripping and relevant than ever.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 9 – 12 years
12. The Lost Planet (series) by Rachel Searles
This debut novel is a rousing space adventure, filled with government conspiracies, a quest for identity, and nonstop action. While the universe and its inhabitants are interesting, character development and world-building are on the thin side. The book's appeal, however, lies in its plot-driven story line, making it fun and accessible. Short, fast-moving chapters with cliff-hanger endings will be particularly attractive for reluctant readers. – Review by School Library Journal
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 9 years and up
MODERN CLASSIC SCI-FI NOVELS
13. Artemis Fowl by Eion Colfer (Book #1)
Twelve-year-old Artemis Fowl is a millionaire, a genuis, and, above all, a criminal mastermind. But even Artemis doesn't know what he's taken on when he kidnaps a fairy, Captain Holly Short of the LEPrecon Unit. These aren't the fairies of bedtime stories, they're dangerous! Full of unexpected twists and turns, Artemis Fowl is a riveting, magical adventure.
Amazon Rating: 4.6
Ages: 11 – 12 years
14. Space Case by Stuart Gibbs
I'm a sixth grade Basic Skills English teacher with a long history as a reading teacher. I have read and taught hundreds of young adult novels. Needless to say, I can spot a novel kids will love. Stuart Gibbs captured my attention from the first page so he was a natural option for independent novels last fall. – Amazon review by Kelly E.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 9 – 12 years
15. Lightfall: The Girl and the Galudrian by Tim Probert
For fans of Amulet and middle-grade readers who love sweeping worlds like Star Wars, the first book of the Lightfall series introduces Bea and Cad, two unlikely friends who get swept up in an epic quest to save their world from falling into eternal darkness. Wonderful story! Bought for homeschool book club for 10 and 12-year-olds. The 12 year old read it in one sitting and just adored the story. – Amazon review by djbobbydazzler
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 6 – 12 years
16. Fuzzy by Tom Angleberger and Paul Dellinger
Fuzzy is from Tom Angleberger, the New York Times bestselling author of the wildly popular Origami Yoda series, and Paul Dellinger, an adult science-fiction writer. Reluctant readers and robot lovers in elementary and middle school will enjoy this fast-paced read that shows just how strange a place middle school can be, particularly when the new student is a state-of-the-art robot.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 8 – 12 years
17. Fuzzy Mud by Louis Sachar
FUZZY MUD is an imaginative and suspenseful story of the great lengths we’ll go to for friendship and family, the mishaps and breakthroughs that are made in the name of science, and the wonders of mud . . . fuzzy mud. I read this to my fifth grade class. They loved it. Many students have reread it since. Has a high-stakes feel that reminded the kids of Stranger Things. – Amazon review by Nick V.
Amazon Rating: 4.7 (Teacher’s Pick)
Ages: 9 – 12 years
18. York: The Shadow Cipher by Laura Ruby
From National Book Award finalist and Printz Award winner Laura Ruby comes an epic alternate history series about three kids who try to solve the greatest mystery of the modern world: a puzzle and treasure hunt laid into the very streets and buildings of New York City. My oldest son is a voracious reader. He has thoroughly enjoyed this book. He's loved it so much he's been waking up early to read. – Amazon review by Lindsay F.
Amazon Rating: 4.6 (Teacher’s Pick)
Ages: 6 – 12 years
19. Timeless: Diego and the Rangers of the Vastlantic by Armand Baltazar
I read this book to my daughters, and they enjoyed it enough that they're reading it again on their own. It's a unique, inventive exciting world with great adventures and growth for the young characters, who deal with real danger along with moral dilemmas and good old teenage issues. – Amazon review by Robert B.
Amazon Rating: 4.9
Ages: 8 – 12 years
20. Greystone Secrets #1: The Strangers by Margaret Peterson Haddix
A thrilling adventure filled with mysteries and plot twists aplenty in this absorbing series about family and friendships. Perfect for fans of A Wrinkle in Time and The City of Ember!
We borrowed this book from the library in the past but my kids love it so much that we ordered our own copy! My ten-year-old never enjoyed reading until this series came along! I highly recommend it. We use it as a read aloud and my younger kids stay interested the whole time too! – Amazon review by Sarah L.
Amazon Rating: 4.7 (Editor’s Pick)
Ages: 10 years and up
21. Edge of Extinction #1: The Ark Plan by Laura Martin
The Edge of Extinction books are at the top of a special list - books that my whole family read and loved!! My husband and I read these books aloud to our sons, who range in age from teens down to toddler. The fast paced, exciting stories kept every one of us eager to hear more! I love that Laura Martin writes in a way that is family-friendly and is equally engaging to adults as well as kids. My boys talk about her books frequently and name her among their very favorite authors. We are so excited for her newest release! – Amazon review by Bizz J.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 8 – 12 years
22. My Teacher Is AN Alien (Collection) by Bruce Coville
Could your teacher be an alien? Your child can do research with this boxed set of four books in the bestselling, hilarious sci-fi quartet from the author who inspired the Eragon series. Your child will laugh, gasp, and might even get a little grossed out as they go intergalactic with this collectible boxed set!
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 8 – 11 years
23. Last Day on Mars by Kevin Emerson
A 2019 New York Public Library Best Book for Kids. This is a beautifully illustrated camping book where imagination meets reality in this poetic and tender ode to childhood. With lyrical prose and dazzling art, Pulitzer Prize finalist Susan Choi and Caldecott-honor winning artist John Rocco have created a moving and joyful ode to growing up.
Amazon Rating: 4.7 (Editor’s Pick)
Ages: 4 – 6 years
24. The Wonderful Flight to the Mushroom Planet by Eleanor Cameron
In print since the 1950s, the Mushroom Planet series is back with a new design by illustrator Kevin Hawkes. Don t miss the adventures of Chuck and David, two boys who travel to the alien planet Basidium in their homemade spaceship. This timeless series is a classic that is sure to be read over and over again.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 7 – 10 years
25. Cog by Greg van Eekhout
I cared more about the robot characters in this story than I have about human characters in other stories. I was so touched by Cog and how he saw the world and the inner journey he went on in order to achieve his goal of getting his home back and saving the person and robots he loved. I think it's an excellent book for boys and reluctant readers. There is a lot of humor in how Cog interprets the world and plenty of adventure with an active villain pursuing them. I'm looking forward to reading more books by this author. – Amazon review by A.M. Crum
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 8 – 12 years
26. A Problematic Paradox by Eliot Sappingfield
Guardians of the Galaxy meets The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy in this wild, warm-hearted, and hilarious sci-fi adventure about a brainy young girl who is recruited for a very special boarding school.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 10 years and up
27. The Jamie Drake Equation by Christopher Edge
How amazing would it be to have a dad who's an astronaut? To see him go on rocket launches, live in zero gravity, and fly through space like a superhero? Jamie Drake knows. His dad is orbiting Earth in the International Space Station. Jamie thinks it's cool, and he's proud of his dad, but he also really misses him. The Jamie Drake Equation is about the wonders of space, the courage of astronauts, and the lengths to which we will go to protect the ones we love.
Amazon Rating: 4.6
Ages: 9 – 12 years
28. Felix Yz by Lisa Bunker
I bought this for my 9-year-old who's very fussy about fiction, they were instantly captivated. Then I picked it up and couldn't put it down until it was finished, which took several hours. It's so light and so heavy, I laughed and cried, it's beautiful. One of the best young adult novels I've ever read! – Amazon review by Rosie
Amazon Rating: 4.3
Ages: 10 years and up
29. Dragon Pearl by Yoon Lee
This sci-fi adventure with the underpinnings of Korean mythology will transport you to a world far beyond your imagination. Dragon Pearl is endorsed by Rick Riordan, author of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. I only realized afterward that I'd already purchased this book for my granddaughter and she loved it. I enjoyed the read but would not give it 5 stars. My granddaughter does! – Amazon review by Jan P.
Amazon Rating: 4.6 (Teacher’s Pick)
Ages: 9 years and up
30. The White Mountains by John Christopher
I read these books as a 10-year-old and really enjoyed them and here I am, 40 years later, reading them again. Of course, as an adult, they don't pack the same punch as they did back then, but still an enjoyable read. This is by no means a criticism, as children's books go, these are very good indeed. And to the author's credit, the sci-fi still holds up in a modern context. I recommend them to any sci-fi fan. – Amazon review by Rich
Amazon Rating: 4.8 (Teacher’s Pick)
Ages: 9 years and up
31. Akiko on the Planet Smoo by Mark Crilley
My 10-year-old daughter read this herself, and she's a great reader but she doesn't like reading anything other than graphic novels. I feel like this was the perfect transition book between a small-print novel and a graphic novel because there were short chapters and pictures every two to three pages. Also, it was hilarious. I read the last couple of chapters out loud to my daughter - I didn't know what was going on, but I was still laughing out loud. And I tend to not like science fiction very much, and she definitely doesn't either. HIGHLY recommend! – Amazon review by Erica L.
Amazon Rating: 4.7
Ages: 8 – 12 years
32. Cosmic by Frank Cottrell Boyce
I am a librarian; a customer recommended this book to me since I'm always looking for good reads for BOYS. I loved the book! It is funny, clever, and has a great surprise ending. I recently gave a copy to my 10-year-old grandson and he read it while on a summer vacation/trip. He said it was better than Harry Potter or Percy Jackson - he's read both series. I know it's great that those well-known series are getting kids to read...but it's also great to branch out and discover the lesser-known books that are well-written, funny, and teach great lessons about life. This book is an excellent read for any kid, boy or girl, ages 8-12. Older kids and adults will enjoy it as well. – Amazon review by E. Newbold
Amazon Rating: 4.4
Ages: 9 – 12 years
33. Found by Margaret Peterson Haddix
Jonah knows that he's adopted, but he doesn't know that the past and history itself will depend on him more than he ever thought possible in this first book in Margaret Peterson Haddix's New York Times bestselling The Missing series. Interesting concept of time travel about and for young teens. Helpful with my own adopted student. Be prepared to purchase the next book, as there was no closure. – Amazon review by Margaret’s Buzz
Amazon Rating: 4.6
Ages: 10 years and up
34. Finn and the Intergalactic Lunchbox by Michael Buckley
From the New York Times bestselling author of the Sisters Grimm and NERDS comes a new action-packed middle-grade series with aliens, robots, and kids saving the world! My 5th grade son liked the characters, and the plot twists. He is really into Percy Jackson so it was a good change of pace out of mythology. – Amazon review by FlyEagleFly
Amazon Rating: 4.5 (Editor’s Pick)
Ages: 10 – 12 years
35. Weird Kid by Greg van Eekhout
From the author of Cog and Voyage of the Dogs, Weird Kid is a hilarious and heartfelt homage to everyone who feels like they don’t belong. I’ve enjoyed all of Greg Van Eekhout’s book to date, but this one especially touched my heartstrings. I don’t want to give away a thing because every moment of this book is balanced between funny and forgiving. As an adult who always felt like a weird kid, I would recommend this book to anyone- young or not so young. It made my heart happy. – Amazon review by Lisa C.
Amazon Rating: 4.5
Ages: 8 – 12 years
36. The Search for Wondla by Tony DiTerlizzi
Tony DiTerlizzi honors traditional children's literature in this totally original space-age adventure - one that is as complex as an alien planet, but as simple as a child's wish for a place to belong. Wanted the paperback as well as the hardback edition. Beautifully illustrated book. Looking forward to reading it shortly. I saw my 10-year-old niece reading it and felt I had to read it too. – Amazon review by Teresa
Amazon Rating: 4.5
Ages: 9 years and up
ANIMALS IN SCI-FI
37. Voyage of the Dogs by Greg Van Eekhout
If your middle-grader enjoys stories about dogs, space adventures, or action adventure stories—or all three, they’ll adore this book about dogs in space! Perfect for fans of Homeward Bound and Woof. My 8 year old's favorite book. I read it after and it was well written. The writing subtly continued to remind you that you were reading from a dog's perspective. Highly recommend for animal lovers and sci-fi lovers. – Amazon review by Natalie W.
Amazon Rating: 4.8
Ages: 8 – 12 years
38. Time Traveling with a Hamster by Ross Welford
Back to the Future meets The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time in this original, poignant, race-against-time story about a boy who travels back to 1984 to save his father’s life. My eleven year old is a voracious reader and absolutely loved this story of would-be heroic hamster trying to save the day. Clean and fun and even a plot twist we didn't see coming. Well done! – Amazon review by Wende M.
Amazon Rating: 4.7 (Editor’s Pick)
Ages: 9 – 12 years
39. Sanity & Tallulah by Molly Brooks
It's about two girls chasing after a genetically engineered three-headed kitten named Princess Sparkle, Destroyer of Worlds - what else do you need to know? – Amazon review by Karen
Amazon Rating: 4.6
Ages: 8 – 12 years
