What’s your next read?

We’re celebrating the National year of reading by producing a list of recommended books. All the books have some science or STEM connection, but that connection may stretch from tenuous to barely believable. The list includes fiction and non-fiction, short stories, novels, graphic novels, comics, essays … suitable for learners, teachers, trainees, teacher trainers and technicians.

We’ll be adding to the list regularly throughout the year. So, check back frequently. And recommend a book by emailing us. We want to celebrate as many books as possible.

March’s choices…

The Martian by Andy Weir

Age: 16+ | Amazon

‘Set in a near-future where Nasa is sending manned missions to Mars, Mark Watney finds himself mistakenly left behind by his crew on the Red Planet and has to use chemistry, botany, physics, engineering, problem-solving and his keen sense of humour to survive the hostile environment. The writing style is lively and engaging (and a bit sweary) as Mark walks the reader through his plans, successes and frequent mishaps.

‘Note: there is a version for younger readers with less swearing and complete with classroom activities.’

Recommended by Caroline Morley, EiC’s picture editor and all-round science–image whizz

Orion Lost by Alistair Chisholm

Age: 11+ | Amazon

‘Prior to this book, there wasn’t really any children’s science fiction. There was some YA but the thought that younger readers might want sci-fi hadn’t crossed the minds of the publishing industry. Alistair changed all that.

‘He has written four science fiction books now (and paved the way for more). This book was hugely innovative when it came out (and still is). It is a great read. Taking from sci-fi classics like 2000 Space Odyssey, disaster befalls the ship, Beth becomes captain, someone (or something) is lying to the crew. This is definitely one to get into the hands of young people.’

Recommended by Hannah Sycamore, assistant editor for teaching resources at the RSC, who has been a primary school teacher and worked at the Scottish Book Trust

A box full of murders by Janice Hallett

Age: 11+ | Amazon

‘Janice Hallett is a well-established crime writer with an unusual style. This book is in the form of letters, diary entries, newspaper clippings, recordings. Although not directly related to science, the critical analysis, investigative, critical thinking and forensic skills are relevant to science’s wider skillset.’

Recommended by Claire-Sycamore-Howe, who oversees CSciTeach at the RSC and is a former University of Warwick outreach team member

Hidden figures young readers’ edition: the untold story of four African-American women who helped launch our nation into space by Margot Lee Shetterly

Age: 9+ | Amazon

‘A gripping narrative non-fiction, perfect for reading aloud with upper primary. It follows the incredible African American women working for Nasa as part of the space programme. I recommend it to teachers because it also allows for enriching and nuanced conversations about racism, sexism and prejudice while bringing to life the stories of four incredible women.’

Recommended by Hannah Sycamore, assistant editor for teaching resources at the RSC, who has been a primary school teacher and worked at the Scottish Book Trust

The thrilling adventures of Lovelace and Babbage by Sydney Padua

Age: 14+ | Amazon

‘This is great for anyone interested in the history of computing. It’s set in an alternative world where Ada Lovelace and Charles Babbage do build the Difference Engine. It’s a mix of truth and fiction in graphic novel form, very funny, very silly, very clever and beautifully drawn.’

Recommended by  Claire-Sycamore-Howe, who oversees CSciTeach at the RSC and is a former University of Warwick outreach team member