Non-fiction for teens

  • 12+ years

This booklist features engaging and thought-provoking non-fiction books perfect for children of secondary school age.

From contemporary social issues and inspiring biographies to fascinating science and history, these books offer a window into the world beyond the classroom. 

Whether you’re looking to explore new ideas, uncover hidden stories, or gain a fresh perspective on familiar topics, this list has something for everyone. Dive in and prepare to be inspired!

  • If I Ran the Country

    illustrated by Alan Sanders 

    2022 9 to 12+ years 

    • Around the world
    • Funny
    • Non-fiction

    This entertaining, fact-filled book about politics invites young readers to imagine how they would run a country if they unexpectedly found themselves in charge. This superb book will inspire children to question and understand more about the world in which they live.

  • Rewild: Can Nature Heal Our World?

    by Ben Martynoga, illustrated by Moose Allain 

    2024 9 to 12+ years 

    • Non-fiction

    Positive, informative non-fiction book on Rewilding  

  • Good News

    by Rashmi Sirdeshpande, illustrated by Adam Hayes 

    2021 9 to 12+ years 

    • Around the world
    • Chapter books
    • Non-fiction

    From pandemics to war, world news can sometimes seem rather bleak, leaving many children feeling anxious and despondent. This superb, upbeat book redresses the balance, highlighting amazing news stories from around the globe.

  • A Different Sort of Normal

    by Abigail Balfe 

    2021 9 to 12+ years 

    • Chapter books
    • Diaries and journals
    • Funny
    • Non-fiction
    • Autistic spectrum conditions

    Abigail, the author and illustrator of this exceptional non-fiction book, spent most of her life not knowing she was autistic. Insightful, accessible and easy to navigate, this is an essential book for autistic and allistic (non-autistic) readers of all ages, including adults.

  • Dosh

    by Rashmi Sirdeshpande, illustrated by Adam Hayes 

    2020 9 to 12+ years 

    • Funny
    • Non-fiction

    This fun financial handbook aims to encourage children to develop good money habits from an early age. 

  • Breaking News

    by Nick Sheridan, illustrated by David O’Connell

    2022 9 to 12+ years 

    • Around the world
    • Non-fiction

    A perfect book for a budding news hound or any child who takes an interest in the world, this fun and stimulating read by a real-life news journalist is a great guide to what news actually is and how it works. 

  • Drive to Victory

    by Karun Chandhok, illustrated by Max Rambaldi 

    2025 9 to 12 years 

    • Adventure
    • Around the world
    • Chapter books
    • Historical
    • Non-fiction

    This fascinating non-fiction book is packed full of information about every aspect of Formula 1 racing, making it a superb introduction to this thrilling sport. 

  • Silence is Not An Option

    by Stuart Lawrence 

    2021 9 to 12+ years 

    • Non-fiction

    Teacher and motivational speaker Stuart Lawrence is the brother of Stephen Lawrence, who was murdered in a racist attack. This book is full of good advice and reflections on their relationship, with the aim of helping young people live successful, positive lives.

  • Factopia

    by Kate Hale, illustrated by Andy Smith 

    2020 9 to 12+ years 

    • Non-fiction
  • Normal Women: Making History for 900 Years

    by Philippa Gregory, illustrated by Alexis Snell 

    2025 12+ years 

    • Historical
    • Non-fiction

    An engrossing non-fiction book charting normal women’s lives in the UK since 1066. A must-read. 

  • Engineers Making a Difference

    by Dr Shini Somara, illustrated by Manuel Sumberac and Adam Allsuch Boardman 

    2023 12+ years 

    • Non-fiction

    A fascinating and accessible introduction to the variety of engineers across the globe making a difference in their jobs. Sure to inspire all secondary school pupils.

  • Musical Truth

    by Jeffrey Boakye, illustrated by Ngadi Smart 

    2021 12+ years 

    • Historical
    • Non-fiction

    A concise and passionate exploration of Modern Black British history through 28 songs that changed British culture forever.

  • This Book Is Cruelty Free

    by Linda Newbery 

    2021 12+ years 

    • Non-fiction

    In this thorough, well-researched and impassioned guide for older readers, Linda Newbery offers tips and advice on how to live a life that doesn’t cost the earth.

  • The Awesome Power of Sleep

    by Nicola Morgan 

    2021 12+ years 

    • Non-fiction

    This informative non-fiction book looks at the science of sleep and explores the crucial role it plays in the physical and mental health of teenagers.

  • The Art of Protest

    by De Nichols 

    2021 12+ years 

    • Non-fiction

    Explaining why art can be so powerful within social movements, and the different forms protest art can take, De Nichols introduces young readers to contemporary artists and young activists, with ideas for making your own protest art. A fascinating and brilliantly designed book. 

  • Fashion Conscious: Change the World With a Change of Clothes

    by Sarah Klymkiw and Kim Hankinson 

    2020 12+ years 

    • Non-fiction

    This stylish and practical guide to ethical fashion offers tips on mending and recycling clothing, facts about the environmental impact of fast fashion, and empowering ways to become an eco-fashionista.