Looking for non-fiction books your child will actually want to read on their own? Whether your child is interested to learn more about animals, space, history, money or mind-blowing facts, non-fiction doesn’t have to be dry or boring. In fact, the right book can spark curiosity, fuel learning, and even turn a reluctant reader into a knowledge-hungry explorer. Here’s a list of engaging non-fiction reads that are perfect for quiet reading time—and it might just surprise you with how much your child enjoys them.
1) Secrets of Singapore
The Secrets of Singapore series is a fun and educational read that uncovers surprising and lesser-known facts about Singapore. Kids will discover stories about our history, food, culture, and quirky traditions—presented in a light-hearted, comic-style format that makes learning exciting. It’s a great way for children to explore more about their own country while enjoying the reading experience at the same time.
Suitable for Middle to Upper Primary students.
Available for purchase on Closetful of Books.
2) World of Discovery
This is a specially curated collection of 51 children’s books that focus on discovering Asia and exploring STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths). The series is designed to promote reading for pleasure while sparking curiosity and excitement through learning.
With colourful illustrations and engaging content, the books are suitable for children aged 3 to 8 and beyond. To support different reading abilities, the collection is thoughtfully divided into three positive levels—making it easier for every child to enjoy and grow with the series.
Suitable for Preschoolers to Upper Primary Students
Available for purchase on World Scientific Education.
3) Marky Polo’s Travel Set
Marky Polo is a charming pangolin from a family of famous travellers. In this delightful book series, kids can join Marky as he visits exciting places like Tokyo, Beijing, and Singapore.
Through colourful comic-style illustrations, fun storylines, and interesting facts, children will learn about different cultures, famous landmarks, and the importance of being kind and considerate. With fun, relatable and educational content, Marky Polo makes discovering the world fun and meaningful for young readers.
Suitable for Preschoolers to Middle Primary.
Available for purchase on World Scientific Education.
4) Quiz Champ
This series offers a fun and educational way for young learners to explore Science. Aligned with the Singapore primary Science syllabus and the Cambridge primary Science curriculum, it includes enrichment questions to challenge curious minds. Each book also comes with answers and extra information to support learning, revision, and test preparation.
Suitable for Middle to Upper Primary
Available for purchase on Nat Venture.
5) World of Science + Special edition of The Adventures of Biogirl MJ
The World of Science series uses dynamic, full-colour comics to make learning Science fun and exciting for children. Aligned with both the Singapore primary Science syllabus and the Cambridge primary Science curriculum, the series covers key topics while also including beyond-the-syllabus content to spark curiosity and stretch young minds.
Suitable for Middle to Upper Primary.
Available for purchase on Owl’s Reader Club.
6) Turbulent Times: Forgotten Stories of Singapore’s Early Years
Helping our children understand Singapore’s journey is one of the most meaningful ways we can connect them to their roots.
This five-book series brings Singapore’s early years to life through powerful stories, real photographs, and engaging comic-style pages. Written in a simple, down-to-earth way, it helps young readers grasp the challenges our nation faced in its early days. More than just facts and dates, the series offers children a deeper appreciation of the resilience and decisions that shaped the country they live in today. A valuable read for any child growing up in Singapore.
Suitable for Upper Primary Students
Available on Epigram Bookshop.
7) Miles Kelly Curious Questions & Answers
A fun and engaging collection of 8 books that dives into topics like animals, dinosaurs, the human body, oceans, Earth, science, and space. Each book is packed with fun, mind-boggling questions and surprising answers that spark curiosity and make learning exciting.
With fresh, colourful illustrations and a humorous twist—including silly “Would you Rather?” questions—this series is perfect for kids who love asking questions. Whether your child is an eager learner or needs a little encouragement to read, this set makes discovering new knowledge fun and enjoyable.
Suitable for Preschool and above.
Available on Shopee and Amazon.
8) DK I can’t believe it! 2
I Can’t Believe It! 2 is packed with fun facts and surprising true-or-false questions that will wow both kids and adults. Covering everything from dinosaurs and outer space to snowflakes and hamburgers, this book is full of weird and wonderful things about our world. With eye-catching photos and illustrations, it’s a great pick for curious kids who love learning new and unexpected things in a fun way.
Suitable for Middle to Upper Primary
Available at Junior Page Bookstores.
9) National Geographic Kids Magazines
Packed with fun facts, amazing photos, and engaging stories to help spark your child’s curiosity about the world.
Through science, exploration, and storytelling, it makes learning exciting and encourages kids to discover more about the world around them.
Suitable for Lower to Upper Primary.
Available for purchase on OpenSchoolbag.
10) Big Ideas Simply Explained
The Big Ideas Simply Explained series helps make tough topics easier to understand with simple writing and fun, creative visuals. Each book gives a clear summary of big and important ideas, with quotes from famous thinkers and eye-catching designs to keep kids interested. It’s great for students who want a quick and easy way to learn more about one subject.
Suitable for Upper Primary Students.
Available at Kinokuniya, Lazada, Shopee and Popular Bookstore.
11) How To Talk So People Will Listen (Children’s version)
Does your child sometimes feel awkward about speaking in class or meeting new people? In this book, professional cartoon voice artist Lizzie Waterworth shares her strategy for confident speaking, from breathing techniques and body language tricks, to the power of a smile, and how to silence self-doubt—so your child can carry their confidence toolbox with them wherever they go.
Packed with funny stories and expert advice from voice artists and public figures, this book helps kids find their voice —whether in class, on stage, or in everyday life.
Suitable for Primary School Students
Available on Amazon SG and NLB.
12) Get to Know: Money
This fun and visual guide helps kids understand how money works and how to look after it—from saving their pocket money to understanding global currencies. With colourful pages, simple explanations, and interactive quizzes, children will learn everyday money skills like spending, saving, and growing their money.
It also explores big topics like how banks work, how money moves around the world, and even how money can affect our mental health. A friendly and engaging way to kickstart smart money habits early on!
Suitable for Middle to Upper Primary Students.
Available at Kinokuniya and Amazon SG.
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but a way to get started—and a reminder that silent reading time can go beyond fiction. Non-fiction books can be just as engaging—and maybe even more eye-opening.
Not every child takes to reading right away—but the right non-fiction book, on a topic they’re genuinely curious about, can change everything. It can spark their interest, fuel conversations at home, and show them that learning isn’t just something that happens in school. After all, we’re not just encouraging reading—we’re helping them build the habit of learning for themselves.
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