Top Books to Support Curriculum Learning: Enhance Your Lessons with Award-Winning Titles
Books that align with key curriculum subjects such as math, science, and history can be powerful supplements to your teaching. These books not only reinforce core concepts but also ignite curiosity and deepen students’ understanding of the material. From the inspiring story of Katherine Johnson in “Counting on Katherine” to the scientific discoveries of Mary Anning in “Fossil Hunter,” our curated list includes award-winning titles that are both educational and engaging.
Whether you’re teaching about the history of computing with “Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine” or exploring environmental science through “The Brilliant Deep,” these books are designed to complement your curriculum while captivating students with compelling stories and stunning illustrations. Each title has been selected for its educational value and its ability to bring complex subjects to life in an accessible and exciting way.
If you’re looking to enrich your lessons and expand your classroom library, these curriculum-supporting books are essential additions. After exploring my recommendations, don’t forget to share this post, pin it for later, or leave a comment about your favorite curriculum-aligned books!
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Best Curriculum-Supporting Books for Classroom Learning
Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13 by Helaine Becker, Illustrated by Dow Phumiruk
Subject: Math, History
Grade Level: 2-5
This inspiring picture book tells the story of Katherine Johnson, an African American mathematician whose calculations were critical to the success of NASA’s Apollo 13 mission. Helaine Becker’s engaging narrative and Dow Phumiruk’s vibrant illustrations make complex mathematical concepts accessible to young readers while also highlighting Johnson’s perseverance in overcoming racial and gender barriers. It’s an excellent resource for integrating history with STEM education.
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Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine by Laurie Wallmark, Illustrated by April Chu
Subject: Math, Computer Science, History
Grade Level: 3-6
This beautifully illustrated biography introduces students to Ada Lovelace, the world’s first computer programmer. Laurie Wallmark’s text explains the basic principles of early computing, while April Chu’s detailed illustrations bring Lovelace’s Victorian world to life. The book is an excellent resource for integrating history with STEM subjects, particularly for encouraging girls in math and computer science.
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Blockhead: The Life of Fibonacci by Joseph D’Agnese, Illustrated by John O’Brien
Subject: Math, History
Grade Level: 3-6
“Blockhead” tells the story of Leonardo Fibonacci and his famous sequence, which is now a cornerstone of mathematics. Joseph D’Agnese’s engaging narrative and John O’Brien’s whimsical illustrations make mathematical concepts accessible and fun for young readers. The book is an excellent resource for teaching the history of mathematics and the practical applications of mathematical concepts.
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Nothing Stopped Sophie: The Story of Unshakable Mathematician Sophie Germain by Cheryl Bardoe, Illustrated by Barbara McClintock
Subject: Math, History
Grade Level: 3-6
This picture book biography tells the inspiring story of Sophie Germain, a mathematician who overcame gender barriers in the early 19th century to make groundbreaking discoveries. Cheryl Bardoe’s engaging narrative and Barbara McClintock’s beautiful illustrations highlight Sophie’s determination and brilliance, making it a powerful tool for teaching perseverance and the importance of education.
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The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdős by Deborah Heiligman, Illustrated by LeUyen Pham
Subject: Math, Biography
Grade Level: 3-6
This biography chronicles the life of Paul Erdős, a brilliant but eccentric mathematician who traveled the world solving math problems. Deborah Heiligman’s narrative and LeUyen Pham’s vibrant illustrations capture Erdős’s unique personality and love for numbers, making this book a delightful introduction to the world of mathematics and the importance of intellectual curiosity.
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The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, Illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon
Subject: Science, Engineering
Grade Level: 4-8
This true story of a Malawian boy who builds a windmill to bring electricity to his village is a powerful example of ingenuity and the application of scientific principles. The book illustrates the concepts of renewable energy and problem-solving in a real-world context, making it a valuable addition to science and engineering curricula.
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Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code by Laurie Wallmark, Illustrated by Katy Wu
Subject: Computer Science, History
Grade Level: 3-6
An engaging biography of Grace Hopper, one of the pioneers of computer programming, “Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code” is an excellent resource for introducing students to the history of computers and the importance of coding. Laurie Wallmark’s accessible text and Katy Wu’s lively illustrations make this an inspiring and informative read.
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Fossil Hunter: How Mary Anning Changed the Science of Prehistoric Life by Cheryl Blackford
Subject: Science, Paleontology
Grade Level: 4-8
This biography of Mary Anning, a pioneering paleontologist, introduces students to the science of fossils and the history of paleontology. Cheryl Blackford’s engaging text, combined with accurate fossil illustrations, makes this book an excellent resource for teaching earth science and the history of science.
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Mesmerized: How Ben Franklin Solved a Mystery that Baffled All of France by Mara Rockliff, Illustrated by Iacopo Bruno
Subject: Science, History
Grade Level: 3-6
“Mesmerized” tells the story of Benjamin Franklin’s investigation into the phenomenon of mesmerism in France. Mara Rockliff’s engaging narrative and Iacopo Bruno’s detailed illustrations introduce students to the scientific method in a historical context, making it an excellent resource for teaching both science and history.
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The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin by Julia Finley Mosca, Illustrated by Daniel Rieley
Subject: Science, Biography
Grade Level: 4-8
This inspiring picture book tells the story of Dr. Temple Grandin, who overcame the challenges of autism to become a leading scientist in animal behavior. Julia Finley Mosca’s engaging narrative and Daniel Rieley’s illustrations highlight Grandin’s unique perspective and contributions to science, making this an excellent resource for lessons on neurodiversity and resilience.
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Water is Water: A Book About the Water Cycle by Miranda Paul, Illustrated by Jason Chin
Subject: Science, Environmental Studies
Grade Level: 1-3
Through poetic text and beautiful illustrations, “Water is Water” explains the water cycle in a way that is accessible to young readers. Miranda Paul’s lyrical narrative and Jason Chin’s detailed illustrations make this book an excellent resource for teaching environmental science and the importance of water in our world.
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The Brilliant Deep: Rebuilding the World’s Coral Reefs by Kate Messner, Illustrated by Matthew Forsythe
Subject: Science, Environmental Studies
Grade Level: 3-6
This beautifully illustrated book explores the efforts to rebuild coral reefs, combining environmental science with stunning artwork. Kate Messner’s narrative emphasizes the importance of conservation and the role of individuals in protecting the environment, making it a valuable resource for teaching about marine biology and environmental stewardship.
Buy it on Amazon or Bookshhttps://bookshop.org/a/103790/9781452133508op.org
Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly, Illustrated by Laura Freeman
Subject: Math, History, Social Studies
Grade Level: 3-7
Based on the best-selling book and movie, this picture book version introduces young readers to the incredible contributions of four African American women mathematicians at NASA. The book ties together themes of math, history, and social justice, providing a rich resource for discussions on civil rights and women’s roles in science and technology.
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The Man Who Walked Between the Towers by Mordicai Gerstein
Subject: History, Art
Grade Level: 2-5
This Caldecott Medal-winning book tells the true story of Philippe Petit’s daring tightrope walk between the Twin Towers in 1974. Mordicai Gerstein’s dramatic illustrations capture the scale and excitement of the event, while the story provides a thoughtful reflection on ambition, creativity, and the history of the World Trade Center.
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A River Ran Wild: An Environmental History by Lynne Cherry
Subject: Science, Environmental Studies, Social Studies
Grade Level: 3-6
“A River Ran Wild” traces the history of the Nashua River from its pristine beginnings through its pollution and subsequent restoration. Lynne Cherry’s detailed illustrations and narrative provide a powerful lesson in environmental stewardship, making it a valuable resource for teaching ecology and environmental science.
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The Tree Lady: The True Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever by H. Joseph Hopkins, Illustrated by Jill McElmurry
Subject: Environmental Studies, History
Grade Level: 2-5
This beautifully illustrated biography tells the story of Kate Sessions, who transformed San Diego from a desert town into a lush, green city. The book is an inspiring example of how one person’s passion for the environment can lead to significant change, making it an excellent supplement for lessons on environmental studies and history.
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The Right Word: Roget and His Thesaurus by Jen Bryant, Illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Subject: Language Arts, History
Grade Level: 2-5
This award-winning biography of Peter Mark Roget, the creator of Roget’s Thesaurus, is both an inspiring story of perseverance and a fascinating look at the power of words. Jen Bryant’s narrative and Melissa Sweet’s collage-style illustrations make this book an engaging resource for language arts and history lessons.
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One Plastic Bag: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of the Gambia by Miranda Paul, Illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon
Subject: Environmental Studies, Social Studies
Grade Level: 3-6
This book tells the inspiring true story of Isatou Ceesay, who transformed her community in the Gambia by recycling plastic bags into useful items. Miranda Paul’s engaging narrative and Elizabeth Zunon’s vibrant illustrations make this book a powerful tool for teaching about environmental responsibility, sustainability, and the impact of individual actions on global issues.
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Freedom on the Menu: The Greensboro Sit-Ins by Carole Boston Weatherford, Illustrated by Jerome Lagarrigue
Subject: History, Social Studies
Grade Level: 2-5
This powerful picture book provides a child’s perspective on the Greensboro sit-ins, a pivotal event in the Civil Rights Movement. Carole Boston Weatherford’s narrative brings to life the emotions and tensions of the time through the eyes of a young girl who witnesses the protests. Jerome Lagarrigue’s evocative illustrations capture the atmosphere of the era, highlighting both the courage of the protesters and the resistance they faced. “Freedom on the Menu” is an excellent resource for teaching students about social justice, activism, and the power of collective action, making it a valuable addition to any classroom library.
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The Journey That Saved Curious George: The True Wartime Escape of Margret and H.A. Rey by Louise Borden, Illustrated by Allan Drummond
Subject: History, Biography
Grade Level: 3-6
This book tells the incredible true story of how the creators of Curious George escaped Nazi-occupied Europe. Louise Borden’s engaging narrative and Allan Drummond’s illustrations combine to make this biography both thrilling and informative, offering a unique way to discuss World War II history with young readers.
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Separate is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family’s Fight for Desegregation by Duncan Tonatiuh
Subject: History, Social Studies
Grade Level: 3-6
This powerful picture book recounts the Mendez family’s fight for desegregation in California schools. Duncan Tonatiuh’s distinct illustrations and narrative provide an important historical lesson on civil rights and equality, making it an essential resource for teaching about justice and the history of desegregation in America.
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Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World’s Most Famous Bear by Lindsay Mattick, Illustrated by Sophie Blackall
Subject: History, Literature
Grade Level: 2-5
This beautifully illustrated book tells the true story behind the real bear that inspired Winnie-the-Pooh. Lindsay Mattick’s narrative, combined with Sophie Blackall’s charming illustrations, offers lessons in history, animal care, and the origins of one of the world’s most beloved literary characters.
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The Noisy Paint Box: The Colors and Sounds of Kandinsky’s Abstract Art by Barb Rosenstock, Illustrated by Mary GrandPré
Subject: Art, History
Grade Level: 2-5
This beautifully illustrated biography of Wassily Kandinsky explores the origins of abstract art and the connection between art and emotion. Barb Rosenstock’s narrative and Mary GrandPré’s vivid illustrations make this book an excellent resource for teaching about the history of art and the creative process.
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The Word Collector by Peter H. Reynolds
Subject: Language Arts
Grade Level: 1-3
This delightful picture book encourages a love of words and language through the story of Jerome, a boy who collects words he hears, sees, and reads. Peter H. Reynolds’ vibrant illustrations and engaging narrative inspire young readers to explore language and appreciate the power of words, making it a great resource for vocabulary building and creative writing.
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The Book Rescuer: How a Mensch from Massachusetts Saved Yiddish Literature for Generations to Come by Sue Macy, Illustrated by Stacy Innerst
Subject: Language Arts, History
Grade Level: 3-6
This true story of Aaron Lansky, who rescued thousands of Yiddish books from destruction, is an inspiring tale of cultural preservation and the power of language. Sue Macy’s engaging narrative and Stacy Innerst’s detailed illustrations make this book an excellent resource for discussions on the importance of literature and cultural heritage.
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Shout! Little Poems that Roar by Brod Bagert, Illustrated by Sachiko Yoshikawa
Subject: Language Arts, Poetry
Grade Level: 1-3
This lively collection of poems encourages young readers to play with language, rhythm, and rhyme. Brod Bagert’s poems are filled with energy and humor, while Sachiko Yoshikawa’s illustrations add vibrancy and fun. This book is a great resource for introducing poetry in a way that’s engaging and accessible for young children.
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Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan, Illustrated by Kadir Nelson
Subject: Sports, Biography
Grade Level: 2-5
This picture book, written by Michael Jordan’s mother and sister, tells the story of how young Michael Jordan almost gave up on his dream of playing basketball. Deloris Jordan’s narrative, combined with Kadir Nelson’s beautiful illustrations, provides a lesson in persistence, hard work, and the value of family support.
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Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s Fastest Woman by Kathleen Krull, Illustrated by David Diaz
Subject: Sports, Biography
Grade Level: 3-6
“Wilma Unlimited” tells the story of Wilma Rudolph, who overcame polio to become an Olympic gold medalist. Kathleen Krull’s powerful narrative and David Diaz’s striking illustrations make this biography an inspiring lesson in resilience, determination, and the power of sports.
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She Persisted in Sports: American Olympians Who Changed the Game by Chelsea Clinton, Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger
Subject: Sports, History, Social Studies
Grade Level: 3-6
This book celebrates the achievements of female athletes who broke barriers and changed the landscape of sports. Chelsea Clinton’s inspiring text, paired with Alexandra Boiger’s vibrant illustrations, highlights the importance of perseverance and determination, making it an excellent resource for lessons on sports history and gender equality.
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The Water Princess by Susan Verde, Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
Subject: Environmental Studies, Social Studies
Grade Level: 2-5
Based on the childhood of supermodel Georgie Badiel, this story follows a girl’s quest for clean water in her African village. Susan Verde’s narrative and Peter H. Reynolds’ expressive illustrations make this a compelling resource for teaching about global water scarcity and the importance of environmental stewardship.
Buy it on Amazon or on Bookshop.org
Mama Miti: Wangari Maathai and the Trees of Kenya by Donna Jo Napoli, Illustrated by Kadir Nelson
Subject: Environmental Studies, Social Studies
Grade Level: 3-6
This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai and her Green Belt Movement, which transformed Kenya’s environment. Donna Jo Napoli’s narrative and Kadir Nelson’s lush illustrations provide an inspiring lesson in environmental activism and social change.
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The Great Kapok Tree: A Tale of the Amazon Rain Forest by Lynne Cherry
Subject: Environmental Studies, Social Studies
Grade Level: 2-5
This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a man who tries to cut down a great Kapok tree in the Amazon rainforest. As he rests, the animals that depend on the tree whisper to him about its importance, leading to a change of heart. Lynne Cherry’s lush illustrations and powerful message about conservation make this a key resource for teaching environmental awareness.
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