Exciting the young scientist in your life is easy with the many great science books that are available these days, and the subject of chemistry is no exception. Finding the best chemistry books for the girls in your life means reading reviews, studying table of contents, and diving into the ins and outs of available levels and topic depth. With the right chemistry books for girls, you can spark and fuel a love of science in the girls in your life.
We reviewed dozens of chemistry books for girls to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they explained complex topics, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated chemistry books for girls that adults can purchase to help nurture and grow a love of science and learning for the young women in their lives. If you have a budding mathematician on your hands, be sure to check out our list of the best math books for girls.
We’ve identified Awesome Science Experiments for Kids: 100+ Fun STEM / STEAM Projects and Why They Work as the best chemistry book for girls out there. With easy to understand concepts and plenty of at-home experiments, this chemistry book for girls is one that will foster a love of learning. These benefits allow the young girl in your life to satisfy her curiosity while imparting a wealth of knowledge.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Chemistry Books for Girls
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Awesome Science Experiments for Kids | 4.8 |
| Runner Up | Kitchen Science Lab for Kids | 4.7 |
| Best Budget Buy | Basher Science: Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction | 4.5 |
| Best Chemistry Books for Girls in Elementary School | The Fabulous and Fun World of Chemistry! | 5.0 |
| Best Chemistry Books for Girls in High School | Molecules: The Elements and the Architecture of Everything | 4.8 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Awesome Science Experiments for Kids: 100+ Fun STEM / STEAM Projects and Why They Work
Awesome Science Experiments for Kids: 100+ Fun STEM / STEAM Projects and Why They Work earned the top spot on our list of the best chemistry books for girls, as it comes filled with more than 100 fun experiments to engage little learners in scientific methods and concepts. Not just a book of activities, the author also explains the hows and whys behind the projects within the pages.
Those who purchased and reviewed this chemistry book appreciated how simple the activities were to perform with their their children, while also providing valuable knowledge about the scientific concepts behind them. Several mentioned that they liked how the book provided prompts to discuss the concepts with their children, and that they already had most supplies lying around the house.
With a suggested price of around $12, it’s a super affordable choice for the value that it provides, and comes very highly rated, which more than justifies the price. It has a rating of 4.8 on Amazon with more than 100 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing parents and caregivers to make the investment.
Awesome Science Experiments for Kids: 100+ Fun STEM / STEAM Projects and Why They Work Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Recommended for children aged 5-10
- Written by a chemist
Runner-Up: Kitchen Science Lab for Kids: 52 Family Friendly Experiments from Around the House
Kitchen Science Lab for Kids: 52 Family Friendly Experiments from Around the House earned the runner-up spot on our list of the best chemistry books for girls thanks to its jam-packed pages of experiments that provide youngsters the freedom to explore their creative side. The simple, inexpensive experiments are suited for kids from toddlerhood through teenage years, and use common ingredients you likely already have at home.
Those who purchased and reviewed this chemistry book appreciated that it was written by a real scientist, and found the directions easy enough to follow that most kids could complete the experiments with little to no parental assistance. They also mentioned that the book helps kids to appreciate the everyday items in their lives, and to question how and why things behave in certain ways.
With an MSRP of $17, it’s more expensive than our #1 pick, but the number of included experiments, as well as the broad age range recommendation more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.7 on Amazon with nearly 150 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing parents and caregivers that this is another solid chemistry book for girls.
Kitchen Science Lab for Kids: 52 Family Friendly Experiments from Around the House Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Recommended for children aged 8-12+
- Complementary books are available
Budget Pick: Basher Science: Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction
Basher Science: Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction earned the best budget-friendly spot on our list of the best chemistry books for girls as it comes in at under $10. There is still plenty of information within its pages, written in a fun yet accessible manner. It is recommended for kids from about the age of 10-14, or Grades 4-8.
Those who purchased and reviewed this chemistry book wrote that their children found the book easy to read, with just enough pictures spread throughout that it wasn’t too text heavy for young learners. Many said this book made scientific concepts fun and engaging for their kid, although some found that the clever puns used were beyond the understanding of most little ones.
With a suggested price of less than $8, it’s a super affordable choice for those looking for a chemistry book for girls on a budget. For the value that it provides, the price is more than justified. It has a rating of 4.5 on Amazon with nearly 100 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing parents that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at teaching the concepts of chemistry as its more expensive counterparts.
Basher Science: Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction Key Features:
- Complementary books are available
- Available in a choice of formats
- Makes an excellent curriculum supplement
Best Chemistry Book for Girls in Elementary School: The Fabulous and Fun World of Chemistry!: A science book for girls by girls!!
The Fabulous and Fun World of Chemistry!: A science book for girls by girls!! is our pick for the best chemistry book for girls in elementary school, as it includes many scientific concepts and experiments presented in an age-appropriate fashion. Topics are discussed with the help of a character named Daisy, who feels like a trusted friend guiding little learners along the path of chemistry knowledge.
Those who purchased and reviewed this chemistry book wrote that it was a terrific way to introduce the concepts of chemistry to young girls (and boys) interested in flexing their scientific muscles in the world of chemistry.
At a price point of around $13, it’s not an overly expensive option, and the quality of the information in such an easy-to-follow format more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 5.0 on Amazon, and although there aren’t a ton of reviews, we think it’s still an excellent choice for teaching young girls the concepts of chemistry in a relatable manner.
The Fabulous and Fun World of Chemistry!: A science book for girls by girls!! Key Features:
- Recommended for ages 8+
- Available in softcover format
- Easy to read
Best Chemistry Book for Girls in High School: Molecules: The Elements and the Architecture of Everything
Molecules: The Elements and the Architecture of Everything is our choice for the best chemistry book for girls in high school thanks to its 200+ informative pages about the building blocks that make up the world around us. It’s an informative read for those both new and experienced with chemistry concepts. The book is filled with large photographs and diagrams of various compounds and their chemical bonds.
Those who purchased and reviewed this chemistry book mentioned that it was filled with interesting and useful information about the chemistry of nature and human industry, with many commenting on the beauty of the photographs and illustrations.
At a cost of around $22, it is the most expensive book in our top 5, but the quality associated with the author’s brand, as well as the wealth of information included more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.8 on Amazon with more than 230 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing parents and caregivers that this chemistry book is well worth the investment.
Molecules: The Elements and the Architecture of Everything Key Features:
- Complementary books are available
- Available in a choice of formats
- Makes an ideal coffee table book
Who Should Buy Chemistry Books for Girls?
Chemistry books for girls are an ideal choice for those those with daughters, nieces, or other young female learners in their life. While a book about chemistry will make a great gift for a young girl who shows an interested in science, it’s also a good choice for those who haven’t expressed an appreciation for the topic as well.
Planting and nurturing the seeds of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) in girls from an early age helps them to positively impact their communities and world, and boosts their confidence in their ability to perform STEAM-related tasks.
And, while computational thinking is a top skill desired by employers today, fewer than 1% of all high school girls take the Advanced Placement Computer Science A Exam in the majority of states. This is an exam that tests computational thinking. Promoting an interest in topics like chemistry helps improve computational thinking, ultimately improving a young girl’s chances of success in STEAM-based careers.
Important Features to Consider
Not all Chemistry Books for Girls are created equal. A Chemistry Books for Girls should explain topics in an engaging and age-appropriate manner. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best chemistry books for the girl(s) in your life:
- Age range. One of the most important aspects when it comes to choosing a chemistry book for girls is the age range the book is geared too. If you choose a book that is too advanced for younger learners, or too basic for older learners, then you will likely lose their attention. Always check the recommended age or grade range on the book to see if it’s appropriate for the young lady in your life.
- Images. Stunning images can help to break up and explain text-heavy or complex scientific concepts. Look for books that include plenty of images sure to grab and sustain attention.
- Information. Another important consideration when shopping for a chemistry book for girls, the information a book contains will be crucial to gaining and sustaining her attention. If your little learner likes thorough explanations, go for more in-depth styles of books. Some chemistry books include other areas of science as complementary information and can provided a more rounded education, if that’s something you desire.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a chemistry book for girls. Chemistry books for girls vary in price from $10-$50 or more. You can frequently find discounts around the back-to-school season that can make buying chemistry books for girls more affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right level chemistry book for my child?
You can ensure you choose the right level chemistry book for your child by checking the recommended age or grade range on the book to see if it’s appropriate for the young lady in your life.
Do chemistry books help girls prepare for standardized testing?
There is little evidence that standardized testing actually improves student outcomes, which is why many countries eschew them entirely. That said, there is still tremendous value in imparting and nurturing a love of the sciences, including chemistry, in girls of all ages.
What’s the effect of gender on performance in chemistry?
Several studies conducted worldwide have found very little difference in performance and testing scores in chemistry based on gender. In other words, both male and female students perform equally as well when it comes to chemistry tests. However, some research does suggest that female students tend to perform better when using an inquiry role instructional model versus those taught with expository method.
How do I encourage a girl’s interest in chemistry?
Encouraging a girl’s interest in chemistry is quite simple, really. First, avoid any stereotypes that science is too difficult for girls to understand, and support their self-esteem so that they believe they can understand scientific concepts — because they can! Second, introduce them to positive female figures in the world of chemistry so that they have someone to look up to. Single-sex schooling has been shown to help girls’ uptake of studying the sciences, but isn’t always practical in a public education system. Talk to the girls in your life about how exciting science is, and provide them with opportunities and tools to explore the world around them — from toys and experiment kits to books.
Other Chemistry Books for Girls We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other chemistry books for girls. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best chemistry books for girls list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option to teach the young girl in your life about chemistry. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Best Chemistry Books for Little Learners (under 5)
- Best Chemistry Books for Girls in Elementary School
- Best Chemistry Books for Girls in High School
Best Chemistry Books for Little Learners (under 5)
This adorable board book helps introduce the scientific concepts of chemistry to the tiniest of learners in a fun and engaging format.
Key Features:
- Written by an expert
- Easy to read format
- Complementary books are available
Cost: $9
This colorfully-illustrated book explores the basics of particle physics and chemistry in a way that is relatable to baby’s ever-growing world.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Complementary books are available
- Age-appropriate language
Cost: $8
A is for Atom: ABCs for Aspiring Chemists
Get your little learner excited about science with this book that covers the ABCs for aspiring chemists.
Key Features:
- Written and illustrated by chemists
- Recommended for ages 3-5
- Easy to read rhyming text
Cost: $15
Marie Curie: My First Marie Curie
The perfect first introduction to one of the world’s most famous and influential female scientists, this book provides a positive role model for girls interested in chemistry.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Complementary books are available
- Recommended for ages 3-5
Best Chemistry Books for Girls in Elementary School
Cool Chemistry Activities for Girls
This book is filled with plenty of fun and engaging chemistry experiments sure to entertain the young girl in your life.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Written by a former science teacher with a PhD in science education
- Recommended for ages 8-14
Cost: $7
What’s the Matter in Mr. Whiskers’ Room?
This fiction book provides a fun and engaging story that entertains readers as it introduces scientific concepts.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Includes mini experiments
- Recommended for ages 6-9
Cost: $8
The Periodic Table of Elements Coloring Book
Perfect for those new to chemistry and seasoned scientists alike, this coloring book includes the first five rows of the periodic table.
Key Features:
- Based on solid, proven concepts
- Applicable to all sciences
- Includes 157 pages
Cost: $20
Chemistry: The Atom and Elements
This book features bold illustrations and easy-to-read text for teaching young learners the basics of chemistry.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Sound-it-out sections for mastering pronunciation
- Recommended for ages 4-12
Cost: $12
Junk Drawer Chemistry: 50 Awesome Experiments That Don’t Cost a Thing
Filled with 50 experiments that make use of items you probably already have lying around the house, this book is a fun way for young girls to explore chemistry concepts.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Recommended for ages 9-13
- Complementary books are available
Cost: $10
The Everything Kids’ Science Experiments Book
Filled with dozens of fun experiments exploring various sections of science, this book was written by a high school science teacher.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Recommended for ages 7-12
- Complementary books are available
Cost: $10
This book explores the story of the Nobel Prize-winning scientist and her contributions to the scientific community in an age-appropriate manner.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Recommended for ages 8-12
- Complementary books are available
Cost: $5
The Elements Book: A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table
From argon to zinc, this book takes budding scientists on a visual tour of all 118 chemical elements of the periodic table.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Recommended for ages 9-12
- Complementary books are available
Cost: $14
Janice VanCleave’s Chemistry for Every Kid: 101 Easy Experiments that Really Work
This book contains more than 100 fun and entertaining experiments perfect for young girls interested in chemistry, and answers many common questions about the world around us.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Recommended for ages 8-12
- Complementary books are available
Cost: $10
The Book of Totally Irresponsible Science: 64 Daring Experiments for Young Scientists
Girls are sure to get a kick out of this book that features 64 daring and exciting experiments, which make use of common household ingredients and equipment.
Key Features:
- Includes a “Take Care!” section with special tips
- Recommended for ages 5-15
- Written by a father of three, with fun in mind
Cost: $9
Using colorful photos, this book helps explain the various stages of matter in an age-appropriate manner.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Recommended for ages 6-7
- Simple and direct text
Cost: $4
The Periodic Table: Elements with Style!
This book takes a fun and colorful look into the periodic table, with a deep exploration of 64 of the elements, and was written by a high school chemistry teacher.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Recommended for ages 10-14
- Complementary books are available
Best Chemistry Books for Girls in High School
Offering a complete visual guide to the elements, this chemistry book features outstanding photography and many cool facts sure to engage budding scientists.
Key Features:
- Includes 208 pages
- Recommended for ages 8-12
- Complementary books are available
Cost: $14
DK Eyewitness Books: Chemistry
From one of the most trusted nonfiction series on the market, this book provide an in-depth, comprehensive look at chemistry using a unique integration of words and pictures.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of formats
- Recommended for ages 8-12
- Complementary books are available
Cost: $14
Chemistry: Concepts & Applications, Student Edition
This chemistry textbook includes plenty of fun experiments sure to engage the young scientist in your life, as well as tons of useful information.
Key Features:
- Recommended for Grades 10-12
- Ideal for homeschooling
- Ideal for teaching first year high school chemistry curriculum
Cost: $59
Chemistry: Discovering Chemistry You Need To Know
This textbook provides a rigorous, yet engaging format with plenty of information for girls who love chemistry, and includes online resources for further learning opportunities.
Key Features:
- Available in hardcover
- Ideal for college preparation
- Experiments use everyday materials
Cost: $37
