STEM and Science Fiction topic books
Science fiction and STEM topic books for Key Stage 1,2 & 3, including fiction and nonfiction titles by Amy Bond, Christopher Edge, David Wiesner, Jane Wilsher, Ross Welford, SF Said and Margaret Wild.
Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Vicky Barker is a British illustrator and author known for her work in children’s non-fiction. She has illustrated a range of educational and activity books, often focusing on science, history, and nature topics for young readers. Barker’s illustrations are recognised for their engaging and accessible style, which supports children’s understanding of complex subjects.
Barker has collaborated with several publishers, including Buster Books, an imprint of Michael O’Mara Books. Her work includes the Absolutely Everything You Need to Know series, as well as titles such as Infographics for Kids: Human Body and Infographics for Kids: Animals. She has also illustrated the STEM Starters for Kids series, which introduces science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts to primary-aged children.
In addition to her illustration work, Barker has written and illustrated activity books designed to encourage creativity and learning. Her books are used in educational settings and at home to support children’s curiosity and engagement with the world around them.
Vicky Barker’s illustrations for Infographics for Kids: Human Body were published by Buster Books in 2017.

Science fiction and STEM topic books for Key Stage 1,2 & 3, including fiction and nonfiction titles by Amy Bond, Christopher Edge, David Wiesner, Jane Wilsher, Ross Welford, SF Said and Margaret Wild.
The School Reading List compiles this list of recommended books monthly. This children’s and YA books of the month list highlights new releases and editions of fiction and non-fiction books suitable for children and young adults aged 2-16.
Season 1, Episode 41 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for May 2026 and reading assessments vs the National Year of Reading.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Summer 2026. These reading recommendations include picture books, poetry, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
Season 1, Episode 39 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for March 2026 and “Only 10% of boys aged 14-16 read daily for pleasure”.
February 2026’s book club includes titles by Maudie Powell-Tuck, Laura Dockrill, Kip Alizadeh, Meg McLaren, Hannah Tunnicliffe, Alan Joyce, Emma Slade Edmondson, James Fox, Miranda Reason, K. L. Kettle and Amie Kaufman.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in spring 2026. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
Season 1, Episode 35 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for October 2025 and A library in every primary: what £10m means.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Autumn 2025. These reading recommendations include picture books, poetry, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
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