Stories have the power to shape how we see the world, and at Earthlab, we love books that spark curiosity, deepen connections with nature, and inspire young minds. This curated selection of nature fiction books for children takes readers on unforgettable adventures—whether it’s a young boy discovering his strengths through the wilderness, a lost elephant navigating the jungle, or a mystical forest hiding ancient secrets.
With each page, these books bring the wild to life, blending storytelling with environmental wonder, making them perfect for middle-grade explorers ready to dive into the magic of nature.
THE TORTOISESHELL BEETLE
Written by- Yuvan Aves
Published by- Pratham Books
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Rohit feels like he doesn’t fit in at school, the classroom doesn’t seem meaningful, the words appear to dance on the blackboard and he has a hard time learning and writing. This is a heart-warming tale that captures the essence of a little boy who doesn’t fit in the societal norms but blossoms in the space provided by nature with the help of a supportive teacher.
Written by naturalist Yuvan Aves, this story is about understanding how every child is blessed with their own unique abilities, like Rohit who is dyslexic, and doesn’t thrive in rigid societal structures of teaching and learning yet is seen to let his intrinsic curiosity blossom amidst the natural world. The author beautifully draws a parallel between the metamorphosis of tortoiseshell beetle’s larva and children, suggesting how the larva of a beetle is hairy and looks hideous to the human eye, yet it grows into something very magnificent.
This nature fiction book is infused with interactive illustrations which are attuned with the storyline; the illustrations of Rohit’s textbook with inverted alphabets, the pressure he feels in the classroom, the nature walk etc. At its core, the book not only highlights the uniqueness every child possesses but also the importance of supportive and understanding teachers and peers, who would rather empathize than judge them for being different, making it a more inclusive space. For Rohit it was his teacher who decided to take him on a nature walk, suggesting that education plays an integral part in nurturing a child’s abilities than moulding them according to society.
The author through this skilfully crafted tale conveys the message of how children thrive and become freer in their self-expression when provided proper space to grow. Click on this link to buy the book.
THE HOOPOE ON THE LAWN
Written by- Ruskin Bond
Published by- Aleph Book Company
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Straight from the pen of a master storyteller, Ruskin Bond, The Hoopoe on the Lawn feels like a warm hug on a cold day. The storytelling in the book is imbued with the nostalgia of childhood, the feeling of being young, and an appreciation for the natural world, making it difficult to put down. The story is from the perspective of 11-year-old Ruskin, who visits his granny’s home for winter holidays in Dehradun, where he has several magical encounters.
This magic enables them with abilities to enter each other’s dreams and also helps them in dreaming together. Now the twins feel like everything around them is expressing their feelings to them. The portrayal of vulnerability from things that cannot speak holds down the reader’s affection, from kitchens and trees to snakes and ladders in games, everything seems to have some thoughts they want to share. Though uncomfortable at first, the girls become more empathetic and compassionate as the plot moves forward towards these things.
This nature fiction book feels like entering into a world full of magic woven into ordinary parts of our life, teaching children to look for magic in mundane things. The book revolves around the themes of empathy, kindness, and acceptance. The black and white illustrations make the look of the book more thoughtfully done. If you want to explore magical stories that blend together with everyday tasks, then this is the perfect recommendation for your children and you. Click on this link to buy the book.
HOW THE BAMBOO GOT ITS BOUNTY
Written by- Sudha Murty
Published by- Puffin Books
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This book is an ode to our bountiful and luscious forests that provide us with abundant gifts so selflessly. This chapter book from India’s favorite storyteller, Sudha Murty, follows the story of an unassuming and shy bamboo tree present in the lush green forests and how it is rewarded by the forest queen, making everyone in the forest curious.
With its little life lessons filled with knowledge about trees, beautiful art, and creative storytelling, this book is bound to be appreciated by all. Sudha Murty’s writing is full of comfort and joy, and it can be enjoyed not only by children but also by adults. If you want some inspiration to spend time in nature or want your children to appreciate nature and its resources, then this book is your one-stop solution. A must add to your nature fiction books list. Click on this link to buy the book.
A LITTLE LOST ELEPHANT
Written by- Stephen Alter
Published by- Aleph Book Company
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Filled with courage and thrilling adventures, this tale is about a lost, scared, and curious elephant who is intrigued by a sharp shriek coming from far away in the jungle. On his detour, he realizes he has wandered far from his herd. All alone in the vast jungle, he decides to embark on a journey to reunite with his mother.
As we dive into the lush depths of the jungle with this book, be prepared to face some edge-of-your-seat and wide-eyed wonder moments. Filled with woodpeckers, civets, a lurking python, a cheeky mynah bird, a cobra, and even a crocodile, this story is an unforgettable adventure through the wild. As he encounters all kinds of creatures, some friendly, some not, the journey of our little elephant keeps readers engaged with its lifelike illustrations and easy-to-read text.
If you want your kids to immerse themselves in something thrilling that teaches them not only about courage and resilience but also about the importance of family, friendship, and the beauty of the natural world, then this would be a perfect addition to your nature fiction books list. Click on this link to buy the book.
THE FOREST BORNS
Written by- Vardhini Amin
Published by- Hachette India
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How far are you willing to go to protect your home? Set in an enchanting realm where plant souls roam free and ancient secrets whisper, this story follows Siah, a fiery tree soul, and Avni, a young girl, who embark on parallel quests full of resilience, harmony, and courage to protect the sandalwood forest from smugglers.
As Vardhini Amin’s debut novel, we are invited into a well-built fantasyland full of imagery and vivid yet easy-flowing descriptions, with skillfully balanced action, emotion, and moments of reflection. It feels as if magic pulses through their veins. With its well-balanced narrative, the story provides equal parts adventure and tranquility, making it a comforting yet thrilling read.
As we follow Avni and Siah on their quests, we are swept away by the engaging plot and the deep exploration of courage, self-discovery, and the strength one has when it comes to protecting their home. With Amin’s lyrical and captivating prose, we are provided with a cozy reminder that magic can always be found within us. If you’re looking for something to capture young readers’ imaginations and hook them with wonder, then this nature fiction book is the perfect cozy escape. Click on the link to buy this book.