By Noah Moster
In high school, a stigma can often be found regarding reading material: science stuff is dull and flat, and fictitious stuff like fantasy is fun and creative. That stigma is evidently untrue, and there are no better sources to disprove that claim than these three books! Each one contains elaborate plots and high stakes yet still maintains an integral importance in the STEM field and demonstrates that dragons and magic aren’t the only things that can keep us on the edge of our seats!
1. Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
Ender’s Game is a book that, by this point, almost speaks for itself. It’s received a movie and countless accolades, yet despite these accomplishments, it hasn’t been read that much. Without giving too much detail, it follows the experience of the titular Ender and his thoughts as he is drafted into a futuristic military academy for gifted children. Inside, he learns how to fight the alien insects known as the Formics that had devastated the human species multiple times before, how to lead a company of soldiers in both small- and large-scale engagements, and most importantly, the price of leadership and intellect among one’s peers. While the premise may imply a more action-focused narrative, the novel covers prominent elements in the realities and philosophies of war and a realistic view of what space combat could look like in the future. It’s approximately 352 pages long but a fantastic read for anyone wanting a rounded education in the mind and brain sciences.
2. Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly
Before there were computers, there were “computers.”
Hidden Figures is, to start, a perfect example of how a compelling story doesn’t need explosions or fictitious elements. It follows Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, and Christine Darden as they enabled the possibility of space travel through hard work and intricate calculations, all while bearing the brunt of both racism and sexism in 1940s-1960s America. This novel is valuable as a remarkable tale of human perseverance and an essential story of scientific history and the achievements these women accomplished in space travel. The book is around 384 pages long and will undoubtedly provide an educational yet gripping tale for those seeking role models in patience, pride in oneself, and STEM excellence.
3. The Martian by Andy Weir
Ender’s Game takes place in the future, and Hidden Figures takes place in the recent past. It’s only natural to end on The Martian, a novel set in humankind’s imminent but not yet actual reality.
The Martian, while being science fiction, grounds itself in a staunchly non-fictitious premise: Mark Watney, an astronaut on a space crew charged with the Ares 3 Mars mission, gets left behind after a sandstorm forces the Ares 3 team to abandon their research and quickly leave the planet. While getting aboard the vessel to evacuate, Mark is hit by debris from the weather, which separates him from the rest of the group and causes them to assume his death. Miraculously, Mark survives this impact and now has to navigate the hostile terrain conditions of Mars and ensure his survival in a base meant to be operated by an entire crew in the hopes that if he plays his cards right, he might just escape.
The Martian is around 333 pages long and offers a much more casual reading experience, as the book’s format takes place in log entries instead of the more traditional omniscient perspective science fiction often takes. Even though the reading is quite digestible, the material itself branches into the technical sphere enough to provide enjoyment in both creative and logical elements. Also, the humor that Mark brings to the bleak situation juxtaposes the stakes of his fate entertainingly. The Martian is technical but not complex. It’s perfect for a high school read.
These three books are just the tip of the iceberg regarding the many different “scientific stuff” series. Something else of note is that all three of these novels have movie adaptations. So if you enjoyed reading any of them, you can watch the story in a visual format as well! And if three books aren’t enough to sate your curiosity, it’s never a bad idea to ask your librarian what new collections have arrived. They’re an infinitely valuable resource, and chances are, they’ll be more than happy to help you find other promising reads! And above all else, just keep learning. Often, the choice that separates a villain from a hero in a narrative is whether or not they learn from their accomplishments, mistakes, etc. Anyone can be a hero so long as they learn and grow.
Do you want more resources on the topic of Science Books? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list.
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