The True Adventures of Charley Darwin

Written by Carolyn Meyer

Told from young Charles Darwin's point of view, this novel follows Darwin through his early years as a school boy through his college days and on his amazing five year voyage on the H.M.S. Beagle, the adventure that would change his life. Meyer shows readers the funny, charming, driven, sometimes awkward boy who would become one of the greatest scientists of all time. It's a fun and educational book, even for grown-ups! Grades 6 through 12.

The Voyage of the Beetle
Written by Anne H. Weaver,

Illustrated by George Lawrence

Meet Rosie the beetle, and go with her on an exciting voyage of discovery around the world on the H.M.S. Beagle. She and her rather famous traveling companion, the young Charles Darwin, encounter new places and learn about the puzzling new plant and animal life they find. Together they gather clues to help Darwin solve the mystery of mysteries- will you solve the mystery before Darwin? This beautifully illustrated book for young adult readers is a pleasure to read, and kids might not even notice all the cool science they are learning! Grades 4 and up.

The Tree of Life: Charles Darwin
Written and Illustrated by Peter Sis

A lovely book featuring clever illustrations by the author. Sis takes the reader through Darwin's life, highlighting important events and discoveries. It is an engaging and quirky look at the man who changed the world. Grades 4 and up.

What Darwin Saw: The Journey that Changed the World

Written by Rosalyn Schanzer

This book is part graphic novel, part biography, and part diary, featuring Darwin's own words, reprinted from his journals. Some of the illustrations are a bit odd, but the science and quotes from Darwin make this book well worth the read. Grades 3 through 6.

Animals Charles Darwin Saw

Written by Sandra Markle,

Illustrated by Zina Saunders

Markle combines biography and modern biology to tell the story of Darwin's travels around South America and his development of the theory of evolution. Nicely illustrated, with a glossary of scientific terms. Grades 3 through 6.

Our Family Tree: An Evolution Story

Written by Lisa Westberg Peters,

Illustrated by Lauren Stringer

This is a great book for introducing the concept of change over time to younger children. The book features large, beautiful illustrations of extinct animals, plants, and even bacteria, helping the reader to follow the path of evolution. The book is not over detailed, but instead focuses on presenting a complex concept to young minds in an engaging way. Grades Pre-K through 3.

Evolution Revolution: From Darwin to DNA

Published by Dorling Kindersley

An entertaining and in-depth look at evolution and the history and science behind the theory. Grades 4 through 8.

We're Sailing to the Galapagos:
A Week in the Pacific

Written by Laurie Krebs,

Illustrated by Grazia Restelli

A charming story featuring several unique and wonderful animals native to the Galapagos Islands. The bold, cut paper illustrations and rhyming text make this a perfect book for story time. Sure to be a favorite! Available in English and Spanish.