STEM subjects form the foundation of our schooling curriculum. However, many children might grow up to abhor math or science, based on how it was taught in school and how the teachers helped bridge the gaps of understanding — as most of these subjects are usually taught in the conventional methods. 

But, as a parent or a caregiver, you can ignite your child’s young mind using play, art and books to create curiosity, creativity and interest in STEM.

To help you get started on this journey, we at Quasara, have put together a list of the top 5 books you can introduce your children to!

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1. Space Explorers: 25 extraordinary stories of space exploration and adventure

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This is an amazing collection of real-life stories by spaceflight expert, Libby Jackson. They talk about space exploration and adventures beyond the planet. 

We, as a race, have always been fascinated when we look up at the night sky and wonder what lies beyond. But only a few have had the heart to actually take on that adventure. 

This beautifully illustrated anthology includes accounts of the first venture into space, how the International Space Station was built, and the history of space exploration. 

The stories talk about the challenges, the courage and the creative masterminds behind these explorations. 

They have interesting anecdotes like how the first astronauts to land on the moon and were nearly stranded there forever if it hadn't been for a felt tip pen that saved them; and the experience of the astronaut that trained to go to space by living in underground caves and completing underwater missions.

This is sure to get you excited as much as your child! So, get ready for a thrilling and daring astronomical adventure!

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2. Gutsy Girls Go for Science: Astronauts: With STEM Projects for Kids

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This is an amazing hands-on science projects book by Alicia Klepeis. It is suitable for kids between the ages of 8 and 11 years. The book focuses on fearless female astronauts who broke gender barriers and explores the lives of some of the world's most amazing female astronauts, including Bonnie Dunbar, Sally Ride, Mae Jemison, Sunita Williams, and Serena Auñón-Chancellor.

Their stories extoll the hard work and dedication of these women to science and experimentation and how they took risks and pushed the limits of knowledge about space. 

The book enables you to engage your child in hands-on STEM projects like designing and building space rovers, rockets, and even a model of the International Space Station using inexpensive and easy-to-find supplies. 

The book also asks important questions that make children think and provide links to online resources all reinforce high-level learning and creative thinking skills.

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3. The Book of Big Science Ideas: From Atoms to AI and from Gravity to Genes… How Science Shapes our World
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This is the perfect book for science-lovers!

This fact-packed book introduces young readers (between the ages of 8 and 15) to the brilliant ideas of science and the ingenious thinkers behind them. 

It answers questions like: What is everything made of? What is our place in space? Can machines think? And why does your hat come hurtling back down after you've chucked it into the air? 

The topics range from theories of atoms, electricity, the solar system to gravity, genetics and AI.

The ideas are introduced with a rich explanation in great detail with plenty of visual representations and illustrations. And then the great minds behind each idea are presented - the key thinkers and scientists who helped shape the idea. 

Thinkers include Wang Zhenyi, Louis Pasteur, Marie Curie, James Joule, Rosalind Franklin, Charles Darwin, Aristotle, Edith Clarke, Isaac Newton, Grace Hopper, Alan Turing, Ada Lovelace and many, many more!

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4. Little Inventors In Space!: Inventing out of this world
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Another great hands-on experiential activity book that can help children come up with new inventions of their own! 

Activities include thinking about how living can be better in an orbit, inventing the next space shuttle and planning a life on other planets. 

Children learn about space sweepers, shooting star hunters, what it’s like to be an astronaut and much more about space.

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5. Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry
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Put together by Gregory Mone in a handy portable package, this book celebrates Neil deGrasse Tyson, the most recognisable and respected figures in science. 

It invites young readers to explore the mysteries of the universe - from the difference between a star and a supernova to what matter and dark matter really are and everything in between. 

This book promises to turn young readers into budding experts on the fundamental rules and unknowns of our universe. 

Pick up your copies today!