Book Nook: Books from National Geographic for Kids

Books make great gifts -- my kids have always read books for far longer than they've been interested in toys. National Geographic Kids Books is featuring several new titles that are perfect for gift giving. Not only are these books fun, but they're also educational, teaching kids amazing things about the world around them in a fun, eye-catching way that is appropriate for kids of a variety of ages. Somehow, National Geographic strikes the perfect balance between language that kids can understand, but information that isn't condescending and is interesting even for older kids and adults.

I loved all of the books, and my kids thoroughly enjoyed them. They of course were especially interested in ones that matched with their own hobbies and interests, but all of the books are so engaging that they were excited to read them. 

Nerd A to Z: Your Reference to Literally Figuratively Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know
This superstuffed alphabetical compendium of must-know facts from science, pop culture, history, and more is perfect for kids who already know the names of every single dinosaur or want to understand exactly how the Millennium Falcon works. It's a book for grammar gurus, science snobs, music geeks, and history buffs. In short, it's a book for nerds. Inside, you'll find browsable, info-packed blurbs that'll give you the lowdown on everything from augmented reality to zydeco, with larger features that dive deep into fascinating topics like UFOs, pirates, artificial intelligence, and daring circus acts. And you'll hear from the world's most notable (and quotable) Nerds of Note from history and today.

The Book of Bling: Ritzy Rocks, Extravagant Animals, Sparkling Science and More!
From upscale splurges to flashy fun in nature, this treasure trove is filled with wonders that will dazzle and delight. Read about how nature struts its stuff with tantalizing tidbits about animals, including a few that literally glitter with iridesence to confuse predators. Or maybe you'll strike it rich after reading about Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas, U.S.A., where anyone can go hunt for sparkling gems. Dig into info about the world's mysterious minerals, gorgeous geodes, and ritzy rocks. Discover extravagant expenditures like Canada's million-dollar solid gold coin. Learn all about the splendid science of diamonds that rain from the sky in space. Get the secret behind glowing bioluminescence. And go back in time to uncover palatial palaces, the riches of royalty, and other ancient treasures. To show off the lush content in proper fashion, readers will be dazzled by hundreds of fun flashy photos throughout.

Treasury of Bible Stories
Noah's Ark, Moses, David and Goliath, the ten plagues, Daniel and the lions' den, Jonah and the giant fish, and many more of the Bible's most powerful stories — 27 in all — are compellingly retold in this beautifully illustrated treasury. Readers will be fascinated by the ancient people and events they encounter, surprised by some of the lesser known accounts revealed, and inspired by the lessons these tales impart. Stories cover important ground beyond religion, such as culture, history, and geography, and they touch on issues that remain relevant today--faith, loyalty, kindness, violence, generosity, greed, jealousy, and more. These accessible, readible stories give kids a rich picture of biblical times, which encourages them to think about our role in the world and to learn more.

Dream Journal 

This stocking stuffer is what dreams are made of — literally! Professor of Psychiatry Dr.Allan Peterkin helps readers uncover the power of their dreams and better understand the science of sleep. With lively text, vibrant imagery, and plenty of space for writing, it's the perfect tool to help kids remember, record, and reflect on their nighttime adventures. Catching Z's has never been so much fun!

Brain Candy: Seriously Sweet Facts to Satisfy Your Curiosity 

This offbeat, "stocking-sized" book is like a sweet treat that will satisfy any reader's fun fact cravings. Cranium “cavities” will be filled to the brim with 500 fascinating knowledge nuggets about numbers, fun facts, and cool trivia on all kinds of topics. With features that dive into why potatoes and tomatoes are a dynamic duo, amazing animal tongues and how they are used to ”lick” their competition and dental care through the ages, Brain Candy is a tasty approach to feeding kids tantalizing tidbits about the world.