So You Want To Be An Explorer

If you’ve got a kid who’s always asking “what’s over there?”, this book is a great place to start. It reminds kids (and parents) that exploration isn’t over. It’s in the deep ocean, under our feet, up in the treetops, and in tiny worlds we can’t see without tools.

This book works best as a guide for young readers stepping into the role of an explorer. Linda Soules introduces frontiers that still contain blank spaces, then explains what explorers do in practice: observe, measure, record, and bring knowledge back. It moves from striking facts (like how little of the seafloor has been mapped) to hands-on missions a kid can try, mapping a neighborhood, following a stream, and starting a field notebook. It also includes brief snapshots of figures such as Sacagawea and Shackleton, emphasizing that exploration depends on preparation, teamwork, and decision-making, not only equipment.

Soules’ writing is clear, energetic, and full of “you can do this” momentum. The best pages feel like a coach and a storyteller teamed up. A small downside: a few sections get dense with lists and statistics, and some page text reads a little choppy, which may pull some readers out of the flow. For parents, it’s easy to use as a springboard for weekend walks, museum visits, and simple “what did you notice?” conversations.

In the end, this book lands a powerful message for ages 10–12: the world still holds mysteries, and the best explorers aren’t reckless. They’re prepared, respectful, and responsible with what they find. It’s a strong pick for families who want a nonfiction read that nudges kids off the screen and into noticing the real world.