Recommended Books for Scouts and Scouters
Finding good books for Scouts and Scouters can make a big difference. The right book can help a Scout learn skills, get ideas, or feel more confident. For adults, a good book can explain how the program works and how to support youth leaders. This list brings together books that many Scouting families and leaders have found helpful over the years.
Some of the books here include full reviews. These reviews explain who the book is for and how it can be used. Other books are simply recommended titles. They may focus on hands-on skills, leadership, or fun projects. Even without a full review, each book on this list has value for Scouting families or leaders.
The list is grouped by age and program. You will find books for Cub Scouts, for Scouts BSA and Venturers, and for all ages. This makes it easier to find something that fits your Scout right now. Some books are good for reading together. Others work well for independent learning or meeting activities.
If you are new to Scouting, this is a good place to start. If you have been around for years, you may still find something new. I also welcome suggestions from other Scouters. Sharing good resources helps all of us support our youth and keep the Scouting experience strong.
Some Popular Selections
Book Review: Getting Started in Pinewood Derby
I received a copy of Getting Started in Pinewood Derby by Troy Thorne. This colorful workbook goes through all of the steps involved in building a car. My favorite thing about the book is that it is directed at Cub Scouts – who should be doing most of the work on their cars.
The book is divided into 7 “sessions”, which help keep the process from seeming overwhelming to a young Scout:
- Shopping
- Shaping
- Painting
- Axel Prep
- Wheel Prep
- Weighting
- Test Runs
Book Review: Mini Weapons of Mass Destruction
Mini Weapons of Mass Destruction is another fun book for Scouts who like to build things. I recommend this book for ages 10 (or so) and up.
It shows them how to make miniature catapults, bows, and other projectile machines out of common office supplies. This book would make a great basis for a open house or a just for a fun meeting. The physics aspect let themselves to teaching science and engineering concepts.
The adults will also have fun with this one. My only caution is to make sure younger children are capable of understanding the safety concepts.
Book Review: Beginning Boy Scouts
I received a copy of Beginning Boy Scouts by Jeremy and Heather Reed. The subtitle is “An unofficial practical guide to Boy Scouts for parents and new leaders.” And that describes the book perfectly.
(Note: The name reflects that it was written before the Boy Scout program name changed to Scouts BSA, but the information all still applies.)
If you know somebody who is new to the Scouts BSA program, then this would be a great resource to give them an overview of the program. Note that this book only covers the Scouts BSA program, not Cub Scouts or Venturing.
Review: A Scout Leader’s Guide to Youth Leadership Training
I was given a book to review called A Scout Leader’s Guide to Youth Leadership Training: Working the Patrol Method. It is by Rob Faris, Ted Knight, Harry Wimbrough, and Joseph Durel – all Eagle Scouts.
I am really impressed with this book. Training youth leaders and really implementing the patrol method are things which many troops struggle with.
(Note: This book was also written before the transition from Boy Scouts to Scouts BSA, so some of the terminology might be outdated. The information is just as valid as the day it was written though.)
More Recommended Books
Unlike the books above, I have not written reviews on the books below. Some I have read myself and others have been recommended by fellow Scouters. If you have a book you would like to recommend, please add it to the comments below.
Recommended Books for All Ages
Campfire Stories for Kids: A Story Collection of Scary and Humorous Camp Fire Tales
Recommended Books for Cub Scouts
Easy Carpentry Projects for Children
Recommended Books for Scouts BSA and Venturers
Does Being an Eagle Scout matter?
The Eagle Court of Honor Book
Learn how to plan an Eagle Court of Honor
Learn about adult leadership in a Scouts BSA troop
Developing Teen Leadership: A Practical Guide for Youth Group Advisors, Teachers and Parents
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of books are included on this list?
The list includes books for Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturers, and adults. Some books focus on skills like knots or camping. Others focus on leadership or program planning. A few are just fun and meant to spark interest and creativity.
Are these books official Scouting books?
Most are unofficial but still very helpful. I include books that support Scouting values and skills, even if they are not official publications.
Are these books good for beginners?
Yes. Many of the books are written for new Scouts or new leaders. They explain basics in a clear way. Parents who are new to Scouting often find these books helpful as well.
Do I need to buy every book on the list?
No. This is a resource list, not a checklist. Pick books that fit your Scout’s age, interests, and program. One or two good books can be enough.
Are the book reviews based on personal experience?
Yes. When I write a review, it is based on my own reading and use of the book. I share what I liked and who I think the book is best for. Other books are listed based on trusted recommendations.
Can these books be used for meetings or activities?
Many of them can. Some books work well for Pinewood Derby workshops, skill nights, or leadership discussions. Others are better for reading at home. The description usually gives clues on how the book can be used.
Can I suggest a book to add to the list?
Yes. I welcome suggestions from other Scouters and parents. If a book has helped your Scout or your unit, it may help others too.
Books Worth Packing in Your Scout Backpack
Finding good books for Scouts and Scouters can help make the program easier and more fun. The right book can teach skills, explain how Scouting works, or give ideas for activities. Some books help Scouts build things or learn outdoor skills. Others help adults understand leadership and youth development. This collection brings together books that support learning, confidence, and growth at many stages of Scouting.
Some of the books on this list include detailed reviews. These reviews explain what the book covers and who will get the most from it. Other titles are simple recommendations shared by Scouters and families. Even without a full review, these books have proven useful in real units. They can support meetings, projects, or quiet learning time at home.
The books are grouped by age and program to make choosing easier. There are options for Cub Scouts, for Scouts BSA and Venturers, and for all ages. Some books work well for shared reading with a parent or leader. Others are better for independent reading. Whether you are new to Scouting or have years of experience, you may find a helpful resource here.
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