If you’d told me years ago that I’d be writing children’s books that combined science, adventure, and humour, I might have laughed. But today, that’s exactly what I do — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
My name’s Matt Newnham, and I’m a British children’s author passionate about creating fun, engaging stories that help young readers explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and maths — the subjects we now bundle under the term STEM Education. My most well-known books feature a curious young boy called Space Ranger Fred, whose space adventures are designed to both entertain and educate children aged six to ten.
Let me tell you a bit more about why I write the books I do — and how they might just inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, or even astronauts.
Why I Write STEM-Inspired Books for Children
It all started with a simple idea: stories can be more than just stories. They can be tools that help children ask questions, solve problems, and grow in confidence. I believe learning should be enjoyable, and when we blend storytelling with important themes like STEM and STEM Education, we create something magical.
As a father, former teacher, and lifelong storyteller, I’ve always wanted to make learning fun. And let’s be honest — space, rockets, planets and aliens? That’s a recipe for adventure that children absolutely love. So, I set out to write books that would introduce scientific concepts in an imaginative way, with relatable characters and humour woven in.
Meet Space Ranger Fred
Space Ranger Fred is my flagship series. Fred is a brave and curious boy with a knack for solving problems and helping others — often with the help of his loyal dog, Jupiter. Together, they explore strange planets, meet new alien friends, and face challenges that require creative thinking and teamwork.
Through Fred’s adventures, children get to experience key STEM ideas in action. They might learn about:
- How gravity works on different planets
- What wind turbines do (thanks to my forthcoming book Space Ranger Fred and the Day the Wind Stopped Blowing)
- The importance of communication and collaboration
- Simple scientific principles like forces, energy, and motion
Fred isn’t a perfect superhero — he’s a normal kid, just like my readers. That’s what makes him special. He shows children that they can be explorers, inventors, helpers and thinkers too.
The Power of STEM Stories
You don’t need to be a scientist to enjoy a good story — and you certainly don’t need to turn every book into a lesson. But when we write with intention, we can sneak in all sorts of useful ideas. My goal is to spark curiosity and give children the confidence to ask questions and discover more.
So why choose STEM books for your children or classroom?
Here’s what I’ve seen:
- Children become more curious — asking why, how, and what if
- They develop problem-solving skills by following the characters’ journeys
- STEM topics feel less intimidating, because they’re wrapped in adventure
- Kids are more likely to retain what they learn when it’s fun
Books like mine help children see that learning happens everywhere — not just in the classroom
From Page to Screen – and Beyond
What began as a simple series of children’s books has now grown into something much bigger. I’m incredibly proud to be working with a talented team of animators, writers, composers, and professional voice actors to bring Space Ranger Fred to life as a fully animated children’s TV series.
This exciting new show will stay true to the heart of the books — a STEM-focused adventure that’s fun, fast-paced, and packed with imagination. But that’s not all.
We’re also developing a video game that allows children to step into Fred’s world and explore the galaxy through interactive storytelling. Alongside this, we’re working with leading STEM experts and educators to build a unique online learning platform — a place where young explorers can engage with science, technology, and problem-solving through games, challenges, and digital adventures.
It’s all part of my mission to reach children wherever they are — in books, on screens, in classrooms, libraries, and now online. Whether they’re reading a bedtime story, watching a cartoon, or exploring an interactive planet, Space Ranger Fred will be there to spark curiosity and inspire a love of learning.
Great for Parents and Teachers
If you’re a parent, teacher or carer looking for educational picture books or adventure stories for children, my books are written with you in mind. I know how hard it can be to find something that’s both engaging and meaningful. That’s why I work hard to make sure every book:
- Is easy to read and full of action
- Teaches valuable skills without being preachy
- Includes themes like kindness, teamwork, and curiosity
- Supports STEM learning in a fun, light-touch way
- Appeals to both boys and girls aged 6 to 10
Many schools have already added my books to their reading lists, and I love visiting classrooms (in person or virtually) to talk about storytelling, science, and where ideas come from. I also offer author visits, workshops, and talks for primary schools in the UK.
What’s Coming Next
The next big milestone is my Kickstarter campaign in March 2025, which will help fund the production of the animated Space Ranger Fred pilot episode. We’ve assembled an incredible team — including an award-winning composer, world-class award winning voice actors and an animation studio that’s worked on international productions.
If you believe in the power of storytelling to make a difference — or simply love the idea of supporting a homegrown children’s show that celebrates science — I’d love to have your support.
You’ll find updates right here on my website, and you can follow along on social media too. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just a fan of space adventures, there’s a place for you on this journey.
Let’s Inspire the Next Generation
At the end of the day, I write because I believe children are capable of incredible things. They just need stories that show them how amazing they already are — and how much more they can become.
If my books can make one child curious about how a rocket works, or help another believe they can build something brilliant, then I’ve done my job.
So, if you’re looking for fun science books for kids, STEM learning books for children, or simply great adventure stories that spark the imagination, have a look around. There’s a universe waiting to be discovered — and Space Ranger Fred is ready to lead the way.
