Does anyone have recommendations for non-fiction books with a "how it’s made" or behind-the-scenes angle that also work as bedtime reading? Ideally something narrative-driven and informative, not dependent on pictures, with enough flow to read a chapter or section at night. Looking for that mix of interesting detail and relaxing storytelling.

I can't remember exactly, but I think there was some kind of light story element to "The New Way Things Work"

Edit: just noticed the bit about not reliant on pictures, that rules that one out. I recommend it regardless, but maybe not for the exact use-case you're describing

May be too technical for kids, but “Ignition! An Informal History of Liquid Rocket Propellants” is wonderful.

https://library.sciencemadness.org/library/books/ignition.pd...

Stuff Matters by Mark Miodownik might fit the bill? It's about the history and modern use of materials like glass, steel, concrete, etc. in everyday objects. Maybe not for very young kids. Wikipedia has a good summary of the content.

While most of it is pretty relaxing it opens with the author getting stabbed on the subway so watch out for that maybe.

Bill Bryson maybe? E.g. "A Short History of Nearly Everything". Kids might not understand everything but they'll probably feel Bryson's warmth.