Best books for 12 year olds
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Hey Mama - if you're on the hunt for some captivating book recommendations to keep your tween engaged and entertained, you've come to the right place. We've curated a list of the best books for 12-year-olds, broken down by genre, so you can find some great books geared toward your young reader’s interests. Whether they're into history, mystery, or all things magical - we've got you covered.
Keep your 12-year-old on the edge of their seat with these adventures:
"Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series by Rick Riordan
Follow the adventures of Percy Jackson, a demigod who discovers his true identity and must save the world of Greek gods and heroes. This fast-paced series is sure to keep your 12-year-old engaged from start to finish.
This award-winning novel follows the story of Stanley Yelnats, a boy who is sent to a juvenile detention center where he and his fellow inmates are forced to dig holes all day. But there's more to the story than meets the eye. This classic has been a middle schooler’s favorite book for decades.
"The City of Ember" by Jeanne DuPrau
In a post-apocalyptic world, Lina and Doon must race against time to decipher a cryptic message and save their city from darkness. This thrilling adventure will keep your young reader on the edge of their seat.
“The Hunger Games” series by Suzanne Collins
Picture this: a dystopian future where brave young characters like Katniss Everdeen fight for survival. With action, suspense, and a sprinkle of rebellion, these books are perfect for 12-year-olds craving a heart-pounding page-turner. Join Katniss as she battles for justice, discovers love, and becomes a symbol of hope. Get ready to ignite your imagination, because the odds are definitely in your favor!
These books are as mysterious as your pre-teen:
"The Westing Game" by Ellen Raskin
When 16 people are invited to the reading of Samuel Westing's will, they discover they must solve the mystery of his death in order to inherit his fortune. This clever, twisty novel will keep your middle-grade reader guessing until the very end.
"The Mysterious Benedict Society" by Trenton Lee Stewart
Four gifted children come together to stop a plot to take over the world. With puzzles to solve and clues to decipher, this book will exercise your child's brain. This is one to add to your 12-year-old’s reading list!
"The Name of this Book is Secret" by Pseudonymous Bosch
Cass and Max Ernest must solve the mystery of a magician's secret formula before it falls into the wrong hands. This quirky, humorous book will delight even the most reluctant young reader.
DON’T FORGET ABOUT A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR YOU:
If your 12-year-old lives in their own fantasy world, they’ll love these books:
"Artemis Fowl" series by Eoin Colfer
Artemis Fowl is a twelve-year-old genius who discovers the existence of fairies and sets out to capture one in order to extort gold from the fairy realm. This inventive series is a must-read for fantasy fans. We recommend starting with the first book.
"The Golden Compass" by Philip Pullman
Lyra Belacqua sets out to rescue her best friend from a group of kidnappers and uncovers a plot to steal children's souls. With talking animals and an alternate universe, this book will transport your middle schooler to another world.
“Greenwild: The World Behind the Door” by Pari Thomson
This highly recommended, must-read book is a beautiful reminder of the power of nature, connection, and community. Through the story of a young woman named Sarah, "Greenwild" explores themes of grief, healing, and self-discovery. After the sudden loss of her mother, Sarah is lost and numb, unsure of how to move forward with her life. That's where her grandmother comes in - a free-spirited and spunky woman who invites Sarah to spend the summer at her cabin in the woods.
Your 12-year-old history buff will love these books:
"A Little History of the World" by E.H. Gombrich
This lively and accessible book provides a broad overview of world history, perfect for introducing young readers to different time periods and civilizations. This one should be on every tween’s reading list.
"The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank
Anne Frank's diary offers a poignant and personal account of life during the Holocaust. It's a must-read for middle schoolers (and high schoolers!) to understand the impact of this dark period in history and the resilience of the human spirit.
"The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind" by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
This inspiring memoir tells the true story of a young boy from Malawi who built a windmill out of scraps to save his village from famine. It's a powerful tale of ingenuity and determination.
"Bud, Not Buddy" by Christopher Paul Curtis
Set during the Great Depression, this novel follows a young boy named Bud as he embarks on a journey to find his father. Through Bud's experiences, your middle schooler will gain insight into this challenging period in American history.
"Number the Stars" by Lois Lowry
Set in Denmark during World War II, this powerful book explores the bravery and resilience of a young girl named Annemarie as she helps save her Jewish friend from the Nazis. This must-read story of courage and friendship will leave a lasting impact on your young reader.
Introduce your 12-year-old to complex issues with these books:
A New York Times Best Seller about 10-year-old Knox, whose family moved to California from Hong Kong during the COVID-19 pandemic brings unique challenges and a struggle to fit in with new friends. Yang’s humor and ability to speak on a level appropriate for middle grade make this a good book to introduce to a 12-year-old.
Auggie Pullman was born with a facial deformity and must navigate middle school while facing discrimination and bullying. This heartwarming novel teaches empathy and kindness - such an age-appropriate lesson for your 12-year-old reader.
Give your 12-year-old this book to help them learn life skills:
This book has got it all - from cooking to car repairs, budgeting to first aid. It's like having a wise, older sister in your pre-teen’s pocket, ready to guide them through all those essential life skills. Trust us, this book is a total game-changer!
