10+ Best Adventure Books for 12-Year-Old Girl w/ Exercises (2024)
Are you on the hunt for the perfect adventure books for a 12-year-old girl? Whether she loves thrilling quests or journeys filled with mystery and excitement, finding the right book can be a game-changer. In this blog, we’ll dive into a variety of captivating reads that are perfect for young adventurers. Keep reading to discover our top picks for adventure books for 12-year-old girls that are sure to keep her on the edge of her seat!
Table of Contents
Fun Adventure Books for 12-Year-Old Girl
- The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: This enchanting story follows Luna, who is accidentally given magical powers as a baby. Raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a perfectly tiny dragon, Luna must handle the magic that is beginning to surge through her as she turns thirteen.
- Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written tale that intertwines themes of love, growth, and the journey of self-discovery. It's perfect for sparking a love of fantasy and adventure.
- Perfect for: Young readers who love magic, mythical creatures, and powerful female protagonists.
- Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
- Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is the son of Poseidon and is accused of stealing Zeus' lightning bolt. He embarks on a quest across the United States to find it and restore order to Olympus.
- Why we recommend this book: It's an exciting introduction to Greek mythology, wrapped in modern adventure. Great for improving reading engagement with its fast-paced plot and relatable characters.
- Perfect for: Fans of mythology, adventure seekers, and anyone who enjoys a good underdog story.
- The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
- Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
- Synopsis: This story is about Ada, a young girl with a clubfoot who is evacuated from London during World War II and discovers a new world of freedom and possibilities when she escapes her abusive mother.
- Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping, emotional plot that highlights resilience and personal growth. It's a great tool for developing empathy and understanding historical contexts.
- Perfect for: Readers who appreciate historical settings and stories of overcoming adversity.
- Holes by Louis Sachar
- Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
- Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention center, where boys are forced to dig large holes daily. He realizes they are looking for something buried and the camp holds more secrets than it seems.
- Why we recommend this book: It combines mystery with a unique adventure, keeping readers engaged while subtly teaching about fate, justice, and family history.
- Perfect for: Young detectives and anyone who enjoys a story that connects past and present in surprising ways.
- The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, illustrated by Carson Ellis
- Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, Science Fiction
- Synopsis: Four gifted children are recruited by the mysterious Mr. Benedict to go on a secret mission at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where nothing is at it seems.
- Why we recommend this book: It's full of puzzles, riddles, and challenges that stimulate the mind, perfect for developing problem-solving skills and teamwork.
- Perfect for: Puzzle lovers and intellectual adventurers who enjoy twists and teamwork in their stories.
Educational Adventure Books for 12-Year-Old Girl
- The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
- Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
- Synopsis: In 1899 Texas, Calpurnia Tate is a curious 12-year-old girl who, rather than focusing on needlepoint and housekeeping, embarks on a series of scientific adventures with her grandfather.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, historical perspective, environmental awareness
- Why we recommend this book: It beautifully combines the thrill of discovery with the growth of a young girl against the backdrop of societal expectations.
- Perfect for: Young scientists and history buffs who enjoy stories about breaking traditional roles.
- The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
- Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
- Synopsis: Roz the robot discovers herself alone on a remote, wild island and must learn from the environment and animals to survive and find her place in the natural world.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental science, technology, empathy, survival skills
- Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that explores themes of nature, technology, and what it means to be alive.
- Perfect for: Readers who are fascinated by robotics and nature, and those who love stories about unexpected friendships.
- Willa of the Wood by Robert Beatty
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: Willa, a night-spirit of the Great Smoky Mountains, questions the ancient laws of her clan after encountering a human who is unlike the evil ones she was taught about.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, cultural awareness, environmental conservation
- Why we recommend this book: It offers a thrilling adventure intertwined with messages about cultural understanding and protecting the environment.
- Perfect for: Fans of folklore and nature who appreciate tales of coexistence and moral complexity.
- The Boundless by Kenneth Oppel
- Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy
- Synopsis: Set aboard a giant train traveling across Canada, young Will Everett becomes embroiled in a thrilling adventure involving a circus, magical paintings, and a plot that could change his life forever.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical context, imagination, problem-solving
- Why we recommend this book: It's an epic adventure that combines real historical elements with fantastical twists to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
- Perfect for: Young adventurers who enjoy expansive, imaginative journeys and historical settings.
- Coraline by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror, Adventure
- Synopsis: Coraline Jones steps through a mysterious door in her new home to find a parallel universe that eerily mirrors her own but with sinister differences.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Courage, independence, critical thinking
- Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping, spooky adventure that teaches about bravery and the importance of being careful what you wish for.
- Perfect for: Readers who love a good scare and stories that challenge their perception of reality.
Challenging Adventure Books for 12-Year-Old Girl
- The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: Young Lyra Belacqua embarks on a perilous journey to the Arctic north to save her kidnapped friend and other children from terrible experiments by a mysterious organization.
- Why this book is challenging: It features complex themes such as freedom and predestination, and introduces a sophisticated parallel universe concept.
- Why we recommend this book: It combines deep philosophical questions with a thrilling adventure, encouraging readers to think critically about morality and the world around them.
- Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy thought-provoking narratives and richly imagined worlds.
- Sabriel by Garth Nix
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: Sabriel, a young necromancer, must venture into the dangerous Old Kingdom to find her missing father and confront the malevolent spirits stirring beyond the Great Wall.
- Why this book is challenging: The novel introduces complex magical systems and a protagonist who deals with death and resurrection, themes that are sophisticated for younger readers.
- Why we recommend this book: It offers a strong female lead and a gripping, magical adventure, while also dealing with the responsibilities of growing up.
- Perfect for: Fans of dark fantasy and those looking for a strong, capable heroine.
- Airborn by Kenneth Oppel
- Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Steampunk
- Synopsis: In an alternate Earth filled with airships and sky pirates, cabin boy Matt Cruse rescues a dying balloonist who speaks of beautiful creatures flying through the sky, leading to an extraordinary quest.
- Why this book is challenging: The book uses intricate narrative techniques and a unique steampunk setting that demands imaginative and analytical thinking.
- Why we recommend this book: It's a high-flying adventure that stimulates the imagination with its detailed world-building and fast-paced plot.
- Perfect for: Young readers who dream of adventures in the skies and fantastic technologies.
- The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: Taran, an Assistant Pig-Keeper in the magical land of Prydain, embarks on a quest to find a stolen pig, a journey that turns into an epic battle against evil.
- Why this book is (challenging): It draws on Welsh mythology and introduces a complex cast of characters, each with their own moral dilemmas and growth arcs.
- Why we recommend this book: It provides a rich narrative that explores themes of heroism, self-discovery, and sacrifice.
- Perfect for: Readers who enjoy epic tales of good versus evil and stories steeped in mythology.
- The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: September, a young girl from Omaha, is whisked away to Fairyland where she encounters witches, wyverns, and many strange adventures.
- Why this book is challenging: Valente's use of language is rich and lyrical, presenting complex vocabulary and metaphorical content that requires careful interpretation.
- Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written, whimsical tale that encourages imagination and self-reliance in its readers.
- Perfect for: Young readers who delight in poetic language and whimsical, imaginative journeys.
Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit
Hey there! If you're diving into the world of adventure books, especially for a 12-year-old girl, it's a fantastic way to explore new worlds and go on thrilling journeys without leaving your room. To make the most out of this experience, developing good reading habits is key. Here are some fun and effective exercises that can help:
- Set Reading Goals
- What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
- How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and helps in completing books.
- Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.
- Create a Reading Nook
- What it is: Designate a special corner in your home just for reading.
- How it helps: Provides a comfortable and distraction-free environment.
- Tips: Make it cozy with pillows, good lighting, and maybe even a small shelf for your books.
- Book Club with Friends
- What it is: Start a book club where you and your friends read the same book and discuss it.
- How it helps: Enhances understanding through discussion and makes reading a social activity.
- Tips: Rotate who picks the book each month to keep it exciting and inclusive.
- Map the Adventures
- What it is: Create a map based on the settings and events in the book.
- How it helps: Helps in visualizing the story better and enhances comprehension.
- Tips: Use colors and symbols to mark different events or important locations in the story.
- Read Aloud Sessions
- What it is: Dedicate time to read out loud from the book.
- How it helps: Improves pronunciation and builds confidence in reading.
- Tips: Try changing your tone and voice for different characters to make it more fun.
- Keep a Reading Journal
- What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes.
- How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
- Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.
These exercises aren't just about reading more; they're about making reading a more integral and enjoyable part of your life. So, grab your favorite adventure book, pick one or two of these exercises, and start your journey into the world of endless possibilities. Happy reading!