10+ Best Animal Books for 10-12-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that combines a love for animals with captivating storytelling? Look no further! Our curated list of animal books for 10-12-year-olds is packed with tales that will delight any young animal enthusiast. From wild adventures to heartwarming friendships, these books promise to keep your tweens engaged and entertained. Keep reading to discover our top picks in animal books for 10-12-year-olds that are sure to spark their imagination and perhaps even ignite a lifelong love for reading!

Fun Animal Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a clever spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte spins words into her web to try to save her friend.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches themes of friendship, loyalty, and the reality of death in a gentle manner that is appropriate for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and children who appreciate stories about friendship and bravery.

• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: Inspired by a true story, this novel is about Ivan, a gorilla who lives in a shopping mall and hardly ever thinks about his life in the jungle. Ivan’s perspective changes when he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from the wild.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages empathy and raises awareness about animal welfare through a touching and transformative story.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in animals and those who enjoy stories told from unique perspectives.

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This is the story of Despereaux Tilling, a mouse who loves music and stories, and his adventures within a castle where he falls in love with a human princess.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fairy tale that celebrates the virtues of bravery and forgiveness, and it's rich with themes that challenge and engage young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers and anyone who enjoys stories of unlikely heroes and quests.

• Watership Down by Richard Adams
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: An epic tale of a group of rabbits who escape their doomed warren and seek a new home, facing extraordinary perils and triumphs along the way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping adventure and deep reflections on leadership, society, and the environment.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers who enjoy complex narratives and exploring naturalistic settings through the eyes of animals.

• Pax by Sara Pennypacker, illustrated by Jon Klassen
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story of a boy named Peter and his pet fox, Pax. When Peter's father enlists in the military, Peter must return Pax to the wild, leading to a poignant adventure as both try to reunite.
  • Why we recommend this book: It explores the effects of war on individuals and the bond between a child and his pet, promoting themes of peace and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate stories of friendship and loyalty, and those who have a special bond with their pets.

Educational Animal Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• Owls in the Family by Farley Mowat
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Animal Story
  • Synopsis: The book recounts the adventures of the author growing up in Saskatchewan with two pet owls named Wol and Weeps. It explores their antics and the unique bond they share with their human family.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of wildlife, empathy for animals, and family dynamics
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous and heartwarming story that teaches about the care and understanding of wildlife.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love animals and stories about unique pets.

• The Tarantula in My Purse: and 172 Other Wild Pets by Jean Craighead George
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Autobiography
  • Synopsis: This book is a collection of true stories about the author's life with her family and the numerous wild animals they have cared for.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Knowledge of animal behavior, responsibility in caring for animals
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an entertaining look at what it's like to live with a variety of wild animals, fostering a respect for nature in young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in nature and wildlife, and those curious about unusual pets.

• The Journey of the Pale Bear by Susan Fletcher
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The story follows a young boy in the 13th century who forms a bond with a majestic Arctic bear. Together, they embark on a perilous journey across Europe.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, understanding of human-animal relationships
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with a touching story of friendship between a boy and a bear, set against a rich historical backdrop.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy historical settings and stories of adventure and friendship.

• Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater, illustrated by Robert Lawson
  • Genre(s): Humor, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Mr. Popper, a house painter fascinated by the Antarctic, unexpectedly receives a penguin in the mail. Soon, his home is transformed into a winter wonderland for his growing family of penguins.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, problem-solving, and an introduction to polar ecosystems
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a whimsical and delightful story that encourages creative thinking and a love for animals.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy humorous stories and those fascinated by penguins and cold climates.

• The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When Roz the robot washes up on the shore of a wild island, she must learn to survive in a hostile environment and eventually gains acceptance from the island's animal inhabitants.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Technology, adaptation, and environmental awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a unique blend of technology and nature, exploring themes of survival, friendship, and what it means to be wild.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in robotics and nature, and those who like stories about survival and adaptation.

Challenging Animal Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• The Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White, illustrated by Fred Marcellino
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Louis, a trumpeter swan born without a voice. To overcome this challenge, Louis learns to play a trumpet to express himself and communicate with others.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces sophisticated themes such as overcoming physical disabilities and the importance of finding one's own voice, both literally and metaphorically.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story that combines elements of personal development and adventure, encouraging readers to find unique solutions to their challenges.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy animal stories and those facing their own personal challenges.

• Poppy by Avi, illustrated by Brian Floca
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Poppy, a courageous mouse, challenges a tyrannical owl named Mr. Ocax to save her family and fulfill a promise to her late boyfriend, Ragweed.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book features complex character dynamics and a detailed setting that require readers to engage deeply with the text and its themes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a thrilling adventure and a strong female protagonist, teaching lessons about bravery and leadership.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love stories of adventure and animals overcoming obstacles.

• The Underneath by Kathi Appelt, illustrated by David Small
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magical Realism
  • Synopsis: This tale intertwines the stories of an abandoned cat and her kittens, a betrayed and vengeful hound, and a mystical shape-shifting alligator in the swamps of the Texas bayou.
  • Why this book is challenging: It employs a lyrical writing style and complex themes of loneliness, redemption, and connection, which are woven together in a non-linear narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It is beautifully written, providing a deep emotional experience alongside its magical elements, encouraging readers to think about the nature of good and evil.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a blend of realism and fantasy and are looking for a deeply emotional story.

• The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This story follows Ralph, a mouse who lives in a hotel and dreams of adventure until he meets a boy with a toy motorcycle, leading to adventures beyond his imagination.
  • Why this book is challenging: It challenges readers with themes of responsibility and the consequences of one's actions within an engaging narrative structure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines excitement and a relatable protagonist with important life lessons, making it both entertaining and educational.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love adventure and stories that feature animal characters with human-like qualities.

• The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel details the harrowing journey of three pets—a Labrador retriever, a bull terrier, and a Siamese cat—as they traverse the Canadian wilderness in search of their owners.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex language and mature themes such as survival, resilience, and the strength of the bond between pets and their owners.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an epic tale of adventure and survival that highlights the intelligence and loyalty of animals.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who enjoy thrilling survival stories.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of animal books and want to make the most out of your reading adventure, here are some great exercises to help you develop solid reading habits. These will not only enhance your understanding but also make reading more enjoyable.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many pages or chapters you want to read each day.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and makes reading a regular part of your day.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific spot at home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Reduces distractions and helps you focus solely on your book.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family who are interested.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and gives you different perspectives.
  • Tips: Try forming a small book club where everyone reads the same book.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Look up words you don't understand.
  • How it helps: Improves vocabulary and better understanding of the content.
  • Tips: Keep a dictionary handy or use a dictionary app.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Boosts creativity and helps you visualize the story better.
  • Tips: Share your drawings with others to discuss your interpretation of the book.

• Summarize Each Chapter
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you read it.
  • How it helps: Reinforces what you've read and helps in retaining information.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and revisit them before continuing the book.

These exercises are designed to make your journey through animal books not just educational but also incredibly fun. Remember, the key is consistency, so try to incorporate these habits into your daily routine. Happy reading!