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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that will transport your 12-year-old back to the age of dinosaurs? Look no further! Our curated selection of dinosaur books for 12-year-olds is packed with thrilling adventures and fascinating facts that will captivate any young dino enthusiast. Keep reading to discover our top picks that promise to spark imagination and maybe even teach a thing or two about these magnificent creatures from the past!

Fun Dinosaur Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Dinosaur Lords by Victor Milán
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In a world reminiscent of Earth's Middle Ages, dinosaurs roam freely and are used as weapons in massive battles. The story follows noble knights who ride these dinosaurs into combat, exploring themes of power, betrayal, and intrigue.
  • Why we recommend this book: It blends the excitement of dinosaur fiction with the complex storytelling of medieval fantasy, making it a thrilling read that keeps pages turning.
  • Perfect for: Fans of epic fantasy and dinosaur enthusiasts looking for a mature, imaginative twist.

• Cryptid Hunters by Roland Smith
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Twins Grace and Marty are whisked away to a mysterious island where their uncle lives, discovering that it's home to creatures thought to be extinct, including dinosaurs.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fast-paced adventure that combines science, suspense, and the thrill of discovering the unknown, perfect for sparking a love of reading.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and mystery solvers who dream of exploring uncharted territories.

• Dinotopia: A Land Apart from Time by James Gurney
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: After being shipwrecked on a mysterious island, father and son discover a world where humans and dinosaurs coexist in harmony.
  • Why we recommend this book: The rich illustrations and unique setting make it a captivating read, encouraging imagination and a love for storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate detailed artwork and stories about utopian societies.

• Raptor Red by Robert T. Bakker
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A year in the life of Raptor Red, a female Utahraptor, as she navigates the challenges of her world, from finding food to caring for her family.
  • Why we recommend this book: Written by a paleontologist, it offers an authentic look at what the life of a dinosaur might have been like, wrapped up in an engaging narrative.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring paleontologists and readers who enjoy seeing the world from non-human perspectives.

• Prehistoric Predators by Brian Switek, illustrated by Julius Csotonyi
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: An informative look at the predators of the prehistoric world, featuring detailed descriptions and vivid illustrations of dinosaurs and other ancient beasts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines factual dinosaur science with engaging storytelling and stunning visuals, making learning fun and exciting.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a keen interest in science and natural history, who also enjoy detailed illustrations to spark their imagination.

Educational Dinosaur Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs: A New History of a Lost World by Steve Brusatte
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book provides a captivating scientific narrative about the rise, reign, and extinction of dinosaurs over the course of millions of years.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Paleontology, evolutionary biology, Earth's history
  • Why we recommend this book: Steve Brusatte uses accessible language and the latest scientific research to bring the story of the dinosaurs to life, making complex concepts understandable and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Young science enthusiasts and dinosaur lovers eager to understand the real history of these ancient creatures.

• Dinosaur Empire! (Earth Before Us #1): Journey through the Mesozoic Era by Abby Howard
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Educational
  • Synopsis: A whimsical adventure through the Mesozoic Era where a young student learns about dinosaurs by traveling back in time.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Geological time periods, dinosaur species characteristics, scientific inquiry
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun, engaging way to learn about different dinosaur species and the environments they lived in, presented in a graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a mix of education and entertainment, particularly those who love comics and graphic novels.

• When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth by Jules Howard, illustrated by Robert Ball
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science, History
  • Synopsis: An exploration of the various dinosaurs that once roamed our planet, featuring insights into their daily lives and environments.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Dinosaur behavior, environmental adaptation, fossil interpretation
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines factual information with engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations, making it a visually appealing and educational read.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are fascinated by dinosaurs and enjoy learning through both text and illustrations.

• National Geographic Kids Ultimate Dinopedia: The Most Complete Dinosaur Reference Ever by Don Lessem, illustrated by Franco Tempesta
  • Genre(s): Reference, Educational
  • Synopsis: A comprehensive guide to dinosaurs, featuring profiles of various species, including their habitats, diets, and scientific discoveries.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Research skills, scientific knowledge, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thorough and authoritative resource that's also accessible, making it ideal for comprehensive learning about dinosaurs.
  • Perfect for: Students who need a reliable reference for projects or are deeply interested in expanding their knowledge about dinosaurs.

• The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins by Barbara Kerley, illustrated by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Art
  • Synopsis: This book tells the true story of Waterhouse Hawkins, an artist and scientist who built the first life-sized dinosaur models in the 19th century.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Artistic interpretation, history of science, biography
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully blends art, history, and science, showcasing the impact of one man's creativity and determination on the world of paleontology.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in art, history, and dinosaurs, and those inspired by how creativity and science can work hand in hand.

Challenging Dinosaur Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Dinosaur Artist: Obsession, Betrayal, and the Quest for Earth's Ultimate Trophy by Paige Williams
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science, Crime
  • Synopsis: This book delves into the world of fossil poaching and the global trade of illicit dinosaur bones, focusing on the story of a single fossil dealer whose ambition led him into legal battles and scientific controversies.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses complex legal and ethical issues surrounding paleontology and fossil trading, requiring readers to think critically about science, law, and morality.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping narrative that not only entertains but also educates on the implications of fossil poaching on science and culture.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in real-world science issues and the ethical dimensions of dinosaur paleontology.

• Dragon Teeth by Michael Crichton
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Set during the "Bone Wars" of the late 19th century, this novel follows a young paleontologist who is thrust into the cutthroat world of fossil hunting and must survive in a landscape filled with not only dinosaur bones but also hostile competitors.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel incorporates real historical figures and events, blending factual history with fiction in a way that requires discernment and a deeper understanding of the era.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines Michael Crichton's thrilling narrative style with a fascinating period in scientific discovery, making it both educational and exciting.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love history and adventure, and those interested in the competitive nature of scientific pursuits.

• The Fossil Hunter: Dinosaurs, Evolution, and the Woman Whose Discoveries Changed the World by Shelley Emling
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This biography explores the life of Mary Anning, a pioneering paleontologist who discovered several of the first dinosaur fossils and made significant contributions to the field of geology.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents complex scientific concepts and the historical context of the early 19th century, requiring readers to grasp both the science and the social conditions of the time.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the achievements of a historically significant figure in science, inspiring readers with the story of her perseverance and passion for paleontology.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and anyone interested in the history of science and the role of women in its development.

• Terrible Lizard: The First Dinosaur Hunters and the Birth of a New Science by Deborah Cadbury
  • Genre(s): History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book recounts the early days of paleontology, focusing on the discovery of the first dinosaur fossils and the scientists who were at the forefront of these groundbreaking finds.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers the scientific process of discovery and the controversies that arose during the infancy of paleontology, requiring understanding of both scientific and historical contexts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a detailed look at the birth of paleontology as a science, offering insights into how scientific understanding evolves and the human stories behind the discoveries.
  • Perfect for: Readers fascinated by the history of science and those curious about how major scientific discoveries are made and received.

• Time Traveler: In Search of Dinosaurs and Other Fossils from Montana to Mongolia by Michael Novacek
  • Genre(s): Science, Adventure, Memoir
  • Synopsis: This memoir by a paleontologist recounts his expeditions to remote parts of the world in search of dinosaur fossils, providing insights into the practice of paleontology and the excitement of discovery.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes detailed descriptions of paleontological methods and the scientific significance of various discoveries, which are intellectually stimulating and complex.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a personal and thrilling look at the life of a scientist in the field, blending adventure with significant scientific inquiry and discovery.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers and budding paleontologists eager to learn about the real work of dinosaur hunting and the thrill of scientific discovery.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of dinosaur books, you're in for a thrilling adventure. To make the most out of your reading experience, especially if you're around 12 years old, it's great to develop some solid reading habits. Here are a few exercises that can help you do just that. Each one is designed to enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the books you're exploring.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and on track with your reading.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Dinosaur Fact File
  • What it is: Make a file or notebook dedicated to recording interesting dinosaur facts you learn.
  • How it helps: Enhances retention and makes learning fun.
  • Tips: Use pictures and diagrams to make your fact file more engaging.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books with friends or family who might be interested.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and gives you different perspectives.
  • Tips: Try to bring up a new idea or question each time you discuss the book.

• Map the Story
  • What it is: Draw a map or timeline of the events in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps you visualize the story and remember details.
  • Tips: Include key events and characters, and update it as you read.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Before reading a chapter, try to predict what might happen next.
  • How it helps: Enhances engagement and critical thinking.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many were right as you go.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Spend some time reading the book aloud, either to yourself or to an audience.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps you process the information better.
  • Tips: Try to express the emotions of the scene with your voice.

These exercises aren't just tasks; they're ways to dive deeper into the books you read and really get the most out of them. Whether you're reading about the fierce Tyrannosaurus Rex or the gigantic Brachiosaurus, these habits can make your journey into the prehistoric world even more exciting. So grab your favorite dinosaur book, pick one or two of these exercises, and start your adventure!