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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to broaden your 12-year-old's horizons? Look no further than our comprehensive guide to General Knowledge Books for 12-Year-Olds! These books are packed with fascinating facts and engaging topics that are ideal for curious young minds. Keep reading as we dive into various lists of General Knowledge Books for 12-Year-Olds that promise to captivate and educate in equal measure. Let’s get started and discover the perfect addition to your tween’s bookshelf!

Fun General Knowledge Books for 12-Year-Olds

• National Geographic Kids Almanac by National Geographic Kids
  • Genre(s): Reference, Science, Nature
  • Synopsis: This yearly almanac packs in fun facts, puzzles, and games alongside the latest homework help on subjects like geography, history, and science.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's colorful, engaging, and filled with a wide range of topics that are perfect for sparking curiosity and a love for learning.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love trivia and learning about the world around them.

• The Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay
  • Genre(s): Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: From levers to lasers, from cameras to computers, this book explains how the large and small machines we use every day function.
  • Why we recommend this book: It simplifies complex machines and technology in a way that's accessible and fascinating to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young tech enthusiasts and budding engineers.

• Guinness World Records 2023 by Guinness World Records
  • Genre(s): Reference, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This book compiles the most jaw-dropping world records set by both humans and nature.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's visually stunning and offers a mix of inspirational, educational, and just plain fun entries that can captivate any reader.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love to be amazed and who might be inspired to set their own world records.

• TIME for Kids Big Book of Why by the Editors of TIME for Kids
  • Genre(s): Reference, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book answers common why questions kids ask about animals, science, and many other topics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking and satisfies the curiosity of young minds through clear, informative answers.
  • Perfect for: Inquisitive kids who always have another "why?" on their lips.

• Knowledge Encyclopedia by DK
  • Genre(s): Reference, Education
  • Synopsis: A comprehensive encyclopedia designed to excite and educate young readers, covering topics from history and science to space and the natural world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a visually engaging and fact-packed journey through a wealth of topics, enhancing general knowledge and understanding of the world.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy diving deep into a wide array of subjects and learning something new on every page.

Educational General Knowledge Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Elements Book: A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table by DK
  • Genre(s): Science, Reference, Education
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive guide dives into the fascinating world of the periodic table, detailing each element with stunning visuals and facts.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Chemistry knowledge, scientific literacy, and data interpretation
  • Why we recommend this book: It breaks down complex scientific concepts into easy-to-understand information with engaging visuals, making it perfect for young learners.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and those interested in understanding the building blocks of everything in the universe.

• How Things Work: Inside Out by T.J. Resler
  • Genre(s): Technology, Science
  • Synopsis: This book reveals the secrets behind everyday items and technologies, explaining how they function from the inside out.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mechanical knowledge, curiosity about technology, and understanding of physics
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers detailed explanations accompanied by vivid illustrations, making complex mechanisms understandable and fascinating.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who enjoy dismantling things to see how they work and anyone with a knack for engineering.

• Maps by Aleksandra Mizielinska and Daniel Mizielinski (Illustrators)
  • Genre(s): Geography, Culture
  • Synopsis: This book features beautifully illustrated maps of countries all over the world, each adorned with cultural icons, famous landmarks, and native animals.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Geographic literacy, cultural awareness, and visual learning
  • Why we recommend this book: Its artistic approach to maps makes geography engaging and accessible, encouraging exploration and discovery.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who dream of traveling the world and anyone interested in the diverse cultures of our planet.

• Brain Games: The Mind-Blowing Science of Your Amazing Brain by Jennifer Swanson
  • Genre(s): Science, Psychology, Activity Book
  • Synopsis: This interactive book offers a series of games and experiments designed to explain how the human brain works.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cognitive science, problem-solving skills, and understanding of human biology
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides hands-on activities that make learning about the brain fun and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in science and psychology, and those who enjoy interactive learning.

• The World Atlas of Coffee: From Beans to Brewing -- Coffees Explored, Explained and Enjoyed by James Hoffmann
  • Genre(s): Geography, Culture, Food Science
  • Synopsis: This book explores the journey of coffee from farms around the world to the cup in your hand, detailing the different types of coffee and how they are harvested and processed.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural appreciation, agricultural knowledge, and global trade understanding
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a comprehensive look at a beloved global beverage through a scientific and cultural lens.
  • Perfect for: Young coffee enthusiasts and anyone interested in the intersection of agriculture, culture, and science.

Challenging General Knowledge Books for 12-Year-Olds

• A Black Hole is NOT a Hole by Carolyn Cinami DeCristofano
  • Genre(s): Science, Astronomy
  • Synopsis: This engaging book demystifies the concept of black holes by explaining what they are, how they are formed, and why they are important in our understanding of the universe.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex astronomical concepts and theories that are typically introduced at higher educational levels.
  • Why we recommend this book: It simplifies difficult scientific ideas into understandable segments, sparking interest in astrophysics and science.
  • Perfect for: Young astronomers and anyone curious about the mysteries of space.

• The Mystery of the Periodic Table by Benjamin Wiker
  • Genre(s): Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book tells the fascinating story of the elements and the history of the periodic table, from ancient alchemy to modern physics and chemistry.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a broad range of scientific and historical topics, requiring readers to think critically about how different scientific discoveries interconnect.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a historical perspective that enriches the reader’s understanding of chemistry and its impact on human history.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring chemists and history buffs.

• An Illustrated Brief History of Western Philosophy by Anthony Kenny
  • Genre(s): Philosophy, History
  • Synopsis: This book surveys the major thinkers and schools of thought in Western philosophy from the pre-Socratic era to the late twentieth century.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex philosophical ideas and debates that require abstract thinking and interpretation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of Western philosophy, encouraging deep thinking and intellectual exploration.
  • Perfect for: Young philosophers and critical thinkers.

• The Kid Who Invented the Popsicle: And Other Surprising Stories about Inventions by Don L. Wulffson
  • Genre(s): History, Science, Biography
  • Synopsis: This book explores the interesting and often quirky backstories behind various everyday inventions and the kids, teens, and adults who created them.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a blend of historical facts, biographical sketches, and scientific explanations, requiring readers to integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates creativity and innovation, inspiring readers to think about how they can influence the world around them.
  • Perfect for: Inventors and creative thinkers.

• The Landmark Thucydides: A Comprehensive Guide to the Peloponnesian War edited by Robert B. Strassler
  • Genre(s): History, Military, Ancient Civilizations
  • Synopsis: This edition of Thucydides' classic work on the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta includes maps, annotations, and appendices to help readers understand the context and content of the history.
  • Why this book is challenging: It involves complex military strategies and political theories from ancient times, which are quite advanced for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a detailed look at ancient military history and political strategy, enhancing understanding of historical methodologies and ancient cultures.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and strategists.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to dive into some general knowledge books, you're in for a treat! Not only can these books be incredibly enriching, but they also offer a fun way to learn about the world. To make the most out of your reading experience, here are some exercises designed specifically for 12-year-olds to develop good reading habits:

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Helps create a consistent reading schedule and builds discipline.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus and makes reading time special and enjoyable.
  • Tips: Make sure it's well-lit and quiet, with all your reading materials at hand.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you read with friends or family members.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention, and can also inspire new insights.
  • Tips: Try to express what you liked, what surprised you, and what questions you might have.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Look up any unfamiliar words you come across in a dictionary.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and understanding of the content.
  • Tips: Keep a dictionary nearby when reading, or use a dictionary app.

• Summarize Each Chapter
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you finish reading it.
  • How it helps: Reinforces what you've read and helps in better understanding the material.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and focus on the main points.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Read passages or chapters out loud to yourself or others.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and can make reading more engaging.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pace to match the context of the text.

• 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.

Wrapping up, these exercises aren't just about improving your reading skills; they're about making reading a fun, integral part of your daily life. Try incorporating a few of these into your routine and watch how they transform your reading sessions. Happy reading!