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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for your tween? Look no further than Judy Blume books for 12-year-olds! Judy Blume has captured the hearts of young readers for generations with her relatable characters and engaging stories. Whether your 12-year-old is a voracious reader or just getting into books, Judy Blume's works are sure to spark their interest. Keep reading to discover our curated lists of Judy Blume books that are perfect for 12-year-olds!

Fun Judy Blume Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: The story follows Margaret Simon, a sixth-grader who is navigating the complexities of puberty, religion, and social dynamics after moving to a new town.
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses the anxieties and challenges of pre-teen life with honesty and sensitivity, encouraging open discussion about personal and emotional growth.
  • Perfect for: Readers facing their own coming-of-age challenges or those interested in a heartfelt, realistic portrayal of adolescent life.

• Blubber by Judy Blume
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel centers around Jill Brenner and her classmates, focusing on the dynamics of bullying and peer pressure after a classmate is teased for her weight.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a candid look at the impact of bullying and the importance of empathy and kindness, making it a valuable read for developing social awareness.
  • Perfect for: Young readers looking to understand more about peer pressure, bullying, and the importance of compassion in friendships.

• Then Again, Maybe I Won't by Judy Blume
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: The book tells the story of Tony Miglione, a young boy dealing with the sudden changes that come with his family's move to a wealthier neighborhood and his own onset of puberty.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides insight into the struggles of growing up and the confusion that often accompanies adolescence, making it relatable to young readers experiencing similar changes.
  • Perfect for: Pre-teens undergoing transitions in their own lives or those who appreciate stories about personal growth and self-discovery.

Educational Judy Blume Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Deenie by Judy Blume
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fiction
  • Synopsis: The novel follows Deenie, a thirteen-year-old girl who dreams of becoming a model but is diagnosed with scoliosis and must wear a back brace. The story explores her journey of self-acceptance and adjustment.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, resilience, self-awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compassionate look at physical disabilities and the social and emotional challenges that come with them, promoting understanding and acceptance.
  • Perfect for: Young readers dealing with or learning about physical challenges and self-esteem issues.

• Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume
  • Genre(s): Humor, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book introduces Peter Hatcher and his little brother, Fudge, who often causes trouble for Peter with his antics. It's a humorous take on sibling relationships and family dynamics.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Family dynamics, problem-solving, emotional regulation
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a funny yet realistic look at the trials and tribulations of growing up with a mischievous younger sibling.
  • Perfect for: Children who are navigating their own family relationships, especially those with younger siblings.

• It's Not the End of the World by Judy Blume
  • Genre(s): Family, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story centers on Karen, a young girl who struggles to cope with her parents' separation and the realities of divorce.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Coping with change, understanding family issues, emotional resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles the difficult subject of divorce with sensitivity and realism, helping readers understand and process such changes in their own lives.
  • Perfect for: Young readers experiencing or curious about the impact of divorce and family separations.

Challenging Judy Blume Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Summer Sisters by Judy Blume
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Drama
  • Synopsis: The novel explores the complex and enduring friendship between Caitlin Somers and Victoria "Vix" Leonard over the course of several summers on Martha’s Vineyard. As they grow from adolescence to adulthood, their relationship faces numerous challenges and transformations.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into intricate themes of friendship, love, and personal growth, featuring nuanced characters and a layered narrative that can provoke thoughtful reflection.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a deep dive into the dynamics of a long-term friendship, including the joys and pains that come with growing up. The emotional and psychological depth of the characters makes it a compelling read.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy rich character development and stories that explore deep emotional connections and life transitions.

• Wifey by Judy Blume
  • Genre(s): Adult Fiction, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the life of Sandy Pressman, a housewife who begins to question her traditional life choices and the roles imposed by society as she encounters various temptations and crises.
  • Why this book is challenging: Although typically aimed at an older audience, its inclusion here is due to its advanced exploration of adult themes and moral complexities, which can challenge younger readers to think critically about societal norms and personal happiness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a critical look at personal identity and societal expectations, encouraging readers to consider different perspectives on life and relationships.
  • Perfect for: Mature young readers interested in psychological depth and societal commentary, or those looking to explore more adult themes in a controlled context.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the wonderful world of Judy Blume books at the age of 12, you're in for a treat! Judy's books can be not just fun but also a great way to build some solid reading habits. Here are a few exercises that can help you get the most out of your reading experience:

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you want to read.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and make reading a regular part of your day.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who have read it or are reading it.
  • How it helps: Enhances your understanding and retention of the book.
  • Tips: Try to bring up specific characters or scenes to make the discussion more engaging.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Set up a specific spot in your home where you go to read.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a special and enjoyable experience.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, comfortable, and has good lighting.

• Use a Vocabulary Notebook
  • What it is: Keep a small notebook or digital document for new words and phrases you learn while reading.
  • How it helps: Expands your vocabulary and improves language skills.
  • Tips: Review the notebook regularly to reinforce new words.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Before you start a new chapter, guess what might happen next in the story.
  • How it helps: Keeps you engaged and thinking critically about the story.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many of them were right as you read.

• Reflect After Reading
  • What it is: Take a few minutes to reflect on the book after you finish it.
  • How it helps: Helps you think deeply about what you've read and its themes.
  • Tips: Consider how the story relates to your own experiences or to the real world.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine can really boost your engagement and enjoyment of Judy Blume's books. Not only will you get more out of her stories, but you'll also build lasting reading habits that can benefit you throughout life. Happy reading!