10+ Best Mystery Thriller Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)
Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner for your teen? Dive into our latest roundup of mystery thriller books for 13-year-olds that promise suspense, intrigue, and hours of gripping entertainment. Whether they love unraveling puzzles or embarking on thrilling adventures, there's a book here to captivate any young reader's imagination. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to keep them glued to the pages!
Table of Contents
Fun Mystery Thriller Books for 13-Year-Olds
- The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
- Genre(s): Mystery, Young Adult
- Synopsis: Sixteen heirs are brought together to solve the puzzle of Samuel W. Westing's will, which promises to control his vast fortune to whoever can figure out the secret.
- Why we recommend this book: It's a brain-teasing whodunit that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, perfect for young readers who enjoy puzzles.
- Perfect for: Puzzle lovers and young detectives who enjoy a challenging mystery.
- Holes by Louis Sachar
- Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Young Adult
- Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention center, where boys are forced to dig large holes every day. Stanley soon realizes there's more to these activities than punishment and begins to uncover the truth.
- Why we recommend this book: This novel combines adventure with a unique mystery, engaging readers with its intriguing plot twists and rich character development.
- Perfect for: Adventurous readers who appreciate a good mystery mixed with a bit of history.
- Greenglass House by Kate Milford
- Genre(s): Mystery, Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: During winter vacation, Milo Pine and his family, who live in a smugglers' inn, encounter a group of odd guests who each have a strange story, leading to a tangled series of mysteries.
- Why we recommend this book: It's a cozy, atmospheric read that combines elements of fantasy and mystery, ideal for readers who love detailed world-building and complex plots.
- Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories with a magical setting and a web of mysteries to unravel.
- The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
- Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Science Fiction
- Synopsis: Four gifted children are recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict to go on a secret mission at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where they must solve a series of puzzles and stop a global crisis.
- Why we recommend this book: This book promotes teamwork, intelligence, and perseverance through its engaging and intellectually stimulating puzzles and mysteries.
- Perfect for: Intelligent young readers who love solving puzzles and cracking codes.
- Book Scavenger by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman
- Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
- Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Emily and her new friend James discover an unusual book, which is part of a game where books are hidden and clues are left for players to find them. They soon realize the book leads to a bigger mystery that they need to solve.
- Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of cryptography, puzzle-solving, and adventure, making it a thrilling read that also educates about literary history.
- Perfect for: Young readers who love books, puzzles, and mysteries all wrapped into one.
Educational Mystery Thriller Books for 13-Year-Olds
- Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett
- Genre(s): Mystery, Art
- Synopsis: When a valuable Vermeer painting is stolen, two sixth-graders, Petra and Calder, combine their talents in art and mathematics to solve the mystery.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, art history, pattern recognition, and critical thinking
- Why we recommend this book: It cleverly integrates art, math, and mystery, providing a multidimensional challenge that educates while it entertains.
- Perfect for: Young sleuths who have an interest in art and puzzles.
- The Name of this Book Is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch
- Genre(s): Mystery, Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: Two adventurous friends, Cass and Max-Ernest, discover a mysterious box and get involved in a thrilling adventure concerning a magician's secret and a dangerous organization.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving
- Why we recommend this book: It's a fun, secretive story that keeps readers guessing and teaches the value of curiosity and bravery.
- Perfect for: Curious kids who love a good secret and thrilling adventures.
- Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein
- Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
- Synopsis: Kyle Keeley is an avid game fan who, along with other winners, gets to stay overnight in the new town library, designed by the famous game maker Luigi Lemoncello. The fun begins when they must solve puzzles to find their way out.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Logic, teamwork, and knowledge of literature
- Why we recommend this book: It combines classic literature and modern gaming in a unique setting, encouraging problem-solving and cooperation.
- Perfect for: Gamers and book lovers who enjoy fast-paced puzzles and teamwork challenges.
- From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
- Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
- Synopsis: Claudia and her brother Jamie run away to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where they become embroiled in a mystery involving a statue that may be the work of Michelangelo.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, critical thinking, and independence
- Why we recommend this book: It offers a fascinating adventure inside a museum, blending history with mystery in an engaging way.
- Perfect for: Young readers who dream of adventure and are fascinated by history and art.
- The London Eye Mystery by Siobhan Dowd
- Genre(s): Mystery, Family, Social Issues
- Synopsis: Ted and Kat watch their cousin Salim board the London Eye, but he doesn't come off. As the clock ticks, they must piece together the clues and find him before it's too late.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Deductive reasoning, emotional intelligence, and family dynamics
- Why we recommend this book: It’s a gripping mystery that also sensitively handles themes of family and disability.
- Perfect for: Readers who enjoy thrilling real-world mysteries with a strong emotional core.
Challenging Mystery Thriller Books for 13-Year-Olds
- When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
- Genre(s): Mystery, Science Fiction
- Synopsis: Set in the late 1970s, this novel follows Miranda as she starts receiving mysterious notes that seem to predict the future and unravel the events in her life, including the story of a key, a missing friend, and a strange homeless man.
- Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure is complex, involving time travel and subtle clues that require careful attention and critical thinking to piece together.
- Why we recommend this book: It cleverly combines elements of mystery and science fiction, providing a thought-provoking and captivating read that encourages young readers to think about time, friendship, and fate.
- Perfect for: Readers who enjoy science fiction with a twist of mystery and those who like stories that make them think.
- The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
- Genre(s): Mystery, Young Adult
- Synopsis: Christopher, a fifteen-year-old with an extraordinary brain, decides to investigate the murder of a neighbor's dog and discovers unexpected truths about his own family.
- Why this book is challenging: Written from the perspective of a protagonist with autism, the novel challenges readers to see the world through his unique and logical viewpoint, dealing with complex themes of trust and personal growth.
- Why we recommend this book: It offers a distinctive narrative voice and a compelling look into the mind of someone who sees the world differently, enhancing empathy and understanding.
- Perfect for: Young readers interested in psychology and social issues, and those who appreciate novels that provide a window into different ways of experiencing the world.
- The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
- Genre(s): Mystery, Historical Fiction
- Synopsis: In 1930s Paris, young orphan Hugo lives in the walls of a train station, maintaining the clocks and trying to repair an automaton left by his father. His survival and secrets become intertwined with an embittered toy shop owner and a curious girl.
- Why this book is challenging: This visually stunning novel integrates pictures and text to tell a complex story, requiring readers to interpret visual cues and understand how the narrative pieces fit together.
- Why we recommend this book: The unique blend of text and artwork provides a multidimensional reading experience, and the story itself is an enchanting puzzle filled with historical references and cinematic intrigue.
- Perfect for: Visual learners and readers who love art and history, as well as those who enjoy stories that blend reality with a touch of magic.
- The Giver by Lois Lowry
- Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
- Synopsis: In a seemingly perfect community without war, pain, suffering, differences, or choice, a young boy named Jonas is selected to inherit the position of Receiver of Memories. He learns the dark and complex truths of his community's past, and he must decide the fate of his own future.
- Why this book is challenging: It explores deep philosophical questions about society, individuality, and memory, which requires readers to engage with complex ethical dilemmas.
- Why we recommend this book: This novel encourages critical thinking about freedom, choice, and what it means to be human, offering a profound moral message that resonates with readers long after they turn the last page.
- Perfect for: Thoughtful readers who enjoy deep questions and moral challenges, and fans of dystopian narratives.
- The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
- Genre(s): Mystery, Young Adult
- Synopsis: Sixteen heirs are brought together to solve the puzzle of Samuel W. Westing's will, which promises to control his vast fortune to whoever can figure out the secret.
- Why this book is challenging: The plot is intricately woven with a large cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motives, requiring readers to keep track of multiple storylines and clues.
- Why we recommend this book: It's a brain-teasing whodunit that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, perfect for young readers who enjoy puzzles.
- Perfect for: Puzzle lovers and young detectives who enjoy a challenging mystery.
Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit
Hey there! If you're diving into the world of mystery thriller books and you're around 13 years old, you're in for some exciting reads! To make the most out of your reading adventure, here are some exercises that can help you develop great reading habits. These will not only enhance your understanding but also make your reading experience more enjoyable.
- Set Reading Goals
- What it is: Decide how many books or pages you want to read each week or month.
- How it helps: Helps you stay focused and committed to reading regularly.
- Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Create a Reading Space
- What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
- How it helps: Enhances concentration and makes your reading time special.
- Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, comfortable, and has good lighting.
- Discuss What You Read
- What it is: Talk about the books you're reading with friends or family members.
- How it helps: Improves comprehension and gives you different perspectives.
- Tips: Join a book club or start one with your friends to make this more fun and regular.
- Use a Dictionary
- What it is: Keep a dictionary handy to look up words you don’t understand.
- How it helps: Expands your vocabulary and understanding of the book.
- Tips: There are plenty of free dictionary apps that you can use on your mobile device.
- Predict the Plot
- What it is: Try to guess what might happen next in the story.
- How it helps: Keeps you engaged and improves your analytical thinking skills.
- Tips: Write down your predictions and see how many you get right as you read.
- 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.
- Read Aloud Occasionally
- What it is: Read parts of the book out loud to yourself or to others.
- How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps you process the information better.
- Tips: Try different voices for different characters to make it more fun.
These exercises are designed to enhance your reading experience and help you get the most out of every mystery thriller book you pick up. Remember, the key is to enjoy the process of reading and learning. Happy reading!