10+ Best New Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for your teenager? Look no further! Our latest roundup of new books for 13-year-olds is packed with exciting picks that promise to keep young readers hooked. Whether they're into thrilling adventures, mysterious tales, or heartwarming stories, we've got something that will catch their eye. Keep reading to discover our top selections of new books for 13-year-olds and find the perfect match for your young reader!

Fun New Books for 13-Year-Olds

• The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Coyote Sunrise and her dad, Rodeo, live on a school bus and travel wherever they feel like going. But when Coyote learns that a park in her old neighborhood is being demolished—the very place where she, her two sisters, and her mom buried a memory box—she must get back home without letting her dad know.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming adventure that emphasizes the importance of family, friendship, and dealing with grief. It's also filled with humor and life lessons, perfect for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous spirits and anyone who enjoys road trip stories with emotional depth.

• New Kid by Jerry Craft (Illustrator: Jerry Craft)
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel follows Jordan Banks, a seventh grader who starts at a new prestigious private school where he is one of the few kids of color. He struggles to fit in while staying true to himself.
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles issues of race and class in a relatable, accessible way. The graphic novel format makes it particularly appealing to reluctant readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers grappling with themes of belonging and identity, and fans of graphic novels.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magical Realism
  • Synopsis: Every year, the people of the Protectorate leave a baby as an offering to the witch in the forest, hoping this sacrifice will keep her from terrorizing their town. But the witch, Xan, is kind and rescues the children, delivering them to welcoming families on the other side of the forest. One year, Xan accidentally feeds a baby moonlight, filling the ordinary child with extraordinary magic.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written, enchanting story that explores themes of love, power, and the complexity of human nature.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love fantasy and stories with strong, complex characters and rich, detailed worlds.

• Ghost by Jason Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Sports, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Castle "Ghost" Cranshaw has been running ever since his father pointed a gun at him and his mother. When he stumbles upon a track team practice, he thinks he might just fit in. But can he stay on track, literally and figuratively, to face his past and reach his full potential?
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a compelling mix of sports and personal drama, with a protagonist whose struggles and triumphs will resonate with middle schoolers.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes and anyone who enjoys stories of personal growth and overcoming adversity.

• Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Amari Peters has never stopped believing her missing brother, Quinton, is alive. When she discovers a ticking briefcase in his closet containing a nomination for a summer tryout at the secretive Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, she’s determined to find him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines the thrill of a mystery with the wonder of fantasy, offering a gripping, magical adventure that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
  • Perfect for: Fans of fantasy and mystery, and anyone who loves a strong, smart heroine tackling incredible challenges.

Educational New Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Atlas of Adventures: Wonders of the World by Ben Handicott (Illustrator: Lucy Letherland)
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Educational, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Explore the most incredible places across the globe, from the Great Barrier Reef in Australia to the towering peaks of Mount Everest. This book takes readers on a journey through natural wonders, bustling cities, and fascinating cultural landmarks.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Geography, cultural awareness, environmental consciousness
  • Why we recommend this book: It's visually stunning and packed with educational content that sparks curiosity about the world, making learning both fun and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers eager to learn about different cultures and the wonders of our planet.

• The Science of Breakable Things by Tae Keller
  • Genre(s): Science, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Natalie's science teacher, Mr. Neely, introduces a class project on scientific inquiry, and she decides to use the scientific method to figure out how to help her mother, who is struggling with depression. Through her experiments, Natalie learns about resilience, hope, and the complex nature of emotions.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific methodology, emotional intelligence, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully combines science with real-life issues, offering a compassionate glimpse into mental health through a scientific lens.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and any young reader dealing with personal or family challenges.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This true story follows William Kamkwamba, a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to save his village from famine. Facing adversity and skepticism, William's incredible journey showcases the power of ingenuity and perseverance.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Engineering principles, resilience, innovation
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale that demonstrates how creativity and determination can change communities and the world.
  • Perfect for: Young innovators and anyone interested in stories of extraordinary achievement against the odds.

• Solving for M by Jennifer Swender
  • Genre(s): Mathematics, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: When Mika starts fifth grade, she finds comfort in her new math class with a wonderful teacher. But as her mom's health issues become a bigger problem, Mika uses math and her journal to navigate her challenging world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mathematical concepts, coping strategies, emotional expression
  • Why we recommend this book: It uniquely integrates math into everyday life and emotional challenges, making it relatable and educational.
  • Perfect for: Students who enjoy math or are looking for ways to connect school subjects with personal experiences.

• Can You Hear the Trees Talking? Discovering the Hidden Life of the Forest by Peter Wohlleben
  • Genre(s): Science, Nature
  • Synopsis: Based on the bestselling book for adults, this young reader's edition explores the secret life of trees and forests. Learn how trees communicate, share resources, and support each other in a complex, interconnected ecosystem.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental science, biology, ecology
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fascinating look at the natural world, encouraging respect and awe for the environment.
  • Perfect for: Nature lovers and young environmentalists curious about the science of nature and conservation.

Challenging New Books for 13-Year-Olds

• 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. The children must infiltrate the institute to discover the truth behind a global crisis.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel features complex puzzles and moral dilemmas that challenge the reader's problem-solving skills and ethical reasoning.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines mystery and adventure with thought-provoking puzzles, making it both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle solvers and young detectives who enjoy twisting plots and brain teasers.

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe embark on a journey through space and time to rescue Meg's father from the evil forces that hold him prisoner on another planet.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces concepts of theoretical physics within a complex narrative structure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a thrilling adventure that stretches the imagination and introduces young readers to the wonders of science fiction and the power of love and courage.
  • Perfect for: Sci-fi enthusiasts and readers who appreciate stories about family and resilience.

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Nazi Germany, this novel follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who steals books and shares them with her neighbors and the Jewish man hiding in her basement.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of death, war, and the power of words, and is narrated by Death, which presents a unique and sophisticated narrative voice.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a new perspective on the Holocaust and emphasizes the impact of literacy and compassion in tough times.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and those interested in a deeper, poignant narrative that challenges perspectives.

• The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Lyra Belacqua, a young girl living in a parallel universe, embarks on a perilous journey to the Arctic to save her kidnapped friend and other abducted children from terrible experiments.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel introduces complex themes such as freedom and predestination, and critiques organized religion and political control.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a thrilling fantasy that encourages critical thinking about freedom, authority, and personal responsibility.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love epic adventures and exploring philosophical questions.

• Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Military Fiction
  • Synopsis: Young Ender Wiggin is recruited by the military to attend Battle School in space to prepare for a future alien invasion. Ender struggles with isolation, rivalry, and the pressures of command.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex themes of warfare, ethics, and leadership through the experiences of a child prodigy.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gripping look at tactical leadership and the moral issues of war, all through the eyes of a relatable young protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring strategists and readers who enjoy intense, thought-provoking narratives.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! Are you or your 13-year-old looking to dive into some great new books? That's fantastic! Reading can be one of the most magical and enriching experiences. To make the most out of this adventure, it’s important to develop good reading habits early on. Here are some fun and effective exercises to help any young reader get the most out of their new books.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much reading to do each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps manage reading time and sets a clear target.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area at home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances focus on reading.
  • Tips: Make the space cozy and inviting, with good lighting and minimal noise.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the book.
  • Tips: Try forming a small book club to make discussions a regular event.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize technology to track and encourage reading habits.
  • How it helps: Provides tools for organizing and reminding about reading sessions.
  • Tips: Choose apps that allow setting reminders and tracking progress.

• Mix It Up
  • What it is: Alternate between different genres and styles of books.
  • How it helps: Keeps reading exciting and broadens perspectives.
  • Tips: Plan to read something different each month to keep things interesting.

• 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.

So, there you have it! With these exercises, any 13-year-old can enhance their reading experience and make the most out of every book. Remember, the key to becoming a better reader is consistency and enjoyment. So, pick up those books and let the adventures begin! Happy reading!