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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that educates while it entertains? Look no further! Our curated list of nonfiction books for 12-year-olds is packed with captivating choices that are sure to enrich and inspire curious young minds. Whether your tween is a budding scientist, a history buff, or simply a fact-finder, we've got something that will catch their eye. Keep reading to discover our top picks for nonfiction books that are just right for 12-year-olds!

Fun Nonfiction Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Illustrator: Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book tells the true story of a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to create electricity for his village, transforming the lives of his community.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of innovation and determination, showing how creativity can literally power change. It's both educational and uplifting.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and anyone interested in stories of extraordinary achievements against the odds.

• Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book highlights the contributions of fifty notable women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from the ancient to the modern world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great way to get inspired by the achievements of women in science, encouraging readers to pursue their interests in STEM fields.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists, particularly girls who are looking for role models in science and technology.

• National Geographic Kids Why?: Over 1,111 Answers to Everything by Crispin Boyer
  • Genre(s): Science, Reference
  • Synopsis: Packed with information on a wide range of topics, this book answers over a thousand questions that kids might ask about the world around them.
  • Why we recommend this book: It feeds curiosity with fun, digestible facts and engaging explanations, making learning a joy rather than a chore.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love to ask "Why?" and enjoy discovering the world through facts and figures.

• I Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World (Young Readers Edition) by Malala Yousafzai with Patricia McCormick
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Inspirational, Social Issues
  • Synopsis: This is the memoir of a young Pakistani girl who stood up against the Taliban to fight for her right to education.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful and moving story that shows the impact one person can have on the world. It also emphasizes the importance of education and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in activism, social justice, and inspirational stories of courage.

• The Thrifty Guide to Ancient Rome: A Handbook for Time Travelers by Jonathan W. Stokes
  • Illustrator: David Sossella
  • Genre(s): History, Humor
  • Synopsis: Presented as a travel guide for time travelers, this book provides a humorous yet informative look at ancient Rome.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines facts with fun, offering a unique perspective on history that is both entertaining and educational.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and anyone who enjoys a good laugh while learning about the past.

Educational Nonfiction Books for 12-Year-Olds

• An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States for Young People by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, adapted by Jean Mendoza and Debbie Reese
  • Genre(s): History, Social Justice
  • Synopsis: This book adapts the original adult text for younger readers, offering a history of the United States told from the perspective of Indigenous peoples.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, historical perspective, cultural awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a crucial rethinking of U.S. history with a focus on the experiences and perspectives of Indigenous peoples.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in American history and social justice.

• Can We Save the Tiger? by Martin Jenkins
  • Illustrator: Vicky White
  • Genre(s): Environmental Science, Conservation
  • Synopsis: The book is a beautifully illustrated exploration of conservation efforts focused on various endangered species around the world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental awareness, empathy for animals, understanding of conservation efforts
  • Why we recommend this book: It's visually stunning and provides important insights into the challenges faced by endangered species.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young environmentalists.

• The Where, the Why, and the How: 75 Artists Illustrate Wondrous Mysteries of Science by Jenny Volvovski, Julia Rothman, and Matt Lamothe
  • Genre(s): Science, Art
  • Synopsis: This unique book bridges art and science by exploring 75 scientific mysteries, each illustrated by a different artist.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific curiosity, artistic appreciation, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively combines scientific facts with artistic interpretation, making complex ideas accessible and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Budding scientists and artists who are curious about the mysteries of the universe.

• Eyes Wide Open: Going Behind the Environmental Headlines by Paul Fleischman
  • Genre(s): Environmental Science, Current Affairs
  • Synopsis: A youth-friendly analysis of major environmental issues, encouraging critical thinking and proactive responses.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental science, critical thinking, media literacy
  • Why we recommend this book: It helps readers understand the complexities of environmental news and teaches them how to think critically about what they hear and see.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and critical thinkers.

• Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition by Margot Lee Shetterly
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book tells the incredible true story of the African American women mathematicians at NASA who helped fuel some of America’s greatest achievements in space.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mathematical concepts, historical awareness, understanding of racial and gender equality
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story that highlights the contributions of often-overlooked figures in American history and science.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring mathematicians and historians, and anyone interested in space exploration and civil rights.

Challenging Nonfiction Books for 12-Year-Olds

• A Black Hole is NOT a Hole by Carolyn Cinami DeCristofano
  • Illustrator: Michael Carroll
  • Genre(s): Science, Astronomy
  • Synopsis: This engaging book provides an in-depth look at black holes, explaining what they are, how they are formed, and why they are important in the universe.
  • Why this book is challenging: The concepts of astrophysics and complex astronomical phenomena are explained in detail, challenging young readers to expand their understanding of the universe.
  • Why we recommend this book: It demystifies a complex topic with clear explanations and captivating illustrations, sparking interest in advanced science.
  • Perfect for: Young astronomers and anyone fascinated by the mysteries of space.

• Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World's Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin
  • Genre(s): History, Science, Thriller
  • Synopsis: This nonfiction thriller details the scientific discovery of atomic energy and the harrowing espionage that led to the building of the atomic bomb during World War II.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers advanced scientific concepts and historical contexts that require critical thinking and comprehension of complex issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines science, history, and suspense in a way that makes learning about this pivotal time in history exciting and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and scientists who love a good story with real-world impact.

• The Omnivore's Dilemma: Young Readers Edition by Michael Pollan
  • Genre(s): Health, Science, Society
  • Synopsis: This book explores the question of what we should have for dinner, considering the ethical, environmental, and health implications of our food choices.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex issues related to agriculture, economics, and nutrition, encouraging readers to think critically about everyday decisions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It raises awareness about sustainable eating practices and the effects of our food choices on the environment and our bodies.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science, health, and environmental issues.

• Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith by Deborah Heiligman
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Science
  • Synopsis: This biography examines the relationship between Charles Darwin and his wife, Emma, focusing on how his theory of evolution clashed with her religious beliefs.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into sophisticated themes of science versus religion, as well as the historical context of Darwin’s work.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a personal look at how groundbreaking scientific ideas were received in the context of close relationships and societal norms.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in science, history, and the personal stories behind major scientific discoveries.

• The Port Chicago 50: Disaster, Mutiny, and the Fight for Civil Rights by Steve Sheinkin
  • Genre(s): History, Social Justice
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of fifty African American sailors who were charged with mutiny during World War II for refusing to work in unsafe conditions.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses complex issues of racism, military history, and civil rights with a depth that requires thoughtful engagement.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights a critical but often overlooked moment in civil rights history, encouraging a deeper understanding of racial justice.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history, civil rights, and stories of resistance and bravery.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're a 12-year-old or know someone who is, diving into nonfiction books can be both enlightening and fun. To make the most out of your reading experience, here are some exercises designed to develop good reading habits. These will not only enhance your understanding but also make reading a more engaging activity.

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on how many pages or chapters you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps create a consistent reading schedule and builds discipline.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them as you get comfortable.

• Summarize What You Read
  • What it is: After each reading session, write a brief summary of what you've read.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of information.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries short and focus on the main points.

• Discuss With Others
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends, family, or classmates who are interested in similar topics.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding through discussion and can introduce new perspectives.
  • Tips: Try to express what you found most interesting or surprising.

• Create a Mind Map
  • What it is: Draw a mind map to organize information and themes from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize connections between concepts and improves memory.
  • Tips: Use different colors and symbols to make the mind map more effective and easier to remember.

• Ask Questions
  • What it is: Write down any questions that arise while you're reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and deeper engagement with the material.
  • Tips: Review and seek answers to your questions once you finish the book.

• Teach What You Learn
  • What it is: Explain the book's content to someone else as if you're teaching them.
  • How it helps: Teaching is one of the best ways to understand a topic thoroughly.
  • Tips: Use simple language and examples to clarify complex concepts.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine will not only make your journey through nonfiction books more productive but also more enjoyable. Give them a try and see how much more you can get out of your books. Happy reading!