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

Hey there! Are you on the hunt for the perfect giggle-filled escape? Dive into our latest picks of Rom Com Books for 12-Year-Olds that promise heaps of laughter and sweet, heartwarming moments. Whether you're looking for a light read for yourself or a delightful gift, these books are sure to hit the mark. Keep reading to discover our favorite romantic comedies that are just right for tweens!

Fun Rom Com Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Better Nate Than Ever by Tim Federle
  • Genre(s): Romance, Comedy, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Nate Foster, an unpopular 13-year-old, sneaks away to New York City to audition for a Broadway musical, finding adventure and a chance at stardom.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a hilarious and heartwarming story that captures the struggles and triumphs of chasing your dreams. It encourages young readers to embrace their identity and pursue their passions fearlessly.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring performers and anyone who enjoys a good laugh along with a dose of inspiration.

• The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger
  • Genre(s): Romance, Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Sixth-grader Dwight talks to his classmates via an origami finger puppet of Yoda, dispensing advice that is surprisingly wise and effective.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book combines humor with a touch of romance, making it a great introduction to romantic comedy for tweens. It also promotes understanding and appreciation of different personalities.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love Star Wars, origami, or stories about school life and friendships.

• Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen
  • Genre(s): Romance, Comedy, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Juli Baker devoutly believes in three things: the sanctity of trees, the wholesomeness of eggs, and that someday she will kiss Bryce Loski. When Bryce and Juli first meet in second grade, Juli knows it's love, but Bryce isn't so sure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful and nuanced story about seeing beyond the surface and understanding people for who they really are. It's funny and poignant, perfect for young readers beginning to explore deeper themes.
  • Perfect for: Young romantics and anyone who enjoys stories told from multiple perspectives.

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third Wheel by Jeff Kinney
  • Genre(s): Romance, Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Love is in the air, but what does that mean for Greg Heffley? A Valentine's Day dance at Greg's middle school has turned his world upside down.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book mixes humor with the awkward moments of school dances and young love. It's relatable and can help ease the anxiety of middle school social scenarios.
  • Perfect for: Fans of the series and any kid navigating the confusing world of school social life.

• Dork Diaries: Tales from a Not-So-Fabulous Life by Rachel Renée Russell
  • Genre(s): Romance, Comedy, Diary Fiction
  • Synopsis: Fourteen-year-old Nikki Maxwell is not happy about having to start a new school. But soon, she's dealing with crushes, mean girls, and new friends in her own humorous way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and fast-paced read that combines the drama of middle school with light-hearted comedy and budding romance. It encourages self-expression and resilience in socially awkward situations.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love journal-style storytelling and tales of school adventures.

Educational Rom Com Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole, Aged 13 3/4 by Sue Townsend
  • Genre(s): Romance, Humor, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Adrian Mole's diary captures the highs and lows of being a teenager, including his misadventures in love, family life, and school.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, self-awareness, diary writing skills, understanding of adolescent issues
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a hilarious and touching look into the mind of a teenager trying to figure out life and love. It's relatable and offers valuable insights into the emotional lives of young adults.
  • Perfect for: Teens looking for a laugh and a character who truly understands the ups and downs of adolescence.

• Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This retelling of the Cinderella tale follows Ella, who is cursed with obedience but determined to find her own way and fall in love on her terms.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, creative problem-solving, understanding of themes like autonomy and consent
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines romance with fantasy in a way that's both empowering and exciting. Ella's journey is inspiring, showing the importance of fighting for one's independence and happiness.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fairy tales with a twist and strong female protagonists.

• The Boy Next Door by Meg Cabot
  • Genre(s): Romance, Comedy, Mystery
  • Synopsis: High school journalist Mel Fuller starts receiving emails from her neighbor's nephew who is out of town, leading to a mix-up that turns into a comedy of errors and romance.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Email writing, understanding of narrative voice, plot development
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a light-hearted romantic comedy that also includes elements of mystery, making it a multifaceted and engaging read.
  • Perfect for: Teens who love a good mix of romance, humor, and a bit of suspense.

• Geek Girl by Holly Smale
  • Genre(s): Romance, Comedy, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Harriet Manners knows a lot of facts but less about social success. When she's unexpectedly scouted as a model, her world turns upside down, leading to hilarious and heartwarming misadventures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-acceptance, social skills, understanding of personal growth and transformation
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a funny and charming story that celebrates being different and shows the beauty of embracing who you are.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who feel like they don't quite fit in and anyone who enjoys stories of personal transformation.

• All's Faire in Middle School by Victoria Jamieson
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Romance, Comedy
  • Synopsis: Imogene has grown up with her family working at the Renaissance Faire, and she must navigate the complex social hierarchy of middle school while keeping her less conventional background a secret.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of social dynamics, graphic storytelling, medieval history
  • Why we recommend this book: The unique setting of the Renaissance Faire adds a fun twist to the classic middle school narrative, and the graphic novel format makes it accessible and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love graphic novels, history buffs, and anyone facing the challenge of fitting in.

Challenging Rom Com Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy by Jeanne Birdsall
  • Genre(s): Romance, Family, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This story follows the Penderwick sisters as they spend their summer at a beautiful estate called Arundel. Here, they embark on adventures and stir up trouble, including the youngest sister's innocent crush on a local boy.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative uses a sophisticated vocabulary and intricate plot lines that weave together the various characters' stories, providing a richer reading experience that challenges young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the essence of a whimsical and heartfelt summer adventure, filled with charming characters and a light romantic subplot. It's great for developing a deeper understanding of family dynamics and personal growth.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about sibling relationships and summertime adventures.

• The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Romance, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: In 1899 Texas, Calpurnia Tate is a curious 11-year-old girl who, rather than conforming to societal expectations, embarks on a scientific journey of discovery with her grandfather and develops an unlikely friendship.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex themes such as evolution and societal roles, challenging readers to think critically about history and science.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a thoughtful exploration of a young girl's fight against traditional gender roles, intertwined with gentle romantic elements and scientific discovery.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and any reader interested in historical perspectives on gender and science.

• Star-Crossed by Barbara Dee
  • Genre(s): Romance, Drama, LGBTQ+
  • Synopsis: Mattie, an eighth-grader, navigates the complexities of school drama and her own feelings when she develops a crush on Gemma, a girl playing Juliet in their school play of "Romeo and Juliet."
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles sophisticated themes of sexuality and coming out, presented in a way that is accessible yet thought-provoking for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a sweet and enlightening story about young love and self-discovery, encouraging acceptance and empathy.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a gentle introduction to LGBTQ+ themes and those who enjoy school-based dramas.

• Absolutely Normal Chaos by Sharon Creech
  • Genre(s): Romance, Family, Comedy
  • Synopsis: Mary Lou Finney grudgingly begins her summer journal for a school assignment, documenting what turns out to be the most chaotic and eventful summer of her life, including her first crush.
  • Why this book is challenging: The journal format and Mary Lou's introspective and candid voice provide a deeper understanding of personal and family issues, challenging readers to think about their own experiences and relationships.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous and heartfelt look at the trials and tribulations of family life and young love through the eyes of a relatable protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who appreciate a realistic, diary-style narrative and stories about growing up.

• Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan
  • Genre(s): Romance, Drama, Social Issues
  • Synopsis: Willow Chance is a 12-year-old genius who is obsessed with nature and diagnosing medical conditions and finds it comforting to count by 7s. After a sudden tragedy, she must navigate a new world of unlikely friendships and first crushes.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book addresses heavy themes such as grief and adaptation to change, requiring readers to engage with emotionally complex situations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of romance with a profound narrative about overcoming adversity and finding human connections in unexpected places.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who are not shy about tackling more serious themes and who appreciate stories of resilience and friendship.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the charming world of rom-com books for 12-year-olds, it's a great idea to pair your reading with some fun exercises to enhance your experience. These simple activities will not only make your reading sessions more enjoyable but also help you develop strong reading habits. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and makes reading a regular part of your day.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special corner in your home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Provides a comfortable and quiet environment that can enhance your reading experience.
  • Tips: Add some cozy pillows, good lighting, and maybe even a small shelf for your books.

• Discuss With Friends
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends who are reading it too.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and makes reading a social activity.
  • Tips: Organize a weekly book club meeting to discuss a chapter or two.

• Map the Story
  • What it is: Create a visual map of the story’s events and characters.
  • How it helps: Helps in better comprehension and retention of the story.
  • Tips: Use drawings or diagrams to make the mapping more fun and detailed.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Guess what might happen next after each chapter.
  • How it helps: Engages your imagination and analytical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many were right as you progress.

• Character Diary
  • What it is: Write diary entries from the perspective of different characters.
  • How it helps: Deepens your understanding of the characters and their motivations.
  • Tips: Try to capture the character’s voice and feelings as accurately as possible.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine will not only make your journey through rom-com books more engaging but also help you develop as a reader. Whether you’re giggling at the quirky mishaps or swooning over first crushes, these activities will surely add an extra layer of fun. So, grab your next rom-com read, and let's get started! Happy reading!