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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect detective stories that will keep your 12-year-old glued to the pages? Look no further than Sherlock Holmes books for 12-year-olds, a timeless collection that introduces young readers to the intriguing world of mystery and deduction. Join us as we explore various lists of Sherlock Holmes books tailored specifically for young detectives. Keep reading to discover which adventures await!

Fun Sherlock Holmes Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Detective Fiction
  • Synopsis: Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson investigate the legend of a supernatural hound that is said to haunt the Baskerville family. As they dig deeper, they uncover a more earthly menace.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling mystery that combines folklore with scientific deduction, making it a captivating read that can enhance critical thinking skills.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love a good mystery and spooky stories.

• The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Short Stories
  • Synopsis: This collection of twelve short stories introduces readers to some of Holmes's most intriguing and puzzling cases, including "A Scandal in Bohemia" and "The Adventure of the Speckled Band."
  • Why we recommend this book: Each story is a quick, engaging read that introduces complex problem-solving skills and the concept of observational deduction.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy bite-sized stories that are packed with suspense and intellectual challenges.

• Young Sherlock Holmes: Death Cloud by Andrew Lane
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Fourteen-year-old Sherlock Holmes faces his first challenge when he discovers a plot to kill hundreds of British soldiers in 1868. With the help of new friends, he must solve the mystery behind the deadly cloud.
  • Why we recommend this book: It presents a young Sherlock, making it relatable to younger readers, and it’s packed with action and adventure to keep the pages turning.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers who enjoy historical settings and seeing a teenage hero outsmart adults.

• Sherlock Holmes and the Baker Street Irregulars: The Fall of the Amazing Zalindas by Tracy Mack and Michael Citrin
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Sherlock Holmes teams up with the Baker Street Irregulars, a group of children who help him gather clues. Together, they solve the mysterious death of a tightrope walker.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines classic Sherlock Holmes-style deduction with a cast of youthful characters, making it both educational and highly entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Kids who like teamwork, puzzles, and seeing kids their own age as heroes.

• Enola Holmes: The Case of the Missing Marquess by Nancy Springer
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Enola Holmes, the much younger sister of detective Sherlock Holmes, embarks on a quest to find her missing mother but finds herself entangled in the kidnapping of a young Marquess.
  • Why we recommend this book: It features a strong, intelligent female protagonist and provides a fresh perspective on the Sherlock Holmes universe, encouraging independent thinking and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories with female leads and those interested in seeing a different side of the Holmes family.

Educational Sherlock Holmes Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Sherlock Holmes Children's Collection: Shadows, Secrets and Stolen Treasure by Stephanie Baudet, illustrated by Arianna Bellucci
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book offers a series of adventures where young readers join Sherlock Holmes as he solves thrilling mysteries involving shadows, secrets, and stolen treasures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, critical thinking, historical context
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great introduction to classic characters in a format that's accessible and exciting for younger readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love mysteries and adventures, and those new to the Sherlock Holmes stories.

• Sherlock Holmes: The Blue Diamond by Arthur Conan Doyle, adapted by Mark Williams
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Detective Fiction
  • Synopsis: In this adaptation for younger readers, Sherlock Holmes investigates the case of the missing Blue Diamond, a mystery that leads him through twists and turns.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Logical reasoning, deductive skills, comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It simplifies complex narratives of the original stories into a format that is engaging for children.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy detective stories and solving puzzles.

• Sherlock Holmes: Children’s Collection: A Scandal in Bohemia by Stephanie Baudet, illustrated by Arianna Bellucci
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Sherlock Holmes takes on the case of a scandal involving a Bohemian king and a notorious photograph, all adapted for a younger audience.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Analytical thinking, reading comprehension, attention to detail
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a simplified version of one of Holmes's most famous cases, making it perfect for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who are fans of mystery and intrigue, and those looking to get started with Sherlock Holmes stories.

• Sherlock Holmes and the Disappearing Diamond by Sam Hearn
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: John Watson, now a young boy, narrates their first case at Baker Street Academy where they investigate the case of a missing diamond.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, problem-solving, narrative skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun, modern twist on the classic Holmes stories, presented in a school setting that's relatable to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy school stories and young detectives at heart.

Challenging Sherlock Holmes Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Sherlock Holmes and the Shadwell Shadows by James Lovegrove
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Fantasy, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In this unique take, Sherlock Holmes battles supernatural forces plaguing Victorian London, revealing a darker side of the city and challenging his rational mind.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex themes of supernatural elements intertwined with the traditional logical deductions of Holmes, providing a multifaceted reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a thrilling mix of mystery and fantasy, perfect for readers looking to explore a more imaginative and darker narrative within the familiar Holmesian lore.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers who appreciate a blend of historical fiction and supernatural elements.

• The Sign of Four by Arthur Conan Doyle
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Detective Fiction
  • Synopsis: Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are on a hunt for a legendary treasure and unravel a plot of murder and deception.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel features a complex plot involving coded messages and intricate details that require careful attention and analytical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It deepens the reader’s understanding of detective work and deductive reasoning, all while delivering an engaging and suspenseful narrative.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy puzzles and mysteries that challenge their problem-solving skills.

• Sherlock Holmes: A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Detective Fiction
  • Synopsis: Introducing the legendary detective, this book details Holmes and Watson's first meeting and their investigation of a murder in London that leads them to a larger, darker conspiracy.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features dual narratives and a shift in setting that can challenge young readers to keep track of complex plot developments.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's the perfect introduction to the analytical mind of Sherlock Holmes and his methodologies, encouraging a deeper appreciation for literary analysis and critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Readers new to Sherlock Holmes and those interested in the origins of forensic science in literature.

• Sherlock Holmes and the Ice Palace Murders by Larry Millett
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in the icy winters of Minnesota, Holmes is drawn into a case involving the disappearance of a wealthy bachelor, leading to a series of intricate events tied to the local high society.
  • Why this book is challenging: The setting and incorporation of historical elements provide a complex backdrop that requires readers to understand and contextualize the societal norms of the time.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a fresh locale and new challenges for Holmes, making it an intriguing read for those who enjoy historical contexts mixed with their mysteries.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who like historical mysteries and exploring different cultural settings through literature.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the intriguing world of Sherlock Holmes books at the age of 12, you're in for a treat. These stories not only entertain but also sharpen your mind. To get the most out of your reading experience, here are some exercises that can help you develop good reading habits while enjoying the adventures of the famous detective.

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

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you read it.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and helps you remember the plot and important details.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries short and to the point; try to capture the essence in a few sentences.

• Discuss With Friends or Family
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family who are interested in Sherlock Holmes or mysteries.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding and gives you different perspectives on the story.
  • Tips: Try to discuss the book regularly, perhaps once a week, to keep the details fresh.

• Create a Mind Map
  • What it is: Draw or outline the main events and characters in a visual format.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the relationships between characters and plot developments.
  • Tips: Use different colors or symbols for different types of connections or themes.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Before you start a new chapter, guess what might happen next based on the story so far.
  • How it helps: Engages your analytical skills and makes reading more interactive.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how close you were after reading.

• Connect the Text to Real Life
  • What it is: Relate events or characters in the book to real-life situations or people you know.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding and makes the reading experience more personal and relevant.
  • Tips: Try to think of at least one real-life connection for each reading session.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine will not only enhance your enjoyment of Sherlock Holmes books but also build strong reading habits that will benefit you throughout life. Grab your magnifying glass (metaphorically speaking) and get ready to uncover the mysteries within the pages like the great detective himself! Happy reading!