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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect escape into the cosmos for your tween? Look no further! Our roundup of space fiction books for 12-year-olds is your ticket to intergalactic adventures that will thrill, inspire, and ignite the imagination of young readers. From journeys through distant galaxies to close encounters with alien species, we’ve got it all covered. Keep reading to discover our top picks of space fiction books that are just right for 12-year-olds, ensuring hours of reading fun!

Fun Space Fiction Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Young Ender Wiggin is recruited into an elite military school in space to prepare for a future alien invasion. He faces both physical and psychological challenges as he is pushed to his limits in a series of increasingly difficult war games.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling read that combines intense action with deep ethical questions, perfect for young readers beginning to explore more complex narratives.
  • Perfect for: Fans of strategic games and stories about young prodigies.

• The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Short Stories
  • Synopsis: This collection of linked stories explores the colonization of Mars by humans fleeing a troubled Earth, and the ensuing conflicts with the native Martians.
  • Why we recommend this book: Bradbury's blend of sci-fi with poetic prose makes this a captivating read that stimulates the imagination and raises important questions about human nature and colonization.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a mix of philosophy and science fiction.

• Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Zita finds herself a stranger on a distant planet after she pushes a button that transports her into the universe. She embarks on a quest to rescue her kidnapped friend and save the aliens’ world from destruction.
  • Why we recommend this book: The vibrant illustrations and fast-paced story make it an engaging read that encourages a love for reading through visual storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy action-packed adventures and graphic novels.

• Cosmic by Frank Cottrell Boyce
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: 12-year-old Liam looks so much like an adult that he finds himself mistaken for a teacher on a school trip, and then as a dad in a space-themed contest that leads him into actual space.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a hilarious and heartwarming adventure that explores themes of friendship, family, and the challenges of growing up.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love humorous stories with quirky plots and relatable characters.

• Have Space Suit—Will Travel by Robert A. Heinlein
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A high school senior wins a used space suit in a contest, repairs it, and accidentally contacts aliens, leading to an extraordinary adventure that spans the galaxy.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines real science with thrilling adventure, making it both educational and exciting to read.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in space exploration and science-based adventures.

Educational Space Fiction Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Search for WondLa by Tony DiTerlizzi
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Eva Nine, a young girl raised by a robot in an underground sanctuary, is forced to flee to the surface, where she embarks on a quest to discover other humans and the mysterious WondLa.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, problem-solving, understanding of ecological and environmental themes
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully illustrated and imaginative story that combines adventure with a deep appreciation for nature and the environment.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and fans of rich, fantastical worlds.

• George's Secret Key to the Universe by Lucy and Stephen Hawking
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: George's adventures begin when he finds a secret doorway into space guided by his new friends, Annie and her scientist father. Together, they explore the universe and learn about the wonders of the cosmos.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Astronomy, physics, and general scientific curiosity
  • Why we recommend this book: Co-written by renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, it provides accurate science in an accessible and fun way.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a curiosity about space and science.

• The True Meaning of Smekday by Adam Rex
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: After Earth is invaded by aliens called the Boov, 11-year-old Gratuity "Tip" Tucci goes on a road trip to find her mother, accompanied by a renegade Boov. The book is her account of the adventures and misadventures that follow.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, adaptability, creative problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a funny, inventive, and heartwarming tale of friendship and resilience in the face of change.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a mix of humor and heartfelt storytelling.

• 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 an evil force that threatens the universe.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of scientific and mathematical concepts, critical thinking, and family values
  • Why we recommend this book: It blends science fiction with spiritual themes and presents complex ideas in an understandable way for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy science, fantasy, and stories about the triumph of love and individuality.

• The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer L. Holm
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Comedy
  • Synopsis: Ellie's grandfather has found a way to reverse aging and turns up as a teenager! Together they explore the practical and ethical aspects of science and its impact on daily life.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific thinking, ethics in science, intergenerational relationships
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an engaging blend of humor and thoughtful insight into the nature of science and discovery.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in science and like stories that include family dynamics and ethical dilemmas.

Challenging Space Fiction Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Skyward by Brandon Sanderson
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Spensa dreams of becoming a pilot and proving her bravery. However, her father's legacy as a deserter complicates her path. When she discovers the wreckage of an ancient ship, she realizes it might be her ticket to the stars—if she can repair it.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel features complex character development and a layered plot that intertwines Spensa's personal growth with broader themes of survival and defiance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an exhilarating adventure filled with deep character explorations and a richly built world, perfect for readers who enjoy detailed narratives and epic tales.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring adventurers and fans of high-stakes space operas.

• Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: In an attempt to deal with the school bully, Sal accidentally opens a hole into another universe where his mother is alive. He teams up with Gabi, a student council president, to fix the universe they’ve altered.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces concepts of multiverse theory and causality in a way that’s accessible yet thought-provoking for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and imaginative story that mixes humor with heartfelt moments, all while exploring complex scientific and ethical questions.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories that blend science fiction with real-world issues and humor.

• Railhead by Philip Reeve
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In a far future where trains travel through space via portals, a petty thief named Zen is hired to steal an artifact that could upset the galaxy's balance of power.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel features intricate world-building and sophisticated themes involving AI and societal structure, challenging young readers to think critically about technology and morality.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique blend of adventure and philosophical inquiry, set in a vividly imagined futuristic universe.
  • Perfect for: Fans of deep space adventures and complex, thought-provoking narratives.

• Singularity by William Sleator
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Thriller
  • Synopsis: Twin brothers discover a mysterious shack that affects time differently inside. One brother sees it as an opportunity to change the dynamic between them by aging himself one year older in just a day.
  • Why this book is challenging: The concept of time dilation and its consequences are explored, presenting advanced scientific theories through a compelling narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping story that combines scientific intrigue with personal drama, making it a thought-productive read for young adults.
  • Perfect for: Readers who like science-based thrillers and exploring complex relationships.

• The Supernaturalist by Eoin Colfer
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a futuristic world where life is harsh, Cosmo Hill escapes from his orphanage only to team up with a group of kids who can see and eliminate blue creatures they believe are sucking the life out of humans.
  • Why this book is challenging: The dystopian setting and the ethical dilemmas about life and death presented are complex and provoke critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book combines action with deep ethical questions, making it a captivating read that encourages reflection on the value of life and the unseen forces that shape our existence.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fans of futuristic societies and moral challenges.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the expansive universe of space fiction books, it's a fantastic way to explore new worlds while building solid reading habits. Here are some fun and effective exercises designed specifically for 12-year-olds to enhance their reading experience. These will not only make reading more enjoyable but also help in retaining information and improving comprehension.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistent reading and helps in building a daily reading habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Space-Themed Reading Corner
  • What it is: Designate a special area in your home where you can read without distractions.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus and makes the reading experience more enjoyable.
  • Tips: Decorate with space posters, comfortable cushions, and maybe even a small tent!

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family who are interested in space fiction.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding and retention of the book’s content.
  • Tips: Try to form a small book club where everyone reads the same book and discusses it.

• Map Out the Story
  • What it is: Draw a timeline or a map that outlines the plot and characters.
  • How it helps: Helps in visualizing the story and remembering key details.
  • Tips: Use colored pencils or markers to differentiate between characters and plot twists.

• Predict the Next Chapter
  • What it is: Before starting a new chapter, guess what might happen next based on the story so far.
  • How it helps: Engages critical thinking and enhances engagement with the story.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many of them were right as you read.

• Character Role Play
  • What it is: Pretend to be one of the characters and act out or write down how you would behave in the story.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding of characters and makes reading more interactive.
  • Tips: Choose different characters each time to explore various perspectives.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: After finishing a chapter, write a brief summary of what happened.
  • How it helps: Reinforces memory and comprehension of the read material.
  • Tips: Keep the summaries in a notebook for quick reviews before continuing the book.

These exercises are not just about reading; they're about making the whole experience more immersive and fun. By integrating these activities into your daily reading routine, you'll not only enjoy your space fiction books more, but you'll also become a more skilled and thoughtful reader. Happy reading, space explorers!