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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect Spanish books for 12-year-olds? Whether you're aiming to boost their language skills or immerse them in captivating stories from the Spanish-speaking world, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading as we explore a diverse range of Spanish books that are just right for 12-year-old readers, ensuring they stay engaged and entertained.

Fun Spanish Books for 12-Year-Olds

• La ciudad de las bestias by Isabel Allende
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This novel follows 15-year-old Alexander Cold, who joins his grandmother on a dangerous expedition to the Amazon Rainforest. They seek the mythical Beast and encounter incredible adventures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines real-life challenges with elements of fantasy, offering a thrilling narrative that keeps young readers engaged while exposing them to rich descriptions of nature and indigenous cultures.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous young readers who enjoy stories about exploration and mythical creatures.

• El príncipe de la niebla by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Fantasy, Horror
  • Synopsis: In 1943, the Carver family moves to a coastal town where they encounter a sinister figure, the Prince of Mist, who has returned to settle a debt. The children uncover past secrets intertwined with supernatural elements.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping tale that combines suspense and supernatural elements, perfect for keeping tweens on the edge of their seats while enhancing their problem-solving skills.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love a good mystery and ghostly tales.

• Manolito Gafotas by Elvira Lindo, illustrated by Emilio Urberuaga
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story is set in Madrid and narrated by Manolito, a quirky boy with a lively family. His daily adventures offer a humorous glimpse into life in his neighborhood.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its humorous narrative style and relatable characters make reading enjoyable, encouraging a love for reading through laughter and relatable family dynamics.
  • Perfect for: Kids who appreciate humor and stories about everyday adventures.

• El misterio de la isla de Tökland by Joan Manuel Gisbert
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Inspired by video games, this novel takes readers on an adventure to a mysterious island where protagonist Ludwig Brum has to solve puzzles and face challenges to uncover secrets.
  • Why we recommend this book: It engages readers with puzzles and mysteries, stimulating critical thinking and curiosity, perfect for developing problem-solving skills.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and puzzle lovers.

• Cuentos por teléfono by Gianni Rodari
  • Genre(s): Short Stories, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This collection of short stories was originally told by a father to his daughter over the phone. Each story is filled with fantasy, wit, and a touch of absurdity.
  • Why we recommend this book: The short, imaginative stories are ideal for quick reading sessions, fostering creativity and a love for storytelling in young readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy fantastical tales and parents looking for bedtime stories.

Educational Spanish Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Donde surgen las sombras by David Lozano Garbala
  • Genre(s): Thriller, Mystery
  • Synopsis: This gripping novel follows Alex, a teenager who decides to investigate the mysterious disappearance of his classmate. His search leads him into the dark and dangerous corners of his city.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, problem-solving, understanding of narrative structure and suspense
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a thrilling page-turner that keeps readers engaged while enhancing their analytical skills and understanding of complex narratives.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love suspense and mysteries.

• La leyenda del bosque (Los dioses del norte #1) by Jara Santamaría
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In this enchanting tale, three friends discover a magical world within a northern forest where myths and reality collide. They must navigate this mystical realm and its challenges.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural mythology, teamwork, environmental awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces readers to mythological elements and the importance of nature, wrapped in an adventurous and engaging story.
  • Perfect for: Fans of fantasy adventures and nature enthusiasts.

• El asombroso mundo de Bernardo by Pablo De Santis, illustrated by O'Kif
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Bernardo, a young inventor, creates a device that can record dreams. The story unfolds as he explores the dreams of various people, uncovering more than he anticipated.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, scientific curiosity, ethical reasoning
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a fascinating exploration of science and imagination that encourages readers to think creatively and question the ethical implications of new technologies.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and dreamers.

• Historias de Ninguno by Pilar Mateos
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Short Stories
  • Synopsis: This collection features stories about "Nobody," a character who represents all children and no child in particular, experiencing adventures that speak to universal emotions and situations.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, self-identity, imaginative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on everyday experiences, making it a great tool for young readers to develop empathy and a stronger sense of self.
  • Perfect for: Children exploring their place in the world and lovers of imaginative tales.

• El pequeño vampiro by Angela Sommer-Bodenburg, illustrated by Amelie Glienke
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: This series follows the adventures of Anton, a boy who befriends a vampire named Rüdiger. Together, they explore the challenges and excitement of their unusual friendship.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Friendship dynamics, overcoming prejudices, creative problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with the theme of acceptance, teaching children the value of seeing beyond differences.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy stories about friendships and quirky, supernatural beings.

Challenging Spanish Books for 12-Year-Olds

• La sombra del viento by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in post-Spanish Civil War Barcelona, a young boy named Daniel discovers a forgotten book by Julián Carax in a hidden library of lost titles. His quest to find more about the author leads him down a path full of intrigue, love, and betrayal.
  • Why this book is challenging: The intricate plot and complex characters in a historical setting require advanced reading comprehension and critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written narrative that weaves history with a gripping mystery, enhancing literary appreciation and historical understanding.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love historical mysteries and rich, atmospheric storytelling.

• Marina by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Horror, Romance
  • Synopsis: In the heart of Barcelona, Óscar meets Marina, and together they discover a dark secret that has been haunting the city. Their journey leads them to confront a chilling tragedy that occurred many years ago.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's blend of horror, romance, and mystery challenges readers to engage with diverse genres and complex narrative structures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a suspenseful and haunting tale that captivates and stimulates the imagination, perfect for developing a taste for sophisticated literature.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in multi-genre stories with a dark twist.

• El camino de los reyes (El Archivo de las Tormentas, Libro 1) by Brandon Sanderson
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Epic
  • Synopsis: This epic fantasy novel takes readers into a world of intense battles, ancient mysteries, and powerful magic, where multiple characters’ lives intertwine in the struggle for survival and power.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its complex world-building and multiple storylines require readers to keep track of various characters and plots, enhancing their cognitive and memory skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a masterclass in fantasy writing that offers a deep, immersive reading experience, fostering a love for detailed storytelling and imaginative worlds.
  • Perfect for: Fans of epic fantasy and readers looking for a challenging, immersive narrative.

• El prisionero del cielo by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Returning to the world of "The Cemetery of Forgotten Books," this novel follows the story of Fermín Romero de Torres, who reveals the dark secrets of his past to his friend Daniel, uncovering the connections between their lives and the world of books.
  • Why this book is challenging: The intertwining of multiple timelines and deep character development requires sophisticated analytical skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines mystery and historical elements with a deep love for books, providing a compelling narrative that enriches vocabulary and historical perspective.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy literary puzzles and complex characters.

• El juego del ángel by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Thriller, Gothic
  • Synopsis: In this sequel to "La sombra del viento," a young writer in Barcelona is hired to write a book for a mysterious publisher, only to find himself trapped in a labyrinth of secrets and intrigue surrounding the publisher's house.
  • Why this book is challenging: The gothic elements and intricate plot demand high-level comprehension and the ability to decode complex themes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling ride through a gothic mystery, perfect for enhancing literary analysis skills and engaging with intense, atmospheric storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Young adults and advanced readers who love thrilling narratives and gothic atmospheres.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of Spanish books and you're around 12 years old, you're in for an exciting adventure. To make the most out of your reading experience, here are some fun and helpful exercises designed to boost your reading habits and deepen your understanding of the stories. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many pages or chapters you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and motivated to read regularly.
  • Tips: Choose realistic goals that fit into your daily schedule without feeling overwhelming.

• Create a Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Write down new or interesting words you come across in your reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances your Spanish vocabulary and understanding of the language.
  • Tips: Use a notebook dedicated to this task and review the list regularly.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and gives you different perspectives on the story.
  • Tips: Try to discuss the book right after your reading session while the details are fresh.

• Draw Scenes from the Book
  • What it is: Sketch your favorite scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the story and strengthens memory retention.
  • Tips: Don't worry about artistic skill; focus on how the scene made you feel.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you finish reading it.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and helps you remember key events and characters.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and revisit them before starting the next chapter.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Guess what might happen next in the story before you read the next part.
  • How it helps: Engages your imagination and analytical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many of them were right as you read.

• Connect the Dots
  • What it is: Relate events or characters in the book to your own life or other books you've read.
  • How it helps: Deepens personal connection to the story and enhances critical thinking.
  • Tips: Keep notes on these connections in your reading journal or discuss them during your book discussions.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine will not only make your journey through Spanish books more enjoyable but also more rewarding. You'll see improvements in your language skills, comprehension, and perhaps most importantly, you'll develop a lifelong love for reading. Happy reading!