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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect story books for 12-year-olds that will keep your tween engaged and excited about reading? You've come to the right place! Whether your child is a voracious reader or just getting into the habit, finding the right book can be a game changer. Keep reading as we dive into various lists of captivating story books for 12-year-olds, each promising to spark imagination and adventure.

Fun Story Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the first book in the Harry Potter series, where young Harry discovers he is a wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Here, he makes friends, learns about magic, and uncovers the truth about his past.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gateway to the magical world that combines mystery, friendship, and adventure, perfect for sparking a love of reading.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love magic, mysteries, and epic adventures.

• Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is sent to Camp Half-Blood where he embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a thrilling mix of modern adventure and classic mythology, ideal for engaging young readers and expanding their imagination.
  • Perfect for: Fans of adventure stories and Greek mythology.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: The story follows August Pullman, a boy with facial differences, as he attends school for the first time and strives for acceptance and kindness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and the importance of accepting others, providing valuable life lessons through a compelling narrative.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy heartwarming stories and learning about diverse experiences.

• The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror, Mystery
  • Synopsis: After the mysterious murder of his family, a toddler wanders into a graveyard where ghosts raise him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of horror, fantasy, and adventure, offering a unique reading experience that captivates and stimulates the imagination.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy spooky stories with a strong sense of adventure.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to a boys' detention center where they dig holes daily in the hot sun, supposedly to build character — but there is more to the activity than meets the eye.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inventive story with a complex plot that intertwines various elements and characters across different timelines, engaging readers in critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love puzzles, mysteries, and stories of justice and friendship.

• The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a city shrouded in perpetual darkness, two children discover clues that could lead them to the outside world they never knew existed.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sparks curiosity about the world and encourages perseverance and bravery in the face of the unknown.
  • Perfect for: Readers intrigued by mystery and exploration, and those who enjoy stories about post-apocalyptic survival.

Educational Story Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Four gifted children are recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict to go on a secret mission at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where they must solve a series of puzzles and stop a global crisis.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, teamwork, critical thinking, and creativity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines mystery with brain-teasing puzzles, making it both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love puzzles and secret missions.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magic Realism
  • Synopsis: A story about a young girl named Luna, who is accidentally enmagicked as a baby and raised by a witch. As Luna grows, her magic begins to emerge with potentially disastrous effects.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, understanding the consequences of actions, and imaginative thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a beautifully written tale that explores themes of love, growth, and the power of the unknown.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories with strong female protagonists and magical elements.

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1930s Paris, this illustrated novel follows Hugo Cabret, an orphan who lives in the walls of a train station, as he tries to solve the mystery of his father’s death and a broken automaton.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, mechanical understanding, and problem-solving.
  • Why we recommend this book: The novel's unique combination of text and intricate illustrations provides a captivating reading experience.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history, machinery, and art.

• Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story of brilliant and witty Melody, who, despite being confined to a wheelchair and unable to speak due to cerebral palsy, has a photographic memory and a desire to prove her intelligence.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of disabilities, communication, and resilience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides deep insights into the challenges and triumphs of someone living with severe physical limitations.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate stories of overcoming adversity and showcasing inner strength.

• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
  • Genre(s): Animal Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: Inspired by true events, this story is narrated by Ivan, a captive gorilla who lives in a mall and hardly ever thinks about his life in the jungle, until he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from the wild.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Compassion for animals, understanding of natural habitats, and creative expression.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching narrative that speaks to the importance of empathy and the power of friendship.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young activists passionate about wildlife conservation.

Challenging Story Books for 12-Year-Olds

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin as they travel through space and time to rescue Meg's father from an evil force.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel incorporates complex scientific concepts, including tesseracts and dimensional travel, alongside advanced vocabulary.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages imagination and critical thinking, blending scientific inquiry with a thrilling narrative.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and adventure.

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Nazi Germany, this story is narrated by Death and explores the life of Liesel Meminger, a young girl who finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with others.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of morality, death, and war, presented through a sophisticated narrative structure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on the impact of war and the power of words, fostering empathy and historical awareness.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in history and thought-provoking stories.

• His Dark Materials: The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Lyra Belacqua embarks on a journey to the Arctic in search of her kidnapped friend and uncovers a sinister plot involving stolen children.
  • Why this book is challenging: The series introduces philosophical and theological themes intertwined with complex plot lines and character development.
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges readers to think critically about religion, science, and authority.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy deep, multifaceted fantasy worlds.

• The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Puzzle
  • Synopsis: A group of heirs gather to solve the mystery of who murdered Samuel W. Westing, according to his will, in order to inherit his fortune.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story is a complex puzzle filled with intricate clues and numerous characters, each with their own secrets.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a brain-teasing whodunit that sharpens deductive reasoning and attention to detail.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love puzzles and mysteries.

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a seemingly perfect community without war, pain, suffering, differences, or choice, a boy named Jonas uncovers the dark truths behind his fragile society.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces themes of individuality, freedom, and the moral implications of a controlled society.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provokes thought about the importance of emotions and choices in defining our humanity.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in exploring profound social and ethical questions.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're 12 and love diving into storybooks, here are some fun exercises to help you develop great reading habits. Not only will these make your reading sessions more enjoyable, but they'll also enhance your comprehension and retention skills. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many books you want to read over a certain period.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and motivated to read regularly.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances your concentration.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you read with friends or family members.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding and gives different perspectives on the story.
  • Tips: Try forming a small book club or join one online.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Look up words you don’t understand while reading.
  • How it helps: Expands your vocabulary and improves comprehension.
  • Tips: Keep a dictionary handy or use a dictionary app.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Read books out loud, either to yourself or to an audience.
  • How it helps: Enhances pronunciation and helps you engage more with the text.
  • Tips: Try different voices for different characters to make it fun.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write brief summaries of each chapter after you read it.
  • How it helps: Reinforces memory and ensures you understand the plot.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and revisit them before starting new chapters.

• Take Breaks
  • What it is: Allow yourself short breaks during long reading sessions.
  • How it helps: Keeps you fresh and prevents reading fatigue.
  • Tips: Use a timer to remind yourself to take a break every 30-45 minutes.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enjoy your storybooks more, but you'll also become a more skilled and thoughtful reader. Remember, the key is consistency, so try to practice these exercises regularly. Happy reading!