Raising young readers can, at times, be a struggle, especially for parents with resistant readers at home. However, reading is integral to the intellectual and emotional growth of your child. Not only does reading enhance vocabulary and critical thinking skills, but it also helps build empathy and social-emotional learning. That’s why we’ve collected 25 fantastic books for your 12-year-old to dive into. Filled with intrigue, laughter, and critical life lessons, these 25 books are sure to satisfy your young reader.
Historical Fiction
1. Night on Fire
Based on 1961’s Anniston, Alabama, Night on Fire tells the story of two maturing children who confront the ugly truth of racism and segregation when the Freedom Riders pass through their town. Beautifully written and emotion-packed, this is a book that will stick with your reader for a long time.
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2. Eleven
Eleven explores the chilling reality and resulting aftermath of 9/11 through the perspective of a young boy who turns eleven years old on that fateful day. This is an eye-opening read for students who have grown up in a post-9/11 world.
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3. A Single Shard
Award-winning author Linda Sue Park immerses readers in 12th-century Korea in this coming-of-age story about dreams, determination, and overcoming adversity. This historical fiction novel is all the more prevalent with its tale of mentorship and the pursuit of passion.
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4. A Night Divided
Set during the construction of the Berlin Wall, Jennifer A. Nielsen’s A Night Divided features a protagonist with incredible bravery and resilience whose family has been broken apart by the Cold War. This is another book that will stick with your reader long after they read the final page.
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5. Shooting Kabul
This book is a poignant exploration of immigration and maturation set in 2001 Afghanistan and San Francisco. While fleeing from the Taliban, a family loses their youngest daughter, and their search for her never ceases. Meanwhile, young Fadi struggles to adapt to a society prejudiced against him and his family.
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Realistic Fiction
6. The Warden’s Daughter
This novel by award-winner Jerry Spinelli tells the story of a young girl named Cammie growing up in the prison system as the daughter of the prison warden. As her twelfth birthday approaches, Cammie grapples with her unique family structure with the help of some inmates along the way.
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7. Raymie Nightingale
This is a favorite book among many middle-grade readers. Raymie Nightingale tells the story of three very different girls who form a surprising friendship amidst great tension and high-stakes competition. Themes of found family, trust, and love combine beautifully in this memorable young adult novel.
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8. A Mango Shaped Space
This charming story of self-discovery and individuality is the perfect read for any middle school reader grappling with what makes them different and unique. When animal lover Mia Winchell discovers that she has synesthesia, she embarks on a quest to learn how to transform this apparent defect into a strength.
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9. The Season of Styx Malone
This adventure story is an incredible exploration of friendship, greed, and risk-taking. Styx Malone makes Caleb and Bobby an offer they can’t refuse: one big dream in exchange for some worthless junk. Kekla Magoon creates unforgettable characters that you can’t help but root for despite the turmoil they create.
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10. One for the Murphys
Lynda Mullaly Hunt does it again with this amazing book about found family. The protagonist, Carley Connors, struggles with her new situation after being displaced from her mother and taken in by a new family. As she learns to adapt, she must also confront the darker parts of her past.
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11. Look Both Ways
Jason Reynolds weaves together ten different stories about the walk home from school. Don’t be deceived by the often funny stories that fill the book- each tale tackles serious and relevant themes facing youth today.
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12. The Lonely Heart of Maybelle Lane
The protagonist, Maybelle, goes on a search for her radio-host father whom she never really knew, hoping to win over his heart through a singing contest he is judging. The Lonely Heart of Maybelle Lane is an inspiring story about family and the search for self-packed into a beautifully written YA novel.
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Mystery and Fantasy
13. The Stitchers
This book is the first in Lorien Lawrence’s series Fright Watch and is perfect for a new generation of readers looking for mysteries and thrillers. When Quinn and Mike decide to investigate their mysterious neighbors across the street, they have no idea what kind of haunting story they are unraveling.
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14. This Was Our Pact
When Ben and Nathaniel make a pact, they mean business. These two boys set out on a journey to travel from their backyard to the Milky Way. This is the perfect read for 12-year-old boys and all readers who enjoy stories of friendship and adventure with a healthy dose of magic.
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15. The Serpent’s Secret
The Serpent’s Secret is the first book of the Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond series. Not only is this book packed with action and magic, but it immerses readers in a story inspired by traditional Indian folklore- sure to keep all readers on the edge of their seats!
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16. Fuzzy Mud
When mysterious mud leads to nationwide panic, Tamaya and Marshall are helplessly caught in the crossfires. Brimming with suspense and chills, Fuzzy Mud is an excellent choice for any lover of mystery and spooky reads. Beneath the science fiction, however, is a tale about bravery and, surprisingly, environmentalism!
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17. The Witches of Willow Cove
Witchcraft, mystery, and secrets combine to create a positively spooky and captivating read in The Witches of Willows Cove. Better yet, a sequel is in the works, giving your reader another title to add to their to-read list!
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18. The House in the Cerulean Sea
This is a cozy story about a house of misfits learning to grow and manage their various gifts and powers. Quickly becoming a classic, this book is the perfect read for nearly any reader with its genius combination of humor, drama, mystery, and kindness.
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19. True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle tells the harrowing story of a young woman trapped aboard a ship with a murderer on the loose. Reading this book feels like watching an old-fashioned thriller with all the chills! Avi has you at the edge of your seat from the very first sentence.
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Nonfiction
20. Lost in the Pacific, 1942: Not a Drop to Drink
This book tells the true story of World War II soldiers who made an emergency landing in their B-17 bomber on October 21, 1942. Middle-grade readers will be quickly hooked by this adventure story and can continue their reading marathon with more in the nonfiction book series.
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21. Roses and Radicals
The brave people behind the women’s suffrage movement are heroes, and this book tells their story. This is an excellent middle-grade book for blossoming historians or anyone committed to learning more about the fight for freedom that continues to this day.
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22. Undefeated
Undefeated is a favorite book amongst young sports fans and historians but is accessible and enjoyable for many different readers. This book tells the true story of Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian School Football Team’s fight against racism and segregation that made history.
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23. My Family Divided
Diane Guerrero’s young reader’s edition of her memoir is equal parts heartwarming and eye-opening. This actress’ rise to fame was littered with obstacles and social injustice. Her patient storytelling and honest voice pierce through each page. An absolute must-read.
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24. Amelia Lost
Chronicling the life and disappearance of the famous female pilot, Amelia Lost, is a captivating read for middle-grade readers. Amelia Earhart’s amazing story is timeless and still unravels today, making this both prevalent and commemorative.
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