10+ Best Action And Adventure Books for 12-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner for a young adventurer? Dive into our curated selection of action and adventure books for 12-year-olds that promise to whisk them away on thrilling escapades. From daring quests to heroic journeys, we've got an exciting mix that will keep them glued to the pages. Keep reading to explore our diverse lists of action and adventure books tailored just for 12-year-olds, and find that next great read that will capture their imagination and maybe even inspire their own adventures!

Fun Action And Adventure Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Hatchet by Gary Paulsen
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Survival
  • Synopsis: After a plane crash, thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson must survive in the Canadian wilderness with only his wits and a hatchet his mother gave him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping survival story that teaches resilience and self-reliance, showing how Brian overcomes incredible challenges.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers who enjoy stories of survival and personal growth.

• Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is thrust into a world of Greek mythology where he must prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: Combines action, humor, and mythology in a way that keeps readers engaged and eager to learn more about the classical myths.
  • Perfect for: Fans of mythology and anyone looking for a thrilling, fantastical adventure.

• Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: A young criminal mastermind, Artemis Fowl, kidnaps a fairy to restore his family's fortune, sparking a dangerous confrontation with the magical world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique blend of high-tech modernity and ancient magic, providing a fresh twist on the fantasy genre.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy anti-heroes and clever, strategic thinking in their stories.

• The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In a city that has never seen the light of day, two children discover clues that could lead them to the outside world they never knew existed.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a mysterious and compelling story that explores themes of discovery and change, perfect for sparking curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love mysteries and stories about dystopian societies.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, illustrated by Carson Ellis
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Four gifted children are recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict to go on a secret mission to infiltrate a mysterious institution.
  • Why we recommend this book: Combines brain-teasing puzzles with a fast-paced plot, encouraging problem-solving and teamwork.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy puzzles, mysteries, and working with a team of diverse characters.

• The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror, Adventure
  • Synopsis: After his family is murdered, a toddler wanders into a graveyard where the ghosts and other supernatural residents agree to raise him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written, haunting tale of growth and survival, blending the eerie with the heartwarming.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a touch of the supernatural mixed with coming-of-age themes.

Educational Action And Adventure Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When Roz the robot is washed ashore on a wild island, she must learn to survive in a hostile environment that challenges her robotic nature.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental science, adaptation, problem-solving skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of technology and nature, offering a unique perspective on survival and adaptation.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in robotics and nature.

• Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Karana, a young Native American girl, is left to fend for herself on an island off the California coast, learning to survive for years on her own.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural history, self-reliance, survival skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping story of courage and survival, providing a strong female role model and insights into indigenous cultures.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love stories of survival and historical adventures.

• The Explorer by Katherine Rundell
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Survival
  • Synopsis: Four children are stranded in the Amazon jungle after a plane crash, discovering secrets and adventures as they try to find their way back to civilization.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Geography, resilience, teamwork
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an exhilarating adventure that showcases the beauty and danger of the natural world, encouraging teamwork and courage.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous spirits who dream of exploration and the great outdoors.

• Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Kyle Keeley and his friends must solve puzzles and decode clues to find a way out of the extraordinary library built by the eccentric game maker, Luigi Lemoncello.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, problem-solving, literature appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and engaging puzzle-filled adventure that promotes collaboration and creative problem-solving.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle lovers and young detectives who enjoy a good mystery with lots of twists and turns.

• Wolf Brother by Michelle Paver
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In ancient times, a boy named Torak and his wolf companion must embark on a dangerous journey to save their world from an evil force.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical context, nature connection, bravery
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a thrilling blend of history and fantasy, providing a deep connection to nature and ancient times.
  • Perfect for: Fans of historical narratives and animal companionship stories.

Challenging Action And Adventure Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Airman by Eoin Colfer
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Conor Broekhart was born to fly, or so the story goes. But when he's framed for a crime he didn't commit, he must use his knowledge of flying to escape from the prison island of Little Saltee and clear his name.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex themes of betrayal, political intrigue, and the mechanics of flight, which are intellectually stimulating and require a higher level of comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines historical elements with thrilling adventure, encouraging readers to think about justice, loyalty, and innovation.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fascinated by history and the early days of aviation.

• The Boundless by Kenneth Oppel
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Will Everett finds himself aboard The Boundless, the longest and most magnificent train ever built. During his journey, he becomes embroiled in a plot involving murder, mayhem, and a magical circus.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's intricate plot and rich historical and fantastical details provide a complex reading experience that challenges the reader's ability to juggle multiple storylines.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a mix of suspense, history, and fantasy that keeps readers on the edge of their seat while also delving into themes of class and destiny.
  • Perfect for: Fans of epic adventures and stories that blend reality with elements of fantasy.

• The Apothecary by Maile Meloy
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery
  • Synopsis: In 1952, during the Cold War, Janie Scott moves from Los Angeles to London where she meets a mysterious apothecary and his son who involve her in a dangerous mission to save the world from nuclear disaster using ancient magic.
  • Why this book is challenging: The combination of historical context, advanced scientific concepts, and magical elements requires readers to integrate diverse types of knowledge.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating blend of history, science, and magic that teaches about important historical events while engaging the reader's imagination and sense of wonder.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a good mystery and are intrigued by science and history.

• The Night Gardener by Jonathan Auxier
  • Genre(s): Horror, Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Two abandoned Irish siblings, Molly and Kip, work as servants at a creepy, crumbling English manor house where they uncover its dark secrets and confront the malevolent force that holds sway in the house.
  • Why this book is challenging: The sophisticated narrative structure, the eerie atmosphere, and the moral complexities explored in the book offer a demanding yet rewarding reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thrilling and atmospheric tale that also deals with issues of greed and moral choices, making it both exciting and thought-provoking.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love spooky stories with strong moral underpinnings.

• The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In 1832, thirteen-year-old Charlotte Doyle embarks on a transatlantic voyage and finds herself caught between a cruel captain and a mutinous crew. In her isolated and dangerous position, she must find the courage to forge her own path.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative provides rich historical detail and complex themes of justice, power, and transformation that challenge young readers to think critically.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping, high-seas adventure that empowers readers, particularly girls, to believe in their strength and convictions.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are drawn to stories of adventure on the high seas and strong female protagonists.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! Diving into action and adventure books can be a thrilling ride for 12-year-olds, sparking their imagination and encouraging a love for reading. To make the most out of their reading adventures, here are some fun and effective exercises designed to enhance their reading habits. Let's check them out!

• 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 completing books.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in the home as a reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus and makes reading a special part of the day.
  • Tips: Make the space cozy with good lighting and minimal distractions.

• Book Club with Friends
  • What it is: Form a book club where friends read the same book and discuss it.
  • How it helps: Promotes social interaction and deeper understanding of the book.
  • Tips: Schedule regular meetings to discuss the book and share insights.

• Map the Adventure
  • What it is: Draw maps or create lists of the places characters visit in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps with comprehension and retention of the story.
  • Tips: Use colored pencils or markers to make the mapping engaging and fun.

• Character Diary Entries
  • What it is: Write diary entries from the perspective of different characters.
  • How it helps: Develops empathy and a deeper understanding of characters.
  • Tips: Choose your favorite character or one that puzzles you to start with.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Make predictions about what will happen next after each reading session.
  • How it helps: Enhances analytical thinking and engagement with the story.
  • Tips: Write down predictions and check their accuracy as you read on.

These exercises are not just about reading more; they're about reading better. They aim to turn every reading session into an adventure that goes beyond the pages. So, grab your favorite action and adventure book, and let's get started on making reading a habit that's as exciting as it is rewarding! Happy reading!