10+ Best Action Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for heart-pounding action books for 13-year-olds that will keep your young reader on the edge of their seat? You've come to the right place! From gripping adventures to thrilling escapades, we've compiled a variety of lists featuring the best action books that are perfect for teens craving excitement. Keep reading to dive into our top picks and find the next page-turner that will captivate their imagination!

Fun Action Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is accused of stealing Zeus's lightning bolt. He must embark on a quest across the United States to catch the true thief and prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling mix of modern adventure and ancient Greek mythology, making ancient stories accessible and exciting. It also deals with themes like friendship, loyalty, and identity, which are crucial for young teens.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fast-paced stories and learning about mythology.

• The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In a dystopian future, teenager Katniss Everdeen volunteers to take her sister's place in the Hunger Games, a televised competition in which participants must fight to the death.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping story that explores themes of survival, totalitarianism, and resilience. It encourages critical thinking about authority, societal norms, and personal ethics.
  • Perfect for: Teens who are fans of thrilling survival stories and strong female protagonists.

• Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Crime
  • Synopsis: Artemis Fowl, a young criminal prodigy, kidnaps a fairy to restore his family's fortune through ransom, setting off a high-tech magical conflict.
  • Why we recommend this book: Combines magic with technology and crime, offering a unique twist on the fantasy genre. It's smart, witty, and teaches the value of ingenuity and critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Readers who like anti-heroes and clever, plot-driven books.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to a juvenile detention center where boys are forced to dig large holes daily. He discovers that they might actually be searching for something buried by the warden.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a complex tale that weaves together multiple storylines filled with history, mystery, and adventure. It teaches lessons about justice, friendship, and fate.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories that involve puzzles and mysteries.

• Alex Rider: Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Thriller, Spy Fiction
  • Synopsis: After the death of his uncle, 14-year-old Alex Rider is recruited by British intelligence to infiltrate a sinister organization.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an action-packed spy thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seat. It also shows how resilience, resourcefulness, and courage can help overcome great challenges.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in suspenseful stories and espionage.

Educational Action Books for 13-Year-Olds

• The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: In 1899 Texas, Calpurnia Tate is a 12-year-old girl navigating the challenges of growing up in a time when girls are expected to focus on housework and marriage. Her relationship with her grandfather, a naturalist, leads her to discover her love for science.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, historical context, critical thinking, gender roles
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully blends historical detail with a spirited and scientifically curious protagonist, providing a compelling look at women's roles and scientific discovery in the late 19th century.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and history, and those who enjoy stories about breaking societal norms.

• The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: The city of Ember was built as a last refuge for the human race. Two hundred years later, the once bright city is falling into darkness. Two teenagers, Lina and Doon, must decipher an old message to find a way out before the lights go out forever.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, teamwork, understanding dystopian literature
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure that also teaches about perseverance, leadership, and the importance of hope in dark times.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love mysteries and adventures in a futuristic setting.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, illustrated by Carson Ellis
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, 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 stop a plot that could have global consequences.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, teamwork, creative problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines brain-teasing puzzles with a unique narrative to create a captivating story that encourages teamwork and intellectual dexterity.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love puzzles, mysteries, and working as part of a team.

• The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Roz, a robot, finds herself alone on a remote, wild island. She must learn from the island's hostile animal inhabitants and adapt to her surroundings to survive.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Adaptation to change, environmental awareness, empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: It explores themes of survival and technology, all while teaching about the importance of adaptation and the wonders of nature.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fans of technology and nature stories.

• Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Kyle Keeley is an ardent fan of all games—board games, word games, and particularly video games. His gaming skills are put to the test when he and other children must solve puzzles to escape from the fantastical, high-tech library of Mr. Lemoncello.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, teamwork, knowledge of literature
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and engaging romp through a literary world filled with puzzles and mysteries, perfect for encouraging a love of reading and critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy games and puzzles, and those who appreciate a good mystery.

Challenging Action Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Military Fiction
  • Synopsis: Young Ender Wiggin is recruited into an elite military school in space to prepare for a future alien invasion. He undergoes rigorous and advanced military training that sets him apart as a brilliant strategist.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of warfare, ethics, and leadership, often requiring readers to consider moral dilemmas and strategic thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gripping look at leadership and responsibility, wrapped in a thrilling sci-fi narrative that challenges and entertains.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who enjoy deep themes and strategic thinking.

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a seemingly perfect community without war, pain, or suffering, a young boy named Jonas is selected to inherit the position of Receiver of Memories, where he uncovers the dark truths about his society.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel introduces complex concepts about society, memory, and individuality, encouraging readers to question the ethics of Jonas's world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thought-provoking story that encourages critical thinking about freedom, conformity, and what it means to be human.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in philosophical questions and societal critiques.

• Airman by Eoin Colfer
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Conor Broekhart is born to fly; a boy living in the 1890s who dreams of building a flying machine. His life is turned upside down when he is framed for a crime and must escape from prison to save his family and clear his name.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes detailed descriptions of early aviation technology and complex character development.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines historical elements with thrilling adventure, providing a captivating narrative that also educates on the evolution of flight.
  • Perfect for: Young readers fascinated by history and technology.

• Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld, illustrated by Keith Thompson
  • Genre(s): Steampunk, Alternate History
  • Synopsis: Set in an alternate World War I era, the story follows Alek, the prince of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and Deryn, a girl disguised as a boy to serve in the British Air Service. Together, they deal with the war's fantastical, genetically engineered beasts.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features an intricate plot with alternate history elements and complex steampunk technology descriptions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fascinating blend of history and science fiction with a rich, detailed world that sparks imagination.
  • Perfect for: Teens who love creative storytelling and detailed world-building.

• Sabriel by Garth Nix
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Sabriel, a young necromancer, must venture into the dangerous Old Kingdom to find her missing father and confront the evil forces that threaten her world.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces sophisticated themes of life and death, and uses a complex magical system that requires careful understanding.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a strong female protagonist and a richly crafted magical world, filled with suspense and ethical questions.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy intricate fantasy worlds and stories of magical adventure.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the thrilling world of action books, it's a fantastic opportunity to develop strong reading habits that can last a lifetime. Here are some fun and practical exercises tailored for 13-year-olds to enhance their reading experience. Let’s make reading your new favorite adventure!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Helps create a consistent reading habit and builds anticipation for daily reading sessions.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them as you get more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special corner or area in your home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Provides a dedicated, comfortable space that can enhance focus and make reading more enjoyable.
  • Tips: Add comfy seating, good lighting, and maybe even some personal touches like posters or plants.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family who are interested in the story.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the story, and can also introduce new perspectives.
  • Tips: Try forming a small book club or schedule regular chat sessions to discuss the book.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize a digital application to track your reading progress, set reminders, or find summaries and analyses.
  • How it helps: Keeps you organized and motivated; some apps also offer community features to connect with other readers.
  • Tips: Choose apps that are user-friendly and offer features that match your reading style and needs.

• Read Aloud or Record Yourself
  • What it is: Read the book aloud to yourself or record your reading sessions.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and expression, and can make the reading process more engaging.
  • Tips: Try to express the emotions of different characters and use varied tones to make it fun.

• Visualize as You Read
  • What it is: Imagine the scenes in your mind like a movie as you read through the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances imagination and can make the story more vivid and memorable.
  • Tips: Pause after a few pages to close your eyes and replay the events in your mind’s eye.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts, questions, and favorite quotes from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine, enhances comprehension, and keeps track of what you learn.
  • Tips: Make it a habit to jot down notes right after your reading session while the ideas are still fresh.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you’ll not only enjoy your action-packed adventures more, but you’ll also build skills that are great for school and beyond. Remember, the key to becoming a great reader is consistency and curiosity, so keep turning those pages and exploring new worlds. Happy reading!