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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner for a young reader? Dive into our curated selection of Adventure Mystery Books for 12-Year-Olds that promise thrilling escapades and brain-teasing puzzles. Whether they're into solving mysteries or embarking on exotic quests, these books are sure to keep them glued to the pages. Keep reading to discover our top picks that will captivate their imagination and maybe even yours!

Fun Adventure Mystery Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Four gifted kids, recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict, 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.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with puzzles, mysteries, and a unique set of characters, making it a thrilling read that also enhances problem-solving skills.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love puzzles and teamwork-based adventures.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention center, where he is forced to dig holes every day in the hot sun; supposedly to build character, but he discovers there is much more happening under the surface.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines an intriguing mystery with a story of friendship and redemption, engaging young readers while encouraging them to think about the consequences of actions.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy stories that blend realism with a touch of the fantastical.

• The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Puzzle
  • Synopsis: Sixteen heirs are brought together to solve the puzzle of Sam Westing's death, competing for a $200 million inheritance by figuring out who among them is the murderer.
  • Why we recommend this book: This clever puzzle-filled book offers brain-teasing fun and a fast-paced plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives who love cracking codes and solving complex puzzles.

• Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Kyle Keeley and his classmates must solve every clue and figure out every secret puzzle to find the hidden escape route from the new town library, designed by the famous game maker Luigi Lemoncello.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates libraries and books through a series of creative and educational challenges that captivate and educate simultaneously.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love games, libraries, and a good, intricate challenge.

• Nancy Drew: The Secret of the Old Clock by Carolyn Keene
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Young detective Nancy Drew embarks on a quest to find a missing will after the passing of a wealthy town resident, uncovering secrets and facing dangers along the way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces critical thinking and perseverance through Nancy's determined character and the intriguing mysteries she solves.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring detectives and any young reader who admires strong, resourceful female protagonists.

Educational Adventure Mystery Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett, illustrated by Brett Helquist
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When a valuable Vermeer painting is stolen, two sixth-graders, Petra and Calder, combine their talents in art and mathematics to solve the mystery surrounding the artwork's disappearance.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, critical thinking, art history, and pattern recognition.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uniquely blends mystery with art and math, offering a multidimensional approach to problem-solving and deduction.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in art, mysteries, and using their math skills in fun ways.

• The Name of this Book Is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Two adventurous friends, Cass and Max-Ernest, discover a mysterious box that leads them on a thrilling adventure involving secret codes, magicians, and a perilous search for a missing magician.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Secret codes, critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and history of magic.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with humor, secret codes, and a compelling mystery that keeps readers engaged while encouraging them to think outside the box.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love secrets, codes, and stories with a touch of magical realism.

• From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Claudia and her brother Jamie run away to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where they become entangled in a mystery involving a statue that may be one of Michelangelo's sculptures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Art history, problem-solving, independence, and resourcefulness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines an intriguing art mystery with themes of self-discovery and adventure, all set in the fascinating backdrop of an art museum.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who dream of adventure and are curious about art and history.

• The Sixty-Eight Rooms by Marianne Malone
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Ruthie and Jack discover a magical key that allows them to shrink and explore the 68 Thorne Rooms in the Chicago Art Institute, where they uncover secrets and history hidden within these miniature worlds.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: History, art appreciation, and imaginative thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a magical adventure that educates about art and history through an engaging, fantastical narrative.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy history, art, and magical adventures with a twist of mystery.

Challenging Adventure Mystery Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Greenglass House by Kate Milford
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: During a snowy winter, 12-year-old Milo Pine, who lives in the old smuggler's inn, Greenglass House, finds himself entangled in a mystery involving the inn’s odd guests, each of whom has a secret tied to the house itself.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative weaves complex themes such as identity, adoption, and the meaning of home, requiring readers to engage with deeper psychological and social issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping, layered mystery that encourages critical thinking and empathy, wrapped in a cozy, atmospheric setting.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy intricate plots and exploring deep, personal themes.

• The London Eye Mystery by Siobhan Dowd
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Ted and Kat watch their cousin Salim board the London Eye, but when the pod comes back, Salim doesn’t exit. They embark on a thrilling race against time to find him, utilizing Ted's unique way of thinking to solve the mystery.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel presents complex familial and social dynamics, and explores neurological diversity through Ted, who has a unique way of seeing the world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a suspenseful mystery that also provides insight into different ways of thinking and problem-solving.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and those interested in seeing the world through a different lens.

• Book Scavenger by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Emily and her friend James discover an unusual book, which is part of a game created by a reclusive genius. They soon find themselves on a hunt through San Francisco, deciphering clues that lead to an unsolved mystery.
  • Why this book is challenging: It incorporates ciphers, code-breaking, and complex puzzles, requiring readers to think critically and creatively.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book combines adventure with the thrill of problem-solving and the joy of books, making it a multifaceted and engaging read.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle lovers and aspiring code-breakers who enjoy fast-paced adventures.

• The Apothecary by Maile Meloy
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: In 1952, Janie Scott moves from Los Angeles to London where she meets a mysterious apothecary and his son who involve her in a plot to save the world using ancient magical secrets.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel blends historical events with magical realism, requiring readers to differentiate between historical facts and the fantastical elements woven throughout the story.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique mix of history, magic, and adventure, providing a captivating way to learn about past global conflicts while enjoying a thrilling plot.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are fascinated by history and magic, and enjoy stories that blend reality with fantasy.

• The Wolves of Willoughby Chase by Joan Aiken
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in an alternative 19th-century England, cousins Bonnie and Sylvia battle cruel guardians and treacherous conditions to save their home from being stolen away.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex language and a richly detailed alternative historical setting that demands a higher level of comprehension and engagement.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book is a thrilling, atmospheric adventure that also explores themes of resilience and courage against adversity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love thrilling tales with strong, brave characters and a bit of historical twist.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of adventure mystery books, you're in for a thrilling ride. To make the most of your reading experience, especially if you're around 12 years old, here are some exercises that can help you develop great reading habits. These will not only enhance your understanding but also make your reading adventure more enjoyable.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you want to read.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and makes reading a regular part of your day.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific spot at home where you can read without interruptions.
  • How it helps: Enhances concentration and makes your reading time special.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you're reading with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and gives you different perspectives on the story.
  • Tips: Try forming a small book club where everyone reads the same book and discusses it.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Look up words you don’t understand in a dictionary.
  • How it helps: Builds your vocabulary and helps you understand the book better.
  • Tips: Keep a dictionary nearby when you read, or use a dictionary app.

• Visualize the Story
  • What it is: Imagine the scenes in your mind as you read through the story.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading more engaging and memorable.
  • Tips: Pause after a few pages and picture the events in your mind like a movie.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enjoy your adventure mystery books more, but you'll also become a more skilled and thoughtful reader. Happy reading!