10+ Best Aesthetic Books to Read for 12-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect aesthetic books to read for 12-year-olds? Whether you’re looking to spark a tween’s interest in reading or simply want to find beautifully engaging stories, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we'll explore a variety of books that not only captivate but also visually appeal to young readers. Keep reading to discover our top picks for aesthetic books that are sure to enchant and inspire any 12-year-old book lover.

Fun Aesthetic Books to Read for 12-Year-Olds

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story centers around August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time. Through multiple perspectives, the book explores themes of kindness, friendship, and acceptance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that promotes empathy and understanding, which are crucial qualities to develop at this age.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy uplifting stories and learning about diverse experiences.

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the first book in the legendary Harry Potter series, where young Harry learns that he is a wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Here, he makes friends, enemies, and discovers his fate.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sparks imagination and introduces readers to a magical world filled with possibilities, making reading an adventurous and engaging experience.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love magic, mystery, and a good adventure.

• 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 combines thrilling adventures with Greek mythology, making it both educational and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Fans of action-packed stories and mythology enthusiasts.

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick (Illustrator: Brian Selznick)
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1930s Paris, this illustrated novel follows Hugo, an orphan who lives in the walls of a train station, as he tries to solve the mystery of his late father’s automaton.
  • Why we recommend this book: The unique combination of text and illustrations engages readers visually and textually, enhancing the reading experience.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and young readers who appreciate a good mystery.

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the story of Despereaux Tilling, a brave mouse in love with music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It tells of his adventures in a castle full of darkness and danger.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches important lessons about courage, love, and forgiveness in a way that is accessible and engaging for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy fairy tales with unlikely heroes and heartfelt lessons.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte, who tries to save her friend from being slaughtered.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching story that explores themes of friendship, life, and death in a gentle manner suitable for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and readers who appreciate stories about friendship and loyalty.

Educational Aesthetic Books to Read for 12-Year-Olds

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magical Realism
  • Synopsis: This enchanting story revolves around a young girl named Luna, who is accidentally infused with moon magic as a baby and raised by a witch. As Luna grows, her magic begins to emerge with unexpected consequences.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and understanding of themes like sacrifice and love.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines lyrical writing with a compelling plot and strong, memorable characters. The narrative beautifully explores the consequences of actions and the power of love.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories with magic, witches, and rich, imaginative storytelling.

• The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When robot Roz opens her eyes for the first time, she finds herself alone on a remote, wild island. She must learn to survive in her harsh, new environment and makes friends with the island's wildlife.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, adaptation to change, and environmental awareness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thought-provoking tale that blends technology with nature, encouraging readers to think about how they interact with the environment around them.
  • Perfect for: Young readers fascinated by technology and nature, and those who love stories about survival and friendship.

• Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by K.G. Campbell
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: The story follows Flora Belle Buckman and a superhero squirrel named Ulysses, who possesses unique powers after a freak accident. Together, they embark on an adventure full of quirky characters and poignant moments.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative thinking, vocabulary development, and understanding of narrative structure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a whimsically illustrated and cleverly written novel that combines humor with heartwarming moments.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy comics, superheroes, and stories that are both funny and moving.

• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Patricia Castelao
  • Genre(s): Animal Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: Inspired by true events, this story is narrated by Ivan, a captive gorilla who lives in a shopping mall. Ivan rarely misses his life in the jungle—until he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from the wild, which changes everything.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, animal welfare awareness, and narrative perspective.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique narrative perspective that helps readers understand and empathize with animals. The story is touching and teaches important lessons about compassion and the power of change.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who are interested in animal rights and conservation.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • 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: Logical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure filled with puzzles and mysteries that will keep readers engaged and thinking critically.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and puzzle enthusiasts who love cracking codes and solving mysteries.

Challenging Aesthetic Books to Read 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 their father from an evil force.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces complex scientific and philosophical concepts, including tesseracts and the battle between good and evil.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages imagination and critical thinking, while also exploring deep themes of love, courage, and the importance of individuality.
  • Perfect for: Young science fiction fans and readers who enjoy stories about adventure and family bonds.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Bored and disillusioned, young Milo receives a mysterious tollbooth that transports him to the Lands Beyond, where he embarks on a quest filled with puns, wordplay, and philosophical insights.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel is rich in wordplay, puns, and abstract concepts that challenge readers to think creatively and critically.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and intellectually stimulating journey that celebrates the joys of learning and the power of curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love language, puzzles, and whimsical adventures.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a sour-faced and unloved girl, discovers a hidden, neglected garden at her uncle's house and, with the help of new friends, she brings it back to life as she transforms herself.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative explores complex themes of loss, healing, and transformation, requiring readers to engage with emotional and psychological depth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a beautiful story of redemption and the healing power of nature, encouraging empathy and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who appreciate nature and stories of personal growth.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel chronicles the life of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is mistakenly sent to live with a brother and sister on Prince Edward Island.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text features rich vocabulary and complex character development, providing a more advanced reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: Anne's adventures and misadventures teach valuable lessons about perseverance, acceptance, and the importance of dreaming big.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy vivid characters and exploring themes of family and belonging.

• 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 in New York City, where they become involved in a mystery involving a statue possibly sculpted by Michelangelo.
  • Why this book is challenging: It involves complex plot twists and rich backstories that require careful reading and thought.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an exciting adventure that also explores themes of family, identity, and the pursuit of truth.
  • Perfect for: Young mystery lovers and those who dream of adventure in unusual settings.

• The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Philosophical
  • Synopsis: This poetic tale features a young prince who travels the universe gaining wisdom. The story explores themes of loneliness, friendship, love, and loss.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative's abstract ideas and philosophical undertones provide a profound reading experience beyond a simple children's story.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers deep insights into human nature and relationships, presented through a simple but powerful story.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy deep thoughts and exploring complex emotions through a whimsical tale.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're a 12-year-old diving into the world of aesthetic books, you're in for a treat! But, to make the most out of your reading adventures, it's great to develop some good habits. Here are some exercises that will not only enhance your reading experience but also help you grow as a reader.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many books you want to read in a month.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and focused on a reading routine.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances concentration by associating one place with reading activities.
  • Tips: Make sure it's well-lit and comfortable, and keep it free of distractions.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Practice reading books aloud to yourself or others.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps you engage more deeply with the text.
  • Tips: Try changing your tone and pitch to match different characters or narratives.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Keep a dictionary handy to look up words you don't understand.
  • How it helps: Expands your vocabulary and understanding of the book.
  • Tips: Write down the new words you learn and try to use them in sentences.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a book club with peers who are interested in reading.
  • How it helps: Provides a platform to discuss books and share ideas, enhancing comprehension.
  • Tips: Be active in discussions and don't be afraid to share your opinions.

• Visualize as You Read
  • What it is: Imagine the scenes described in the book as if you were watching a movie.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading experience more enjoyable and memorable.
  • Tips: Pause after a few pages to close your eyes and picture the story.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a short summary of each chapter after you finish reading it.
  • How it helps: Helps retain information and understand the plot better.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries brief and focus on the main events.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enjoy your aesthetic books more but also improve your reading skills significantly. So, grab your favorite book, find a cozy corner, and start exploring the wonderful world of reading. Happy reading!