10+ Best African American Books for 12-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for engaging and inspiring African American books for 12-year-olds? Whether you're looking to spark a love for reading or hoping to find stories that resonate with young minds, you've come to the right place. Dive into our curated selections that highlight the richness of African American literature tailored for tweens. Keep reading to discover the perfect reads that are sure to captivate and educate in equal measure!

Fun African American Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
  • Genre(s): Memoir, Poetry
  • Synopsis: This memoir in verse shares the author's experiences growing up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s, living with the remnants of Jim Crow and her awakening to her writing talent.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's beautifully written and accessible, making it a great introduction to poetry for young readers, while also providing a vivid look into the past.
  • Perfect for: Young poets and history buffs.

• The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Sports, Poetry, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The novel, told through a series of poems, follows twelve-year-old twin basketball stars Josh and Jordan Bell as they navigate challenges on and off the court.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its energetic verse and gripping storyline engage reluctant readers, and it beautifully blends sports action with deep emotional themes.
  • Perfect for: Athletes and fans of fast-paced, emotionally resonant stories.

• One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In the summer of 1968, three sisters travel to Oakland, California, to meet the mother who abandoned them. They arrive to find themselves enrolled in a Black Panther summer camp.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a vivid portrayal of a pivotal moment in American history through the eyes of engaging young protagonists.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history and stories about family dynamics.

• Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: After twelve-year-old Jerome is shot by a police officer, his ghost meets the ghost of Emmett Till, and together they try to understand the historical and contemporary context of racial violence.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a poignant story that tackles tough topics in a way that's accessible to young readers, encouraging empathy and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Young readers looking to deepen their understanding of social justice issues.

• New Kid by Jerry Craft
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel follows Jordan Banks, a seventh-grader who starts at a new, prestigious school where he's one of the few kids of color. He navigates challenges of fitting in and finding his identity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a relatable and often humorous look at the challenges of middle school life, with vibrant illustrations that add depth to the story.
  • Perfect for: Fans of graphic novels and stories about school life and self-discovery.

• As Brave As You by Jason Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction
  • Synopsis: When two brothers spend the summer in Virginia with their grandparents, they confront family secrets, personal fears, and new responsibilities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartfelt story about family, bravery, and growing up, with characters that resonate with middle-grade readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy family stories and coming-of-age tales.

Educational African American Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Mississippi during the Depression, this book tells the story of the Logan family as they struggle to maintain their independence and dignity in the face of racism and social injustice.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, empathy, critical thinking about social issues
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a powerful look at the harsh realities of prejudice and injustice through the eyes of a compelling young narrator.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in American history and stories of resilience.

• Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: During the Great Depression, ten-year-old Bud sets out on a journey to find the man he believes to be his father, using a few clues left behind by his deceased mother.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical context, problem-solving, understanding of the Great Depression
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an adventurous and heartwarming tale that offers insights into the struggles of the era, all through the eyes of a relatable young protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and history enthusiasts.

• The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: The Watsons, an African American family from Flint, Michigan, travel to Birmingham, Alabama, during a turbulent period in the civil rights movement.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, cultural awareness, understanding of civil rights issues
  • Why we recommend this book: Combines humor and deep emotional impact to bring to life a pivotal time in American history.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a mix of humor and serious historical context.

• Stella by Starlight by Sharon M. Draper
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In the segregated South during the Great Depression, Stella and her community are rocked by the appearance of the Ku Klux Klan, prompting her to fight for justice and equality.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of segregation and racism, resilience, courage
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a stirring narrative that showcases the strength of community and bravery in the face of terrifying odds.
  • Perfect for: Young readers looking for inspiring stories of courage and justice.

• The Mighty Miss Malone by Christopher Paul Curtis
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: During the Great Depression, Deza Malone and her family search for a stable life and a hopeful future, facing racial barriers and economic hardship along the way.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical understanding, empathy, perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It portrays the indomitable spirit of a young girl and her family during one of the toughest times in American history.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about family strength and historical challenges.

Challenging African American Books for 12-Year-Olds

• March: Book One by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin, illustrated by Nate Powell
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel is a first-hand account of Congressman John Lewis' lifelong struggle for civil and human rights, meditating in the modern age on the distance traveled since the days of Jim Crow and segregation.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of social justice, civil rights, and government, presented through the sophisticated medium of a graphic novel.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an important historical perspective through an engaging visual format, connecting past struggles with current events.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history, civil rights, and graphic storytelling.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Literature
  • Synopsis: This enchanting novel tells the story of a young girl raised by a witch who must come to terms with her magical powers, a tiny dragon, and the mystery of her past.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features intricate plot lines and rich, poetic language that require advanced reading skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written, complex tale that weaves together themes of magic, power, and family.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love fantasy and stories that challenge their imagination and reading skills.

• Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
  • Genre(s): Memoir, Poetry
  • Synopsis: This memoir in verse shares the author's experiences growing up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s, living with the remnants of Jim Crow and her awakening to her writing talent.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative is conveyed through poetic verse, requiring readers to interpret and connect the emotional and thematic undertones.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's beautifully written and accessible, making it a great introduction to poetry for young readers, while also providing a vivid look into the past.
  • Perfect for: Young poets and history buffs.

• Monster by Walter Dean Myers
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Legal Drama
  • Synopsis: This novel is presented as a screenplay of the protagonist's own imagination, and is interspersed with diary entries and a script-like format, telling the story of 16-year-old Steve Harmon who is on trial for murder.
  • Why this book is challenging: The unique screenplay format and the deep questions it raises about identity and morality make this a complex read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges readers to think critically about justice, truth, and perception.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring filmmakers, readers interested in law and justice, and those who enjoy unique narrative structures.

• The Skin I'm In by Sharon G. Flake
  • Genre(s): Contemporary Fiction
  • Synopsis: Thirteen-year-old Maleeka suffers every day from the taunts of her classmates about her dark skin. When a new teacher, whose face is blotched with a startling white patch, starts at her school, Maleeka learns to accept herself and stand up to the bullies.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles tough issues like bullying, self-esteem, and racism, requiring readers to engage with emotionally complex situations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful story about self-discovery and the fight against societal norms and prejudice.
  • Perfect for: Teens dealing with bullying or self-esteem issues, and those who appreciate stories of personal growth.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the rich world of African American literature, it's a great idea to develop some good reading habits along the way. Here are a few exercises specifically tailored for 12-year-olds that can enhance your reading experience and deepen your understanding of the books. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many books or pages you want to read each week or month.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and committed to reading regularly.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them as you get more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Encourages a routine and provides a comfortable, distraction-free environment.
  • Tips: Make sure it's well-lit and cozy, maybe add a favorite chair or some cushions.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you're reading with friends or family members.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the book's themes and characters.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book provokes in you during these discussions.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Spend some time reading the book aloud to yourself or others.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps you engage more deeply with the text.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pace depending on the scene or character you're reading about.

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

• Visualize the Story
  • What it is: Imagine the scenes as you read, like watching a movie in your mind.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading experience more vivid and enjoyable.
  • Tips: Pause after a few pages to close your eyes and picture what you just read.

• Challenge Yourself with Diverse Genres
  • What it is: Choose books from different genres within African American literature.
  • How it helps: Broadens your understanding and appreciation of diverse narratives and styles.
  • Tips: Rotate genres with each new book to keep your reading experience exciting and varied.

And there you have it! Try incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, and you'll not only enjoy your books more but also gain a deeper understanding of the diverse voices and stories within African American literature. Happy reading!