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

Are you on the hunt for engaging biography books for 13-year-olds that can both educate and inspire? You’ve come to the right place! Delving into the lives of remarkable individuals through biographies can be a transformative experience for young teens. Keep reading as we explore a variety of captivating biography books perfect for 13-year-olds, each offering a unique glimpse into extraordinary lives and achievements. Let’s get inspired together!

Fun Biography Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Who Was Anne Frank? by Ann Abramson, illustrated by Nancy Harrison
  • Genre(s): Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This book provides a glimpse into the life of Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. It details her life, the time she spent in the Secret Annex, and the impact of her diary.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling introduction to a crucial part of history, told in a way that's accessible and engaging for young readers.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and young readers interested in stories of resilience and courage.

• Boys Who Rocked the World: Heroes from King Tut to Bruce Lee by Michelle Roehm McCann
  • Genre(s): Biography, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book highlights the lives and achievements of various male figures from history and modern times who made significant impacts before turning twenty.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's inspirational, showing young readers that age is just a number when it comes to making a difference in the world.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers and future leaders.

• I Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World (Young Readers Edition) by Malala Yousafzai with Patricia McCormick
  • Genre(s): Biography, Education, Activism
  • Synopsis: This is the memoir of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani girl who fought for her right to education and was targeted by the Taliban. This edition is adapted for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful story of courage and perseverance that highlights the importance of education and standing up for what you believe in.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring activists and anyone passionate about the right to education.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Young Readers Edition by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of William Kamkwamba, a boy from Malawi who built a windmill from scraps to provide electricity and water to his village.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of innovation and determination that showcases how creativity can lead to life-changing solutions.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and science enthusiasts.

• Kid Athletes: True Tales of Childhood from Sports Legends (Kid Legends) by David Stabler, illustrated by Doogie Horner
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports
  • Synopsis: This book shares the childhood stories of famous athletes, focusing on the challenges and triumphs they faced on their way to becoming sports legends.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s fun and motivational, providing relatable stories of perseverance and success in sports.
  • Perfect for: Young sports fans and aspiring athletes.

Educational Biography Books for 13-Year-Olds

• The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science by Joyce Sidman
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Art
  • Synopsis: This book explores the life of Maria Merian, a pioneering woman of science and a talented artist, who transformed the way we see the natural world with her detailed drawings of butterflies and insects.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific observation, historical understanding, artistic appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully merges art with science, showing how Maria Merian's keen observations led to significant contributions to entomology and scientific illustration.
  • Perfect for: Budding artists and young scientists interested in the intersection of art and nature.

• Star Stuff: Carl Sagan and the Mysteries of the Cosmos by Stephanie Roth Sisson
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Astronomy
  • Synopsis: This book delves into the life of Carl Sagan, from his humble beginnings to his rise as one of the most famous astronomers, highlighting his profound curiosity about the universe.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, curiosity about the cosmos, understanding of astronomy
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires a sense of wonder about the universe and encourages young readers to explore the vast mysteries of space.
  • Perfect for: Young astronomers and anyone curious about the stars and beyond.

• Ordinary People Change the World: I am Helen Keller by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
  • Genre(s): Biography, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book introduces young readers to Helen Keller, focusing on how she overcame the challenges of being deaf and blind to make a significant impact on the world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, resilience, understanding of disabilities
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful example of how determination and education can help overcome personal challenges.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in stories of courage and overcoming adversity.

• Who Was Leonardo da Vinci? by Roberta Edwards, illustrated by True Kelley
  • Genre(s): Biography, Art, Science
  • Synopsis: This book provides an overview of Leonardo da Vinci's life, exploring his many roles as an artist, inventor, and scientist, and his contributions to various fields.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Artistic and scientific curiosity, historical knowledge
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the Renaissance man's diverse talents and insatiable curiosity, encouraging multidisciplinary learning.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring artists, inventors, and thinkers interested in the Renaissance period.

• The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Social Activism
  • Synopsis: This book tells the inspiring story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a young girl who was the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1963.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of civil rights history, social justice, activism
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases the impactful role of young people in social movements and emphasizes the power of standing up for what's right.
  • Perfect for: Young activists and history enthusiasts looking to understand the civil rights movement from a youthful perspective.

Challenging Biography Books for 13-Year-Olds

• The Voice That Challenged a Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights by Russell Freedman
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Civil Rights
  • Synopsis: This biography explores the life of Marian Anderson, an African American contralto whose 1939 concert at the Lincoln Memorial became a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of racial discrimination and civil rights, intertwined with detailed historical context.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a powerful look at how one person's voice can influence a nation's history, inspiring readers to understand and value the impact of art in social movements.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and music lovers interested in the intersection of art and social justice.

• Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith by Deborah Heiligman
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book delves into the relationship between Charles Darwin and his wife Emma, focusing on how his groundbreaking theory of evolution challenged their religious beliefs and their marriage.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents the sophisticated scientific theories of Darwin alongside the personal and religious conflicts they engendered, requiring readers to think critically about science and faith.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on the personal life of a famous scientist, encouraging readers to consider how scientific discoveries can affect personal and societal values.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and those interested in the history of science and its ethical implications.

• The Lincolns: A Scrapbook Look at Abraham and Mary by Candace Fleming
  • Genre(s): Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This book provides a detailed look at the lives of Abraham Lincoln and his wife Mary Todd Lincoln, presented in a unique scrapbook format that includes photographs, letters, and personal reflections.
  • Why this book is challenging: The scrapbook format requires readers to engage with a mix of primary and secondary sources, enhancing their analytical skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a visually engaging and informative look at one of America's most studied historical figures and his complex personal life.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and anyone interested in American history through a more personal lens.

• Steve Jobs: The Man Who Thought Different by Karen Blumenthal
  • Genre(s): Biography, Technology, Business
  • Synopsis: This biography charts the life of Steve Jobs, from his early days in his adoptive family to his role in founding Apple and leading it to become one of the most influential tech companies in the world.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex concepts in technology and business, and delves into Jobs' personal and professional challenges.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides insight into the mind of a visionary and the impacts of perseverance and innovation in technology.
  • Perfect for: Budding entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts who are curious about the history and people behind modern technology.

• Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice by Phillip Hoose
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Civil Rights
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Claudette Colvin, a teenager who refused to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, nine months before Rosa Parks' more famous protest.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses complex issues of racial segregation and justice through the eyes of a young protagonist, requiring readers to confront harsh historical realities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the role of young people in the civil rights movement, offering a powerful example of youth activism and courage.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in civil rights history and stories of youth making a difference.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of biography books and you're around 13 years old, you're in for some fascinating stories. But, how can you make the most of these books and develop some solid reading habits? Here are a few exercises that can help you get started:

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on how many pages or chapters you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and makes reading a regular part of your day.
  • 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 focus by associating one place with reading activities.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, comfortable, and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends, family, or a book club.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book provokes in you.

• Map the Life
  • What it is: Draw a timeline or map out the major events of the person’s life as you read.
  • How it helps: Helps in better understanding the sequence and impact of events.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to mark important dates and turning points.

• Question and Answer Session
  • What it is: Write down questions that you have while reading and find the answers when you finish a chapter.
  • How it helps: Enhances active reading and critical thinking.
  • Tips: Keep a notebook handy specifically for questions and insights.

• Relate to Personal Experiences
  • What it is: Connect events or experiences of the biography to your own life.
  • How it helps: Makes reading more engaging and memorable.
  • Tips: Write down any similarities or thoughts on how you would react in similar situations.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes.
  • 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 the biographies more, but you’ll also enhance your reading skills significantly. Remember, the key is consistency, so try to stick with your chosen exercises. Happy reading!