10+ Best Books for 13-Year-Old Girls w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for a young teen in your life? Finding the right books for 13-year-old girls can be a delightful challenge, as their interests are as varied as they are. Whether she's into adventures that stretch the imagination or stories that reflect her own experiences, there's a book out there just waiting to be her next favorite. Keep reading to discover our top picks of books for 13-year-old girls that are sure to captivate and inspire.

Fun Books for 13-Year-Old Girls

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming of Age, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This timeless story follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is accidentally sent to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, a brother and sister who intended to adopt a boy to help them on their farm in Prince Edward Island.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that emphasizes the importance of imagination, friendship, and finding one's place in the world. Anne's experiences and mishaps will delight and inspire young readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love character-driven stories and exploring themes of personal growth and belonging.

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: The first book in the Harry Potter series introduces Harry Potter, a young wizard who discovers his magical heritage on his eleventh birthday when he receives a letter of acceptance to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
  • Why we recommend this book: It opens up a magical world full of excitement and adventure, making it a perfect choice to captivate young readers and ignite their passion for reading.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy magical adventures and discovering new worlds.

• The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In a dystopian future, teenager Katniss Everdeen volunteers to fight in the Hunger Games, a televised competition in which two teenagers from each of the twelve Districts of Panem are chosen at random to fight to the death.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling and action-packed novel that also explores themes of survival, societal structures, and the effects of government control.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are drawn to intense stories with strong, resourceful characters and a critical look at society.

• Smile by Raina Telgemeier
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Biography, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: This autobiographical graphic novel details the author's struggles with dental issues and middle school after an accident that injures her two front teeth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a relatable and humorous look at the trials of growing up, wrapped in a visually engaging format. It addresses personal insecurities and resilience in a way that's accessible to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy true stories and graphic novels, and anyone dealing with personal challenges.

• Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Fairy Tale, Romance
  • Synopsis: This retelling of the Cinderella story follows Ella of Frell, who is cursed with the "gift" of obedience. Ella must navigate her world carefully, trying to break the curse while also protecting those she loves.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique twist on a classic fairy tale, empowering its protagonist to fight against her circumstances. It's a story of courage, self-discovery, and the quest for freedom.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love fairy tales with a strong female lead and a dash of romance.

Educational Books for 13-Year-Old Girls

• Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition by Margot Lee Shetterly
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This book tells the inspiring true story of four African American women who worked at NASA and were instrumental in some of its greatest successes. It explores their contributions to space exploration and how they overcame the challenges of their time.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, understanding of racial and gender equality, mathematical concepts
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the significant yet often overlooked contributions of these brilliant women, providing a powerful lesson on perseverance and intelligence.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and historians, and those interested in space exploration and civil rights.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: The story follows August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time. Through his experiences, the book explores themes of kindness, acceptance, and friendship.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, social awareness, emotional intelligence
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches the importance of accepting and celebrating differences, promoting a message of empathy and kindness.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy uplifting stories that deal with real-life challenges and social interactions.

• 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 enmagicked as a baby. Raised by a witch, a tiny dragon, and a swamp monster, Luna must handle the magic that begins to emerge as she turns thirteen.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative thinking, problem-solving, understanding of complex narratives
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines magic and adventure with deep themes like love, power, and the complexity of human nature.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love fantasy and stories filled with magical creatures and profound life lessons.

• Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo
  • Genre(s): Biography, Inspirational, Non-Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book is a collection of bedtime stories about the lives of extraordinary women from the past and the present, illustrated by 60 female artists from around the world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical and cultural awareness, inspiration, role models
  • Why we recommend this book: It empowers young girls by introducing them to role models who have changed the world in various fields.
  • Perfect for: Girls looking for real-life heroines and stories of success and perseverance.

• 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, Memoir, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: The memoir of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani girl who stood up against the Taliban for her right to education and was targeted for her beliefs. This edition is adapted for young readers and shares her journey from a near-death experience to becoming a global advocate for education.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Awareness of global issues, understanding of activism and advocacy, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: Malala's story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the fight for education and justice.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in real-life heroes and those passionate about education and rights.

Challenging Books for 13-Year-Old Girls

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • Genre(s): Classic, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in the Depression-era South, this novel follows young Scout Finch, her brother Jem, and their father Atticus, a lawyer who is defending a black man accused of raping a white woman. The story explores themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and compassion.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of racial injustice and moral philosophy, presented through the perspective of a child.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound narrative that offers insights into human behavior and prejudices, encouraging readers to think critically about ethical issues and empathy.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in American history, social justice, and complex narrative perspectives.

• Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: This beloved novel follows the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they grow up in Civil War-era America. The story is a slice of life that covers their passage from childhood to womanhood.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative style and historical context require understanding of nuanced language and societal norms of the past.
  • Why we recommend this book: It explores themes of family, independence, and personal growth, providing a rich, character-driven experience.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy stories about family dynamics and self-discovery.

• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
  • Genre(s): Gothic, Romance, Bildungsroman
  • Synopsis: An orphaned girl, Jane Eyre, endures a lonely and cruel childhood and grows up to become a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she meets and falls in love with the mysterious Mr. Rochester. The novel explores themes of social criticism, morality, and gender relations.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its complex language, depth of emotion, and moral introspection make it a challenging yet rewarding read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful narrative that champions the spirit of independence and self-respect in the face of hardship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate strong, complex characters and themes of love and integrity.

• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a future American society where books are outlawed and "firemen" burn any that are found, fireman Guy Montag begins to question the world around him after he meets an unconventional young woman who keeps books in her home.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a critical look at issues of censorship, the role of government, and the consequences of a disengaged society.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking about freedom, knowledge, and the importance of questioning authority.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science fiction and exploring profound societal questions.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a sickly and unloved 10-year-old girl born in India to wealthy British parents, is sent to England to live with an uncle in his mansion after the death of her parents. There, she discovers a mysterious walled garden that has been locked for years.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative involves complex themes of loss, revival, and transformation, conveyed through detailed descriptive language and emotional depth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a story of healing and renewal, both physically and emotionally, that encourages personal growth and exploration.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories with elements of mystery and personal transformation.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking for ways to help your 13-year-old girl develop strong reading habits, I've got some fun and effective exercises that can make reading a regular and enjoyable part of her life. These exercises are designed to be engaging and beneficial, helping young readers to discover the joy of books while enhancing their skills. Let's dive in!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books to read each month.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and gives a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with a manageable goal and gradually increase it.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special corner in the house just for reading.
  • How it helps: Provides a comfortable and inviting space dedicated to reading.
  • Tips: Let her personalize the space with comfy seating and good lighting.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Become a member of a book club that focuses on young adult literature.
  • How it helps: Stimulates discussion and critical thinking about books.
  • Tips: Look for local libraries or schools that host teen book clubs.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Spend some time reading books aloud, either alone or with family.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps in understanding the flow of language.
  • Tips: Choose engaging and challenging books that are fun to read out loud.

• Book Swap
  • What it is: Organize a book swap event with friends or classmates.
  • How it helps: Encourages exploration of different genres and authors.
  • Tips: Make it a regular event, such as once every few months.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize an app that tracks reading progress and suggests books.
  • How it helps: Keeps her engaged and helps discover new books based on interests.
  • Tips: Choose apps that also offer rewards or badges for milestones.

• Write Book Reviews
  • What it is: Write a short review for each book read and share it online or with friends.
  • How it helps: Develops critical thinking and expresses thoughts clearly.
  • Tips: Start with books she really loved or had strong opinions about.

Wrapping up, these exercises are not just about reading more books; they're about making reading a fun, integral part of her daily life. Encourage your young reader to try out these exercises, and watch as her world expands with every page she turns. Happy reading!