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

Are you on the hunt for engaging Christian books for 10-12-year-olds that not only entertain but also inspire? Finding the right books can be a game-changer for encouraging young readers to explore their faith and values through stories they can relate to. Whether you're a parent, educator, or church leader, this guide is packed with top picks that resonate with young minds. Keep reading to discover our curated lists of Christian books perfect for 10-12-year-olds, each promising to captivate and educate in equal measure.

Fun Christian Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
  • Illustrator: Pauline Baynes
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Christian fiction
  • Synopsis: This series of seven books takes readers on magical adventures in the mystical land of Narnia, where animals talk, magic is common, and battles are fought between good and evil.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling adventures with moral and spiritual lessons, making it both entertaining and enlightening for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Fans of epic adventures and fantasy.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction, Christian themes
  • Synopsis: An orphaned girl discovers a hidden, neglected garden at her uncle's house and, through her restoration of it, brings healing to her family.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that explores themes of redemption and the transformative power of nature and kindness.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about personal growth and magical gardens.

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy, Christian fiction
  • Synopsis: A young girl, her brother, and her friend are transported through time and space by three strange beings to rescue her father from an evil force.
  • Why we recommend this book: It blends scientific concepts and Christian theology, encouraging readers to think deeply about the universe and their place within it.
  • Perfect for: Young sci-fi fans and thinkers interested in a mix of adventure and deeper questions about life.

• The Door Within by Wayne Thomas Batson
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Christian Fiction
  • Synopsis: A boy finds himself drawn into a parallel world where he is caught in a battle between good and evil forces.
  • Why we recommend this book: The narrative is packed with action and moral lessons, ideal for keeping young readers engaged while instilling valuable life lessons.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love epic battles and moral challenges.

• Adventures in Odyssey: Imagination Station Series by Paul McCusker and Marianne Hering
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Christian, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This series follows two children who travel through time using the Imagination Station to experience biblical and historical events firsthand.
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes history and biblical stories accessible and exciting, helping children understand and appreciate history in a fun way.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy time travel and learning about history through adventures.

Educational Christian Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• The Prince Warriors by Priscilla Shirer with Gina Detwiler
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Christian
  • Synopsis: This series follows a group of young friends who are transported to another world, where they must put on the full armor of God to fight against spiritual forces.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Spiritual education, understanding of biblical principles, teamwork and problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling fantasy elements with Christian teachings, making it both engaging and spiritually enriching.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy action-packed stories with a strong moral foundation.

• The Bark of the Bog Owl by Jonathan Rogers
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Christian
  • Synopsis: Part of the Wilderking Trilogy, this book tells the story of Aidan who embarks on a divine quest in a world filled with danger and mystery.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, moral reasoning, understanding of biblical allegories
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating adventure that parallels the story of King David in a way that's accessible and appealing to children.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love epic tales and exploring spiritual themes through allegory.

• Lightkeepers: Ten Boys Who... series by Irene Howat
  • Genre(s): Biography, Christian, Educational
  • Synopsis: Each book in this series features the biographies of ten boys who made history, such as ten boys who didn't give in, standing strong for God in spite of challenging circumstances.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, inspirational role models, character development
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides real-life examples of faith and perseverance, offering young readers role models who embody Christian values.
  • Perfect for: Children interested in history and stories of real-life heroes.

• Voyage with the Vikings by Paul McCusker and Marianne Hering
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Historical Fiction, Christian
  • Synopsis: Part of the "Adventures in Odyssey: Imagination Station" books, this tale takes readers on a journey with Beth and Patrick to Viking age Norway where they meet Erik the Red and Leif Eriksson.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical understanding, adventure, Christian values
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an exciting way to learn about Viking history and Christian faith through time-travel adventures.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers who enjoy history and thrilling stories.

• The Dreamer, The Schemer & The Robe by Jenny L. Cote
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Biblical Fiction, Christian
  • Synopsis: The second book in "The Amazing Tales of Max and Liz" series, it follows the adventures of two animals, Max and Liz, as they witness the biblical story of Joseph.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Biblical stories, understanding of forgiveness and resilience, imagination
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively narrates a well-known biblical story through the eyes of engaging animal characters, making it fun and educational.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy animal characters and learning about Bible stories in an imaginative way.

Challenging Christian Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• Hinds' Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard
  • Genre(s): Allegory, Christian Fiction
  • Synopsis: This allegorical novel follows Much-Afraid on her spiritual journey through difficulties and trials towards the high places of the Shepherd's homeland, representing the Christian path to overcoming fear and doubt.
  • Why this book is challenging: The allegorical style and deeper spiritual themes challenge readers to think abstractly about faith and perseverance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages readers to face their personal fears and challenges with faith and determination.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy deep spiritual metaphors and are on their own journey of faith.

• The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Christian
  • Synopsis: Set in first-century Galilee, this story follows a young boy named Daniel who is consumed by hatred for the Romans until he hears the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of revenge, forgiveness, and transformation through faith, set against a rich historical backdrop.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a powerful exploration of how love and faith can overcome hatred and provides a compelling historical context.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories that explore deep emotional and spiritual growth.

• The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson
  • Illustrator: Joe Sutphin
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Christian
  • Synopsis: This series follows the Igiby siblings, who discover their family’s secret past and their role in the struggle against the evil Fangs of Dang.
  • Why this book is challenging: The series features a complex fantasy world with its own languages and deep lore, requiring readers to engage with and remember detailed information.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines imaginative storytelling with themes of family, bravery, and faith.
  • Perfect for: Fantasy lovers who appreciate a richly woven world and epic storytelling.

• The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan
  • Genre(s): Allegory, Christian
  • Synopsis: This religious allegory follows Christian on his journey from his hometown, the City of Destruction, to the Celestial City. Along the way, he faces various spiritual trials and challenges.
  • Why this book is challenging: Written in an older form of English and filled with allegorical references, it challenges readers to think critically about its deeper meanings.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's one of the most significant works of religious English literature and provides profound insights into the Christian faith.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who enjoy classic literature and exploring deep spiritual themes.

• The Children of the New Forest by Frederick Marryat
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure, Christian
  • Synopsis: Set during the English Civil War, this novel follows the four Beverley children who are orphaned and must hide from the Roundheads in the New Forest.
  • Why this book is challenging: It combines historical context with themes of survival, morality, and family, requiring readers to understand complex social and historical dynamics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches about English history and the resilience of young characters in the face of adversity.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love historical adventures and stories about sibling relationships and survival.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're exploring Christian books with your 10-12-year-olds, you're on a fantastic journey of faith and fun. To make the most of this reading adventure, here are some engaging exercises that can help develop good reading habits. These are not just fun but also reinforce the values and lessons learned from the books. Let's dive in!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Helps create a consistent reading schedule and builds discipline.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• 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 time.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, comfortable, and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are also reading it.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings or lessons you derived from the readings.

• Illustrate a Scene
  • What it is: Draw or paint a scene or concept from the book.
  • How it helps: Encourages creative thinking and helps visualize the story.
  • Tips: Don’t worry about artistic skill; focus on how the scene made you feel.

• Question and Answer Diary
  • What it is: Write down questions and answers about the plot, characters, or moral lessons.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and critical thinking.
  • Tips: Review these questions before continuing with the next reading session.

• Memory Verse Challenge
  • What it is: Memorize a meaningful verse from the book each week.
  • How it helps: Helps internalize spiritual values and improves memory.
  • Tips: Use fun techniques like songs or rhymes to make memorization easier.

• Book Club Participation
  • What it is: Join or form a book club focused on Christian books for kids.
  • How it helps: Encourages social interaction and sharing different perspectives.
  • Tips: Be active in discussions and respect everyone’s opinions.

• Role-Play
  • What it is: Act out parts of the book with friends or family members.
  • How it helps: Brings the story to life and deepens understanding of the characters.
  • Tips: Use props or costumes to make it more engaging and fun.

These exercises are designed to make reading a dynamic and integral part of your child’s daily routine. By incorporating these activities, you not only enhance their reading skills but also instill a deeper appreciation for Christian values. So, grab those books, get set, and let the reading adventure begin! Happy reading!