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

Are you on the hunt for timeless reads that captivate and inspire young minds? Dive into our curated selection of classic books for 10-12-year-olds, perfect for readers looking to embark on unforgettable literary adventures. Whether your child is a budding bookworm or just beginning their reading journey, these classics are sure to spark their imagination and love for reading. Keep reading to discover the various lists of classic books for 10-12-year-olds that we’ve put together just for you!

Fun Classic Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This heartwarming story follows a young pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a wise spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte spins words into her web to try to save her friend.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the cycle of life in a gentle manner that resonates with young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and children who appreciate stories about friendship and loyalty.

• The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—discover a wardrobe that leads them to the magical land of Narnia. There, they join the mystical lion Aslan in a battle against the evil White Witch.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an enthralling fantasy that combines excitement with lessons about bravery, loyalty, and morality.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and readers who enjoy tales of magical worlds and epic battles.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Coming-of-age, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the life of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is accidentally sent to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, an elderly brother and sister who had intended to adopt a boy to help them on their farm in Prince Edward Island.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the joys and pains of growing up, and Anne's vibrant personality and rich imagination make it a delightful read.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers and anyone who enjoys stories about personal growth and exploration.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a spoiled and ill-tempered girl, is sent to live with her uncle in Yorkshire after her parents' death. There, she discovers a locked, neglected garden and, along with her cousin Colin, begins to bring it back to life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully illustrates themes of healing and rejuvenation, both physically and emotionally, through the act of nurturing the garden.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy transformation stories and nature lovers.

• Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder
  • Genre(s): Historical fiction, Autobiographical
  • Synopsis: This series of books is based on the author's childhood in a settler and pioneer family. This particular book, set in the 1870s, follows the Ingalls family as they travel west through Kansas and set up a new home on the prairie.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a glimpse into the challenges and adventures of American frontier life, with strong themes of family and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and fans of adventure and survival stories.

• The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The story follows Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who enjoys a comfortable and unambitious life but is soon whisked away on an epic quest by the wizard Gandalf and a group of dwarves to reclaim their mountain home from a dragon.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure that also teaches about courage, friendship, and the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
  • Perfect for: Fantasy lovers and anyone who enjoys a good quest.

Educational Classic Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Pirate fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of young Jim Hawkins who finds a map to a pirate's treasure and sets sail on the ship Hispaniola to find it. Along the way, he encounters the cunning and charismatic pirate Long John Silver.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, geography, historical context of piracy
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling tale that captures the essence of adventure and the complexities of morality and trust.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love adventure and stories about pirates.

• The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This charming story follows the woodland adventures of Mole, Ratty, Badger, and the impulsive Mr. Toad whose escapades get him into trouble.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of human nature, vocabulary, environmental appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor, adventure, and poignant moments with a deep appreciation for nature and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about friendship and adventures in nature.

• Black Beauty by Anna Sewell
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's literature
  • Synopsis: Narrated by the titular horse, this novel is an autobiographical memoir telling the story of Black Beauty’s life—from his carefree days as a colt to difficult times pulling cabs in London.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, animal welfare awareness, historical perspective on animal treatment
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches kindness and empathy through the eyes of an animal and highlights the importance of humane treatment towards all creatures.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in social justice and animal rights.

• Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Literary nonsense
  • Synopsis: This novel follows young Alice, who falls through a rabbit hole into a fantastical world with peculiar creatures and surreal experiences.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Imagination, problem-solving, literary analysis
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages creativity and critical thinking through its complex word play and whimsical narrative.
  • Perfect for: Readers with a vivid imagination and a love for puzzling and fantastical tales.

• Heidi by Johanna Spyri
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's literature
  • Synopsis: Heidi is an orphan sent to live with her grumpy grandfather in the Swiss Alps. She quickly grows to love the mountains, and her joy and kindness transform the lives of those around her.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, appreciation for nature
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that emphasizes the importance of positivity, resilience, and the impact one person can have on the community.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy uplifting stories and learning about different cultures and settings.

Challenging Classic Books for 10-12-Year-Olds

• Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the life of an orphan named Pip, who rises from poverty through a mysterious benefactor. Along the way, he deals with themes of ambition, love, and social class.
  • Why this book is challenging: Dickens' intricate plot and complex characters require careful reading and comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides insight into Victorian society and teaches valuable lessons about human nature and personal development.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy complex narratives and exploring rich, historical settings.

• Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This epic tale recounts the voyage of the whaling ship Pequod, commanded by the obsessively vengeful Captain Ahab, who is determined to kill the giant white whale, Moby Dick.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative includes complex language, philosophical asides, and detailed descriptions of whaling.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound exploration of man's struggle against nature and fate, offering deep philosophical insights.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in adventure and classic literature with deep thematic elements.

• The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel captures the adventures of a young boy, Tom Sawyer, as he grows up along the Mississippi River, getting into trouble and discovering the joys and pitfalls of childhood.
  • Why this book is challenging: Twain’s use of dialects and period language can be tricky for young readers to navigate.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a nostalgic look at youthful freedom and mischief, while imparting lessons about personal responsibility and social values.
  • Perfect for: Those who love stories of adventure and exploration, with a touch of humor and historical context.

• A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: Set before and during the French Revolution, this novel tells the story of characters caught in the terror and turmoil of the period, highlighting themes of resurrection and sacrifice.
  • Why this book is challenging: The complex narrative structure and historical references require a higher level of reader maturity and comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful and emotional story that helps young readers understand the impacts of history on human lives.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in history and stories that depict the human spirit’s resilience.

• The Call of the Wild by Jack London
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Buck, a domestic dog who is kidnapped and sold into the brutal existence of an Alaskan sled dog, where he must adapt to survive the harsh wilderness and climb to the top of the canine hierarchy.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book’s raw portrayal of primal survival and the complex transformation of Buck’s character from domesticated animal to a wild creature present deep themes for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It explores themes of nature vs. nurture, survival, and the loss of civilization, which are profound and thought-provoking.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and readers who appreciate stories of adventure and survival against the odds.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of classic books, it's a fantastic journey ahead. To make the most of it, especially for young readers between the ages of 10 and 12, developing good reading habits is key. Here are some exercises that can help sharpen those reading skills and deepen the engagement with every book.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Provides a clear target and helps build a consistent reading habit.
  • 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: Minimizes distractions and creates a comfortable environment for reading.
  • Tips: Include comfy seating and good lighting to make your reading space inviting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who have read it or are reading it.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the book’s content.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book evokes in you during these discussions.

• Map the Story
  • What it is: Draw a map or timeline of the events in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the story’s structure and sequence of events.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to mark important events or turning points in the story.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Make predictions about what might happen next after a reading session.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and engagement with the storyline.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many of them turn out to be true as you read further.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Spend some time reading the book aloud to yourself or to others.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps in better understanding of the text.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pace based on the context of the story to make it more fun and engaging.

• Keep a Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Write down new or interesting words and their meanings as you come across them.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and better equips you to understand more complex texts.
  • Tips: Try to use the new words in sentences to better retain their meanings.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine can really boost your understanding and enjoyment of classic literature. Remember, the key is consistency and enjoyment. So, grab your next classic book, dive in, and let the adventures begin! Happy reading!