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

Are you on the hunt for clean books for 12-year-olds that are both engaging and appropriate? Finding the right reads for young minds can sometimes be a challenge, but don't worry—we've got you covered. In this blog, we'll dive into various lists of clean books perfect for 12-year-olds, ensuring you find something that captivates and educates. Keep reading to discover our top picks that promise to be instant hits with your pre-teens!

Fun Clean Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story centers around August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time. Through his experiences, readers explore themes of kindness, acceptance, and the challenges of being different.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and the importance of accepting others, no matter their physical appearance. It's a heartwarming read that encourages readers to look beyond the surface.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy uplifting stories about overcoming adversity and younger readers looking for relatable characters facing real-world issues.

• Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is sent to Camp Half-Blood where he embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure filled with Greek mythology and fast-paced action that keeps readers engaged. It also helps in understanding Greek myths in a fun and exciting way.
  • Perfect for: Adventure seekers and mythology buffs who enjoy dynamic characters and a humorous narrative.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, illustrated by Carson Ellis
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Four gifted children are recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict to go on a secret mission at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where they must solve a series of puzzles and stop a global crisis.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking and problem-solving through its complex puzzles and mysteries. This book is engaging and intellectually stimulating.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and puzzle lovers who enjoy stories with clever twists and teamwork.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classic, Animal story
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte writes messages in her web to persuade the farmer to save him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching story that explores themes of friendship, love, and the cycle of life. It teaches about compassion and the value of life.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and readers who appreciate heartwarming stories about friendship and sacrifice.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Children’s Literature
  • Synopsis: Bored and disinterested in learning, young Milo receives a mysterious tollbooth that transports him to the Lands Beyond, filled with peculiar characters and absurd adventures that reignite his passion for knowledge and discovery.
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively illustrates the importance of education and curiosity. The whimsical adventures and clever wordplay make learning fun.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who enjoy imaginative journeys and playful use of language.

Educational Clean Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention center, where boys are forced to dig large holes every day. Stanley soon realizes they are looking for something buried beneath the dried-up lake.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, understanding of themes like justice and redemption, historical knowledge related to racial issues
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines an intriguing plot with strong messages about the consequences of actions and the importance of history.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a blend of adventure and mystery with a historical twist.

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a seemingly perfect community without suffering, 12-year-old Jonas is selected to inherit the position of Receiver of Memories, and he discovers the dark secrets that form the basis of his society's existence.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, ethical reasoning, understanding of dystopian literature
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges readers to think about the importance of memory, feeling, and individuality in a conformist society.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in thought-provoking narratives and ethical dilemmas.

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Friendship, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Jess Aarons befriends new girl Leslie Burke, and together they create the magical kingdom of Terabithia in the woods where they rule as king and queen. This friendship transforms Jess's life forever.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, creativity, coping with loss
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written exploration of friendship and loss that resonates deeply with readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who are dealing with or learning about grief and the value of friendship.

• From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Claudia and her brother Jamie run away to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where they become intrigued by a mysterious statue and set out to discover its origins.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, historical knowledge, appreciation for art
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages curiosity and determination through a captivating mystery and an unusual setting.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and mystery lovers who appreciate art and history.

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Fairy Tale
  • Synopsis: This is the story of Despereaux Tilling, a small mouse with very big ears, who loves music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It's about his adventures in a world where he does not quite fit in.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding themes of bravery and forgiveness, literary analysis
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that champions the underdog and highlights the power of stories and courage.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy fairy tales with depth and emotionally rich narratives.

Challenging Clean Books for 12-Year-Olds

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This novel follows young Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin as they travel through time and space to rescue their father from the evil forces that hold him prisoner on another planet.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex concepts such as quantum physics and the battle between good and evil.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages a scientific curiosity and presents a thrilling adventure that also explores deep familial bonds.
  • Perfect for: Science enthusiasts and readers who love fantasy adventures.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Orphaned Mary Lennox is sent to live at her uncle's gloomy mansion in Yorkshire, where she discovers a locked, neglected garden. As she revives the garden, she transforms her own life and that of her sickly cousin.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative style and language reflect the early 20th century, demanding more advanced reading skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a timeless story that teaches about the healing power of nature and the joy of nurturing others.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories of transformation and the beauty of nature.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is mistakenly sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert at Green Gables. Her adventures and misadventures in the small town of Avonlea are both humorous and heartwarming.
  • Why this book is challenging: The rich vocabulary and period dialogue provide a more demanding read.
  • Why we recommend this book: Anne's optimistic perspective and her growth from a young girl to a mature young adult are inspiring.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate character-driven narratives and stories about growing up.

• Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This 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 struggles and joys, their transitions from childhood to womanhood.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex themes such as poverty, gender roles, and individuality versus societal expectations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers timeless lessons on resilience and personal growth.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy historical settings and stories about familial bonds and personal development.

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Nazi Germany, this novel tells the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich who scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist—books.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a unique narrative style with Death as the narrator, and tackles heavy themes such as war, loss, and the power of words.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound exploration of human emotions and the impact of literature in a time of despair.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history and the transformative power of reading.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking for ways to help your 12-year-old develop great reading habits while enjoying some clean books, you've come to the right place. Here are some fun and effective exercises that can make reading a more engaging and beneficial part of their daily routine.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and helps build a reading habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special corner in the home exclusively for reading.
  • How it helps: Creates a pleasant and distraction-free environment that can enhance focus.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with comfy seating and good lighting.

• Book Club with Friends
  • What it is: Form a book club where your child and their friends read the same book and discuss it.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a social activity and allows for sharing different perspectives.
  • Tips: Schedule regular meetings to discuss the book, and maybe include some fun related activities like a themed snack.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize technology by using apps that track reading progress or provide interactive reading experiences.
  • How it helps: Integrates reading with the digital tools that kids are familiar with and enjoy using.
  • Tips: Choose apps that are age-appropriate and have educational value.

• Read and Reflect
  • What it is: After reading, take a few minutes to reflect on the story and its characters.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and critical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Encourage your child to write down their reflections or discuss them with you.

• Theme Days
  • What it is: Dedicate days to reading books about different subjects or themes.
  • How it helps: Expands knowledge and keeps reading exciting and varied.
  • Tips: Let your child choose the themes based on their interests to increase engagement.

Implementing these exercises can not only improve your child’s reading skills but also make the process a lot more enjoyable. Encourage them to try different exercises and find out which ones they like best. Happy reading!