10+ Best Common Sense Media Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for your teen? Look no further than Common Sense Media Books for 13-Year-olds, a treasure trove of top picks that cater specifically to young teenagers. Whether your child is a voracious reader or just getting into the habit, these books promise to engage and inspire. Keep reading to discover our varied lists of Common Sense Media Books for 13-Year-Olds that are sure to captivate your young reader's imagination and interest.

Fun Common Sense Media Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This heartwarming story follows August Pullman, a boy with facial differences, as he attends public school for the first time in fifth grade. Through his experiences, readers explore themes of kindness, acceptance, and friendship.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and the importance of accepting others, no matter their appearance. It's a great conversation starter about bullying and being different.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a moving story that promotes kindness and understanding.

• Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is thrust into a world of Greek mythology where he must prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an exciting introduction to Greek mythology with a modern twist, encouraging interest in classical stories through action-packed adventures.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fantasy and adventure, and those interested in mythology.

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a seemingly perfect community without suffering, choice, or pain, twelve-year-old Jonas uncovers the dark truths that underpin his society. He must decide whether to accept this controlled life or seek freedom.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces complex themes about society, freedom, and individuality in a way that's accessible to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are intrigued by speculative fiction and ethical dilemmas.

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Harry Potter learns on his 11th birthday that he is the orphaned son of two powerful wizards and possesses unique magical powers of his own. He attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, making friends and enemies, and uncovering a dark mystery tied to his family.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a magical tale that fosters imagination and teaches the value of friendship and courage in the face of adversity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love magic, mystery, and a good versus evil storyline.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to a boys' detention center where he is tasked with digging large holes daily. The boys are told it builds character, but Stanley realizes they might be looking for something else.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inventive and engaging story with clever twists, teaching about the consequences of choices and the importance of history.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy unique narratives and stories that connect past events with the present.

• The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a dystopian future, teenager Katniss Everdeen volunteers to take her sister's place in the Hunger Games, a televised fight to the death. Katniss must rely on her sharp instincts and mentorship to survive.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers thrilling action and explores themes of survival, totalitarianism, and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in intense, action-packed narratives that also question societal norms and values.

Educational Common Sense Media Books for 13-Year-Olds

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Legal Drama
  • Synopsis: Set in the 1930s in the American South, this novel follows young Scout Finch and her brother, Jem, as they navigate a world of racial injustice and moral growth when their father, attorney Atticus Finch, defends a black man unjustly accused of a terrible crime.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking about ethics and justice, understanding historical context, empathy, and racial awareness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound narrative that addresses complex themes of racial injustice and moral integrity through the innocent eyes of a child.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in American history, social justice, and strong narrative voices.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-age
  • Synopsis: This story follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is mistakenly sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert at Green Gables. Her vibrant personality and vivid imagination bring a new spirit to their home and community.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative thinking, vocabulary, emotional intelligence, and social relationships.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the power of imagination and the impact of positivity, providing a delightful exploration of life's simple joys and the growth that comes from embracing change.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy heartfelt stories and character-driven narratives.

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe embark on a journey through space and time to rescue their father from an evil force that threatens the universe. They are aided by three supernatural beings, Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific concepts, problem-solving, resilience, and understanding complex themes of good versus evil.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines science fiction with a compelling adventure, encouraging readers to think beyond the ordinary and embrace their unique qualities.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love science fiction and stories about overcoming challenges through courage and love.

• The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Coming-of-age
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Ponyboy Curtis and his struggles with right and wrong in a society in which he believes he is an outsider. As part of the lower-class "Greasers," Ponyboy battles with the upper-class "Socs," leading to violence and a desire for understanding.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social awareness, emotional literacy, and critical thinking about social class and divisions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful look at the bonds of brotherhood and the harsh realities of social divisions, resonating with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider.
  • Perfect for: Teens grappling with issues of identity, class conflict, and the journey toward adulthood.

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Drama
  • Synopsis: This novel explores the friendship between Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke who create a magical forest kingdom called Terabithia, where they reign as king and queen. Their friendship helps them deal with the realities of their lives until a tragedy strikes.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional resilience, creativity, friendship dynamics, and coping with loss.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching story that beautifully illustrates the power of friendship and the impact of loss while encouraging imagination and courage in the face of adversity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers dealing with or learning about grief, and those who appreciate stories of deep friendships and imaginative worlds.

Challenging Common Sense Media Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Moby Dick by Herman Melville
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This epic tale follows the obsessive quest of Captain Ahab as he seeks vengeance on Moby Dick, the white whale that maimed him. Through the eyes of Ishmael, the narrative explores intricate details of whaling, the beauty of the sea, and the nature of obsession.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure, historical context, and philosophical underpinnings make this a complex read for young adults.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound literary classic that challenges readers to consider themes of revenge, fate, and humanity's struggle against nature.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers interested in classic literature and complex narratives.

• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
  • Genre(s): Gothic, Romance
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Jane Eyre, an orphaned girl who overcomes a troubled childhood and becomes a governess at Thornfield Hall, where she falls in love with the mysterious Mr. Rochester.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its sophisticated language, psychological depth, and exploration of social criticism present a considerable challenge to younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: Jane Eyre offers a resilient female protagonist and a critical look at the social constraints on women in the 19th century.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy strong, complex characters and themes of love, independence, and morality.

• Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Classic, Bildungsroman
  • Synopsis: Pip, an orphan living with his sister and her husband, has a life-changing encounter with an escaped convict and later, an eccentric heiress named Miss Havisham and her ward, Estella. The novel traces Pip's development as he learns the realities of adult society and the nature of his "great expectations."
  • Why this book is challenging: Dickens' intricate plot and character development, along with his use of Victorian English, require advanced reading skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling exploration of social class, personal development, and human nature.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in historical settings and complex, character-driven plots.

• Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
  • Genre(s): Gothic, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows young scientist Victor Frankenstein, who creates a grotesque but sentient creature in an unorthodox scientific experiment. The story explores themes of ambition, responsibility, and the quest for knowledge.
  • Why this book is challenging: The sophisticated language and deep philosophical questions posed make this a demanding read for young adults.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping narrative and timeless questions about creation, ethics, and the consequences of scientific exploration.
  • Perfect for: Readers fascinated by science fiction and ethical dilemmas.

• Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Psychological Fiction, Philosophical
  • Synopsis: This novel centers on Rodion Raskolnikov, a former student in St. Petersburg who formulates and executes a plan to kill an unscrupulous pawnbroker for her money. The book delves deeply into his mental anguish and moral dilemmas.
  • Why this book is challenging: The deep psychological analysis and moral complexities present a significant challenge for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound investigation into morality, guilt, and redemption, offering readers a deep dive into the protagonist's troubled psyche.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in psychology and classic philosophical literature.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're 13 and looking to dive deeper into the world of books, you're in for a treat! Here are some fun and effective exercises designed to help you develop great reading habits. These activities will not only enhance your reading skills but also make your reading experience more enjoyable. Let's get started!

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Decide on a specific number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and helps build a strong reading routine.
  • Tips: Start with a manageable goal and gradually increase as you get more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special corner or area in your home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Provides a comfortable and distraction-free environment that enhances focus.
  • Tips: Include comfy seating, good lighting, and maybe even some personal touches like a favorite blanket or decorations.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books on a regular schedule.
  • How it helps: Stimulates critical thinking and provides motivation to read more.
  • Tips: Choose a book club that reads books you’re interested in, or start your own with friends!

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize technology by using an app that tracks reading progress.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated with achievements and reminders.
  • Tips: Look for apps that offer rewards or badges for milestones to keep it fun and engaging.

• Read Aloud to Others
  • What it is: Practice reading books aloud to family members or friends.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and builds confidence in reading skills.
  • Tips: Choose engaging stories that are fun to read aloud, and don’t be afraid to use different voices for characters!

• Challenge Yourself With Different Genres
  • What it is: Make an effort to read books from genres outside your usual preferences.
  • How it helps: Broadens your understanding and appreciation of different literary styles.
  • Tips: Start with one book in a new genre every month, and discuss what you liked or didn’t like about it.

By incorporating these exercises into your daily routine, you'll not only enhance your reading skills but also discover new books and genres you might love. Remember, the key to becoming a better reader is consistency and a willingness to explore new things. Happy reading!