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

Are you on the hunt for conservative books for 12-year-olds that resonate with traditional values and spark thoughtful conversations? You've come to the right place! Whether you're a parent, educator, or young reader, this blog will guide you through a variety of picks that align with conservative principles. Keep reading to discover our carefully curated lists of conservative books for 12-year-olds that are both engaging and insightful.

Fun Conservative Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Children’s Literature
  • Synopsis: This book follows the life of the Ingalls family as they navigate the challenges and adventures of settling on the American frontier in the late 19th century.
  • Why we recommend this book: It instills values of hard work, perseverance, and family unity, all wrapped up in engaging stories that are both educational and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and pioneering adventures.

• The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Christian Allegory
  • Synopsis: Four siblings, Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy Pevensie, are evacuated to the countryside during the Blitz and discover a magical wardrobe that leads to the land of Narnia.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines fantasy with lessons in morality and courage, offering a captivating narrative that also encourages deeper thinking about right and wrong.
  • Perfect for: Children who love fantasy and adventure, and those interested in stories with moral lessons.

• The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This prequel to the Lord of the Rings trilogy follows Bilbo Baggins on an epic quest to help a group of dwarves reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fantastic introduction to the world of high fantasy, promoting themes of bravery and friendship in a richly detailed universe.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a budding interest in epic tales and mythical creatures.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Coming-of-age
  • Synopsis: An imaginative and talkative girl named Anne Shirley is mistakenly sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert at Green Gables, where she experiences various adventures and misadventures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the importance of imagination, education, and persistence, all while providing a heartwarming story of growing up and finding one's place in the world.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about youthful exuberance and personal growth.

• Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Family, Drama
  • Synopsis: A young boy in the Ozarks saves up to buy and train two hunting dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann, and together they explore the hills and river bottoms of Cherokee country.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches about resilience, the bond between humans and animals, and the bittersweet aspects of life and loss.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who appreciate stories of adventure and heartfelt emotion.

Educational Conservative Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Door in the Wall by Marguerite de Angeli
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Children’s Literature
  • Synopsis: Set in medieval England, this story follows a young boy named Robin who becomes paralyzed and must overcome great obstacles with the help of the monks and the teachings of Brother Luke.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, resilience, understanding of physical disabilities
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a touching narrative that encourages perseverance and faith, set against a richly detailed historical backdrop.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and inspirational stories of overcoming adversity.

• Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham
  • Genre(s): Biography, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Nathaniel Bowditch, a self-taught mathematician and navigator who wrote the influential "The American Practical Navigator."
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mathematics, navigation, self-education
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of intellectual curiosity and persistence, showcasing the importance of self-directed learning.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young mathematicians and historians, and any child interested in tales of personal achievement.

• Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A spirited frontier girl, Caddie Woodlawn, grows up in Wisconsin during the 1860s, experiencing adventures and learning important life lessons along the way.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: American history, understanding of pioneer life, bravery
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a glimpse into American frontier life through the eyes of a strong, adventurous girl, encouraging independence and courage.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about the American frontier and strong female protagonists.

• Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Coming-of-age
  • Synopsis: Set in Revolutionary War-era Boston, this novel follows Johnny Tremain, a young apprentice who becomes a patriot and takes part in the American Revolution.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: American Revolutionary history, patriotism, character development
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines historical facts with a compelling narrative, providing a personal perspective on the American fight for independence.
  • Perfect for: Students of American history and young readers interested in stories of personal growth and historical significance.

• The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Religious
  • Synopsis: Set in first-century Galilee, this story follows a young Jewish rebel, Daniel bar Jamin, who seeks vengeance against the Romans but finds a different path through the teachings of Jesus.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of historical and religious contexts, themes of forgiveness and change
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a powerful exploration of anger, forgiveness, and transformation, set against a well-researched historical backdrop.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in historical religious narratives and stories of personal transformation.

Challenging Conservative Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Animal Farm by George Orwell
  • Genre(s): Political Satire, Allegory
  • Synopsis: This allegorical novella depicts a group of farm animals who revolt against their human farmer, hoping to create a society where animals can be equal, free, and happy. However, the new regime evolves into a tyranny of its own.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book presents complex themes of power, corruption, and betrayal through the guise of a farmyard tale, requiring readers to understand both the literal and metaphorical meanings.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a brilliant satire on totalitarianism and a good primer on the dangers of political manipulation, helping young readers understand historical and political concepts through a simple yet profound narrative.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in politics, history, and critical thinking.

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a seemingly utopian society that has eliminated all pain and strife by converting to "Sameness," a 12-year-old boy named Jonas is selected to be the Receiver of Memories, learning the truth about human emotions.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel introduces complex themes about society, freedom, and individuality, and challenges readers to question the ethics of ostensibly ideal decisions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking about societal norms and personal freedoms, offering a gripping story that promotes discussion about deeper ethical and philosophical issues.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy thought-provoking narratives and exploring futuristic scenarios.

• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: This dystopian novel presents a future American society where books are outlawed and "firemen" burn any that are found. The story follows fireman Guy Montag’s journey from a book burner to a book lover.
  • Why this book is challenging: The prose is rich and metaphorical, packed with social commentary about censorship and the role of media in shaping thoughts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling warning about the dangers of censorship and the importance of independent thought, making readers value literature and the freedom to think.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are ready to tackle heavier themes about society and the importance of intellectual freedom.

• Lord of the Flies by William Golding
  • Genre(s): Allegory, Adventure, Psychological Thriller
  • Synopsis: Stranded on a deserted island, a group of British schoolboys try to govern themselves with disastrous results, revealing the darkness of human nature.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex themes of civilization vs. savagery, loss of innocence, and inherent evil requiring deep reflection and critical analysis.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping, thought-provoking exploration of human behavior and societal breakdown, encouraging readers to think about morality and leadership.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers interested in psychology and social dynamics.

• 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, survive, and eventually rise to lead.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative delves into complex themes of nature vs. nurture, survival, and primal instincts, presented through the detailed and often harsh life of Buck.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful tale of transformation and resilience, offering insights into animal instincts and the human spirit.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love adventure stories with deeper philosophical questions about nature and existence.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into conservative books and want to make the most of your reading experience, try incorporating some simple exercises into your routine. These activities are designed specifically for 12-year-olds to help develop strong and lasting reading habits. Let's check them out!

• 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 in completing books systematically.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Keep summaries short and focus on main ideas and events.

• Discuss with Friends or Family
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding through discussion and different perspectives.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book provokes in you.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances focus on reading.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Look up any unfamiliar words in a dictionary while reading.
  • How it helps: Builds vocabulary and better understanding of the content.
  • Tips: Keep a dictionary handy or use a dictionary app.

• Visualize the Story
  • What it is: Imagine the scenes described in the book as you read.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading experience more enjoyable and memorable.
  • Tips: Try drawing some scenes or characters based on your visualization.

• Reflect on the Moral
  • What it is: Think about the lessons or morals presented in the book.
  • How it helps: Develops critical thinking and personal values.
  • Tips: Write down how these lessons apply to your own life.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine can transform your experience with conservative books, making it more enriching and enjoyable. Remember, the key is consistency, so try to practice these exercises regularly. Happy reading!