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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect English story books for 12-year-olds? Whether you're looking to spark a love for reading or keep up with your tween's ever-growing curiosity, finding the right books can be a game changer. In this blog, we've rounded up a diverse collection of must-read English story books that are sure to captivate and inspire young readers. Keep reading to discover our top picks for 12-year-olds and find the perfect addition to their reading list!

Fun English Story Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the first book in the iconic series where young Harry learns that he is a wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Here, he makes friends, learns magic, and begins to uncover the dark secrets of his past.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a magical introduction to a world where anything is possible with friendship and bravery. It encourages imagination and the belief in oneself.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love magic, mysteries, and adventures.

• 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 sent to Camp Half-Blood where he embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines Greek mythology with modern adventure, making it both educational and exhilarating.
  • Perfect for: Fans of mythology, action-packed adventures, and heroic tales.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Realistic
  • Synopsis: The story follows August Pullman, a boy with facial differences, as he attends public school for the first time and strives for acceptance and kindness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and the importance of accepting others, regardless of appearances.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a heartwarming story that deals with real-life challenges.

• The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror, Mystery
  • Synopsis: After the murder of his family, a toddler wanders into a graveyard where the ghosts and other supernatural residents agree to raise him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling and mysterious tale that captures the importance of community and finding one's identity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy spooky stories with a strong sense of adventure and heart.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to a boys' detention center where boys are forced to dig holes daily in the hot sun, supposedly to build character — but there is more to the activity than meets the eye.
  • Why we recommend this book: It cleverly intertwines past and present stories, teaching lessons about justice, perseverance, and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Anyone who loves a good mystery and stories about overcoming adversity.

• The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In a city shrouded in darkness, two children find clues that could lead them to the outside world they never knew existed.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sparks curiosity about the world and encourages problem-solving and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy dystopian settings and young protagonists solving big problems.

Educational English Story Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: This novel follows twelve-year-old Jonas who lives in a seemingly ideal world. Upon receiving his life assignment as the Receiver of Memories, he discovers the dark and complex secrets behind his fragile community.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, understanding of dystopian literature, ethical reasoning
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thought-provoking exploration of societal norms and the importance of memory and emotion in human life.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in science fiction and ethical dilemmas.

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Comedy
  • Synopsis: Matilda is a brilliant and sensitive child, but her parents mistreat her and the school headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, is a terrifying bully. Using her wit and magical abilities, Matilda devises clever ways to overcome these challenges.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, problem-solving, creativity
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the resilience and ingenuity of a young girl against adversity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories of triumph and magical adventures.

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Drama
  • Synopsis: This story centers on fifth-grader Jesse Aarons and his friendship with his new neighbor, Leslie Burke. Together, they create the magical world of Terabithia, which they rule as king and queen, until tragedy strikes.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, imagination, coping with loss
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a moving tale of friendship, imagination, and the experience of loss.
  • Perfect for: Children dealing with or learning about loss and the value of friendship.

• From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Claudia and her brother Jamie run away from home to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. There, they become involved in a mystery involving a statue possibly carved by Michelangelo.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, historical knowledge, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It blends adventure with a fascinating art mystery and encourages independence and curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and art lovers.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Nazi-occupied Copenhagen, Denmark during World War II, the story follows ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen as she helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape from the Nazis.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, ethical reasoning, bravery
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a sensitive and accessible portrayal of the Holocaust for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history and stories of courage and friendship during challenging times.

Challenging English Story 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 space and time 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 love for science and exploration while dealing with the universal themes of love and family.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science fiction and complex narrative structures.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: An orphaned girl named Mary Lennox is sent to live with her uncle in a gloomy mansion in Yorkshire. Here, she discovers a neglected garden and, along with her sickly cousin Colin, begins to bring it back to life.
  • Why this book is challenging: It uses descriptive language and explores themes of loss, healing, and growth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a timeless story that explores the healing power of nature and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy transformation stories and character development.

• The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Puzzle
  • Synopsis: A group of heirs gather to hear the will of the self-made millionaire, Samuel W. Westing, which proposes a high-stakes game to determine who will inherit his fortune.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a complex puzzle filled with twists, turns, and a large cast of characters.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sharpens critical thinking and problem-solving skills through its intricate plot and mysterious storyline.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and lovers of brain teasers and intricate plots.

• The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The story follows Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is drawn into a quest to reclaim a treasure guarded by the dragon, Smaug. Along the way, he encounters trolls, goblins, and other fantastical creatures.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces high fantasy with complex language and a detailed secondary world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a foundational fantasy novel that offers adventure and introduces themes of bravery and personal growth.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy epic tales and richly constructed worlds.

• Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Drama
  • Synopsis: This novel explores the story of Winnie Foster, who discovers a magical spring that grants eternal life and meets the Tuck family, who have drunk from it.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores deep philosophical questions about life, death, and the nature of time.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a profound exploration of the concept of immortality and its consequences.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories that make them think deeply about life and its mysteries.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of English storybooks and you're around 12 years old, you're in for a treat! Not only is reading fun, but it also opens up new worlds and boosts your brainpower. To make the most out of your reading adventures, here are some exercises that can help you develop excellent reading habits. Let's get started!

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many pages or chapters you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and motivated to read regularly.
  • Tips: Choose realistic goals that fit into your daily schedule without feeling overwhelming.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home where you can read without interruptions.
  • How it helps: Enhances concentration and makes reading a special part of your day.
  • Tips: Make sure your reading spot is comfortable and has good lighting.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books on a regular schedule.
  • How it helps: Encourages you to read more and exposes you to different perspectives.
  • Tips: If you can't find a book club, consider starting one with friends or classmates.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize an app that can track your reading progress and recommend books.
  • How it helps: Keeps you organized and excited about reaching new milestones.
  • Tips: Explore apps that offer rewards or badges for achieving reading goals.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you're reading with friends or family members.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to express what you liked about the story or what you learned from it.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Practice reading books aloud to yourself or others.
  • How it helps: Enhances your reading fluency and ability to understand text better.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pace to match the different characters or situations in the book.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes from your readings.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of your reading progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit to jot down your thoughts right after reading.

There you have it! With these exercises, you're all set to turn your reading into a supercharged experience that not only entertains but also educates. Remember, the key to becoming a great reader is consistency, so pick the exercises that you enjoy the most and stick with them. Happy reading!