10+ Best Funny Books for 12-13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner to keep your 12-13-year-old giggling? Look no further! Our roundup of funny books for 12-13-year-olds is packed with tales that are sure to tickle their funny bones. Whether they're into quirky characters, witty dialogues, or hilarious mishaps, we've got something that will have them laughing out loud. Keep reading to discover our favorite picks that promise a good chuckle!

Fun Funny Books for 12-13-Year-Olds

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Follow the hilarious journal of Greg Heffley as he navigates the trials and tribulations of middle school life, dealing with everything from bullies to family dynamics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's filled with humor and relatable situations that make it a great gateway for fostering a love of reading.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy comic relief and stories about school life.

• The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Sixth-grader Dwight talks to his classmates via an origami finger puppet of Yoda, dispensing advice that is surprisingly wise.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with a unique format that engages young readers in a fun and interactive way.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love Star Wars or creative storytelling.

• Middle School, The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts, illustrated by Laura Park
  • Genre(s): Humor, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Rafe Khatchadorian plans to break every rule in his school's oppressive code of conduct to shake up his boring middle school life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a funny and sometimes poignant look at the struggles of middle school, encouraging readers to think creatively about their own challenges.
  • Perfect for: Kids who feel out of place or are dealing with school-related stress.

• Dork Diaries by Rachel Renée Russell
  • Genre(s): Humor, Diary Fiction
  • Synopsis: Nikki Maxwell navigates the ups and downs of middle school, dealing with mean girls, crushes, and friendship dramas, all penned in her diary.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a light-hearted, engaging series that captures the essence of being a teenager in a fun and accessible way.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love drawing and writing, or those who are dealing with their own middle school dramas.

• The Terrible Two by Mac Barnett and Jory John, illustrated by Kevin Cornell
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: New kid Miles Murphy and school prankster Niles Sparks join forces to pull off the biggest prank their school has ever seen.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a masterclass in pranks and humor, perfect for engaging reluctant readers with its witty and clever plot twists.
  • Perfect for: Prank lovers and anyone who enjoys a good laugh.

Educational Funny Books for 12-13-Year-Olds

• How to Be a Math Genius by Mike Goldsmith
  • Genre(s): Educational, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book explores the world of mathematics through fun facts, puzzles, and real-world applications, all presented in a humorous and engaging way.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mathematical concepts, problem-solving, logical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes math fun and accessible, breaking down complex concepts with humor and creativity.
  • Perfect for: Kids who think math is boring or challenging, and anyone who wants to see the fun side of numbers.

• The Thrifty Guide to Ancient Rome by Jonathan W. Stokes, illustrated by Xavier Bonet
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Presented as a travel guide for time travelers, this book offers a humorous take on what it would be like to visit ancient Rome, complete with tips and warnings for prospective tourists.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, cultural understanding
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a unique blend of humor and history that makes learning about the past exciting and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Young history buffs and travelers-at-heart.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: A magical story about a young girl raised by a witch, a swamp monster, and a Perfectly Tiny Dragon, who must unlock her full potential and the secrets of her past.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, vocabulary, empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines fantasy with light-hearted humor and deep emotional themes, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy fantasy with a touch of whimsy and heart.

• An Illustrated History of Notable Shadowhunters and Denizens of Downworld by Cassandra Clare, illustrated by Cassandra Jean
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book provides humorous and insightful annotations on the characters from Clare’s popular Shadowhunters universe.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Art appreciation, understanding of character development
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fun, visually engaging way to learn more about a beloved fantasy world.
  • Perfect for: Fans of the Shadowhunters series and young readers interested in art and design.

• The Unbelievable Top Secret Diary of Pig by Emer Stamp
  • Genre(s): Humor, Diary Fiction
  • Synopsis: Follow the adventures of Pig as he writes about his life on the farm with his best friend Duck and his not-so-smart owner, Farmer.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative writing, empathy, humor
  • Why we recommend this book: It's hilariously narrated from the perspective of Pig, offering laughs and insights into farm life through his eyes.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love animals and those who appreciate a good giggle.

Challenging Funny Books for 12-13-Year-Olds

• The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Humor, Satire
  • Synopsis: This quirky book follows the Willoughby children who, feeling neglected by their self-absorbed parents, decide they might be better off raising themselves. They embark on a series of misadventures, hoping to emulate the orphan heroes of classic children’s stories.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text features sophisticated satire and a rich vocabulary that goes beyond typical middle-grade books, providing a deeper reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a clever twist on traditional children's tales, filled with irony and wit that encourage critical thinking about the nature of family and stories themselves.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a good laugh and have a penchant for classic literature references.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Humor
  • 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 thwart a global crisis.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel is filled with complex puzzles and moral dilemmas that challenge the reader’s reasoning and ethical decision-making skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with brain-teasing puzzles, making it not only fun but intellectually stimulating.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle solvers and young strategists who love a good mystery mixed with humor.

• Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: Twelve-year-old genius Artemis Fowl is a millionaire, a criminal mastermind, and now, a captor of fairies. His goal is to extort the magical Fairy People to restore his family’s fortune.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative is rich with sophisticated humor, advanced technological concepts, and a complex protagonist whose moral compass challenges readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a thrilling ride that mixes fantasy with high-tech modernity, all laced with witty humor that keeps readers engaged.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy anti-heroes and a blend of technology with fantasy.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: Bored and disillusioned, young Milo receives a mysterious tollbooth that transports him to the Lands Beyond, where he embarks on a quest filled with puns, linguistic oddities, and mathematical conundrums.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book plays with language and mathematics in ways that require creative and critical thinking, often delving into abstract concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and imaginative journey that celebrates the joys of learning and the power of curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Kids who delight in wordplay and numbers, or anyone in need of a reminder about the wonders of everyday life.

• The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Humor
  • Synopsis: Sixteen heirs compete to solve the puzzle of Sam Westing’s death, as outlined in his will, to win his $200 million fortune. The game is full of twists, turns, and eccentric characters, each more intriguing than the last.
  • Why this book is challenging: The complex plot and the intricate puzzles within the story require careful reading and logical deduction.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a masterfully crafted puzzle wrapped in humor, providing both entertainment and a mental workout.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and any reader who loves a challenging mystery with a comedic twist.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of funny books and you're around 12-13 years old, you're in for a treat! Not only is reading a great way to relax and have fun, but it can also improve your skills in so many ways. Here are some exercises that can help you develop good reading habits while enjoying some laughs with your books:

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and helps build a strong reading habit.
  • Tips: Choose a realistic goal that fits into your daily schedule without feeling overwhelming.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus and makes your reading time special and enjoyable.
  • Tips: Make sure it's comfortable, quiet, and has good lighting.

• Read Aloud or Share
  • What it is: Read your book aloud to yourself or share funny passages with friends or family.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding and retention, and makes reading a shared, social activity.
  • Tips: Try different voices for characters to make it more fun and engaging.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize an app that tracks your reading progress and offers rewards.
  • How it helps: Adds a fun, digital element to reading and can motivate you to read more.
  • Tips: Choose an app that allows you to set personal goals and see your achievements over time.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in or start a book club focused on funny books or a variety of genres.
  • How it helps: Provides an opportunity to discuss books and share laughter, enhancing comprehension and social skills.
  • Tips: Meet regularly and ensure everyone gets a chance to suggest books to read.

• Challenge Yourself
  • What it is: Occasionally pick a book that is slightly above your current reading level or outside your usual genre.
  • How it helps: Helps develop stronger reading skills and exposes you to new ideas and humor.
  • Tips: Don't be afraid to look up words or references you don't understand; it's a great way to learn!

Happy reading! These exercises are not just about improving your reading skills, but also about making the process enjoyable and rewarding. So, grab your favorite funny book, try out these tips, and let the laughter and learning begin!