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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect history books for 12-year-olds that will transport them back in time and ignite their curiosity about the past? You've landed in the right spot! Whether your young reader is a budding historian or just starting to dip their toes into the vast ocean of the past, we've compiled a variety of engaging and informative books that are sure to captivate their imagination. Keep reading to discover our top picks for history books that are tailor-made for 12-year-olds!

Fun History Books for 12-Year-Olds

• You Wouldn't Want to Be an American Colonist! by Jacqueline Morley
  • Illustrator: David Antram
  • Genre(s): History, Children's Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: This book provides a humorous yet informative look at life as an American colonist. It covers the hardships and challenges faced by the first settlers in a fun, engaging way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses humor and engaging illustrations to make historical facts accessible and enjoyable, helping young readers develop an interest in history.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love fun facts and those who might find traditional history books a bit daunting.

• Horrible Histories: The Awesome Egyptians by Terry Deary
  • Illustrator: Martin Brown
  • Genre(s): History, Humor
  • Synopsis: The book delves into the fascinating world of ancient Egypt, exploring everything from the great pharaohs to the gruesome mummification process.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with hilarious illustrations and fascinating facts that keep readers entertained while they learn.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy a good laugh with their learning and are curious about ancient civilizations.

• A Young People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn
  • Adapter: Rebecca Stefoff
  • Genre(s): History, Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: This adaptation of Howard Zinn’s adult book views American history through the eyes of common people—children, women, and workers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a different perspective on U.S. history, focusing on the stories of those often left out of traditional textbooks.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in a comprehensive, alternative look at American history.

• Guts & Glory: The Vikings by Ben Thompson
  • Genre(s): History, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book tells the thrilling and savage tales of the famous Norse warriors known as the Vikings, from their epic voyages to their ferocious battles.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's action-packed and filled with exciting stories that make the historical adventures of the Vikings come alive.
  • Perfect for: Adventure lovers and anyone interested in the history of exploration and warfare.

• The Story of the World: History for the Classical Child by Susan Wise Bauer
  • Genre(s): History, Educational
  • Synopsis: Volume 1 of this series, "Ancient Times," introduces young readers to the ancient civilizations from the Nomads to the last Roman Emperor.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's written in a narrative style that is engaging for young readers, making the vast history of ancient times approachable and interesting.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are just starting to explore historical topics and enjoy storytelling.

Educational History Books for 12-Year-Olds

• King Tut's Tomb: Exploring Ancient Egypt by Nancy Day
  • Genre(s): History, Archaeology
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers on an exciting journey through the discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb and the mysteries of ancient Egypt.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, historical knowledge, understanding of archaeological practices
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling historical discoveries with detailed factual information, making ancient history appealing and accessible.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers and any kid fascinated by ancient civilizations and archaeological adventures.

• The Diary of Anne Frank by Anne Frank
  • Genre(s): History, Biography, Memoir
  • Synopsis: This is the real-life diary of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis in World War II Amsterdam.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, historical awareness, literary appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an intimate and poignant perspective of the Holocaust through the eyes of a young girl, which is both educational and deeply moving.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in personal stories from history and those looking to understand the human aspects of World War II.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Illustrator: Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: This book tells the inspiring story of a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to save his village from drought.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Innovation, science application, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of ingenuity and determination that shows how creativity can change communities.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and anyone interested in stories about overcoming adversity with technology.

• Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book highlights the contributions of fifty notable women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) from the ancient to the modern world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Gender studies, scientific knowledge, biographical knowledge
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the achievements of women in STEM, providing role models and inspiring future generations.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and inspiring stories of female pioneers.

• The Kid Who Invented the Popsicle: And Other Surprising Stories about Inventions by Don L. Wulffson
  • Genre(s): History, Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: This book explores the interesting and often quirky stories behind everyday inventions.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Curiosity about how things work, understanding of the invention process
  • Why we recommend this book: It uncovers the fascinating stories behind common objects, encouraging curiosity and a deeper understanding of innovation.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who enjoy fun facts and learning about the origins of things they use every day.

Challenging History Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Inquisitor's Tale: Or, The Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz
  • Illustrator: Hatem Aly
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Set in medieval France, the story follows three children with special talents and a greyhound who come together on a quest that pits them against knights, kings, and a fearsome inquisitor.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative intertwines complex historical context with themes of faith, miracles, and ethical dilemmas, challenging young readers to think critically about history and morality.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a captivating blend of adventure, humor, and history, encouraging readers to explore historical themes in a fun and engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love epic tales and are interested in medieval history.

• Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World's Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin
  • Genre(s): History, Nonfiction, Science
  • Synopsis: This gripping narrative nonfiction book details the development of the atomic bomb during World War II, focusing on the scientific challenges and the espionage involved.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex scientific concepts and the moral questions surrounding the use of nuclear weapons.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an exciting and thorough exploration of a pivotal moment in history, making it accessible and intriguing for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and historians interested in World War II and the ethics of science.

• The Faithful Spy: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Plot to Kill Hitler by John Hendrix
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: This illustrated biography tells the story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German pastor who became a spy and participated in a plot to assassinate Hitler.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores deep ethical and philosophical issues, such as resistance against evil and the costs of standing up for one’s beliefs.
  • Why we recommend this book: The graphic novel format engages readers visually while conveying a compelling story of courage and conviction.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in World War II, ethics, and stories of resistance.

• Symphony for the City of the Dead: Dmitri Shostakovich and the Siege of Leningrad by M.T. Anderson
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Music
  • Synopsis: This book examines the life of composer Dmitri Shostakovich during the Siege of Leningrad, exploring how his music became a symbol of survival and resistance.
  • Why this book is challenging: It integrates complex discussions of music, politics, and the horrors of war, requiring readers to consider how art can influence history.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on the impact of music and individual actions during wartime, providing a deep emotional and historical understanding.
  • Perfect for: Music lovers and history buffs interested in the interplay between art and historical events.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the fascinating world of history books, it's not just about reading the words but also about engaging with the content in a way that enhances your understanding and enjoyment. Here are some exercises specifically designed for 12-year-olds to help develop great reading habits while exploring history books. Each exercise is tailored to make your reading experience more interactive and productive.

• Create a Timeline
  • What it is: Draw a timeline based on the events you read.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the sequence and timing of historical events.
  • Tips: Use different colors for different types or periods of events to make it visually engaging.

• Discuss with Friends or Family
  • What it is: Share what you've learned with others in a casual discussion.
  • How it helps: Enhances retention and understanding through verbal articulation.
  • Tips: Try to relate the historical events to current events during the discussion to make it more relevant.

• Map It Out
  • What it is: Draw maps or use online tools to locate where historical events took place.
  • How it helps: Provides a geographical context to the events you're reading about.
  • Tips: Mark important battles, migrations, or other significant events on the map.

• Role-Play
  • What it is: Act out important historical events or figures with friends or family.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding by putting oneself in the shoes of historical figures.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes to make the role-play more fun and immersive.

• Question and Answer Sessions
  • What it is: After reading, formulate questions and try to answer them without looking at the book.
  • How it helps: Improves memory recall and reinforces what you've learned.
  • Tips: Write down the questions and answers to review later.

• Sketch Noting
  • What it is: Draw or sketch your notes instead of writing them down in text form.
  • How it helps: Engages different parts of the brain and can help in remembering facts better.
  • Tips: Don’t worry about the artistic quality; focus on how the sketches help you recall information.

These exercises are not just about making your journey through history books more engaging, but they're also about deepening your understanding and retention of historical knowledge. Remember, the key is consistency and enjoyment. So, pick the exercises that you find most fun and insightful, and watch your grasp of history grow!