10+ Best Mystery And Adventure Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner for a young teen? Dive into our latest roundup of Mystery and Adventure Books for 13-Year-olds, where suspense and excitement leap off every page! Whether they love unraveling puzzles or embarking on epic quests, we've got a collection that promises to captivate their imagination. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to keep any 13-year-old glued to their seats!

Fun Mystery And Adventure Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to a boys' detention center, Camp Green Lake, where the boys build character by spending all day digging holes. However, there is more to the activity than meets the eye, and Stanley must dig up the truth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a unique blend of an intriguing mystery and an adventure story that also touches on themes of friendship, justice, and fate. It keeps readers guessing and connects past and present narratives skillfully.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories that combine mystery with a bit of historical intrigue.

• The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: In an underground city with a failing power supply, two teenagers, Lina and Doon, discover clues that could lead the city's inhabitants to the outside world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gripping mystery set in a fascinating dystopian world, encouraging readers to think about sustainability, bravery, and problem-solving.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in science fiction and mysteries, and those who like stories about young heroes changing their world.

• Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Artemis Fowl, a young criminal prodigy, kidnaps a fairy to ransom her for gold. But these aren't the fairies of bedtime stories—they're dangerous!
  • Why we recommend this book: It mixes fantasy with high-tech modern technology and criminal intrigue, offering fast-paced action and sharp humor.
  • Perfect for: Readers who like their fantasy stories with a side of high-stakes adventure and a dash of humor.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart, illustrated by Carson Ellis
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • 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 nothing is as it seems.
  • Why we recommend this book: The story celebrates intelligence, creativity, and bravery. It's full of puzzles and mysteries that will keep readers engaged and thinking critically.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love solving puzzles and mysteries, and stories about secret missions.

• The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Thriller
  • Synopsis: An eccentric millionaire Samuel W. Westing dies and leaves his fortune to sixteen heirs who must solve the mystery of his death to inherit his estate.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a clever puzzle-filled mystery that challenges the reader's deductive skills and offers a cast of unique and memorable characters.
  • Perfect for: Young sleuths who enjoy twisting plots and a good challenge.

• Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett, illustrated by Brett Helquist
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Art, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When a valuable Vermeer painting is stolen, two young friends, Petra and Calder, use their problem-solving skills to try and recover the artwork.
  • Why we recommend this book: It integrates art, history, and mystery with engaging puzzles and codes, which makes it intellectually stimulating and fun.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a love for art and puzzles, and those who enjoy stories where kids outsmart adults.

Educational Mystery And Adventure Books for 13-Year-Olds

• From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Two siblings, Claudia and Jamie, run away to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. They become entangled in a mystery involving a statue that may be one of Michelangelo’s sculptures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, problem-solving, art history, and understanding of museum operations
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with a fascinating art mystery, providing a backdrop of real artworks and historical intrigue.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who dream of adventure and are curious about art and history.

• The Name of this Book Is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Two adventurous friends, Cass and Max-Ernest, discover a mysterious box that leads them into a secret society and a dangerous adventure.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Logical thinking, creative problem-solving, and decoding
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s full of secrets, codes, and puzzles that make reading both fun and intellectually stimulating.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love cracking codes and solving mysteries with a magical twist.

• Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Kyle Keeley is an avid gamer and a fan of all games—board games, word games, and particularly video games. His hero, Luigi Lemoncello, the most notorious and creative gamemaker, has designed the town's new library and is having an invitation-only lock-in on opening night. Kyle wins a coveted spot to join the fun and finds himself caught up in an exciting game where he must find a way to escape the library using only his wits and creativity.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, teamwork, knowledge of library systems, and lateral thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It turns the library into a giant puzzle where children must use their knowledge and creativity to escape, blending learning with fun.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle lovers and young detectives who enjoy a good challenge wrapped in a fun scenario.

• The Gollywhopper Games by Jody Feldman, illustrated by Victoria Jamieson
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Gil Goodson competes in the Golly Toy & Game Company's ultimate competition. He must outsmart and outmaneuver hundreds of other kids to win a life-changing prize.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and understanding of puzzles and games
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a fast-paced, thrilling adventure that encourages critical thinking and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy competitions and games, and those who thrive on high-energy challenges.

• The London Eye Mystery by Siobhan Dowd
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When Ted and Kat's cousin Salim disappears from the London Eye, the two siblings must work together to solve the mystery of what happened to him.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Deductive reasoning, understanding of Asperger syndrome, and geographical knowledge of London
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a compelling mystery wrapped around real issues and settings, offering both a thrilling and educational read.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives who like their mysteries to have a realistic setting and a touch of personal growth.

Challenging Mystery And Adventure Books for 13-Year-Olds

• The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: The story is narrated by a 15-year-old named Christopher John Francis Boone, who describes himself as "a mathematician with some behavioral difficulties" living in Swindon, Wiltshire. After discovering the dead body of the neighbor's dog, speared by a garden fork, Christopher decides to investigate the murder, uncovering a world far beyond his familiar routines.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel presents the protagonist's perspective, who lives with an autism spectrum condition, giving readers a unique and complex view of the world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers insight into a different way of viewing the world, wrapped in a mystery that is engaging and thought-provoking.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in psychology and unique narrative styles, and those who enjoy seeing the world through another's eyes.

• When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in the late 1970s in New York City, sixth-grader Miranda starts receiving mysterious notes that predict the future. These notes lead her on an adventure that intertwines friendship, time travel, and poignant discoveries.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure is complex, involving time travel and multiple timelines that challenge the reader to piece together the plot.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully blends elements of science fiction with real-life situations, providing a captivating read that encourages critical thinking and attention to detail.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy puzzles and time travel stories.

• The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Lyra Belacqua, a young girl, embarks on a journey in a parallel universe where she meets armored bears, witches, and other fantastical creatures. She is thrust into a conflict over a mysterious substance called Dust, which leads her to uncover devastating secrets.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes such as philosophy, theology, and science, woven into the narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure that challenges perceptions of reality and morality, encouraging readers to think deeply about the world around them.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy richly crafted worlds and stories that make them question the nature of their reality.

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In 1930s Paris, an orphan boy named Hugo lives in the walls of a train station, tending to the clocks. His survival depends on secrets and anonymity, but when his world suddenly interlocks with an eccentric girl and the owner of a small toy booth in the station, Hugo's undercover life and his most precious secret are put in jeopardy.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's unique format, which includes a blend of text and intricate illustrations, requires the reader to interpret visual storytelling as well as text.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a visually stunning book that combines a gripping mystery with a touching story of survival and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and young readers who appreciate art and innovation in storytelling.

• The Wolves of Willoughby Chase by Joan Aiken
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in an alternative history of England, two cousins, Bonnie and Sylvia, navigate a series of misadventures after their estate is seized by the villainous governess Miss Slighcarp. The girls encounter wolves and other dangers in their quest to reclaim their home.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex language and a dense plot with twists that require careful reading and attention to detail.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an exciting, fast-paced adventure that also explores themes of resilience and courage against adversity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy thrilling historical narratives and stories of bravery and friendship.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the exciting world of mystery and adventure books, you're in for a thrilling ride. But to make the most out of your reading experience, especially at 13, developing good reading habits is key. Here are some fun and effective exercises to help you do just that:

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many books or pages you want to read each week or month.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and makes reading a consistent habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus by associating one place with reading activities.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting to keep you reading longer.

• Use a Reading Timer
  • What it is: Set a timer for a fixed amount of reading time each day.
  • How it helps: Helps manage time and encourages regular reading sessions.
  • Tips: Gradually increase the time as you get more comfortable with the routine.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books with friends or family who are interested.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and makes reading a shared adventure.
  • Tips: Try forming or joining a book club to make this more engaging and regular.

• Map the Story
  • What it is: Draw or write out the plot and characters of the story.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the story.
  • Tips: Use different colors or symbols to mark important events or characters.

• Predict the Next Chapter
  • What it is: Before you start the next chapter, guess what might happen.
  • How it helps: Engages your imagination and analytical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many you got right as you read.

• Keep a Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Write down new or interesting words and their meanings as you read.
  • How it helps: Expands your vocabulary and improves language skills.
  • Tips: Try to use these new words in your daily conversations or writing.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine can transform your experience with mystery and adventure books, making each page even more exciting. Not only will these activities enhance your understanding and enjoyment, but they'll also build habits that benefit your academic and personal growth. So, grab your book, pick a cozy corner, and let the adventure begin! Happy reading!