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

Are you looking for the perfect way to engage your 12-year-old in storytelling? Dive into our curated selection of read aloud books for 12-year-olds that promise to captivate and inspire young minds. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or guardian, these books are fantastic tools to enhance listening and comprehension skills while enjoying quality time together. Keep reading to discover our top picks of read aloud books for 12-year-olds that are sure to be a hit!

Fun Read Aloud Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story centers on August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time. Through his experiences, the book explores themes of kindness, friendship, and acceptance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that promotes empathy and understanding, crucial traits for young readers developing their social skills.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are navigating school dynamics and learning the importance of acceptance and kindness.

• Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • 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 thrilling adventures with Greek mythology, making it an engaging and educational read for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Adventure seekers and mythology enthusiasts who enjoy fast-paced, action-packed stories.

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Harry Potter learns on his eleventh birthday that he is the orphaned son of two powerful wizards and possesses magical powers himself. At Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, he embarks on the adventure of a lifetime.
  • Why we recommend this book: It opens up a magical universe full of wonder and mystery, encouraging imagination and a love for reading.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love magic, mystery, and epic adventures.

• 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 as one of their own.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique story with a mix of suspense, humor, and life lessons, all while exploring the concepts of family and growth.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy spooky stories with a heart and those interested in a different kind of coming-of-age tale.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention camp, for a crime he didn't commit. There, he digs holes every day and uncovers the secret behind why the warden is so interested in what they might find.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a cleverly crafted narrative that combines an intriguing mystery with themes of fate and justice.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who like stories that are both thought-provoking and entertaining, with a mix of humor and mystery.

Educational Read Aloud Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a seemingly perfect community without suffering, choice, or pain, a young boy named Jonas is selected to inherit the position of Receiver of Memories. He uncovers the dark and complex truths about his society.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, ethical reasoning, understanding of dystopian literature
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges readers to think about the importance of memory, individuality, and freedom in society.
  • Perfect for: Thoughtful readers interested in science fiction and exploring deep philosophical questions.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Copenhagen during World War II, this 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 knowledge, empathy, bravery
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a sensitive and appropriate introduction to the Holocaust for young readers, emphasizing courage and the importance of standing up against injustice.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories of heroism.

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Jesse Aarons and his friend Leslie Burke as they create a magical forest kingdom called Terabithia, where they rule as king and queen. It explores themes of friendship, imagination, and the experience of loss.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, creativity, coping with loss
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written tale that deals with complex emotions and the power of friendship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate deep, emotional stories and imaginative adventures.

• From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Claudia Kincaid and her brother Jamie run away to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. They become involved in a mystery involving a statue that may be the work of Michelangelo.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, art history, independence
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with a tantalizing mystery and introduces young readers to the world of art and museums.
  • Perfect for: Curious adventurers who enjoy solving puzzles and learning about art.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Bored and disinterested in his everyday life, young Milo receives a mysterious package containing a miniature tollbooth. He drives through it in his toy car and finds himself in the Kingdom of Wisdom, where he embarks on a quest.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Vocabulary, critical thinking, appreciation for learning
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a whimsical adventure that celebrates the joys of learning and the richness of language.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love wordplay, clever puns, and imaginative journeys.

Challenging Read Aloud Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This epic tale follows the obsessive quest of Captain Ahab as he seeks vengeance on Moby Dick, the white whale that maimed him. Along the way, the narrative delves into detailed descriptions of whaling and philosophical explorations.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex language, extensive metaphorical content, and deep philosophical themes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a profound literary classic that encourages critical thinking and offers a deep dive into human emotions and conflicts.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy challenging reads and are interested in classic literature with rich, complex narratives.

• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a future American society where books are outlawed and "firemen" burn any that are found, firefighter Guy Montag begins to question his role and the values of the society.
  • Why this book is challenging: It uses a sophisticated narrative to explore heavy themes such as censorship, the role of government, and the impact of technology on society.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provokes thought about the importance of literature and the dangers of censorship and conformity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are ready to explore more mature themes and think critically about the world around them.

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • Genre(s): Classic, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in the Depression-era South, this novel sees young Scout Finch watch her father, lawyer Atticus Finch, defend a black man unjustly accused of a terrible crime.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and ethical dilemmas through the eyes of a child.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling story that offers powerful lessons about empathy, justice, and the human condition.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in American history and those who appreciate stories that discuss civil rights and morality.

• The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This precursor to the Lord of the Rings trilogy follows Bilbo Baggins as he joins a group of dwarves on a journey to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces high fantasy with a richly developed world and an archaic, detailed narrative style.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a foundational fantasy novel that offers adventure and a deep, immersive reading experience.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love epic tales and are looking to step into a more complex fantasy world.

• Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they grow up in Civil War-era America.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores various themes of love, duty, and personal ambition through a detailed period narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers timeless lessons about growing up and finding one's place in the world, all while depicting strong, memorable female characters.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about family dynamics and personal growth.

• Lord of the Flies by William Golding
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Psychological Fiction
  • Synopsis: Stranded on a deserted island, a group of British schoolboys attempt to govern themselves, with disastrous results.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into complex themes such as human nature, civilization vs. savagery, and the loss of innocence.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a gripping tale that stimulates deep reflection on society and human behavior.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who are interested in psychological fiction and moral questions.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to spice up your reading routine, I've got some fun exercises that are perfect for 12-year-olds. These activities are designed not just to make reading aloud more enjoyable but also to help develop strong reading habits. Let's dive in!

• Character Voice Challenge
  • What it is: Read aloud using different voices for different characters.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of characters and makes reading more engaging.
  • Tips: Try to match the voice with the personality of the character as described by the author.

• Reading Relay
  • What it is: Take turns reading with a partner or a group, switching at every paragraph or page.
  • How it helps: Builds stamina and keeps the reading dynamic and interactive.
  • Tips: Make sure everyone chooses a comfortable pace and volume so all can hear and follow along.

• Picture It!
  • What it is: Create drawings or sketches based on the description of scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the text.
  • Tips: Don't worry about artistic skill; focus on how the text inspires your imagination.

• Summarize and Share
  • What it is: After a reading session, summarize the main points or plot twists and discuss them.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and recall of the story.
  • Tips: Try to make your summary concise and cover key elements.

• Question Bowl
  • What it is: Write down questions about the story on slips of paper and place them in a bowl. Draw and answer them after reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and deeper engagement with the text.
  • Tips: Include a mix of simple and complex questions to keep it interesting.

• Read and Reflect
  • What it is: Pause after a significant event in the book to reflect on its impact on the story and characters.
  • How it helps: Helps develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the narrative.
  • Tips: Share your reflections to see different perspectives from others.

These exercises are not only fun but also incredibly beneficial in building a strong foundation in reading. Whether you're reading solo or with friends, try incorporating these activities into your routine and watch how they transform your experience with books. Keep reading and exploring new ways to enjoy your adventures through literature!