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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for your tween? Look no further! Our roundup of Scholastic Books for 12-year-olds offers a treasure trove of options that are sure to captivate, challenge, and inspire young readers. Whether your child is a voracious reader or just getting into the habit, these picks will not disappoint. Keep reading to discover our various lists of Scholastic Books tailored just for 12-year-olds!

Fun Scholastic Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: The story centers around August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time. Through his experiences, readers explore themes of kindness, acceptance, and the challenge of being different.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and the importance of accepting others, crucial lessons for children at this developmental stage.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are transitioning to middle school or facing their own personal challenges.

• The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror, Mystery
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the story of Nobody Owens, a boy raised by ghosts in a graveyard after his family is mysteriously murdered. As he grows up, he confronts spirits and otherworldly creatures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines suspense and supernatural elements with a coming-of-age story, perfect for keeping readers engaged while encouraging imagination.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy spooky stories with a strong sense of adventure.

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Harry Potter discovers on his eleventh birthday that he is the orphaned son of two powerful wizards and possesses unique magical powers of his own. He attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to learn about his heritage and face his destiny.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a magical introduction to complex themes like friendship, bravery, and the choice between good and evil.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love magical worlds and epic adventures.

• 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 accused of stealing Zeus's lightning bolt. He embarks on a quest across modern-day America to catch the real thief and resolve a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an action-packed adventure that also educates about Greek mythology in a fun and engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy fast-paced stories and learning about different mythologies.

• Smile by Raina Telgemeier
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Autobiography, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel is a true story about the author's tumultuous middle school years, dealing with dental drama, and navigating the challenges of growing up.
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses common adolescent issues through accessible and relatable storytelling, which can help readers feel less alone in their experiences.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy true stories and graphic novels, or those dealing with their own personal challenges.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to a boys' detention center where they are made to dig holes every day. He realizes they are looking for something buried under the dried-up lake and the story unfolds revealing his family's curse and how it ties to the mystery.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines mystery with a unique narrative structure that keeps readers guessing and engaged.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories that are both adventurous and thought-provoking.

Educational Scholastic Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Poetry, Sports, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The novel, told through a series of poems, follows twelve-year-old twin basketball stars Josh and Jordan Bell as they navigate challenges on and off the court.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Poetry comprehension, sports terminology, themes of family and personal growth
  • Why we recommend this book: Its dynamic prose and engaging storyline capture the excitement of basketball while exploring deeper themes of brotherhood and change.
  • Perfect for: Sports enthusiasts and fans of narrative poetry.

• Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: The story centers on Melody, an eleven-year-old girl with cerebral palsy who, despite being unable to speak or walk, has a photographic memory and a brilliant mind.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of disabilities, communication challenges
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a powerful perspective on the challenges and triumphs of a girl with disabilities, promoting understanding and empathy.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in stories about overcoming adversity and personal resilience.

• Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
  • Genre(s): Biography, Poetry
  • Synopsis: This memoir in verse shares the author's experiences growing up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s, living with the remnants of Jim Crow and her awakening to writing and self-expression.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical context of civil rights, poetic techniques, self-exploration
  • Why we recommend this book: Its lyrical writing style and poignant storytelling provide deep insights into cultural and personal identity.
  • Perfect for: Young poets and readers interested in memoirs and social history.

• Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Kyle Keeley, an avid game fan, wins a coveted spot to be one of the first to enter an exciting new library designed by the famous game maker, Luigi Lemoncello. But winning this game requires more than just smarts—it requires teamwork and creative problem-solving.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, teamwork, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines a thrilling mystery with a love of books and libraries, engaging readers in a race to solve puzzles and find clues.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle lovers and aspiring detectives who enjoy a good game and a great read.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magic, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Every year, the people of the Protectorate leave a baby as an offering to the witch who lives in the forest, hoping this sacrifice will keep her from terrorizing their town. But the witch, Xan, is kind and rescues the children, accidentally feeding one baby moonlight and granting her extraordinary magic.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Literary analysis, understanding of themes like sacrifice and power, development of a moral compass
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a beautifully written tale that weaves together complex themes with a compelling narrative.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love magical stories and exploring deep, thought-provoking themes.

Challenging Scholastic Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • 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 they must solve a series of puzzles and stop a global crisis.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel features complex puzzles and moral dilemmas that require advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages readers to think independently and creatively while offering a thrilling, brain-teasing adventure.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love puzzles, mysteries, and tests of intellect.

• When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1970s New York, this story follows Miranda as she receives mysterious notes that predict the future and ultimately lead her to prevent a tragic death.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure is complex, involving time travel and subtle clues that require careful reading and interpretation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thought-provoking blend of science fiction and mystery that keeps readers engaged while challenging their perception of time and reality.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy science fiction and puzzles, and those who like stories that make them think deeply.

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin travel through space and time to save their father from evil forces threatening the universe.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex concepts such as quantum physics and the battle between good and evil, presented through sophisticated narrative elements.
  • Why we recommend this book: This classic novel stretches the imagination and encourages exploration of both personal and universal themes.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and fantasy, and those who appreciate stories about courage and family bonds.

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Narrated by Death, this novel tells the story of Liesel Meminger from her adoption in Nazi Germany to her love of books and the people in her life during World War II.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a unique narrative perspective and tackles heavy themes such as mortality, war, and the power of words.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on the Holocaust and is powerfully emotive, providing historical insight and promoting empathy.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in history and looking for a deeply moving story.

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a seemingly perfect community without suffering, choices, or differences, a young boy named Jonas is selected to inherit the position of Receiver of Memories and learns the dark secrets behind his fragile community.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores profound themes about society, freedom, and humanity through a dystopian lens.
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges readers to think about the importance of memory, emotion, and individuality in our lives.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy thought-provoking stories and discussions about societal structure and individual rights.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're 12 and diving into the world of books, you're in for an incredible journey. Reading isn't just about flipping through pages; it's about building habits that can enhance your understanding and enjoyment. Here are some fun exercises to help you develop great reading habits while exploring Scholastic books. Let's make reading even more engaging!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many books you want to read each month.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and creates a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with a manageable number and increase it as you go.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific spot at home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Helps associate that space with reading, making it easier to focus.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, cozy, and has good lighting.

• Read Aloud to Others
  • What it is: Share a book by reading it aloud to family or friends.
  • How it helps: Improves your reading skills and makes reading a shared activity.
  • Tips: Try using different voices for different characters to make it fun.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a book club with peers who read the same book.
  • How it helps: Encourages discussion and deeper understanding of the book.
  • Tips: Don’t be shy! Everyone is there to learn and share.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize an app that tracks reading progress or provides book suggestions.
  • How it helps: Introduces you to new books and keeps your reading on track.
  • Tips: Set daily or weekly reading reminders in the app.

• Challenge Yourself with a Variety
  • What it is: Read different genres of books to find what truly captivates you.
  • How it helps: Expands your understanding and appreciation of different literary styles.
  • Tips: Alternate between fiction and non-fiction to keep things interesting.

• Reflect on What You Read
  • What it is: Spend some time thinking about the book after you finish it.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and memory of the story.
  • Tips: Write down what you liked, didn’t like, and what you learned.

Reading can be one of the most magical activities, especially when you make it your own. These exercises aren't just tasks; they're stepping stones to becoming a lifelong reader and learner. Pick the ones that excite you the most, and watch how they transform your reading experience. Happy reading!