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

As the days get longer and the school bell rings for the last time this season, finding the perfect summer books for 12-year-olds can turn those lazy afternoons into adventures, mysteries, and new discoveries. Whether your young reader is lounging by the pool, under a shady tree, or tucked away in a cozy nook, we’ve curated a variety of captivating reads that are just right for their age. Keep reading to explore our handpicked selections of summer books that promise to keep them hooked!

Fun Summer 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 multiple perspectives, the narrative explores themes of kindness, acceptance, and friendship.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and the importance of accepting others, regardless of their appearance. This book can help young readers develop a greater understanding of diversity and kindness.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy uplifting stories and learning about diverse experiences.

• 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's a thrilling adventure that mixes Greek mythology with modern life, making it both educational and highly entertaining. It's great for improving reading engagement through fast-paced storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Fans of mythology, adventure seekers, and anyone who loves a good hero’s journey.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magical Realism
  • Synopsis: This enchanting story follows a young girl named Luna, who is accidentally enmagicked as a baby and raised by a witch. As Luna grows, so does her magic, leading to unexpected challenges.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a beautifully written narrative filled with magic and mystery, ideal for stimulating the imagination and encouraging creative thinking.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love fantasy and stories about witches and magic.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to a boys' detention center where the boys are forced to dig holes daily in the hot sun, supposedly to build character — but there is more to the digging than it seems.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a unique blend of an interesting historical narrative and a modern-day mystery. It teaches about the consequences of actions and the importance of friendship.
  • Perfect for: Anyone who enjoys stories that include a mystery to solve and a mix of humor and adventure.

• The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Patricia Castelao
  • Genre(s): Animal Fiction, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: This novel is narrated by Ivan, a captive gorilla who lives in a shopping mall. Ivan’s view of his world changes when he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from her family.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching story that highlights the importance of empathy and the power of a promise. It encourages readers to see the world from different perspectives.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in animal welfare and friendships.

• City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab
  • Genre(s): Paranormal, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Cassidy Blake has a strange ability; she can see ghosts. Her parents, who write about paranormal phenomena, take her to Edinburgh, Scotland, where she meets a girl who shares her gift and learns more about her duties as someone who can cross the Veil.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines spooky elements with a fun adventure, perfect for keeping readers engaged while also delving into historical and cultural aspects of a famous city.
  • Perfect for: Readers who like ghost stories and adventures that are spooky but not too scary.

Educational Summer 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.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, teamwork, critical thinking, and logic
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling, brain-teasing adventure that encourages teamwork and intellectual curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and puzzle lovers who enjoy intricate plots and clever characters.

• Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
  • Genre(s): Biography, Poetry
  • Synopsis: Through vivid poems, Jacqueline Woodson shares her experiences growing up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s, living with the remnants of Jim Crow and her growing awareness of the Civil Rights movement.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, historical context, poetic techniques
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully blends poetry and memoir, providing a powerful look at the past through a deeply personal lens.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history, poetry, and inspiring personal stories.

• The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When Roz the robot is washed ashore on a wild island, she must learn to survive in her new surroundings and make peace with the island's animal inhabitants.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental science, adaptation, technology
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that explores themes of nature, technology, and the power of friendship.
  • Perfect for: Fans of technology and nature stories, as well as readers who like tales of survival and friendship.

• The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Sports, Poetry, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Twin basketball stars Josh and Jordan must come to grips with growing up on and off the court, as they face challenges in their family life and their relationship with each other.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Sportsmanship, family dynamics, poetic forms
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses a dynamic mix of poetry and basketball to engage readers in a story about growth, conflict, and resolution.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes and fans of poetry who appreciate fast-paced, emotionally resonant storytelling.

• Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Kyle Keeley is an avid game fan, especially of the creations of game maker Luigi Lemoncello. When Kyle wins a coveted spot to be one of the first to partake in an overnight library lock-in, he finds out that getting out will require solving puzzles and deciphering clues.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, problem-solving, knowledge of literature
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of classic literature with a modern puzzle-solving adventure, making it both educational and thrilling.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle enthusiasts and young readers who love games and libraries.

Challenging Summer Books for 12-Year-Olds

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe as they embark on a journey across dimensions to save their father from an evil force.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces complex concepts of physics, space, and time, intertwined with heavy thematic elements.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages a deep understanding of science and the importance of fighting against darkness with the power of love and courage.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and fantasy, and those who enjoy stories about heroic quests.

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set during WWII in Germany, this story is narrated by Death and follows a young girl named Liesel Meminger who finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with others.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of mortality, war, and the power of words, with a sophisticated narrative style unusual for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on the horrors of war and the beauty of resilience and human connection.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in history and stories that explore the impact of war on humanity.

• His Dark Materials: Northern Lights (known as The Golden Compass in the US) by Philip Pullman
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Lyra Belacqua embarks on a perilous journey to the Arctic north to save her kidnapped friend and investigate a mysterious substance called Dust.
  • Why this book is challenging: This series features complex themes including theology, philosophy, and science.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure that challenges perceptions about religion and authority, encouraging critical thinking and self-discovery.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers who enjoy deep, thought-provoking narratives and richly imagined worlds.

• Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Military Fiction
  • Synopsis: Young Ender Wiggin is recruited into an elite military academy in space to prepare for an impending alien invasion, and he must rise to meet the challenge of commanding his peers.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex themes of warfare, ethics, and leadership under pressure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gripping look at the psychology of war and leadership, wrapped in a story of interstellar conflict.
  • Perfect for: Young strategists and sci-fi enthusiasts who appreciate intense, morally complex narratives.

• 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.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with dark themes and has a complex narrative structure that includes a series of interlinked stories.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating and eerie tale that explores themes of life, death, and finding one's place in the world.
  • Perfect for: Readers who like spooky stories with a heart and those interested in supernatural adventures.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into some cool summer books, why not boost your reading experience with these fun exercises? They're designed to help you develop stellar reading habits while enjoying your summer reads. Here’s how you can make the most out of your books:

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and on track with your reading.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific spot at home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus and makes reading time special.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, comfy, and has good lighting.

• Read and Discuss
  • What it is: Read a book and discuss it with friends or family.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and makes reading a social activity.
  • Tips: Organize a weekly book chat over snacks or a video call.

• Book Selection Day
  • What it is: Set a day to choose and organize books you want to read over the summer.
  • How it helps: Keeps reading exciting and gives you something to look forward to.
  • Tips: Check out book reviews and recommendations online or from friends.

• Reading Challenge
  • What it is: Commit to a reading challenge with a variety of book genres.
  • How it helps: Broadens your horizons and introduces you to new stories.
  • Tips: Include a mix of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and graphic novels.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a short summary of each chapter after reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances memory and understanding of the text.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries brief and in your own words.

• Visual Reading Map
  • What it is: Create a visual map or timeline of the story as you read.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the plot and characters’ journeys.
  • Tips: Use drawings or diagrams to make it more engaging.

So, ready to kick off your summer reading with these exercises? Not only will they help you dive deeper into your books, but they'll also make your reading routine something you look forward to every day. Grab your book, find your cozy corner, and let's make this summer reading one to remember! Happy reading!