10+ Best Trending Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the latest page-turners that every 13-year-old is talking about? You've landed in the perfect spot! Our roundup of trending books for 13-year-olds is packed with captivating reads that are sure to keep young teens hooked. Whether they're into thrilling adventures, mysterious plots, or heartwarming tales, we've got something that will catch their eye. Keep reading to discover our various lists of trending books for 13-year-olds and find the perfect match for your young reader!

Fun Trending Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This heartwarming story follows August Pullman, a boy with facial differences, as he attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time. Auggie strives to show his classmates that, despite appearances, he's just like them.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes empathy, kindness, and acceptance, which are crucial values for young teenagers to learn and embrace.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy uplifting stories and those looking to understand diverse life 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 accused of stealing Zeus's lightning bolt. He must embark on a quest to find the real thief and prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure that also makes Greek mythology accessible and exciting, enhancing both reading skills and historical knowledge.
  • Perfect for: Fans of fantasy and adventure, and those interested in mythology.

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Magic
  • Synopsis: Harry Potter learns on his 11th 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 magical heritage.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the imagination with its richly detailed magical world and relatable themes of friendship and courage.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love magic and mystery, and anyone looking for an engaging series to start.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: This story tells of a young girl raised by a witch who accidentally feeds her moonlight, bestowing her with magical powers. As she grows, she must learn to control her powers and uncover the truths of her past.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's beautifully written with complex characters and a compelling plot that emphasizes the power of love and the importance of questioning authority.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy detailed fantasy worlds and stories about growth and self-discovery.

• 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 they must solve a series of puzzles and stop a global crisis.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking and problem-solving, wrapped up in an engaging and suspenseful narrative.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love puzzles, mysteries, and working as part of a team towards a common goal.

Educational Trending Books for 13-Year-Olds

• The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Poetry, Sports, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel in verse follows twin brothers who are basketball stars navigating life on and off the court. The story captures their trials, triumphs, and the growing tension between them as they deal with family issues and changing relationships.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Poetry comprehension, emotional intelligence, sportsmanship, sibling relationships
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully blends poetry and sports, offering a rhythmic, engaging narrative that captures the challenges and growth of young teens.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes and poetry lovers; ideal for those interested in stories that explore family dynamics and personal growth.

• Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Poetry
  • Synopsis: This poetic autobiography shares the author's childhood experiences growing up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s, living in both the South and the North, and finding her voice through writing stories.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural history, self-expression through writing, understanding of civil rights
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique narrative form that encourages reflection and provides historical insights in an accessible and evocative manner.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in autobiographies, poetry, and historical perspectives on racial issues.

• The Science of Breakable Things by Tae Keller
  • Genre(s): Middle Grade Fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: Natalie, a middle schooler, uses the scientific method to try to bring her depressed mother back to her former spirited self. The story combines elements of science with a deep, personal family story.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, emotional resilience, understanding of mental health
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches science in a way that is deeply intertwined with real-life challenges, making it both educational and emotionally engaging.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and any reader dealing with family issues or interested in how science applies to life.

• New Kid by Jerry Craft
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel follows Jordan Banks, a seventh-grader who experiences culture shock when he enrolls at a prestigious private school. Through his eyes, readers explore themes of identity, class, and race.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social awareness, racial literacy, graphic novel literacy
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a visually engaging and thought-provoking story that addresses important social issues in a way that's accessible to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Fans of graphic novels and readers interested in stories about diversity and inclusion.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This is the true story of a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to save his village from famine. The narrative provides a powerful testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the human spirit.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Innovation, environmental science, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale that showcases how creativity and determination can change communities.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and environmentalists, and any reader inspired by true stories of technological ingenuity.

Challenging Trending Books for 13-Year-Olds

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Nazi Germany, this novel tells the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl who steals books to cope with the horrors of war and shares them with her neighbors and the Jewish man hiding in her basement.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of death, war, and the power of words through a unique narrative voice.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a profound look at the impact of literature and the human spirit in the face of devastating adversity.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history and those who appreciate stories that explore deep moral questions.

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This story follows Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe as they travel through time and space to rescue their father from an evil force that threatens the universe.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces concepts of theoretical physics within a complex narrative structure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines science and fantasy in a way that challenges the imagination and encourages critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Science enthusiasts and fans of epic adventures.

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Dystopian, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: In a seemingly perfect community without war, pain, suffering, differences, or choice, a boy named Jonas is selected to learn from an elderly man about the true pain and pleasure of the "real" world.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features themes of conformity, control, and the loss of individuality.
  • Why we recommend this book: It prompts readers to think about the importance of emotions and choices in their lives.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy thought-provoking narratives and exploring philosophical questions.

• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
  • Genre(s): Dystopian, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: In a future American society where books are outlawed and "firemen" burn any that are found, fireman Guy Montag begins to question his role and the values of the society he upholds.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex themes of censorship, freedom of thought, and the role of technology in society.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful and prescient warning about the dangers of censorship and the suppression of ideas.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in politics, philosophy, and classic dystopian stories.

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • Genre(s): Classic, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story, set in the Depression-era South, sees young Scout Finch and her brother, Jem, as they learn about the racial injustice surrounding the trial of a black man accused of raping a white woman.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles the themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and ethical dilemmas through the eyes of a child.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a profound commentary on the moral nature of human beings and the complexities of social justice.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in American history and exploring complex social issues.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're 13 or know someone who is, diving into the world of books can be a thrilling adventure. But how do you make the most out of your reading time? Here are some exercises designed to help you develop solid reading habits while exploring trending books for 13-year-olds. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books to read each month.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and focused on reading regularly.
  • Tips: Start with a realistic goal, then gradually challenge yourself as you go.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home for reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances concentration and makes reading a special part of your day.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, comfy, and has good lighting.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books.
  • How it helps: Allows you to share ideas and gain new perspectives.
  • Tips: If there isn’t a club at your school, consider starting one or look for online groups.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize an app that tracks reading progress and offers book suggestions.
  • How it helps: Keeps your reading list organized and accessible.
  • Tips: Choose apps that also allow you to set reminders or share your progress with friends.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Spend some time reading books out loud.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps you engage more deeply with the text.
  • Tips: Try reading to a younger sibling or even a pet to make it more fun.

• Take Breaks
  • What it is: Allow yourself short breaks while reading for long periods.
  • How it helps: Reduces eye strain and keeps you from getting overwhelmed.
  • Tips: Use a timer to remind yourself to take a 5-minute break every 30 minutes.

• Write Book Reviews
  • What it is: After finishing a book, write a short review of what you thought about it.
  • How it helps: Helps you reflect on what you’ve read and form opinions about different themes and characters.
  • Tips: Share your reviews on social media or with friends to engage in discussions.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enhance your enjoyment of books but also develop habits that can benefit your educational growth. So, grab that trending book, pick a cozy corner, and start your reading adventure today! Happy reading!