This book list includes a selection of books for 12-year-olds across a variety of genres. Many of them are titles my 12-year-old personally selected for the list!
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Contemporary Fiction
The Usual Suspects by Maurice BroaddusÂ
Broaddus' tale of false accusation and the tragic way Black boys are unjustly blamed is an important read. Thelonious, the 7th-grade narrator, and his friend, Nehemiah, are the pranksters of their class. When a gun is found near the school, the administration is quick to suspect the kids in the Special Education classroom, where Thelonious learns. Feeling the sting of a false accusation, Thelonious and Nehemiah set out to determine the origin of the gun. Thelonious' insightful narration about the way he and his friends are treated by schools and society is poignant and hilarious in turns.
The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora by Pablo Cartaya
13-year-old Arturo works part-time in his family’s Cuban restaurant. But then a sketchy land developer, Pipo, wants to buy the lot next door and convince the city to let him develop a huge project with no room for the restaurant. Arturo, with the help of his friend Carmen, who he's starting to have feelings for, work to undermine Pipo’s plot. The plot is primarily focused on Arturo's journey to save the restaurant. Also available in Spanish.
MORE: Realistic Fiction for Middle Grade Readers
Alone by Megan E. Freeman
Maddie and her friends planned to meet for a sleepover. Her friends never show up and in the morning, Maddie finds her town has been entirely abandoned. Unable to communicate with anyone, Maddie must learn to survive on her own. At first, there is running water and electricity, but when that goes she teaches herself to drive, finds supplies in neighboring homes, all with only a dog for a companion. A suspenseful page-turner!
MORE: Survival Stories for Readers Who Like Hatchet
What Lane? by Torrey Maldonado
I really enjoyed Maldonado's previous book, Tight, and What Lane? lives up to its predecessor. Stephen is mixed race but he knows the world sees him as Black. He is becoming more and more aware of how his is treated differently than his white best friend, Dan. Stephen increasingly wonders if he should be friends only with black and brown kids. In this short novel, Maldonado reaches out and grabs the reader, drawing them into to Stephen's personal journey which plays out against the background of larger social movements.
Stand Up, Yumi Chung! by Jessica Kim
Yumi Chung's family owns a Korean restaurant but times are tough and the only way Yumi can continue attending private school is to earn a scholarship. Her parents sign her up with a tutor but Yumi longs to hone her stand-up comedy instead. When an identity mix-up lands Yumi in comedy camp, she gets twisted up in a pretzel of deception (yes, I made that terrible metaphor up myself). This is an entertaining story of a girl learning to speak up for herself, engaging in creative problem solving and figuring out exactly what she wants. Kim's follow-up book, Make a Move, Sunny Park, is equally delightful.
MORE: Middle Grade Books about Theater and Performers
Santiago's Road Home by Alexandra Diaz
After 12-year-old Santiago runs from his abusive home, he meets the kind MarÃa Dolores and her daughter, AlegrÃa. They are on their way to El Norte, where they have family, and Santiago joins them on the treacherous journey. Once over the border, they come close to death in the desert and are found by immigration officers who take them to detention centers. In the center, Santiago learns the awful truth of how immigrants are treated and despairs that he will never leave. It is the kindness of MarÃa Dolores's family that saves him. A totally engrossing and important story.
MORE: 50 Upper Middle Grade Books
Air by Monica Roe
Emmie is a WCMX athlete, who can do amazing tricks in her wheelchair. She is saving up to purchase a new wheelchair by running an online store. She hits a snag when she has an accident at school and the principal assigns an aide to help her get around school. Emmie starts to feel like her agency is being taken from her and she is determined to assert herself.
MORE: Physical Disability and Difference in Middle Grade Books
Fantasy and Sci-Fi
The Mighty Odds (series) by Amy Ignatow
Find it: Amazon
A bus accident gives a four students, an Amish kid, a bus driver and a teacher superpowers ranging from invisibility to teleportation. This diverse group of people must now work together to solve the mystery behind what happened during the accident and how they got their powers. The narration switches among the protagonists so readers get many different viewpoints. My 12-year-old told me this book was "great and hilarious!"
MORE: Funny Middle Grade Books
Furthermore by Tahereh Mafi
A magical, mysterious modern day Alice in Wonderland. 12 year old Alice is determined to find her father after he disappears from Farenwood. Alice is a bit of a misfit. In a world full of color, she has pure white hair and white skin, and she performs miserably at the magic competition, when all 12 year olds are supposed to display their unique talent. After the competition, Alice and a boy, Oliver, set off on a topsy-turvy, inside-out and upside-down adventure into Furthermore to find and bring back her father.
MORE: Big List of Fantasy Books for Kids
The Fairy Tale Detectives (The Sisters Grimm series) by Michael Buckley
This series could not be more fun! Sabrina and Daphne Grimm, descendants of the famous Brothers Grimm, live with their grandmother in Ferryport Landing. The entire series is filled with wonderful, reimagined fairy tale characters and madcap humor. In this first book, the sister must solve the mystery of why a giant is on the loose in the town.
MORE: 39 Most Imaginative Fairy Tale Retellings
The Door by the Staircase by Katherine Marsh
This is a fascinating novelization of the Baba Yaga folk tale. The suspense will keep your tween turning the pages long into the night. (Try to encourage her to get a little sleep, though.) 12 year old Mary is taken away from her orphanage by the mysterious Madame Z. Madame Z is full of secrets and lives in a curious house. In town, Mary befriends Jacob, a magician's assistant. When they learn the true identity of Madame Z they must work together to escape her power.
The Inquisitor's Tale: Or, the Three Magical Children and Their Holy Dog by Adam Gidwitz
Multiple narrators describe the adventures of several children and their (potentially) holy dog. This book is an amazing mix of morality tale and puzzling mystery. Jeanne with her psychic visions, Willian, a biracial Muslim monk with superhuman skills, and Jacob, a Jewish fleeing his destroyed village who has healing powers come together for an adventure that enriches their lives, as well as the lives of the readers.
MORE: Gigantic List of Adventure Novels for Kids
The Mark of the Thief (series) by Jennifer A. Nielsen
This incredibly thrilling trilogy is packed full of action and twists behind every corner. Nic and his sister are slaves in mines just outside of Ancient Rome. When Nic discovers an ancient bulla that once belonged to Julius Caesar, the bulla infuses him with a power. He becomes both a target and a pawn in a political conspiracy. This is a excellent selection for kids who like mythology and will appeal to readers who thrive on stories about the take down of sinister government powers.
MORE: Middle Grades Books Inspired by Mythology
H.I.V.E. The Higher Institute of Villainous Education (series) by Mark Walden
Sure, everyone wants to be a superhero. But this book is about the education of supervillains! 13-year-old Otto Malpense is entering H.I.V.E. where he and is fellow classmates will learn new skills to take over the world. The only problem? Not everyone wants to be there and Otto and some of his genius new friends are determined to break out.
MORE: Thrilling Books Like Alex Rider
Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale
This is an adaptation of Grimms' fairy tale, "Maid Maleen." In the steppes region, a mucker, Dashti, volunteers to be shut up in a tower with Lady Saren when that Lady refuses to wed the man her father has chosen. In the tower, Dashti and Saren survive, but Saren's mental health deteriorates and Dashti plays her Lady's role. They finally escape the tower and Dashti's perseverance and cleverness save the girls.
Mystery
The Bletchley Riddle by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
In this captivating mystery, 14-year-old Lizzie and her mathematician brother, Jakob work to solve mysterious codes and riddles during WWII. Lizzie's been told her mother is dead, but she doesn't believe it. Jakob is working for British intelligence at Bletchley Park and Lizzie becomes a messenger there, determined to figure out what happened to her mother. This is a terrific novel for history buffs, full of all kinds of fascinating information and real-life characters of the time, wrapped up in a engrossing, puzzle-laden plot.
MORE: Mystery Books for Middle Grade Readers
The Puzzling World of Winston Breen (series) by Eric Berlin
After Winston gives his little sister a puzzle, they both find themselves stumped. They begin a journey to solve the puzzle which leads them on a scavenger hunt which may lead to a load of cash. Readers solve puzzles along with the protagonists, all the while realizing that cooperation is the most necessary ingredient.
MORE: Puzzling Mysteries Like The Westing Game
Warren the 13th and the All-Seeing Eye (series) by Tania del Rio
Tania del Rio's series features a delightfully weird cast of characters, a mysterious hotel, subterranean chambers, even a hedge maze! 12-year-old Warren the 13th looks after the hotel while his witchy aunt (or is she??) searches for the All-Seeing Eye. This book would also be a great choice for kids who like The Westing Game! Not for the feint of heart.
MORE: Books Like A Series of Unfortunate Events
The Scourge by Jennifer A. Nielsen
When Ani is captured and tested for a deadly disease she is sent, along with her social opposite, to a quarantined colony. While in the colony Ani and her cohorts begin to discover the truth about the supposed disease. They plot escape and hatch a plan to bring the government's deception to light. Thrilling!
The Blackthorn Key (series) by Kevin Sands
There is some dark subject matter in this book but it is an incredibly suspenseful and action-packed read aloud for older kids. (On par with some of the darker imagery in the Harry Potter books). Christoper, an orphaned apprentice in 17th century London must solve a complex puzzle surrounding the murders of apothecaries. Despite the seriousness of the plot, the well-drawn characters provide some humor.
Historical Fiction
Echo Mountain by Lauren Wolk
After losing almost everything in the Great Depression, Ellie's family heads to the forests of Maine to homestead. A terrible accident leaves her father in a coma. Ellie's mother and sister dislike the outdoors, but not Ellie. Ellie, who loves learning about all the woods have to offer, is determined to find what she needs to help her father.
MORE: Historical Fiction with Strong Girl Protagonists
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
Woodson describes her memories of growing up in South Carolina, and later in Brooklyn, against the backdrop of the civil rights movement. The narrative is funny and poignant as Woodson figures out what makes her special and discovers her love words. See all those medals on the cover? This book totally earned every one of them.
MORE: Memoirs and Biographies in Verse
The Left-Handed Fate by Kate Milford
Lucy and Max are trying to put an end to the War of 1812 by assembling a mysterious and ancient engine. While on a ship, The Left-Handed Fate, the ship is captured by the Americans and put under the command of a 12 year old, Oliver who must wrestle with the moral decision of becoming a traitor or putting the lives of others in jeopardy. Full of high adventure, treacherous journeys and suspenseful action, this book will keep your tween on the edge of his seat.
Dragon's Gate by Lawrence Yep
The Golden Mountain Chronicles is a 10 book series which tells the story of the Young family over many generations and two centuries. Dragon's Gate is set in 1867. Otter has always been in awe of his father and uncle who work for the railroad companies across the sea. When he gets there himself, however, working conditions, the bitter cold, racism and his uncle's behavior serve to disillusion him. You don't need to read the series in order to enjoy them and Yep is a skilled author. Your kids won't want to put the book down.
MORE: Middle Grade Books by Asian-American AuthorsMiddle Grade Books by Asian & Asian-American Authors
As Brave as You by Jason Reynolds
Both my kid and I loved this book about 11-year-old Genie and his brother who have come to rural Virginia to spend the summer with their grandparents. Genie is a boy who loves to ask questions and when he learns about his grandfather's blindness he has a lot to ask! During the summer Genie struggles with making sure he makes the right decisions as he uncovers the secrets of his family's history.
MORE: Middle Grade Books about Strong Families
Graphic Novels
One Dead Spy (series) by Nathan Hale
My kid loves the Nathan Hale's historical graphic novels. The topics range from the Revolutionary War to the Donner Party, the Alamo to WW1 and more. As a narrator, Hale makes history fascinating and funny. If your kids say they aren't "into history" sneak a few of these books into their reading stash.
MORE: Nonfiction Graphic Novels
Olympians: Dionysos (series) by George O'Connor
Consider this a recommendation for O'Connor's entire Olympians series, as well as his new series about the Asgardians. I'm featuring this edition because, let's face it, Dionysos is my favorite god. The god of theater? And wine? It's not even a contest. This is O'Connor's final installment in his Olympians graphic novel series (always save the best for last) but a complete set would make a terrific gift!
MORE: Graphic Novel Adaptations of Classic Literature
Queen of the Sea (series) by Dylan Meconis
This is a really fun graphic novel inspired by the life and times of Elizabeth I. Margaret, an orphan lives on an island in a convent. But her world is upended when the banished Queen Eleanor comes to the island and she learns the truth about her own identity. This is a fun, fast-paced story which still manages to convey a lot of detail about medieval life.
All's Faire in Middle School by Victoria Jamieson
Imogene (Impy) Vega's parents work at the renaissance faire and Impy helps out as a squire. Although she fits right in at the faire, she feels out of place navigating the perils of sixth grade. Impy makes mistakes that alienate her peers and cause her to doubt herself. She works hard, though, and learns to make better choices.
MORE: Middle School Graphic Novels
This Was Our Pact by Ryan Andrews
Ben and his friends have made a pact. This year, after the lanterns at the Autumn festival are set adrift in the river, they will follow the lanterns to see where they go. They want to find out if the legend which says they turn into stars is true. However, the kids drop out of the pact one by one until only Ben and Nathaniel are left. They forge on, however, and what they discover and encounter is truly magical.
MORE: Sci-Fi and Fantasy Graphic Novels
Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy by Rey Terciero, illustrated by Bre Indigo
This modern day retelling of Lousia May Alcott's Little Women is set in New York City. The story follows the lives of four sisters in a blended, multi-racial family, and will appeal to fans of Raina Telgemeier. The sisters' father is stationed in the Middle East, their mother works double shifts and the girls take care of one another. The narrative follows the sisters as they cope with school work, chores and relationships, as well as interactions with their wealthy neighbor, Laurie.
MORE: Books for Readers Who Like Little Women
Satchel Paige: Striking Out Jim Crow by James Sturm, illustrated by Rich Tommaso
Fans of baseball and history will enjoy this short graphic novel account of Satchel Paige's time as a Negro League ball player in an era when Black players weren't allowed to play on teams with white players. It's not a traditional biography, but gives an intriguing account of life in the Negro League. The novel's narrator, Emmet, is an 18 year old father and rookie player who describes watching Satchel play. Emmet has to return to his home and work as laborer in Alabama, where the harsh realities of living in the Jim Crow South are ever present. When his son is older, Emmet is able to take his son to watch Satchel play.
Danette says
Love this! I teach 7th grade. I have a huge classroom library and book talk at least one book to my class each school day. You list is awesome because I have only heard of one of them! I love having more new ideas of tried and true books for this age! Thank you!
Erica says
I'm so glad you found some new books!
Susan says
Thanks for the list! As a librarian, I know of the books that get great reviews, but not always of the books that kids are reading and loving.
Erica says
I'm glad you found the list useful.
Alison at NOVA Frugal Family says
My son already read all of the books in the Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales so I was looking to see if there were an other books that might be good for him. The hardest part is he is 8 so the subject material is a little tougher to judge then the reading level. I just might have to look a few of these up now at the library!! Thanks for the tips.
Erica says
The content of many of these books may not be right for an 8 year old, but I have other age appropriate chapter book lists which you can find listed here: https://www.whatdowedoallday.com/books-for-kids
Hank Ellis says
I have written a book (more for young-preteen boys) than girls, but most people who have read it (including adults) loved it.
The title is The Promise A Perilous Journey by Hank Ellis. If your kids like good clean adventure then I'm sure they'll love The Promise. It's at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Google play books. If you really like it I'll send some free books to pass around to friends.
Sonia Gonzalez says
My son would love to read it!
elle says
i am only 10, but i already luv these books!!! this will definitely giv me a head start on middle school
Aliehsa says
I'm eleven but books are so interesting for all ages! No my b-day wish list is complete!
Eden says
I am 11 and have not heard of any of theese books!!!! I love all of them and will really help me going into middle school.
Ellie says
These books are so great and fun
Rhona says
I'm an eleven year old and have always loved reading what books would you recommend for a kid of my age? I've read the hunger games little princess Andersons tales for the young ect ect and I enjoy reading dystopian future.
Someone says
hmm if you like dystopian societies you should read the giver and the series! 😀
Christine says
Thank you for compiling this list. My 12 year old son is not an avid reader, and our biggest problem is choosing books that are "good". I will try a few of these and see if we can't get the ball rolling! Again, thank you for putting this together!
Erica says
I'm glad the list was useful. Happy reading!
Someone says
Spy School is also a great series I would recommend for anyone who loves suspense!!
Erica says
Great series!