Reading at age 12 has a number of advantages developmentally, academically, and emotionally.
Encourages Critical Thinking: Novels like "The Lie Tree" by Frances Hardinge help young readers to think more deeply about the motives of different characters and events in the story, which is helpful for their cognitive development
Encourages Emotional Reactions: "Refugee" by Alan Gratz is a collection of various refugee stories originating from around the world. Stories in this genre help children in developing emotional connections with others, thus enhancing their own emotional intelligence development.
Supports In-Depth the Consideration of Important Issues: Works like "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman allow one to delve into the significant issues of morality, structures of society, and decision making. The author provides a framework within which the reader will ponder other issues related to life.
Emotional Maturity is Nurtured: A novel such as "The Last Cuentista" by Donna Barba Higuera identifies ways in which children develop their coping mechanisms or simply make it through some of the difficult moments in life.
Selecting the appropriate titles presents one of those exciting challenges for a parent. Consider the following areas.
Mature Themes: At the age of 12 years, more serious themes may be presented to them. For example, "Girl in the Blue Coat" is a novel that presents a very serious historic issue, namely World War II, in a friendly and comfortable environment.
Interest-Based Selection: Discover the topics that interest your child. If they like post-dystopian settings, "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman might be perfect. If they like family adventures, "Louisiana's Way Home" by Kate DiCamillo will delight them.
Diversity and Representation: Consider literature that brings diversity of voices. "Pet" by Akwaeke Emezi is a great read with LGBTQIA+ characters and ideas of justice, thus timely and enlightening.
Diversity in Genres: Variety among genres make reading engrossing for your child. Some books, like "Rebound" by Kwame Alexander, are wholly written in verse. Such novels offer a completely different experience as compared with a prose book and help the reader appreciate diverse ways of writing.
Below is a recommended list of books for 12-year-olds. These titles mesh entertainment with stories that compel the reader to contemplate deeply emotional issues.
"The Lie Tree" by Frances Hardinge: This is a great mystery that explores the perspective of truth, power, and the part played by science in society. It helps children think their way through beliefs and evidence.
"Refugee" by Alan Gratz: A powerful story following three different refugee children at different times in history. It is a great way to have young people gain empathy and knowledge of world issues.
"Scythe" by Neal Shusterman : is an intriguing dystopian novel that raises very tough questions about ethics and immortality-ideal for sparking discussions on right and wrong.
"Girl in the Blue Coat" by Monica Hesse: It is historical fiction set in Amsterdam during WWII; thus, it provides a good insight into historical themes but keeps the pace of a novel.
Akwaeke Emezi - "Pet:" A novel about justice, identity, and truth within a fantasy setting. It is a very relevant book for helping children understand a few complex issues of society in a simplified manner.
"The Last Cuentista" by Donna Barba Higuera: A science fiction adventure of heritage, storytelling, and hope. For every child who loves science fiction with a bleof in rich cultural facets.
"Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna" by Alda P. Dobbs: The story of one girl during the Mexican Revolution, this is both an informative and an inspiring novel with strong overtones of perseverance and hope.
Lindsay Eagar, "Hour of the Bees" - A story about Carol, who spends one summer on her grandfather's ranch in New Mexico and learns her family's history through the device of magical realism. A great heritage story, featuring resilience, and bonds between generations.
"Louisiana's Way Home" by Kate DiCamillo: This novel follows Louisiana, who gets uprooted from her home and throws herself into a new place. It is a touching story about being resilient and finding one's place in the world.
"Rebound" by Kwame Alexander: This prequel to "The Crossover" tells the story of Chuck Bell and how basketball helped him through some tough times in his life. It is truly an inspiring story about sport, friendship, and growth.
"Tru & Nelle" by Greg Neri: Such a captivating story based on the real-life friendship of Truman Capote and Harper Lee. It is a great book, introducing young readers to the power of storytelling and imagination.
"Beverly, Right Here" by Kate DiCamillo: A story about Beverly Tapinski, a girl who runs away from home and tries to build a life of her own. It is a story of independence, toughness, finding one's home.
These books were selected for their potential to cultivate emotional intelligence, instill empathy, and foster critical thinking in young readers-all without sacrificing engaging storytelling.
Following are a few guidelines to assist your child in experiencing the best possible time while reading.
Discussion: Have your child discuss the themes of the story after going through "The Lie Tree" or any other title. Let them communicate how they felt about the main character's decisions and what they would have done differently.
Setting Reading Goals: It also helps to have your child set realistic reading goals, like reading one book a month. This will serve to establish a reading routine and give them a sense of achievement.
Connect Books to Real Life: Connect themes in a book such as "Pet" to current events or personal experiences; this will make the story more relevant and help readers better understand the story.
Use Different Formats: If your child seems to prefer the audiobook or e-book format, try those. Audiobooks, such as "Rebound," will make lar rides enjoyable and improve comprehension.
MoBoo selects books with all types of themes for all types of young readers. Here is why MoBoo is the best place to search for books your 12-year-old will love.
Carefully Selected Titles: From "Refugee" to "The Last Cuentista," every new selection in our file has been made through the contribution of expert advice to ensure appropriateness, interest, and instructiveness for the young mind.
Highlighting Diversity: Books in MoBoo's collection give voice to culture, identity, and experiences. For example, "Pet" by Akwaeke Emezi represents the LGBTQ+ community, while "Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna" provides insights into historic incidents through the prism of diverse cultures.
Informative yet Entertaining: From the action-filled plot of "Scythe" to the emotionally heart-touching story of "Louisiana's Way Home," this collection informs as well as entertains; each title supports the habit of learning while reading .
Q: What type of books are recommended for a 12-year-old?
A: The best are books that present more complex themes to readers but remain age appropriate. Adventure or historical fiction or philosophical science fiction are great options, like "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman.
Q: How can I get my 12-year-old to read?
A: Make books accessible and available at home; provide a quiet, comfortable place for reading; and let your child choose some books. Books, such as "Rebound" by Kwame Alexander are wholly or partially written in verse and thus less daunting to a struggling reader.
Q: Are there any recommended series for a 12-year-old?
A: Neal Shusterman's "Arc of a Scythe" series is a deftly plotted, headily themed set that will have its readers thinking deeply. Another series to read is about young Truman Capote and Harper Lee in Tru & Nelle by Greg Neri.Q: My 12-year-old does not like to read. Where do I even start?
A: If they do not like to read, introduce them to some graphic novels or books that at least have some focus on their interests: "Girl in the Blue Coat" would appeal to children who like history, whereas "Scythe" would fit readers interested in Sci-Fi. Audiobooks are good resources as well.
Q: Does reading prepare my 12-year-old for school?
A: Definitely! Rading enriches your vocabulary, improves comprehension, and develops your critical thinking-all that is helpful at school. Books like "The Lie Tree" introduce scientific ideas; that help in both language and subject knowledge.
These parenting tips and recommended books will instill a love of reading in 12-year-olds.