Books Older Kids Will Like
As kids get older, it can feel harder to find books that hit the mark. Hand a reluctant reader something too hard, and they feel defeated; hand them something that looks “babyish,” and they won’t be seen with it. These books are meant to grab reluctant 12-year-olds’ attention and help them get back into reading, or simply finish a book.
They’re high-interest, with stories that hook even the most reluctant readers, short chapters, and some drawings mixed in. Mexikid is the only graphic novel in the bunch. Don’t let the age ranges fool you. These are books my older readers actually picked up and finished.
4 Books to Get 12-year-olds+ Reading
Mexikid Dreams (series) by Pedro Martín
Ages 9-12
This is actually the second book, and both are fantastic graphic novels. Both are a memoir about a family road trip that took place during author Pedro Martín’s own childhood, from California, down to Mexico, and back.
A Wolf Called Wander (series) by Rosanne Parry
Ages 8-13
The Voice of the Wilderness series has 5 books, and if your kid loves animals, wilderness and adventure, this is the set for them. As a mom, the first book (A Wolf Called Wander), where a cub is separated from its family and has to survive in the wilderness on its own, wrecked me. But my students LOVED it, and it’s checked out of our library all the time. Soooooo don’t take it from me, take it from the kids who’ve read it!
Roar by Varsha Bajaj
Ages 8-12
Absolutely gorgeous book about an endangered animal sanctuary where Rohan visits his grandparents. This book is told through the eyes of 12-year-old Rohan and the tiger’s point of view, Arya. This book is under 200 pages, which makes it a great choice for kids who aren’t sure about books, and the story never pauses, keeping kids interested until the end.
Pip Bartlett’s Guide to Magical Creatures (series) by Jackson Pearce & Maggie Stiefvater
Ages 9-13
A perfect starter fantasy series, with fun drawings, lovable characters and a wildly imaginative story. I love offering it to older kids as a gentle way into fantasy. Just because kids get older doesn’t mean every fantasy book is accessible to them. A great series to have on hand!
Leave a Reply