Get a big list of great chapter books for tweens to read. There are fantasy books, fiction books, historical fiction books, and sci-fi books. These are great books for 8-12 year old preteens to read.
Ah the Tween years. The preteens. Most children in this age group can read chapter books easily on their own, and your hope is to really get them hooked on reading books during this phase. You need good, quality books that are entertaining and keep your child coming back for more, but you also want clean language, pure content, and storylines that won’t keep him up at night.
These are some of our favorite books for this age group. All of these books are books that my preteens have read and loved. Most are books we had to own because they are liked so much. You can find more great suggestions in my 15 Chapter Books for Girls post and my Chapter Books for Boys post. If you have a child who loves reading fantasy books, be sure to look at 27 Fantasy Books for Middle Readers.
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Kindle Reader
It can take up a lot of space to own so many books. Some people just can’t read an eBook and prefer to hold the book in their hands. I did manage to get Brayden and Brinley to appreciate the Paperwhite Kindle for books. McKenna will read on her Paperwhite, also. It is easy to take a ton of books with you and also easy to share books in the family. I get it without ads so I don’t have to worry about what ads my kids might see when they read a book.
Graphic Novels
I have a degree in English, so the idea of my child reading graphic novels was hard to accept. However, I always remember what Jim Trelease says in the Read Alound Handbook. He talks about the importance of people loving to read and that comics are okay. Brinley is my only child to really get into graphic novels. She read quite a few. It has not hindered her ability to read traditional novels or to read at a very high level. If your child loves a series, they might enjoy reading it in graphic novel form. I did not include graphic novels here, but many of these books listed also come in graphic novel (like the Wings of Fire series).
Chapter Books for Tweens
These books are in no particular order.
Wonder
by R. J. Placio
Kaitlyn declared this book the best book ever written when she was 10. She liked it so much that she read it aloud to her sisters many times. Wonder by R.J. Palacio tells the story of August Pullman, a 10-year-old boy with a facial deformity, as he navigates the challenges of attending a mainstream school for the first time. Through August’s perspective and those of his friends and family, the novel explores themes of kindness, acceptance, bullying, and the impact of physical appearance on self-worth. As August faces difficult situations, he learns to embrace who he is while inspiring others to look beyond appearances. The story highlights the importance of empathy, courage, and the power of human connection in overcoming adversity
Kaitlyn and McKenna were both completely obsessed with this series as preteens. Brinley also really enjoyed it. This is great for people who love fantasy books. Wings of Fire by Tui T. Sutherland follows five dragonets—Clay, Tsunami, Glory, Starflight, and Sunny—who are prophesied to end a devastating war between dragon tribes. As they grow and learn their powers, they face challenges, betrayals, and unexpected alliances. The story explores themes of friendship, destiny, and identity, as each dragonet must choose their own path while unraveling secrets about their pasts. With rich world-building and thrilling action, the series delves into the complexities of war, loyalty, and the quest for peace.
The Hobbit
by J. R. R. Tolkien
This book is a book that was written for children. Many people assume it is for adults, but Tolkien wrote it for young preteens. If your child handles this book well, have him/her move on to the Lord of The Rings series as he/she gets on the older half of the preteen age. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a quiet hobbit who is reluctantly swept into an adventure with a group of dwarves and the wizard Gandalf. They set out to reclaim the dwarves’ homeland from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo faces various challenges, including trolls, goblins, and giant spiders, and discovers his own courage and resourcefulness. Ultimately, Bilbo’s encounters lead him to find the One Ring, setting the stage for future events in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. The story is one of personal growth, bravery, and friendship.
This was Brayden’s favorite as a 12 year old. The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann is a dystopian fantasy novel set in the land of Quill, where creativity is banned, and children are sorted into categories based on their skills. Those labeled as “Unwanted” are sent to their deaths, but instead, they are transported to a hidden magical land. Here, they discover they possess powerful creative abilities and are trained to use their talents. The story follows Alex, an Unwanted, who navigates his new life while facing the oppressive regime of Quill, and the looming danger of a battle that could change everything.
This was a huge hit in my house, and a huge hit among all fourth graders at our school when Kaitlyn was in 4th grade. All four of my kids have really enjoyed this series. The Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan follows Percy, a demigod and the son of Poseidon, as he discovers his true identity and embarks on thrilling quests to stop the rise of the Titans. Alongside his friends Annabeth and Grover, Percy navigates the world of Greek mythology, facing monsters, gods, and ancient prophecies. The series blends humor, action, and friendship while exploring themes of destiny, loyalty, and self-discovery. Through five books, Percy challenges his fate, eventually taking on the ultimate battle against the forces of darkness to protect both the mortal and divine worlds.
A great follow-up for the Percy Jackson fans. If your children enjoyed Percy Jackson, have them read this next! Heroes of Olympus by Rick Riordan is a five-book series that follows a group of demigods, including Jason, Piper, Leo, Annabeth, Percy, and others, as they navigate the challenges of prophecy and impending war between Greek and Roman gods. The group embarks on dangerous quests to stop the earth goddess Gaea from rising and destroying the world. As they uncover secrets, build alliances, and face numerous trials, they must learn to trust each other and unite the Greek and Roman camps to save humanity from a cataclysmic fate. The series blends mythology, adventure, and humor.
One of the best dystopian books ever written. Save it for an older preteen age range–10-12. This book is a thinker. In The Giver by Lois Lowry, 12-year-old Jonas lives in a highly controlled, dystopian society that suppresses emotions and memories. At a ceremony, he is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory and begins training with an elderly man known as The Giver. Through shared memories of pain, love, and color, Jonas learns the truth about his society’s dark secrets, including the practice of euthanasia. As Jonas struggles with these revelations, he faces a choice: to accept his role or escape, risking his life to find freedom and the real world beyond his community’s constraints.
My tweens all loved all of the Brandon Mull books and this was no exception. Five Kingdoms by Brandon Mull follows Cole Randolph, a 12-year-old boy who is transported to a magical world called the Five Kingdoms after being kidnapped at a Halloween party. In this world, people are sorted into different kingdoms based on their abilities. Cole must navigate this strange realm with the help of new friends, including a girl named Jenna and a boy named Dalton, as they face dangerous enemies. Cole’s goal is to find a way to escape and rescue his friends, all while uncovering secrets about the Five Kingdoms and his own hidden powers.
I accidentally found this book when searching for the Five Kingdoms above. It has come to be a favorite of Brayden and my husband. Five Kingdoms by Toby Neighbors follows the journey of a young boy named Cole, who is unexpectedly transported to a strange world known as the Five Kingdoms. Each kingdom is ruled by a powerful monarch, and the land is filled with magic, danger, and secrets. Cole must navigate this unfamiliar realm, make new allies, and uncover the mysteries behind his arrival. Along the way, he learns about his own hidden powers and the truth about his purpose in this mystical world. It’s a thrilling, fast-paced adventure filled with twists, fantasy elements, and a fight for survival.
A must-have for any book list. This is Kaitlyn’s favorite series. Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling follows the life of a young boy, Harry, who discovers on his 11th birthday that he is a wizard. He attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he forms close friendships with Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley. Over seven years, Harry learns about his past, including the truth about the dark wizard Voldemort, who killed his parents. As Voldemort returns to power, Harry must confront him, ultimately defeating him in a battle between good and evil, while uncovering themes of friendship, loyalty, courage, and the power of love.
This is a really fun fantasy series full of mystery and adventure. This was another series all of my children really enjoyed. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull follows siblings Kendra and Seth as they visit their grandparents’ secluded estate, Fablehaven. They soon discover that the property is a sanctuary for magical creatures, both wondrous and dangerous. As they uncover secrets about the sanctuary, they face challenges involving mischievous creatures, hidden artifacts, and dark forces threatening the preserve. Kendra and Seth must work together to protect the sanctuary and its magical inhabitants while learning about their own unique abilities. The story blends adventure, fantasy, and mystery, with themes of bravery, friendship, and the consequences of temptation.
This is a great fantasy book series. It isn’t one we own, but a good read. The Sorcerer’s Ring by Morgan Rice is the first book in a fantasy series that follows the journey of 16-year-old Gwendolyn, an orphaned farm girl, who discovers her destiny as the Chosen One, destined to wield powerful magic. After her village is attacked, she embarks on a dangerous journey to uncover her true heritage and her magical abilities. Along the way, she forms alliances with a group of unlikely heroes and faces trials that test her strength, courage, and heart. The story blends adventure, magic, and self-discovery, setting the stage for a larger epic.
This is another one that is a good read. In 100 Cupboards by N.D. Wilson, 12-year-old Henry York discovers a hidden room in his Kansas attic filled with 99 mysterious cupboards. When he accidentally opens one, he uncovers a portal to other worlds. As Henry and his cousins explore the cupboards, they encounter magical realms and dangerous secrets tied to his family’s past. The story weaves adventure, mystery, and a struggle between good and evil as Henry learns of his true heritage and the dark forces threatening his world. The novel is a blend of fantasy, suspense, and self-discovery.
This is one for a child who loves to read about World War 2. McKenna has always loved books set in that time and absolutely loves this book. I find it to be a really good read, also. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is set in Nazi Germany during World War II and follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl living with foster parents in a small town. Liesel steals books and shares them with others, including her neighbors and the Jewish man hidden in their basement, Max. Narrated by Death, the novel explores themes of loss, love, and the power of words. As Liesel faces personal and collective tragedies, her connection to books becomes a source of solace and resistance in a world filled with fear and destruction.
This is another great fantasy series. Ranger’s Apprentice by John A. Flanagan follows Will, a young orphan who becomes an apprentice to Halt, a mysterious and skilled ranger. As Will learns the ways of the rangers—masters of stealth, archery, and tracking—he faces numerous challenges, including defending his kingdom from threats. Will’s bravery and skills grow as he befriends companions such as Horace, a knight-in-training, and encounters a range of enemies. The series blends adventure, loyalty, and friendship as Will matures into a hero who plays a key role in protecting the realm.
Michael Vey
by Richard Paul Evans
This is a great series Brayden has read several times. McKenna and Brinley have both really enjoyed it also. Michael Vey by Richard Paul Evans follows the story of a 14-year-old boy, Michael, who has special electrical powers. Diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome, Michael lives a quiet life, until he befriends a girl named Taylor and uncovers a secret group of teens with similar powers. Together, they face off against the sinister Elgen Corporation, led by a powerful man named Dr. Hatch. As Michael learns about his abilities, he must confront personal challenges, battle evil forces, and protect his friends, all while discovering his true potential in a fight for survival and justice.
This is a great ready for the Sci-Fi lover. Nate, Brayden, and I all really enjoy the book. This is part of a series, but you really can just be satisfied and enjoy it on its own. Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card follows Andrew “Ender” Wiggin, a young boy recruited into a highly competitive military training program to prepare for an impending alien invasion. Ender excels in simulations and tactical games, quickly advancing to command a fleet. However, he discovers that the final simulation he led was, in fact, a real battle, and he has unwittingly destroyed the alien species. Faced with guilt and moral dilemmas, Ender grapples with the consequences of his actions while seeking redemption. The novel explores themes of leadership, morality, isolation, and the costs of war.
This is a fun series to read, but it is written by multiple authors. I think that has led to some lack of consistency. Still a fun read at least once, but I wouldn’t buy it unless you find your child absolutely LOVES it. Spirit Animals is a fantasy book series by various authors, set in the world of Erdas, where children discover a mystical connection with spirit animals that grant them unique powers. Each child, called a “Greencloak,” is chosen by their animal spirit and must join forces with others to protect their world from the evil Conquerors. The series follows four main protagonists—Conor, Abeke, Meilin, and Rollan—whose animal companions help them navigate challenges, confront dangers, and unravel an ancient mystery. Together, they battle dark forces threatening Erdas, forging alliances and discovering the power of teamwork and loyalty.
This is a really fun series for kids who love animals. They have many series featuring different types of animals. Survivors by Eric Hunter follows a post-apocalyptic world where society has collapsed due to a devastating plague. The story centers around a group of survivors navigating through harsh conditions while struggling to rebuild and restore hope. As they confront dangerous environments, hostile forces, and the emotional toll of their survival, they form tight bonds and must make difficult choices to endure. Themes of resilience, loss, and human connection are explored as the survivors fight for a chance at rebuilding civilization, facing both external and internal challenges that threaten their unity and future.
This is a great historical fiction series. Each book is a standalone. We have purchased all of these and our kids have learned a lot more about historical events than they would have otherwise! The I Survived series by Lauren Tarshis follows young protagonists as they experience historical disasters and challenges. Each book focuses on a different event, such as natural disasters, wars, and shipwrecks, often through the eyes of a child who must navigate life-threatening situations. The series is designed to educate young readers about history while providing thrilling, suspenseful narratives. Through courage, resourcefulness, and perseverance, the characters survive and grow, offering an inspiring and educational look at real-world events from a child’s perspective. The series has been widely praised for its engaging storytelling and historical accuracy.
This is another great fantasy series by Mull and another favorite of Brayden’s. Beyonders by Brandon Mull follows Jason, a boy who accidentally stumbles into the mysterious land of Lyrian while on a school trip. He discovers that the land is under the oppressive rule of an evil emperor, Maldor. With the help of a girl named Rachel, Jason embarks on a dangerous quest to find the Lost Words, powerful phrases that could defeat Maldor and free Lyrian. As Jason and Rachel face treacherous challenges and grow in strength, they uncover secrets that will change the fate of the world forever in this action-packed fantasy adventure.
This is a fun series for horse lovers who are also interested in fantasy books. Kaitlyn absolutely loved these when she was a young preteen. The Unicorn’s Secret series by Kathleen Duey follows the adventures of a young girl named Jessie, who discovers a mystical unicorn named Moonlight in a hidden, enchanted forest. Set in a world where humans and magical creatures coexist, Jessie learns about the secret world of unicorns, the bond between humans and unicorns, and her own destiny. Throughout the series, Jessie embarks on journeys to protect Moonlight and other magical beings, facing challenges and uncovering truths about her heritage, courage, and the fate of the unicorns in a world threatened by dark forces.
McKenna loved these books, but Brinley has loved them most. This is a great series because there seem to be endless books to read. Brinley owns so many and still has many she does not own. Warriors by Erin Hunter is a series set in a world where wild cats live in clans, each with their own code and territory. The story follows a young house cat named Rusty, who joins the ThunderClan and adopts the name Firepaw. As he trains to become a warrior, Firepaw faces challenges, uncovers secrets, and navigates the complexities of clan life. Themes of loyalty, bravery, and survival are central, as Firepaw’s journey tests his courage and his place in the conflict between rival clans, all while uncovering the truth about his mysterious destiny.
Brinley enjoyed Percy Jackson so much and grew to love mythology. Since she enjoyed those things, we got this book for her for this last Christmas. She liked it! Daughter of the Deep by Rick Riordan follows Ana Dakkar, a high school freshman at the prestigious Harding-Pencroft Academy, a school for future marine scientists and explorers. After a tragic event leaves her orphaned, Ana discovers her mysterious heritage as the descendant of Captain Nemo. She must navigate a dangerous underwater world, uncover hidden secrets, and face rival schools seeking powerful technology. As Ana’s courage and resourcefulness are tested, she learns to embrace her legacy and lead her team in a high-stakes adventure, blending science, history, and mythology.
This was another new book for Brinley this Christmas. It is a fun series that looks at the villains of fairy tales. The Fairy Tale Reform School series by Jen Calonita follows Gilly, a rebellious girl who is sent to the enchanted Fairy Tale Reform School, a reform institution for troubled teens from classic fairy tales. At the school, she encounters familiar characters like Cinderella and Snow White, who now serve as teachers. As Gilly learns about kindness, responsibility, and friendship, she uncovers secrets and challenges within the school. The series blends humor, adventure, and lessons about making good choices, offering a fresh twist on beloved fairy tales with relatable, modern themes for young readers.
Brinley loves animals and loves to read books about animals. I knew this would be a big hit for her. An Elephant in the Garden by Michael Morpurgo is a historical novel set during World War II. It follows the story of Lizzie and her family, who are living in Nazi-occupied Germany. After their zoo is bombed, they rescue an elephant named Marlene. As they journey through war-torn Germany to escape the danger, Lizzie’s grandmother tells her the story of their adventure. The novel highlights themes of bravery, hope, and the bond between humans and animals, with a deep emotional resonance, showing how kindness and compassion can survive even in the darkest times.
Don’t forget about classics when thinking of books for your tween! This is great for younger to middle tweens. Peter Pan is such classic story. Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie tells the story of a boy who never grows up and lives in the magical Neverland. Peter visits the Darling children, Wendy, John, and Michael, and takes them on an adventure to the fantastical island, where they meet fairies, pirates, and lost boys. The children join Peter in battling his nemesis, Captain Hook. Throughout their journey, themes of childhood innocence, adventure, and the tension between growing up and staying young are explored. Ultimately, Wendy and her brothers return home, while Peter remains in Neverland, forever a boy who refuses to grow up.
McKenna absolutely loves historical fiction. When she was a tween, this was onf of her favorites (and she will still read it over and over today). If your child likes historical fiction, Gratz has a lot of great books. Prisoner B-3087 by Alan Gratz follows the harrowing journey of Yanek, a Jewish boy in Poland during World War II. After Nazi forces invade, Yanek is sent to a concentration camp, where he survives multiple atrocities, including forced labor and death marches. Throughout his ordeal, Yanek’s resilience and hope keep him alive as he endures dehumanization, loss, and brutality. The story is inspired by the true experiences of Holocaust survivor Jack Gruener, offering a gripping account of survival and the human spirit amidst the horrors of the Holocaust.
Nevermoor
by Jessica Townsend
This is an interesting fantasy series McKenna enjoyed. Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend follows Morrigan Crow, a cursed girl blamed for every misfortune in her town. On the night of her predicted death, she is saved by the mysterious Jupiter North, who takes her to the magical world of Nevermoor. There, Morrigan enters a series of dangerous trials to earn a place in the prestigious Wundrous Society. As she uncovers secrets about her own powers, Morrigan must confront her destiny and prove she belongs in this world, all while navigating friendships, enemies, and the threat of her curse.
This was one of my favorite books of all time and all of my kids have enjoyed it, also. Dahl is a great author to turn to when you are looking for a book for your child to read. Matilda by Roald Dahl tells the story of a brilliant young girl named Matilda Wormwood, who is often overlooked and mistreated by her neglectful parents. Despite her extraordinary intelligence and love for reading, she faces cruelty from her school headmistress, Miss Trunchbull. With the help of her kind teacher Miss Honey, Matilda discovers she has telekinetic powers. Using her abilities, she stands up to Miss Trunchbull, ultimately bringing justice and transforming her life. The novel is a heartwarming tale of resilience, empowerment, and the triumph of good over evil.
I do not feel I am being dramatic in saying everyone should read this book. It is a Newbery Honor Book and on Forbs 25 Top Historical Fiction books of all time for a reason. Kaitlyn has never been into historical fiction, but she read this book over and over again and also read it to her sisters. The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley follows Ada, a young girl with a physical disability, who is evacuated from London to the countryside during World War II. Abused and neglected by her mother, Ada finds kindness and a sense of belonging with Susan, her new guardian. As the war progresses, Ada learns to trust, confronts her trauma, and gains confidence. The novel explores themes of resilience, family, and healing, highlighting how war, though destructive, can offer opportunities for personal growth and the discovery of love and hope.
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This post first appeared on this blog in May of 2017