The Magic of Reading: 100 Tweens Books to Get Your Kids Hooked in 2023

Hey. I’m Doug Weller – The Storyteller, and I write books for middle-grade and tweens.

If you’re a tween looking for your next great read, you’re in luck. In this blog, I’m going to share 100 awesome Tweens books that are all wonderful in their own way and will get both children and the young at heart reading.

For many adults, me included, books you read yourself, before you become a teenager are the most precious and close to our hearts.

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What are the benefits of reading tweens book?

Books for tweens have all sorts of amazing benefits! Here are just a few reasons why reading is great for kids around the ages of 9-12:

  1. Tweens books can help you develop critical thinking skills. When you read a book, you have to pay attention to what’s happening and try to make sense of it all. This helps you learn how to think more deeply about things and ask questions.
  2. Tweens books can improve your vocabulary and language skills. You’re still learning new words and concepts, and reading helps you learn even more. Plus, the more you read, the more you’ll be exposed to different types of language, which can help you become a better writer and speaker.
  3. Tweens books can provide a sense of escape and adventure. Reading can transport you to far-off lands, introduce you to new cultures, and let you experience all sorts of amazing things without ever leaving your couch.
  4. Tweens books can help you understand and relate to the world around you. Whether it’s learning about different historical events or reading about people who are different from you, books can help you make connections and understand different perspectives.
  5. Tweens books can be a source of comfort and support. Reading can be a great way to relax and unwind after a long day, and it can also be a way to find solace when you’re feeling down. There are books out there that can help you feel less alone and give you the support you need to get through tough times.

So if you’re looking for a way to learn, grow, and have fun, then don’t be afraid to pick up a book! There are all sorts of amazing tweens books out there just waiting to be discovered.

What makes a book for tweens different to other books?

Middle-grade books allow when kids can confidently on their own have a few key factors that make them super-special. Here’s what to expect from great tweens books aimed at kids around the ages of 9-12:

  1. Age-appropriate themes and content: Tweens are at a really interesting age where they’re starting to deal with more complex issues and emotions. A good tween book will tackle these themes in a way that’s appropriate for the age range.
  2. Characters that tweens can relate to: Tweens want to see characters that they can identify with and look up to. This might mean characters who are around the same age as them, or who are dealing with similar issues and challenges.
  3. Engaging storylines and writing: Tweens are old enough to enjoy more sophisticated plots and writing styles, but they still want to be entertained. A good tween book will have a compelling storyline and writing that will keep them hooked.
  4. Diverse representation: Tweens are starting to think more about the world around them and their place in it. Books that feature diverse characters and perspectives can help them understand and relate to different experiences.
  5. Age-appropriate illustrations or graphics (if applicable): If the book is a graphic novel or has illustrations, they should be appropriate for the age range and add to the story in some way.

Overall, great tweens books will be one that engages and challenges them, while also being age-appropriate and relatable. Happy reading!

10 Different genres and story types for middle-grade and tweens books

Believe it or not, middle grade and tweens books cover pretty much every genre of fiction and non-fiction as adult books. But of couse, these books are more fun!

  1. Science fiction tweens books : Science fiction books are all about exploring the unknown and imagining what could be possible in the future. These books often involve futuristic technology or otherworldly creatures.
  2. Fantasy tweens books: Fantasy books are like a trip to a magical world where anything is possible. These stories often involve mythical creatures, enchanted objects, and people with special powers.
  3. Mystery tweens books: Mystery books are all about solving a puzzle or crime. They usually involve a detective or amateur sleuth trying to uncover the truth about something that happened.
  4. Contemporary fiction tweens books: Contemporary fiction books are stories that could (mostly) happen in real life, usually set in the present day, but they’re not necessarily based on true events. These books often explore real-world issues or themes and can be emotionally intense.
  5. Historical fiction tweens books: Historical fiction books are stories that take place in the past, but they’re not entirely true. These books usually involve fictional characters set against a real historical background.
  6. Humor tweens books: Humor books are meant to make readers laugh. These books can be silly, absurd, or clever, and they often involve wacky characters or absurd situations.
  7. Classic fiction tweens books: These are the gold standard stories that have stood the test of time for their thrills, spills and heart.
  8. Graphic novels tweens books: Graphic novels are books that use both words and pictures to tell a story. These books can be any genre, and they often have a visual style that is distinct from traditional novels.
  9. Poetry tweens booky: Poetry books are collections of poems, which are short works of literature that use language in creative and expressive ways. Poetry can be rhyming or non-rhyming, and it can explore a wide range of themes and emotions.
  10. Nonfiction tweens books: Nonfiction books are true stories or factual accounts of real events or people. These books can cover a wide range of topics, including history, science, and current events.

Keep scrolling as we explore each of these genres, and look out some of the greatest tweens’ books in each of these genres.


Science fiction tweens books

Are you a tween who loves all things science fiction? Then you’re in luck, because this section is just for you!

Science fiction for tweens isn’t just about the outer limits of the universe. These stories can also be thought-provoking and deal with important themes and ideas. You might find stories that explore what it means to be human, or that ask big questions about the nature of reality and the universe.

Grab a sci-fi tweens book for tweens and let your imagination run wild!


“The War of the Worlds” by H.G. Wells



“The War of the Worlds” is a classic science fiction novel that is still as thrilling and relevant today as it was when it was first published. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of action and suspense. Definitely give this one a read!

“Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card



“Ender’s Game” is a great pick for anyone who likes science fiction and strategic thinking. The plot is full of twists and turns and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really impressive.

“The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams



If you’re looking for a fun and humorous science fiction novel, “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” is the way to go. The writing is hilarious and the story is full of absurdity and wit. Definitely worth a read!

“The Maze Runner” by James Dashner



“The Maze Runner” is a great pick for anyone who likes survival stories and science fiction. The plot is full of action and twists, and the characters are likable and well-developed. The world-building is also really interesting and unique.

“The Fifth Wave” by Rick Yancey



“The Fifth Wave” is a great pick for anyone who likes science fiction and post-apocalyptic stories. The plot is full of action and suspense, and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really interesting and unique.

“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins



“The Hunger Games” is a must-read for anyone who loves science fiction and dystopian stories. The plot is full of action and suspense, and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really impressive and unique.

“Ready Player One” by Ernest Cline



“Ready Player One” is a great pick for anyone who likes science fiction and nostalgiciac storytelling. The plot is full of action and twists, and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really interesting and unique.

“The 100” by Kass Morgan



“The 100” is a great pick for anyone who likes science fiction and post-apocalyptic stories. The plot is full of action and suspense, and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really interesting and unique.

“The Martian” by Andy Weir



“The Martian” is a great pick for anyone who likes science fiction and survival stories. The plot is full of action and suspense, and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really interesting and unique.

Fantasy tweens books

Fantasy books for tweens are the perfect way for young readers to escape into magical worlds and extraordinary adventures. These stories are filled with mythical creatures, enchanted forests, and brave heroes and heroines who set out to save the day.

When it comes to fantasy books for tweens, you can expect to find all sorts of fantastical elements, from talking animals and enchanted objects to powerful wizards and enchanted lands. These stories are designed to ignite the imagination and transport readers to far-off realms where anything is possible.

Get ready to embark on a journey through a magical world, then grab a fantasy book for tweens and let your imagination take flight!


“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling



If you haven’t already read this series, what are you waiting for?! “Harry Potter” is an absolute classic and a must-read for any fantasy fan. The world-building is incredible and the characters are lovable and memorable.

“The Giver” by Lois Lowry



“The Giver” is a thought-provoking and unique take on the dystopian genre. The writing is beautiful and the story is haunting and memorable. Definitely give this one a read!

“The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis



“The Chronicles of Narnia” is a classic fantasy series with beautiful writing and a rich, immersive world. The characters are lovable and the adventures are epic. Definitely worth checking out!

“Eragon” by Christopher Paolini



If you’re into dragons and epic fantasy adventures, you’ll love “Eragon”! The world-building is impressive and the plot is full of twists and turns. The characters are also really likable and well-developed.

“The Golden Compass” by Philip Pullman



“The Golden Compass” is a great pick for anyone who likes fantasy and adventure. The plot is full of twists and turns and the world-building is top-notch. The characters are also really likable and well-developed.

“The Wings of Fire” by Tui T. Sutherland



If you’re into dragons and epic quests, you’ll love “The Wings of Fire”! The world-building is really impressive and the plot is full of action and twists. The characters are also lovable and well-developed. Definitely give this series a read!

“The Inheritance Cycle” by Christopher Paolini



The “Inheritance Cycle” is a must-read for anyone who loves dragons and epic fantasy. The world-building is incredible and the characters are well-developed and likable. The plot is also full of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

“The Mortal Instruments” by Cassandra Clare



If you’re into angels, demons, and epic love stories, you’ll love “The Mortal Instruments”! The plot is full of action and twists, and the characters are lovable and well-developed. The world-building is also really impressive.

“The Dark Is Rising” by Susan Cooper



“The Dark Is Rising” is a great pick for anyone who loves magic and epic quests. The writing is beautiful and the story is immersive and full of mystery. The characters are also really likable and well-developed.

“The Land of Stories” by Chris Colfer



If you’re looking for a fun and lighthearted fantasy series, “The Land of Stories” is the way to go. It’s full of whimsy and adventure, and the characters are lovable and memorable. The writing is also really enjoyable and easy to read.

Mystery tweens books

Are you a tween who loves a good mystery? Then you’re in luck, because this section is full of thrilling mysteries just for you!

When it comes to mystery books for tweens, you can expect to find all sorts of puzzles and clues to solve, along with characters who are determined to get to the bottom of things. These stories are designed to keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat as you try to figure out whodunit. You might encounter sleuths, detectives, and amateur investigators who are all trying to solve the case.

If you’re ready to put on your thinking cap and solve a good mystery, then grab a mystery genre tweens book and get ready to crack the case!


The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart



If you’re a fan of mysteries and clever puzzles, you’ll definitely enjoy this book. The characters are lovable and the plot is full of twists and turns. A great pick for anyone looking for a fun and exciting read.

A to Z Mysteries: The Absent Author by Ron Roy



This is the perfect book for young mystery fans. The story is full of clues and red herrings, and the characters are likable and well-developed. I highly recommend giving it a try!

The Secret Keepers by Trenton Lee Stewart



This book is a must-read for any fan of mysteries and adventure. The plot is full of twists and turns and the characters are lovable and well-developed. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thrilling and exciting read.

The Name of this Book is Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch



This book is perfect for fans of quirky and unconventional mysteries. The plot is full of twists and turns and the writing is clever and humorous. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and entertaining read.

The Fourth Stall by Chris Rylander



If you enjoy mysteries with a bit of humor and a lot of heart, this book is for you! The characters are lovable and the plot is full of twists and turns. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and exciting read.

The Mysterious Howling by Maryrose Wood



This book is perfect for fans of Victorian-era mysteries. The plot is full of twists and turns and the characters are lovable and well-developed. The writing is beautiful and the story is enchanting. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a delightfully atmospheric read.

The Secret of Shadow Ranch by Carolyn Keene



This book is perfect for fans of western-themed mysteries. The plot is full of clues and red herrings, and the characters are likable and well-developed. The writing is engaging and the story is thrilling. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and exciting read.

Contemporary fiction tweens books

Hey! If you’re into contemporary fiction, you can expect to read about realistic characters, situations, and settings that are often set in the present day. The genre covers a wide range of themes, like relationships, identity, social issues, and personal growth. Tween contemporary fiction is perfect for readers around 8-12 years old and can be super fun or tackle deeper and more serious stuff. The characters are usually super relatable and the storylines are usually things that kids can connect with and learn from. So if you’re looking for an engaging and thought-provoking read that helps you navigate the complexities of the modern world, give contemporary fiction for tweens a try!


The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good coming-of-age story. It follows Gilly, a feisty and independent young girl, as she navigates the foster care system and tries to find her place in the world. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of heart and determination. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study.

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt



This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good feel-good story about friendship and acceptance. It follows Ally, a young girl with dyslexia, as she navigates school and learns to embrace her strengths. The writing is engaging and the story is full of heart and inspiration. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study.

The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley



This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good historical fiction story with a heartwarming twist. It follows Ada, a young girl with a club foot, as she is evacuated from London during World War II and learns to embrace her strengths and find her place in the world. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of heart and inspiration. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study with a touch of history.

Front Desk by Kelly Yang



This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good underdog story! It follows Mia, a young girl who works at her family’s hotel and dreams of becoming a writer. The writing is engaging and the story is full of heart and determination. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys contemporary fiction with a touch of humor.

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate



If you’re a fan of animal stories, you’ll love this book! It’s about a gorilla named Ivan who lives in a shopping mall and becomes friends with a baby elephant. The writing is beautiful and the story is heartwarming and inspiring. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a touching and thought-provoking read.

The Puzzling World of Winston Breen by Eric Berlin



This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery! It follows Winston, a young puzzle enthusiast, as he tries to solve a series of clues to find a hidden treasure. The writing is engaging and the mystery is clever and full of twists and turns. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good puzzle or brain teaser.

Historical fiction tweens books

Are you a tween who loves history and fiction? Then historical fiction books for tweens are the perfect choice for you!

In this genre, you can expect to find stories set in the past that are based on real historical events and people. These books are a great way to learn about the past while also enjoying a good story. You might encounter characters who are living through significant moments in history, such as wars, revolutions, or other major events, and get to see how these events impacted their lives.

So if you’re ready to travel back in time and explore the past through the lens of fiction, then grab a historical fiction book for tweens and get ready for an adventure!


The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis



This is a heartwarming and thought-provoking historical fiction novel that tells the story of a family’s journey during the Civil Rights Movement. The characters are lovable and well-developed, and the writing is engaging and emotional. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a poignant and enjoyable read.

The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi



This is a thrilling and atmospheric historical fiction novel that tells the story of a young girl’s journey on a perilous voyage. The writing is engaging and the story is full of twists and turns. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and exciting read.

The Midwife’s Apprentice by Karen Cushman



This is a beautifully written historical fiction novel that tells the story of a young girl’s journey to becoming a midwife. The characters are lovable and well-developed, and the writing is beautiful and atmospheric. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a moving and enjoyable read.

The Witch of Willow Hall by Hester Fox



This is a beautifully written historical fiction novel that tells the story of a young woman’s journey to uncover the truth about her family

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald



This is a classic historical fiction novel that tells the story of Jay Gatsby and his tumultuous relationships in the roaring 20s. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of drama and emotion. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a timeless and thought-provoking read.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak



This is a beautifully written historical fiction novel that tells the story of a young girl’s journey in Nazi Germany. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of drama and emotion. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a poignant and thought-provoking read.

Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse



This is a beautifully written historical fiction novel that tells the story of a young girl’s journey through the dust bowl. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of drama and emotion. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a poignant and thought-provoking read.

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith



This is a classic historical fiction novel that tells the story of a young girl’s journey through the slums of Brooklyn. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of drama and emotion. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a timeless and thought-provoking read.

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck



This is a classic historical fiction novel that tells the story of a family’s journey during the Great Depression. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of drama and emotion. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a timeless and thought-provoking read.


Humor tweens books

Welcome to the world of humorous books for tweens! If you’re a middle-grade reader looking for a good laugh, then you’ve come to the right place. In this section, you’ll find all sorts of funny stories, jokes, and characters that are sure to make you grin from ear to ear.

But what exactly can you expect from humorous tweens books? Well, for starters, you can expect to find relatable characters who are just like you – trying to navigate the ups and downs of being a teenager and discovering who they are. You can also expect to find lots of laughs and giggles, as these books are designed to be light-hearted and entertaining. Plus, you might just learn a thing or two along the way!

So if you’re ready to dive into the world of humorous tween books, then get ready to buckle up and enjoy the ride. These stories are sure to keep you smiling and laughing long after you’ve put them down.


“The War of the Worlds” by H.G. Wells



“The War of the Worlds” is a classic science fiction novel that is still as thrilling and relevant today as it was when it was first published. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of action and suspense. Definitely give this one a read!

“Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card



“Ender’s Game” is a great pick for anyone who likes science fiction and strategic thinking. The plot is full of twists and turns and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really impressive.

“The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams



If you’re looking for a fun and humorous science fiction novel, “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” is the way to go. The writing is hilarious and the story is full of absurdity and wit. Definitely worth a read!

“The Maze Runner” by James Dashner



“The Maze Runner” is a great pick for anyone who likes survival stories and science fiction. The plot is full of action and twists, and the characters are likable and well-developed. The world-building is also really interesting and unique.

“The Fifth Wave” by Rick Yancey



“The Fifth Wave” is a great pick for anyone who likes science fiction and post-apocalyptic stories. The plot is full of action and suspense, and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really interesting and unique.

“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins



“The Hunger Games” is a must-read for anyone who loves science fiction and dystopian stories. The plot is full of action and suspense, and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really impressive and unique.

“Ready Player One” by Ernest Cline



“Ready Player One” is a great pick for anyone who likes science fiction and nostalgiciac storytelling. The plot is full of action and twists, and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really interesting and unique.

“The 100” by Kass Morgan



“The 100” is a great pick for anyone who likes science fiction and post-apocalyptic stories. The plot is full of action and suspense, and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really interesting and unique.

“The Martian” by Andy Weir



“The Martian” is a great pick for anyone who likes science fiction and survival stories. The plot is full of action and suspense, and the characters are well-developed and likable. The world-building is also really interesting and unique.

Classic fiction for tweens

Classic tweens books is totally great because it’s a window into the past. It’s super interesting to see how people lived and thought back in the day, and it can be really cool to see how their stories are still relevant today. Plus, the writing in classic fiction is often beautiful and lyrical, and the stories are usually timeless and well-crafted. And even though the characters and settings might be different from what we know now, they’re usually still relatable and lovable. So if you’re into exploring the past and reading some seriously well-written stories, classic fiction is definitely for you!


The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure story with a touch of the wild. It follows Mowgli, a young boy who is raised by wolves in the jungle and learns the ways of the animals. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of adventure and friendship. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study with a touch of nature.

The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure story with a touch of whimsy. It follows the lives of a group of animal friends who have all sorts of adventures in the English countryside. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of friendship and fun. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study with a touch of adventure.

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good coming-of-age story. It follows the lives of the four March sisters as they navigate love, loss, and growing up during the Civil War. The writing is beautiful and the characters are relatable and lovable. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study.

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery and a touch of magic. It follows Mary, a young girl who is sent to live with her reclusive uncle in a gloomy manor, where she discovers a hidden garden and learns the power of friendship and healing. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of heart and inspiration. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study with a touch of mystery.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure and a touch of whimsy. It follows Alice, a young girl who falls down a rabbit hole and finds herself in a fantastical world filled with talking animals and strange creatures. The writing is playful and the story is full of imagination and wonder. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good adventure with a touch of magic.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure story. It follows Tom, a young boy who gets into all sorts of mischief and adventures with his friends. The writing is engaging and the story is full of humor and fun. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study with a touch of adventure.

The Call of the Wild by Jack London



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure story with a touch of the wild. It follows Buck, a domesticated dog who is thrown into the harsh world of the Alaskan gold rush and learns to survive and thrive in the wilderness. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of adventure and survival. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study with a touch of nature.

Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure story with a touch of mystery. It follows Jim, a young boy who goes on a treasure hunt with a group of pirates and learns about loyalty, friendship, and bravery. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of adventure and suspense. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study with a touch of mystery.

The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good coming-of-age story with a touch of history. It follows Henry, a young soldier in the Civil War, as he learns about courage, sacrifice, and the horrors of war. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of heart and inspiration. I’d highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good character study with a touch of history.

The Time Machine by H.G. Wells



This book is a classic and a must-read for anyone who loves a good science fiction adventure. It follows the Time Traveler, a scientist who invents a machine that allows him to travel through time and visit the future. The writing is beautiful and the story is full of imagination and wonder. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good adventure with a touch of science fiction.

Graphic novels tweens books

Graphic novels for tweens are a great way for young readers to dive into exciting stories and immersive worlds. These books combine text and illustrations to tell a story in a unique and engaging way.

When it comes to graphic novels for tweens, you can expect to find all sorts of genres, from action and adventure to mystery and romance. These stories are often fast-paced and filled with dynamic characters and exciting plot twists. The illustrations can add another layer of depth and emotion to the story, making the reading experience even more immersive.

Whether you’re a fan of superheroes, dragons, or everyday kids with extraordinary abilities, there’s a graphic novel for tweens out there for you. These books are a great way to get lost in a good story, and they’re perfect for readers who love both words and pictures.


Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan



If you’re into Greek mythology and action-packed adventures, you’ll love this one! The art is also really cool and unique. Definitely recommend giving it a read.

Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi



This series is great for anyone who likes fantasy and adventure. The plot is really intriguing and the illustrations are stunning. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!

Dog Man by Dav Pilkey



If you’re a fan of ridiculous humor, you’ll love “Dog Man”! It’s definitely silly, but also has a lot of heart. The art style is also really fun and dynamic.

The Baby-Sitters Club by Raina Telgemeier



This is a great series for anyone who loves friendship and coming-of-age stories. It’s sweet and heartwarming, with relatable characters and beautiful illustrations.

The Witch Boy by Molly Knox Ostertag



“The Witch Boy” is a great pick for anyone interested in magic and gender roles. The story is unique and thought-provoking, with beautiful artwork to match.

Nimona by Noelle Stevenson



If you’re looking for a quirky and humorous graphic novel, “Nimona” is the way to go. The characters are lovable and the plot is full of twists and turns. The art is also really cute and expressive.

Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke



“Zita the Spacegirl” is a fantastic adventure story with a strong and likable protagonist. The illustrations are also really beautiful and detailed. I highly recommend this one!

Smile by Raina Telgemeier



“Smile” is a great coming-of-age story that deals with some heavy themes, but is ultimately uplifting and hopeful. The art is also really expressive and adds a lot to the story. Definitely worth a read!

The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl by Ryan North



“The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl” is a super fun and entertaining superhero story with a unique and lovable protagonist. The art is also really cute and adds to the overall lighthearted tone of the series.

Ms. Marvel by G. Willow Wilson



“Ms. Marvel” is a fantastic superhero series with a diverse and relatable main character. The story is full of action and heart, and the art is incredible

Poetry for Tweens and Middle Grade

Poetry books for tweens are a great way for young readers to explore the world of words and discover the beauty and power of poetry. These books are filled with verses and stanzas that are designed to be read aloud, and are often full of emotion, imagery, and rhythm.

When it comes to poetry books for tweens, you can expect to find all sorts of styles and themes. You might encounter rhyming poems, free-verse poems, sonnets, and more, and get to explore a wide range of subjects and emotions. You might find poems about nature, friendship, family, love, and more, and get to see the world through the eyes of the poets.

But poetry books for tweens aren’t just about the words on the page. These books can also be interactive and engaging, with illustrations, photos, and other visual aids that help bring the poems to life. You might find books that include activities or prompts to help you write your own poems, or that encourage you to read the poems aloud and explore the rhythm and melody of the language.

So if you’re ready to dive into the world of poetry and discover the magic of words, then grab a poetry book for tweens and get ready to explore!


Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein



This is a classic poetry collection that will appeal to tweens and adults alike. The poems are funny, poignant, and full of heart. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a joyful and thought-provoking read.

Falling Up by Shel Silverstein



This is another great poetry collection from Shel Silverstein. The poems are playful, imaginative, and full of whimsy. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and lighthearted read.

Love That Dog by Sharon Creech



This is a beautiful and poignant poetry collection that tells the story of a boy learning to love poetry. The poems are heartfelt and full of emotion. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a moving and uplifting read.

A Light in the Attic by Shel Silverstein



This is another great poetry collection from Shel Silverstein. The poems are funny, playful, and full of whim

The Butterfly Jar by Jeff Moss



This is a delightful poetry collection that celebrates the beauty and wonder of nature. The poems are playful and full of whimsy, and the illustrations are beautiful. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and uplifting read.

Nonfiction Tweens books

Non-fiction books for tweens are a great way for young readers to learn about the world around them and explore their interests in a fun and engaging way. When it comes to non-fiction books for tweens, you can expect to find all sorts of subjects, from science and history to sports and animals. These books are a great way to learn about the world and discover new things. You might find books that teach you about the human body, the solar system, or famous inventors and explorers, and get to learn about the amazing things that make our world what it is.

But non-fiction tweens books faren’t just about the facts. These books can also be engaging and entertaining, with illustrations, photos, and other visual aids that make learning fun. You might find books that use interactive elements, such as quizzes, puzzles, or hands-on projects, to help you engage with the material and make the learning experience more interactive.


The Diary of Anne Frank by Anne Frank



This book is so powerful and moving – I highly recommend it for anyone interested in history and the Holocaust. The fact that it’s written by a young girl just makes it even more impactful.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey



This book is all about helping you become the best version of yourself and reach your goals. It’s super helpful and practical, and I think every teenager should read it.

The Greatest Show on Earth: The Evidence for Evolution by Richard Dawkins



If you’re interested in science and want to learn more about evolution, this is the book for you! It’s written by a famous scientist and is really well-explained. I think it’s a must-read for anyone curious about how we got here.

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein



This book is told from the perspective of a dog, and it’s so heartwarming and emotional. I absolutely loved it and think it’s a great read for anyone who loves animals.

The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown



This book is about a group of college students who compete in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, and it’s so inspiring! I loved reading about their journey and how they persevered through all sorts of challenges. Definitely recommend it to anyone.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot



This book is all about a woman whose cells were taken without her knowledge and used for scientific research – it’s really interesting and eye-opening. I think it’s important for everyone to read this book and think about the ethical issues it raises.

The Soul of an Octopus by Sy Montgomery



This book is all about octopuses and the amazing things they can do. It’s really interesting and I loved learning more about these creatures. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who loves animals or science.

The Botany of Desire by Michael Pollan



This book is all about how plants have influenced humans throughout history. It’s really interesting and I loved learning about the different ways that plants have shaped our world. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who loves science or history.

The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks



This book is all about strange and unusual medical cases, and it’s so fascinating! I loved reading about all the different conditions and how they affected the people who had them. Definitely recommend it to anyone interested in medicine or psychology.

The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe



This book is all about the first astronauts and their journey to space. It’s so inspiring and I loved reading about their bravery and determination. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone interested in space or science.

How to find more of the best tweens books

Finding great books for tweens is definitely worth the effort. Tweens are at a really interesting age where they’re starting to deal with more complex issues and emotions, and reading can help them understand and cope with these changes.

If you’re not sure where to start with tweens books, here are a few tips for finding more tweens books:

  1. Ask your local librarian or bookseller for recommendations. These professionals are experts at matching readers with the right books, and they can help you find something that your child will love.
  2. Check out online bookstores or websites that specialize in books for kids. These sites often have a wide range of genres and age ranges to choose from, and they may have customer reviews or recommendations to help guide your choices.
  3. Follow your child’s interests. If your child loves animals, for example, try finding books about animals or nature. This can help make reading more engaging and enjoyable for them.
  4. Experiment with different formats. Tweens books can come in all sorts of formats, including traditional novels, graphic novels, and audiobooks. If your child is a reluctant reader, try a different format to see if it works better for them.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to find tweens books that your child will enjoy and that will help them grow and learn. So don’t be afraid to try out a few different options and see what works best for your child.

Other great websites to discover more about books for tweens and middle grade

Here are some other website that are perfect for hunting down more kids books.

The Children’s Book Review: Check this out for feature reviews of children’s books and resources for parents, teachers, and librarians. Goodreads: Discover, share, and rate books. Scholastic: Educational resources, including books and book lists, for teachers and students. Common Sense Media: A website that provides reviews and ratings of media, including books, for parents and educators. Brightly: Reading recommendations and resources for children, parents, and educators.

Let me know any awesome Tween books or Genres that I’ve missed in the comments below so I can include in future post. Happy reading!

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