20 Books Every Kid Should Read Before Turning 13

Your child will get through every awkward moment, tough situation, and happy triumph of the preteen years with these relatable stories.

Jan 03, 2023

Ages

8-13

20 Books Every Kid Should Read Before Turning 13

Jan 03, 2023

Whether your child is just entering the preteen years or about to leave them, some titles are designed to leave a long-lasting impact. These books offer a lifeline through "awkward years" your child may encounter in upper elementary and middle school with relatable characters, or they challenge norms and reveal new perspectives your young reader may have never considered before. 

Many of the protagonists in these adventures face loneliness, discouragement, peer pressure, and a yearning for more as they navigate school life, family secrets, and serious hard knocks. Kids will come away from these books full of hope that they, too, will persevere — and even thrive — through all that life brings them.

These books also reignite the love of reading that too often fades as children move toward their teen years, ensuring that your child continues to be an avid reader for years to come. 

Shop these books below now! You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store

(Explore more children's books by age, including books for 10-year-olds. Plus, take a look at popular series books that kids love, such as Dork Diaries and Animorphs. For more expert-approved reads, be sure to check out Edgy Books Your Pre-Teen Will Love and 25 Timeless Chapter Books for Kids.)

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