best books for 12 year olds
Books have always been a source of knowledge, imagination and entertainment for people of all ages. For 12 year olds, books serve as a gateway to explore new worlds, understand different perspectives and learn valuable life lessons. However, with the vast number of books available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right ones for a 12 year old. To help you with this dilemma, we have compiled a list of the best books for 12 year olds.
1. “Harry Potter ” series by J.K. Rowling
The “Harry Potter” series is a must-read for all 12 year olds. This captivating fantasy series follows the journey of a young wizard, Harry Potter, as he discovers his true identity and battles against the dark wizard, Lord Voldemort. The series not only takes you on a magical adventure but also teaches valuable lessons about friendship, courage and standing up for what is right.
2. “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series by Rick Riordan
With a mix of Greek mythology and modern-day elements, the “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series is a perfect choice for 12 year olds who love action and adventure. The series follows the story of Percy Jackson, a demigod who embarks on a quest to save the world from a war between the Greek gods. Along the way, Percy learns about his true identity and develops his powers, making this series an exciting and empowering read.
3. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio
“Wonder” is a heart-warming story about a young boy, August Pullman, who has a facial deformity. The book follows August as he starts attending a mainstream school for the first time and faces challenges in making new friends and being accepted for who he is. This book teaches important lessons about empathy, kindness and acceptance, making it a must-read for 12 year olds.
4. “The Hunger Games” trilogy by Suzanne Collins
“The Hunger Games” trilogy is a gripping dystopian series that will have 12 year olds on the edge of their seats. The books follow the story of Katniss Everdeen, a young girl who is forced to participate in a brutal game where children fight to the death as a form of entertainment for the ruling government. This series explores themes of survival, sacrifice and rebellion, making it a thought-provoking read for 12 year olds.
5. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry
“The Giver” is a thought-provoking dystopian novel that challenges the concept of a perfect world. The book follows 12 year old Jonas, who lives in a seemingly perfect society where there is no pain, suffering or emotions. However, as Jonas learns more about the true nature of his community, he begins to question everything he has been taught. This book raises important questions about individuality, freedom and the cost of a seemingly perfect society.
6. “The Maze Runner” trilogy by James Dashner
“The Maze Runner” trilogy is a fast-paced and thrilling series that will keep 12 year olds hooked from start to finish. The books follow the story of Thomas, a teenage boy who wakes up in a mysterious place called the Glade with no memory of his past. As he tries to escape the Glade and the deadly maze that surrounds it, Thomas uncovers secrets about the world outside and the true purpose of the Glade. This series explores themes of friendship, survival and the consequences of human experimentation.
7. “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle
“A Wrinkle in Time” is a classic science fiction novel that will take 12 year olds on an adventure through time and space. The book follows the story of Meg Murry, a young girl who sets out on a journey to find her missing father with the help of her brother and a friend. Along the way, they encounter strange creatures and face challenges in their quest to save Meg’s father and the rest of the universe. This book is a perfect blend of fantasy, science and adventure, making it a must-read for 12 year olds.
8. “The Chronicles of Narnia” series by C.S. Lewis
“The Chronicles of Narnia” is a timeless series that has been entertaining and inspiring readers for decades. The books follow the adventures of four siblings who stumble upon a magical world called Narnia, filled with talking animals, mythical creatures and a battle between good and evil. This series not only takes readers on a thrilling journey but also teaches important lessons about bravery, loyalty and faith.
9. “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien
“The Hobbit” is a classic fantasy novel that will transport 12 year olds to a world of dragons, dwarves and adventure. The book follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who sets out on a quest to reclaim a treasure stolen by a dragon. Along the way, Bilbo encounters challenges, makes new friends and discovers his own bravery and strength. This book is a timeless classic that will ignite the imagination of 12 year olds.
10. “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett
“The Secret Garden” is a heart-warming and magical story about the power of nature and the human spirit. The book follows the story of Mary Lennox, a spoiled and neglected girl who discovers a secret garden on her uncle’s estate. As she tends to the garden and befriends a boy named Colin, Mary begins to heal from her past and learns the importance of love, friendship and self-discovery. This book is a beautiful and uplifting read for 12 year olds.
In conclusion, these are some of the best books for 12 year olds that offer a perfect blend of entertainment, imagination and valuable life lessons. Whether your child is a fan of fantasy, dystopian, or realistic fiction, there is a book on this list that will capture their interest and leave a lasting impact. So, grab a book from this list and let your child embark on a reading journey that will expand their minds and inspire their hearts.
what to do with out of control teenager
As a parent or guardian, one of the biggest challenges you may face is dealing with an out of control teenager. It can be a stressful and overwhelming situation, and you may feel like you are losing control. However, it is important to remember that this is a common issue and there are ways to handle the situation effectively.
In this article, we will explore the reasons why teenagers may exhibit out of control behavior, the signs to look out for, and most importantly, what you can do to help your teenager get back on track. We understand that every teenager is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Therefore, we will provide a range of strategies that can be tailored to your specific situation.
Possible Reasons for Out of Control Behavior in Teenagers
Before we dive into the solutions, it is crucial to understand the underlying reasons that may lead to out of control behavior in teenagers. Often, it is a combination of factors that contribute to their behavior, and it is important to address these issues to bring about a positive change.
1. Hormonal changes: During their teenage years, adolescents go through a rollercoaster of hormonal changes which can affect their mood and behavior. This is a normal and natural process, and it can cause teenagers to feel overwhelmed, irritable, and even experience mood swings.
2. Peer pressure: Teenagers are highly influenced by their peers, and they may engage in risky or rebellious behavior to fit in with their friends. This can range from experimenting with drugs and alcohol to engaging in dangerous activities.
3. Lack of communication: Communication is crucial in any relationship, especially between parents and teenagers. If there is a breakdown in communication, it can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and resentment. This can often result in teenagers acting out to express their feelings.
4. Stress and anxiety: The teenage years can be a challenging time for many as they navigate through academic pressure, social expectations, and the looming uncertainty of the future. This can lead to stress and anxiety, which may manifest in out of control behavior.
5. Mental health issues: Adolescence is a time when mental health issues may arise or become more prominent. This includes depression, anxiety, and even bipolar disorder. If left untreated, these conditions can affect a teenager’s behavior and well-being.
Signs of an Out of Control Teenager
It is important to be aware of the warning signs that may indicate your teenager is struggling and engaging in out of control behavior. These signs may include:
1. Frequent arguments and conflicts with family members, especially parents or guardians.
2. Unexplained anger and aggression, including physical violence towards others or property.
3. Skipping school or declining grades.
4. Changes in eating and sleeping patterns.
5. Engaging in risky activities such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or promiscuous behavior.
6. Withdrawal from family and friends.
7. Sudden changes in mood or personality.
8. Self-harming behaviors.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to address them immediately. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse, and it is crucial to intervene before the behavior escalates.
Strategies for Dealing with an Out of Control Teenager
Now that we understand the potential causes and signs of out of control behavior in teenagers, let us explore some effective strategies that you can use to handle the situation.
1. Remain calm and patient: It is natural to feel frustrated and angry when dealing with an out of control teenager. However, it is important to remain calm and patient. Yelling, threatening, or punishing your teenager will only escalate the situation and make it harder to communicate effectively.
2. Communicate openly and listen: As mentioned earlier, communication is key in any relationship. It is important to create a safe and non-judgmental space for your teenager to express their feelings. Listen to them without interrupting and try to understand their perspective.
3. Set boundaries and consequences: Boundaries are important for teenagers as they help them understand their limits and responsibilities. It is crucial to set clear and reasonable rules, and make your teenager aware of the consequences if they break them. Be consistent in enforcing these consequences.
4. Spend quality time together: Many teenagers may act out as a way to seek attention or affection. It is important to spend quality time with your teenager, whether it is going for a walk, watching a movie, or engaging in a shared hobby. This will help strengthen your relationship and build trust.
5. Address underlying issues: If your teenager is struggling with stress, anxiety, or other mental health issues, it is important to address these underlying issues. Seek professional help if needed, and provide a supportive and understanding environment for your teenager to cope with their challenges.
6. Encourage healthy habits: A healthy lifestyle can have a positive impact on a teenager’s behavior and well-being. Encourage your teenager to eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. This can help them manage their emotions and reduce stress.
7. Seek support: Dealing with an out of control teenager can be overwhelming, and it is important to seek support for yourself as well. This can be from a therapist, support group, or even close friends and family who can offer guidance and understanding.
8. Lead by example: As a parent or guardian, you are a role model for your teenager. It is important to lead by example and demonstrate positive behaviors and coping mechanisms. This will have a positive influence on your teenager and help them learn healthy ways to manage their emotions.
9. Be patient and consistent: Changing behavior takes time, and it is important to be patient and consistent with your approach. It may not be easy, but with persistence and consistency, you can help your teenager get back on track.
10. Celebrate progress: It is important to celebrate even the smallest progress your teenager makes. This will boost their self-esteem and motivate them to continue on a positive path.
In Conclusion
Dealing with an out of control teenager is not an easy task, and it requires patience, understanding, and effective communication. Remember to address the underlying issues, set boundaries, and provide support for your teenager. Seek professional help if needed, and don’t forget to take care of yourself as well. With the right approach and support, you can help your teenager navigate through this challenging phase and become a responsible and well-adjusted adult.