As girls hit their tween years they start to experience many physical, emotional, and mental changes. It’s an exciting time for them, and an exciting time in their reading life too. And there are some great books for tween girls.
As you may have guessed my eldest daughter is a voracious reader. I am convinced she reads in her sleep! As a fellow book lover, we do tend to buy new books, but we also borrow form the library as we can’t afford the demand. This list, which is by no means exhaustive, includes 10 great reads for tween girls (9-12 approx.)
From timeless classics to marvellous mysteries and trips back in time, these books deserve a spot on everyone’s bookshelf. Below is a list of recommended reading for girls aged 9 and older. I have included a variety of genres so there is something for every girl here. Here are 10 great books for tween girls.
10 great books for tween girls
1. Anne of Green Gables
I absolutely adored the Anne of Green Gables series when I was younger, so was excited to give this to my daughter when she turned 11. She devoured it in one day and then re-read it the next! I am so glad my she loved it as much as I did. It’s a gorgeous story of possibility and imagination that stands the test of time. Anne’s zest for life is as inspiring today as it was when the book was first published.
2. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
I had to include another classic as after Anne of Green Gables, my daughter went on a classics binge. We also recently watched Little Women (girl’s night in with popcorn and ice-cream) and all my girls loved it, though some of it was hard to follow for my 8-year-old. Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women is the adored story of the March sisters’ journey from childhood into adulthood. But most of all, Little Women is a tribute to the beautiful and everlasting power of sisterhood.
3. The Lightning Thief
Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series : Book 1
This is the first novel of a series that mixes classic Greek mythology with modern adventure. After learning he is a demigod, Percy Jackson is sent to a summer camp on Long Island, where he meets the father he never knew – Poseidon, god of the sea. My daughter was engrossed in this book and quickly went on to read all books in the series. If your kids are Harry Potter fans, they will love The Lightning Thief.
4. The Wishing Spell
The Land of Stories : Book 1
This fast-paced adventure series uniquely combines our modern day world with the enchanting realm of classic fairytales from author Chris Colfer, star of television’s Glee. The Wishing Spell is an engaging story without any inappropriate content, perfect for ages 9-12. There are six books in the series.
5. The Stupendously Spectacular Spelling Bee
India Wimple can spell. Brilliantly. Every Friday night, she and her family watch the Stupendously Spectacular Spelling Bee on TV. When the Wimples suggest she enter the next Bee, India feels nothing but trepidation. But with the support of her family, India finds the courage to sign up. My 10-year-old adored this story. She’s not as avid a reader as her older sister, but she devoured and loved this book. The Stupendously Spectacular Spelling Bee is a heartwarming story about a girl who’s afraid to follow her dreams, and the family who help make them happen.
6. The Moonlight Dreamers
The Moonlight Dreamers is an unforgettable story of friendship, self-belief and love. Amber, Maali, Sky and Rose are not like everyone else and they don’t want to be. Becoming friends gives them the courage to be themselves. It is an inspirational story about friendship, dreams and being true to yourself. The Moonlight Dreamers is a heart-warming book about four girls trying to find their place in the world. I gave this to my 11-year old who is mature, so I would suggest this one is suitable for 11+.
7. Maddie in the Middle
Maddie Lee is in year six. Her best and oldest friend Katy is busy with school duties and music and scholarship plans, and Maddie feels lost and lonely. Then a new girl starts at school. Maddie wants more than anything to become friends with her. And she does. But Samara’s friendship comes at a high price, with consequences Maddie could never have imagined. Maddie in the Middle is a must read for middle school people, the dilemma of trying to please new friends, keeping confidences and trust.
8. Everything I’ve Never Said
Everything I’ve Never Said is a moving and insightful novel which is both realistic about the challenges faced by families where disability and ability co-exist, and is full of warmth, humour and kindness. This book is told through the eyes of the main character Ava, who has Rett Syndrome and can’t talk. Everything I’ve Never Said is a bold book with a powerful voice that will connect with readers from 9+ and many adults.
9. How to Bee
How to Bee is a story about family, loyalty, kindness and bravery, set against an all-too-possible future where climate change has forever changed the way we live. How To Bee is a beautiful and fierce novel for younger readers, and the voice of Peony will stay with you long after you read the last page. This was a great story, which showed how two young girls, from very different backgrounds become friends and their lives are improved. Both my 10 and 11-year-olds loved this book.
10. The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone
From the award-winning Jaclyn Moriarty comes a fantastic tale of high intrigue, grand adventure and an abundance of aunts. This is a magical book that is superbly written and so original. My 11-year-old daughter loved this book. You could happily read this book out to a 6 year old. This truly is a children’s classic that all kids will want to have on their book shelf. This is giving the gift of magic. The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone is a must have – a must read.
What other books would you add to this list? Does your daughter like to read a variety of genres?
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