Holiday Book Gifts for Tweens
Ages 9 – 12
by Rosemary D'Urso
Once my kids had grown out of the toy phase, finding the perfect gift for tweens felt nearly impossible until I discovered the magic of middle-grade books. From unforgettable characters and exciting adventures to striking illustrations and creative formats, these new releases are perfect for engaging and entertaining. With everything from captivating chapter books and gripping graphic novels to notable nonfiction and addicting activity books, there’s truly something here for every reader.
Jump To: New & Noteworthy | Must-Read Sequels | Activity Books | Must-Read Graphic Novels | Nonfiction | Boxed Sets
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New & Noteworthy:
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The Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls
Buy from:Calling all bold and brilliant young adventurers! The Midwatch Institute for Wayward Girls may look like a dreary school, but behind its doors lies a world of survival training, mystery-solving, and secret sleuthing. When Maggie Fishbone arrives, she’s astonished to discover lessons in everything from cracking codes to taking down bad guys. Readers will delight in learning alongside Maggie as she teams up with her classmates to save their city from a cunning villain.
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Ms. Pennypickle’s Puzzle Quest
Buy from:Twelve-year-old Benjamin and his older brother, Ethan, don’t always see eye to eye. Still, when they discover a cross-country race with a million-dollar prize, the duo joins forces to compete against five other families. Packed with comical hijinks and clever puzzles for readers to solve alongside the brothers, this fast-paced adventure is full of fun and excitement.
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Tyger
Buy from:Set in an alternate history where the British Empire still rules with prejudice, a young Muslim boy named Adam discovers a mysterious, magical tiger. With the help of his friend Zadie, he embarks on a daring quest to guide Tyger toward a gateway that could open the door to a better world. Equal parts thrilling and thought-provoking, this mesmerizing tale comes to life through striking black-and-white illustrations.
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A Hero’s Guide to Summer Vacation
Buy from:This book is so much more than a mere tale of a boy travelling on a cross-country road trip with his grandfather. It’s a heartfelt and engaging journey of self-discovery, family, and grief told with humor and heart. When Gonzalo joins his estranged grandfather, a celebrated author, on a book tour, he pieces together his family’s history and discovers what it means to become the hero of his own story.
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The Library of Unruly Treasures
Buy from:Beloved Penderwicks author Jeanne Birdsall returns with another unforgettable story full of heart and wonder. Gwen MacKinnon has spent much of her life feeling unwanted by her divorced parents, but everything changes when she goes to stay with her great-uncle Matthew. There, she discovers she is destined to protect a magical group of creatures called the Lahdukan and must find the courage to face her fears and embrace her true potential.
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The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze
Buy from:This powerful, emotionally charged novel offers a thought-provoking look at American sports culture. Henson Blayze, a beloved thirteen-year-old football phenom, finds his Mississippi hometown turning against him when he reveals he may no longer play. Faced with rejection and pressure, Henson questions his path forward and what it means to be seen for who he really is.
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Gift Guides, Holiday Stories, & More!
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Must-Read Sequels:
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The Poisoned King
Buy from:Impossible Creatures is one of the best middle-grade fantasies I’ve ever read, and the sequel is every bit as enchanting. Christopher is once again pulled into the magical world of Archipelago, where he joins a brave princess to uncover the mystery of a deadly poison spreading across the land and killing dragons. Filled with mythical beasts, unlikely friendships, and heartfelt adventure, this series is truly something special.
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The Forbidden Room
Buy from:Overflowing with mystery, magic, and mayhem, this sequel to The Last Hope School for Magical Delinquents is spellbinding. After a rocky first year, Vin has finally settled into her unusual boarding school and is learning to harness her newfound powers. But when dark forces resurface, she and her band of misfit friends must once again rise to protect the school they fought so hard to save.
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Max in the Land of Lies
Buy from:Max in the House of Spies was heralded as one of the best middle-grade books of 2024, and the sequel is equally captivating. Blending historical fiction with a touch of magic, the story follows Max Bretzfeld, a German boy turned British spy, as he infiltrates the Nazis. Packed with suspense, dangerous missions, and the heart-wrenching search for his parents, this gripping adventure is impossible to put down.
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A Copycat Conundrum (The Misfits)
Buy from:Awkward tween Olive and her team of crime-fighting underdogs return in this sequel to the bestselling A Royal Conundrum. This time, they chase down an art thief while uncovering the cause of a string of suspicious earthquakes. With humor, heart, and the right amount of action, this quirky adventure is perfect for mystery lovers.
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The Last Kids on Earth and the Destructor’s Lair
Buy from:This successful series, made even more popular by the hit Netflix show, is a favorite among kids for a good reason. Jack Sullivan, a likable boy who uses his wits to survive a zombie apocalypse, faces adversity and creepy monsters in each exciting installment. In this highly anticipated 10th book, Jack must race through the Monster Dimension to prevent an attack on Earth.
Does your young reader need to catch up on the series? Check out this boxed set of the first three books: The Last Kids on Earth: The Monster Box (Books 1-3).
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Activity Books:
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Would You Rather? Ultimate Box Set
Buy from:This is a gift that keeps on giving all year long. I don’t know who loves these books more — me or my kids! And this boxed set, complete wit five bestselling “Would You Rather?” books — Made You Think! Edition, Family Challenge! Edition, Sports Edition, Animals Edition, and and Outer Space Edition — will lead to hours of family fun, creativity, and thoughtfulness as participants answer thought-provoking questions. They are perfect for pulling out when waiting at the doctor’s office, at a restaurant, at a sleepover, or while travelling.
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Cozy Cuties Coloring Book
Buy from:With our days packed full of busy activities, coloring has become one of my ten-year-old daughter’s favorite ways to slow down and reset. This delightful new coloring book brims with charm and cozy vibes, offering tweens the perfect chance to unwind, practice mindfulness, and recharge.
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The Minecraft Ideas Book
Buy from:Discover the Minecraft universe like never before! Featuring over 70 mind-blowing build ideas and expert tips and tricks from Minecraft builders, this hands-on book is sure to ignite any Minecraft player's imagination. From iconic landmarks to natural wonders, explore the world around you and bring it to life in Minecraft. With building techniques, customization ideas, and inspiration from expert builders, the possibilities are endless.
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How to Draw Books Winter Things for Kids
Buy from:I’m always on the lookout for screen-free activities for my kids, and they never get tired of drawing. This book makes drawing easy and fun by breaking down 40 winter-themed icons into 6-8 simple steps, so kids of all ages can feel confident following the directions. It’s amazing to see what they can create with a bit of guidance and a spark of imagination!
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The Mad Libs Silly, Hilariously Funny, Belly-Busting Joke Book
Buy from:This classic game is a perfect holiday gift, as it will provide hours of entertainment and laughter for everyone in your home. If you’re traveling for the holidays, consider making it an early gift so you can enjoy it on the plane, in the car, while waiting at stores, etc. And don’t tell your kids, but they practice English Language Arts skills when playing Mad Libs.
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Graphic Novels:
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Sweet Valley Twins: The New Girl
Buy from:This hit series returns in graphic novel form, and it’s as irresistible as ever. Twins Jessica and Elizabeth are excited to welcome new student Brooke Dennis, but things take a turn when Brooke gives them the cold shoulder. With relatable middle school drama and the ups and downs of changing friendships, this series perfectly captures the challenges of growing up.
My daughter is obsessed with this series and loves reading them over and over. If you know a young reader who wants to dive in or catch up, the Sweet Valley Twins: Twinning Boxed Set (Books 1-4) is the perfect place to start.
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Monkey King and the World of Myths: The Battle of the Beasts
Buy from:This enchanting story follows the Monkey King and his three-headed dog, Cerberus, on a magical adventure as they fight evil villains and make new friends. With playful, action-packed illustrations, it’s a wonderful introduction to Japanese folklore and mythology.
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Creaky Acres: A Graphic Novel
Buy from:This heartwarming coming-of-age story follows Nora as she moves to a new home, finds new friends, learns from her mistakes, and grows into a leader on her equestrian team. While light and engaging on the surface, it thoughtfully explores deeper themes of prejudice and economic disparity, making it an enjoyable and meaningful read.
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Speak Up, Santiago!
Buy from:Santiago can’t wait to visit his abuela and savor her delicious Colombian cooking, but he worries that his limited Spanish will make it hard to connect with his relatives. Endearing and relatable, Santiago’s story beautifully explores bicultural identity, new friendships, and the challenges many bilingual families face.
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Nightmare Hunter #1
Buy from:Twelve-year-old Maxwell Dark has a rare gift. He can step into other people’s nightmares and help them defeat the monsters lurking there. Traveling from town to town, he confidently faces every challenge until he enters Sid’s nightmare and meets his greatest adversary yet. With its thrilling blend of humor and stunning dreamscapes, this graphic novel is a true standout.
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Nonfiction:
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Knowledge A Visual Compendium: Making Sense of the World
Buy from:This nonfiction book offers essential and random facts about chemistry, bird species, US Presidents, anatomy, and more. It is full of engaging text and beautiful images, making it perfect for curious kids who like to choose what they learn about. It could spark a new interest or provide excellent fodder for family conversations.
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Grossology: The Science of Really Gross Things!
Buy from:Anything disgusting grabs my kids’ attention, so Grossology is the perfect way to fuel their wonderfully weird interests. Packed with hilarious illustrations and fascinating facts about the human body, this delightfully icky guide is guaranteed to keep kids hooked.
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An Immense World (Young Readers Edition)
Buy from:Perfect for curious kids, this book offers a fascinating glimpse into how animals use their senses to survive. From seeing ultraviolet light to communicating with ultrasonic frequencies or detecting infrared radiation, readers will be amazed by the extraordinary ways animals experience the world. This is a must-have for animal lovers!
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Vanished: Seven Women Magicians Who Simply Disappeared
Buy from:Prepare to be dazzled by the stories of seven trailblazing female magicians who once captivated audiences but were nearly forgotten by history — until now. Brought to life with bold illustrations and lively storytelling, this inspiring anthology highlights their lives, careers, and most famous tricks, ensuring that their magic will endure for a new generation.
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Range (Adapted for Young Readers)
Buy from:This inspiring biographical anthology highlights athletes, scientists, artists, musicians, and more, demonstrating how each found success by exploring a wide range of interests early in life. At a time when children often feel pressured to specialize too soon, this book serves as a refreshing reminder that there are many different paths to achievement.
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History Smashers: Ancient Egypt
Buy from:This hybrid chapter book and graphic novel brings history to life in the most engaging way. Readers are whisked back to Ancient Egypt to uncover fascinating facts, bust common myths, and explore the wonders of one of the world’s most remarkable civilizations.
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Forever Favorite Boxed Sets:
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Mr. Lemoncello’s Greatest Box Set on Earth: 6 Books!
Buy from:The world’s most famous game creator, Mr. Lemoncello, takes fun to the next level with life-size puzzles for players to solve. Each book in this fantastic series combines laugh-out-loud humor with clever challenges that readers can tackle with the characters. A trulyThis delightful series that’s is a joy to read from start to finish.
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The Boxcar Children Mysteries Boxed Set Books 1-12
Buy from:This beloved series has stood the test of time. Filled with nostalgic charm and heartwarming adventures, it follows four orphans who make a home in an abandoned boxcar. With each new book, they set out to solve mysteries and lend a helping hand along the way.
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Encyclopedia Brown Detective Box Set (4-Book Box Set)
Buy from:This was one of my favorite series growing up, so I’m thrilled to see it revamped for a new generation of readers. Leroy “Encyclopedia” Brown isn’t your average kid. His sharp memory and brilliant mind make him the perfect partner in helping his dad crack cases around town. With clues sprinkled throughout, readers get the fun of solving each mystery right alongside him.
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The Penderwicks Complete Collection
These modern-day classics star a family of four spirited sisters and their widowed father. Each sister has a uniquely endearing personality that makes them impossible not to love. Their adventures and unshakable bond as a family create a story that is timeless and unforgettable.
