Books for Becoming a Big Kid for Ages 12–18

Explore our collection of children's books about becoming a big kid recommended for kids ages 12–18.

117 books

Peter Pan #1

Peter Pan

J.M. Barrie

For the child who is hesitant about growing up or leaving the magic of childhood behind. This classic tale celebrates th

Ages 8–12

How to be a Great Detective

Ursula Dubosarsky

For the child who loves looking for clues and wants to feel capable of solving problems in their own neighborhood.

Ages 8–12

Dimsie #2

Dimsie Moves Up

Dorita Fairlie Bruce

For the child adjusting to new responsibilities and social hierarchies, this classic tale explores the growth that comes

Ages 9–13

Summerhouse Time

Eileen Spinelli

For the child who cherishes family traditions but feels the bittersweet pull of growing up as their favorite childhood r

Ages 8–12

Timo the Adventurer #1

Timo the Adventurer

Jonathan Garnier

For the child who dreams of being a hero but discovers that growing up involves more than just following a storybook map

Ages 8–12

Adults Only

Morris Gleitzman

For the child trying to decode the confusing actions of grown-ups, these humorous stories offer a relatable look at the

Ages 8–12

Angel #1

Back Yard Angel

Judy Delton

For the child who feels the weight of caring for a younger sibling while wishing for their own summer freedom.

Ages 8–12

Harriet And The Cherry Pie

Clare Compton

For the child who thrives in the kitchen or feels the weight of new responsibilities when staying with relatives, this c

Ages 8–12

Ronia, the Robber's Daughter #1

Ronia, the Robber's Daughter

Astrid Lindgren

For the child seeking to forge their own path despite family expectations. This classic tale celebrates the fierce bond

Ages 8–12

The Spell of the Northern Lights

Lucy Johnston Sypher

For the child who struggles with big 'what-ifs' and fears of the unknown. Lucy navigates a harsh prairie winter while le

Ages 8–12

Gaby's Gang #2

The Mystery of the Cross-eyed Man

Paul Berna

For the child stepping into bigger responsibilities or navigating their first solo trip, this classic French mystery cel

Ages 9–12

Philippa Fisher #3

Philippa Fisher and the Fairy's Promise

Liz Kessler

For the child navigating a changing friendship or preparing for a big transition, this magical finale explores the beaut

Ages 8–12

Cathy Leonard #1

Cathy Leonard Calling

Catherine Woolley

For the child who is eager to take on adult responsibilities but struggles to keep up with school and family life.

Ages 8–12

The Penderwicks #5

The Penderwicks at Last

Jeanne Birdsall

For the child navigating the bittersweet transition of growing up, this nostalgic finale celebrates the enduring magic o

Ages 8–12

Discworld: Tiffany Aching #3

Wintersmith

Terry Pratchett

For the young teen navigating the overwhelming rush of growing up and the responsibility of newfound power while staying

Ages 10–15

The Secret of the Mountain

Esther Linfield

For the teenager navigating the transition from childhood to adult responsibility, this story explores the weight of tra

Ages 10–14

Secondhand Heroes #3

The Last Battle

Justin LaRocca Hansen

For the child who feels small in a world of big expectations, this adventure celebrates finding the courage to protect w

Ages 8–12

The Imaginary Veterinary #4

The Order of the Unicorn

Suzanne Selfors

For the child who loves creatures and is ready for more responsibility, this adventure follows two apprentices facing da

Ages 8–12

Flights of Fancy! #1

Flights of Fancy!

Rabindranath Tagore

For the child who finds magic in the every day, these classic verses by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore celebrate the

Ages 6–12

Knitwits

William Taylor

For the child adjusting to the news of a new baby while navigating playground bets and the pressure to prove they can do

Ages 8–12

Pleasant Tales: To Improve The Mind And Correct The Morals Of Youth

E. Newbery

For the child exploring right from wrong, these vintage tales offer clear moral lessons on being kind, honest, and hardw

Ages 8–12

Usborne Facts of Life

Growing Up

Susan Meredith

For the pre-teen who has questions about their changing body. This classic guide provides clear, factual explanations ab

Ages 9–14

Speed Racer #1

Born to Race

Michael Anthony Steele

For the child who loves the roar of an engine and dreams of finding their own passion while honoring their family's lega

Ages 8–12

Become a Junior Inventor

Nikhil Gumbhir

For the curious child who is always taking things apart to see how they work. This guide transforms everyday objects int

Ages 8–12