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

For the child eager to prove they are 'grown up' enough to join the big kids. This story explores the sting of being und

Ages 8–12

Chancy and the Grand Rascal

Sid Fleischman

For the child longing to reconnect with distant family, this tall-tale journey proves that wit and a silver tongue can o

Ages 8–12

Ranger's Apprentice #7

Erak's Ransom

John Flanagan

For the child stepping into big responsibilities and realizing that true maturity is earned through grit, adaptation, an

Ages 10–14

Kids' Class Cookbooks #3

Cupcake Class

Deanna F. Cook, Joy Howard

For the young kitchen enthusiast ready to move from tasting to creating. This guide empowers kids to master the art of t

Ages 6–12

Discworld: Tiffany Aching #1

The Wee Free Men

Terry Pratchett

For the child stepping into big responsibilities while processing the loss of a mentor, this tale celebrates the grit re

Ages 9–14

Discworld: City Watch #6

Night Watch

Terry Pratchett

For the reader grappling with the weight of responsibility and the desire to change the past while staying true to one's

Ages 13–18

Squished

Megan Wagner Lloyd

For the child who feels overwhelmed by a crowded home or a lack of privacy, this relatable story explores the challenge

Ages 8–12

In The Forest

Umm Sumayyah Quan

For the young reader discovering that courage isn't the absence of fear, but the determination to protect others and fig

Ages 10–16

Nutcracker

Maurice Sendak

For children ready to explore the deeper, slightly spooky side of a classic holiday dream, where the boundary between to

Ages 8–12

Mirror Dance (Vorkosigan Saga, #8)

Lois McMaster Bujold

For the young person grappling with who they are apart from their family, or anyone who has ever felt like they are livi

Ages 14–18

Alice you are amazing!

Marta Rodriguez

For the child who feels uninspired by their schoolwork or finds their daily routine dull. Milo's whimsical journey spark

Ages 8–12

Water Street

Patricia Reilly Giff

For the young teen starting to wonder who they will become and how to navigate the complex expectations of family and he

Ages 10–14

The Big Book on Native American Truths

Baby Professor

For the adventurous child who marvels at the unknown: an expedition to a hidden plateau where prehistoric giants and pri

Ages 10–15

The Summer I Turned Pretty #3

We'll Always Have Summer

Jenny Han

For the teenager navigating the messy reality of long-term relationships and the painful choice between a comfortable lo

Ages 12–18

The Universe Builders #1

Bernie and the Lost Girl

Steve LeBel

For the child who is ready to step up and take responsibility when the adults in their life seem stuck or too afraid to

For the child who loves to lead the pack. This classic collection of humorous tales explores the power and pitfalls of a

Ages 8–12

The Chalet School #4

The Head Girl of the Chalet School

Elinor M. Brent-Dyer

For the young reader stepping into a new leadership role or navigating the pressure of high expectations from peers and

Ages 10–14

Just William #34

William and the Witch

Richmal Crompton

For the child who thrives on independence and often finds themselves in 'hot water' despite their best intentions.

Ages 8–12

Just William #29

William and the Moon Rocket

Richmal Crompton

For the child whose big ideas often lead to messy results. This classic collection celebrates the chaotic creativity and

For the child whose big ideas often lead to messy results. William's chaotic adventures normalize making mistakes while

Ages 8–12

The Eastland Disaster #1

A Girl Divided

Ellen Lindseth

For the reader discovering their own voice while balancing family loyalty and the call of a wider, changing world during

Ages 14–18

Torrent

Lisa Tawn Bergren

For the teen who feels the weight of protecting their family, this high stakes adventure explores the fierce bonds that

Ages 12–18

Kids' Class Cookbooks #1

Cooking Class

Deanna F. Cook

For the child who wants to feel capable in the kitchen, this guide builds confidence through 57 tasty, kid-friendly reci

Ages 6–12

The Baby-Sitters Club #89

Kristy and the Dirty Diapers

Ann M. Martin

For the young leader learning that taking charge requires cooperation and managing messy responsibilities with a sense o

Ages 8–12

Popular Series in This Category

Just William

4 books in this category

The Baby-Sitters Club

2 books in this category

Kids' Class Cookbooks

2 books in this category