Books for Discovering a Talent for Ages 12–18

Explore our collection of children's books about discovering a talent recommended for kids ages 12–18.

1,429 books

DK Reads

Ballet Academy

Lorrie Mack

For the aspiring dancer who wants to know exactly what happens behind the studio doors at a world-class ballet school.

Ages 7–12

An Epic Series of Failures #2

The Curse of Greg

Chris Rylander

For the middle-grade reader who feels like an underdog, this hilarious adventure proves that being a 'failure' might jus

Ages 8–12

Tracy Beaker #3

Starring Tracy Beaker

Jacqueline Wilson

For the child navigating the complex emotions of being in foster care while longing for a connection with a biological p

Ages 8–12

The Crow's Tales #2

The Big Dream

Victoria E. Pannell, Thorir Sigfusson

For the child who feels like their goals are too big or their voice is too small. A story about finding the courage to p

Ages 8–12

Wolfpack

Wolfpack (Young Readers Edition)

Abby Wambach

For the young athlete or leader ready to find her voice. This guide transforms Abby Wambach's soccer wisdom into eight r

Ages 10–14

Here's How I See It--Here's How It Is

Heather Henson

For the child navigating the confusing middle ground between childhood and adolescence while processing their parents' r

Ages 8–12

The Mighty Onion and Guinea Pig Girl!

Mark Crilley

For the young artist or dreamer learning that real-life heroism and creative collaboration are much messier than they ap

Ages 8–12

Signature Lives #1

Clara Barton: Founder of the American Red Cross

Barbara A. Somervill

For the child who wants to help others but doesn't know where to start: discover how one woman's courage and compassion

Ages 8–12

Putnam Sports Shelf

The Greatest American Leaguers

Al Hirshberg

For the young baseball fan who loves facts and history, these profiles of legendary American Leaguers provide a deep div

Ages 10–15

Amelia Earhart Legendary Aviator

Jameson Anderson

For the child who dreams of breaking barriers, this graphic novel brings the courage and mystery of Amelia Earhart to li

Ages 8–12

Matt Christopher Sports Biographies

At the Plate with... Sammy Sosa

Matt Christopher

For the young sports fan who needs to see how hard work and perseverance can turn big dreams into a history-making reali

Ages 8–12

Meteorite Strike #1

Meteorite Strike

A. G. Taylor

For the child who feels like an outsider and dreams of discovering a hidden inner strength to face life's unexpected cha

Ages 9–13

Hope was Here

Joan Bauer

For the teen searching for where they fit in. A heartwarming story about a skilled waitress finding family and her voice

Ages 12–17

DK Readers

Amazing Women: Discover Inspiring Life Stories!

Caryn Jenner

For the young reader seeking role models, this collection of over 40 short biographies highlights trailblazing women who

Ages 9–12

Shark Summer #1

Shark Summer

Ira Marcks

For the child who feels like an outsider and is looking for a creative spark to bring people together while navigating a

Ages 8–12

Matt Christopher Sports Classics

Basketball Sparkplug

Matt Christopher

For the child who thrives in a group but feels lost when their 'partner in crime' isn't there, this story explores build

Ages 8–12

Recipe for Trouble

Sheryl Berk, Carrie Berk

For the child who thrives in a group but feels the pressure of competition. This sweet story explores how to stay true t

Ages 8–12

Little Leaders #1

Bold Women in Black History

Vashti Harrison

For the child who needs to see that heroes come from all walks of life, this collection celebrates forty Black women who

Ages 8–12

Put Your Best Foot Forward: A Young Dancer's Guide to Life

Suki Schorer, School of American Ballet

For the aspiring dancer who wants to carry the grace of the stage into every part of their life through discipline, pois

Ages 8–14

At the Plate with...

At the Plate with Mo Vaughn

Matt Christopher

For the young sports fan who needs to see that hard work and grit lead to big dreams. This biography follows Mo Vaughn's

Ages 8–12

The Tryout #2

The Squad

Christina Soontornvat

For the child who feels pressured to meet a parent's expectations but longs to find their own circle and hidden strength

Ages 8–12

Squad Goals #1

Squad Goals

Erika J. Kendrick

For the child feeling the pressure of a family legacy while trying to find their own voice in a high-stakes, competitive

Ages 8–12

Computer Space Adventures

Paul Somerson

For the curious child who wants to move beyond just playing games to understanding how they work through creative coding

Ages 9–13

Wings of Fire: The Graphic Novel #5

The Brightest Night

Tui T. Sutherland

For the child who feels overlooked or underestimated, this adventure shows how kindness and hidden strengths can change

Ages 8–12