classic books 12 year olds

classic books 12 year olds

As children enter their pre-teen years, their reading interests and abilities begin to mature. For 12 year olds, classic books can provide a wealth of knowledge, imagination, and entertainment. From timeless tales to thought-provoking themes, these books have stood the test of time and continue to captivate readers of all ages. In this article, we will explore some of the best classic books for 12 year olds, and why they are still relevant and beloved today.

1. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a must-read for 12 year olds. Set in a small town in Alabama during the Great Depression, the story follows the experiences of a young girl named Scout and her brother Jem, as their lawyer father defends a black man who has been wrongly accused of a crime. Through the eyes of Scout, readers are exposed to issues of racism, prejudice, and injustice, and are ultimately reminded of the importance of empathy and standing up for what is right. “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.

2. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry
In a seemingly perfect society where pain and suffering have been eliminated, 12 year old Jonas is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory, the one person who holds all the memories of the past. As he begins to experience the joys and sorrows of the world before him, Jonas must grapple with the idea of conformity and the value of individuality. This thought-provoking novel challenges readers to question the status quo and consider the consequences of a seemingly utopian society.

3. “The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis
This beloved fantasy series follows the adventures of four siblings who stumble upon a magical world called Narnia. As they journey through this enchanted land, they encounter talking animals, mythical creatures, and a battle between good and evil. Through their adventures, the children learn important lessons about courage, loyalty, and sacrifice. “The Chronicles of Narnia” is a timeless classic that appeals to readers of all ages, with its themes of bravery and the power of imagination.

4. “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott
This heartwarming novel follows the lives of the March sisters – Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy – as they grow up during the Civil War. Each sister has her own unique personality and struggles, but they are all united by their strong bond and love for each other. Through their trials and triumphs, the March sisters teach readers about the importance of family, friendship, and resilience. “Little Women” is a timeless classic that has inspired generations of readers with its heartwarming story of sisterhood and coming of age.

5. “The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett
This enchanting novel tells the story of Mary Lennox, a spoiled and lonely girl who is sent to live with her uncle in a large, mysterious estate in the English countryside. As she explores the grounds, Mary discovers a hidden garden that has been locked and neglected for years. With the help of her cousin Colin and a friendly robin, Mary brings the garden back to life and learns the power of nature and the healing properties of friendship. “The Secret Garden” is a timeless classic that celebrates the beauty of nature and the importance of hope and perseverance.

6. “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle
This science fiction novel follows the adventures of Meg Murry and her younger brother Charles Wallace as they travel through time and space to rescue their father, a scientist who has gone missing while working on a mysterious project. Along the way, they meet three eccentric beings who guide them on their journey and teach them about the power of love and the importance of individuality. “A Wrinkle in Time” is a thought-provoking and imaginative story that encourages readers to think outside the box and embrace their unique identities.

7. “Anne of Green Gables” by L.M. Montgomery
This charming novel follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and spirited orphan who is mistakenly sent to live with a brother and sister on Prince Edward Island. As she settles into her new life, Anne’s vivacious personality and love for life endear her to the townspeople, and she learns important lessons about forgiveness, friendship, and family. “Anne of Green Gables” is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of readers with its endearing characters and heartwarming story.

8. “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” by Mark Twain
This classic novel follows the mischievous adventures of young Tom Sawyer and his friends in a small town on the Mississippi River. From playing pirates to attending their own funeral, Tom and his friends find themselves in all sorts of comical and sometimes dangerous situations. Through their escapades, readers are reminded of the joys of childhood and the importance of friendship. “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” is a classic that has stood the test of time, with its timeless themes and lovable characters.

9. “The Call of the Wild” by Jack London
This adventure novel follows the journey of a dog named Buck, who is stolen from his comfortable life as a pet and is forced to adapt to the harsh realities of life as a sled dog in the Yukon during the Gold Rush. Through his trials and hardships, Buck learns the laws of nature and the importance of survival. “The Call of the Wild” is a thrilling and poignant tale that explores the relationship between humans and animals and the power of the wilderness.

10. “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
This classic novel follows the romantic entanglements of the Bennett sisters in 19th century England. As the eldest sister, Elizabeth, navigates her feelings for the wealthy and proud Mr. Darcy, she also learns important lessons about love, pride, and prejudice. “Pride and Prejudice” is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of readers for centuries, with its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and enduring themes of love and societal expectations.

In conclusion, classic books for 12 year olds offer much more than just entertainment. They provide valuable lessons, inspire imagination, and provoke thought and discussion. These books have stood the test of time and continue to be relevant and beloved by readers of all ages. So whether you are a parent looking for a book for your child to read, or a 12 year old looking for your next literary adventure, these timeless classics are sure to capture your heart and mind.

signs of narcissistic parent

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition characterized by an exaggerated sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. When a person with NPD becomes a parent, the effects on their children can be damaging and long-lasting. A narcissistic parent is someone who uses their children to fulfill their own needs and desires, rather than nurturing and supporting them. In this article, we will explore the signs of a narcissistic parent and the impact it can have on their children.

1. Lack of empathy:
One of the most prominent signs of a narcissistic parent is their lack of empathy towards their children. They are unable to understand or relate to their child’s feelings and needs. A narcissistic parent often sees their children as an extension of themselves and expects them to fulfill their unmet emotional needs. This lack of empathy can lead to emotional neglect and a lack of emotional support for the child.

2. Constant need for admiration:
Narcissistic parents have an insatiable need for admiration and attention. They often use their children as a means to boost their own ego and self-esteem. They may push their children to achieve unrealistic goals or live vicariously through them. This constant need for admiration can put a lot of pressure on the child and make them feel like they are never good enough.

3. Manipulation and control:
Narcissistic parents are masters of manipulation and control. They use emotional blackmail, guilt-tripping, and other manipulative tactics to get what they want from their children. This can lead to a toxic and unhealthy dynamic where the child is constantly trying to please their parent and meet their unrealistic expectations.

4. Gaslighting:
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where the abuser makes the victim doubt their own reality. Narcissistic parents often use gaslighting to control their children and make them doubt their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Gaslighting can be extremely damaging and can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and even depression in the child.

5. Neglect and emotional abuse:
Narcissistic parents are often emotionally unavailable and neglectful towards their children. They may be physically present but emotionally absent. This can have a profound impact on the child’s development and can lead to feelings of abandonment, rejection, and low self-worth. Emotional abuse, such as constant criticism, belittling, and humiliation, is also common in narcissistic parenting.

6. Golden child/scapegoat dynamic:
In a narcissistic family, there is often a golden child and a scapegoat. The golden child is the favored one, who can do no wrong in the eyes of the narcissistic parent. They are often given special treatment and privileges, while the scapegoat is constantly criticized and blamed for everything that goes wrong. This dynamic can create a lot of tension and resentment between siblings and can lead to long-term emotional trauma for both the golden child and the scapegoat.

7. Lack of boundaries:
Narcissistic parents have a hard time respecting their children’s boundaries. They may invade their child’s privacy, manipulate them into sharing personal information, or use them as confidants for adult issues. This lack of boundaries can be confusing and overwhelming for the child, as they are not given the space and autonomy to develop their own sense of self.

8. Inconsistent parenting:
Narcissistic parents may have inconsistent and unpredictable parenting styles. They may be loving and affectionate one moment, and cold and distant the next. This can be confusing for the child and can lead to a fear of abandonment and an inability to trust others.

9. Enmeshment:
Enmeshment is a term used to describe a dysfunctional family dynamic where there are no healthy boundaries between family members. In a narcissistic family, enmeshment can occur between the parent and the child, where the parent relies on the child for emotional support and fulfilling their own needs. This can lead to a lack of independence and a blurred sense of self for the child.

10. Constant need for perfection:
Narcissistic parents often have a need for perfection and may project this onto their children. They may have high expectations and demand that their children excel in everything they do. This can lead to a lot of pressure and anxiety for the child, as they feel like they can never live up to their parent’s expectations.

In conclusion, having a narcissistic parent can have a profound impact on a child’s emotional and psychological well-being. Children of narcissistic parents may struggle with low self-esteem, trust issues, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. It is essential for these children to seek therapy to heal from the effects of their upbringing and learn to establish healthy boundaries and self-worth. If you recognize any of these signs in your own parenting or in your own upbringing, it is crucial to seek help and break the cycle of narcissism in your family.

how to make friends as a kid

Making friends is an essential part of growing up. As a kid, having friends not only brings joy and companionship, but it also helps in developing social skills and building self-confidence. However, for some kids, making friends may not come naturally. They may struggle with shyness, social anxiety, or simply not knowing how to approach others. Fortunately, there are various ways for kids to make friends and form meaningful connections with their peers. In this article, we will discuss some effective tips and strategies on how to make friends as a kid.

1. Be yourself

The first and most important step in making friends is to be yourself. It can be tempting to try to fit in with the popular kids or change who you are to impress others. However, true friendships are built on genuine connections, and pretending to be someone you’re not will only lead to disappointment and a lack of authenticity in your relationships. Embrace your unique qualities and interests, and don’t be afraid to show them to others. This will attract like-minded friends who appreciate you for who you are.

2. Be open and friendly
One of the best ways to make friends is by being open and friendly. Smile and greet others with a warm hello. Show interest in what they have to say and listen attentively. People are naturally drawn to those who are approachable and make them feel comfortable. Avoid crossing your arms, looking down, or appearing disinterested, as this may give off the impression that you don’t want to be approached.

3. Join extracurricular activities or clubs
Extracurricular activities and clubs are great places to meet like-minded peers who share similar interests. Whether it’s a sports team, drama club, or chess club, participating in these activities allows you to interact with others who have the same passions as you. This shared interest can serve as an icebreaker and make it easier to strike up conversations and form friendships.

4. Be a good listener
Being a good listener is an essential skill in making friends. Show genuine interest in what others have to say and ask them questions to get to know them better. People appreciate being heard and understood, and being a good listener can help you build connections with others. Avoid interrupting or talking only about yourself, as this can be off-putting and make it difficult for others to open up to you.

5. Invite others to play or hang out
Don’t be afraid to take the initiative and ask others to hang out or play together. You can suggest activities like going to the park, playing a game, or watching a movie. This not only shows that you are interested in spending time with them, but it also gives you the opportunity to get to know each other better outside of school or extracurricular activities.

6. Be kind and inclusive
Being kind and inclusive goes a long way in making friends. Invite others to join your group or include the kids who may be sitting alone at lunch. Show empathy and offer help when someone is struggling. Kindness is contagious, and by being kind to others, you will attract kind and caring friends who will appreciate your actions.

7. Don’t be afraid to make the first move
Making friends requires stepping out of your comfort zone and taking the initiative to reach out to others. Don’t be afraid to make the first move and introduce yourself to new people. It may feel scary at first, but remember that everyone is looking to make friends, and they will likely appreciate your effort.

8. Be patient
Making friends takes time, and it’s essential to be patient. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t make friends right away. Building relationships and trust takes time, and it’s normal to have a few bumps along the way. Keep putting yourself out there, and eventually, you will find friends who you connect with.

9. Be a good friend
Being a good friend is just as important as making friends. Show up for your friends, be there for them when they need you, and be a good listener. Trust and loyalty are the foundations of strong friendships, and by being a good friend, you will attract good friends in return.

10. Embrace diversity
Lastly, it’s essential to embrace diversity when making friends. Don’t limit yourself to only befriending kids who look or act like you. Be open to getting to know people from different backgrounds and cultures. This will not only broaden your perspective but also help you form meaningful connections with a diverse group of friends.

In conclusion, making friends as a kid may seem daunting, but by being yourself, being open and friendly, joining extracurricular activities, and being a good friend, you can form meaningful connections with your peers. Remember to be patient and embrace diversity, and you will soon find yourself surrounded by a group of friends who accept and appreciate you for who you are.