For those who enjoy adventure and fantasy:
* "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe: The mystery and spooky atmosphere, combined with the strong imagery, can be captivating.
* "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost: The theme of making choices and the unknown possibilities can be intriguing for pre-teens.
* "Casey at the Bat" by Ernest Lawrence Thayer: This baseball poem is a classic for its exciting plot and memorable lines.
For those who appreciate nature and the environment:
* "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening" by Robert Frost: The simple yet profound beauty of nature and the peaceful imagery often appeals to young readers.
* "The Tiger" by William Blake: The powerful imagery and questions about creation can spark curiosity and wonder.
* "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" by T.S. Eliot (parts of it): Though a complex poem, sections can be engaging for their sensory descriptions of the world.
For those who enjoy humor and lightheartedness:
* "Jabberwocky" by Lewis Carroll: The nonsensical language and playful rhymes can be both funny and enjoyable.
* "The Owl and the Pussycat" by Edward Lear: This silly and whimsical poem is a classic for its lightheartedness.
* "The Walrus and the Carpenter" by Lewis Carroll: This humorous poem with its nonsensical plot can be a lot of fun to read aloud.
Other considerations:
* Modern poems: Look for poems by contemporary poets that deal with relatable themes like friendships, social media, or growing up.
* Poems with strong rhythm and rhyme: These can be easier to memorize and enjoy for younger readers.
* Poems with beautiful imagery: Poems that use vivid descriptions to create a picture in the reader's mind can be particularly engaging.
Ultimately, the best way to find poems that your 12-year-old will enjoy is to explore a variety of options together and see what resonates with them.