For the Classic Spy Fan:
* The Famous Five series by Enid Blyton: These classic British mysteries follow a group of cousins as they solve mysteries in their idyllic countryside setting. Fun, engaging, and full of charm.
* The Hardy Boys series by Franklin W. Dixon: This series features the adventures of two brothers, Frank and Joe Hardy, as they solve mysteries in their hometown of Bayport. Full of action and suspense, with a good dose of classic detective skills.
* The Nancy Drew series by Carolyn Keene: These stories feature Nancy Drew, a brilliant teenage detective who solves mysteries all over the world. Perfect for girls who want a strong female lead.
* The Secret Seven series by Enid Blyton: Another classic by Enid Blyton, this series follows seven friends who form a secret society to solve mysteries in their village. A great choice for kids who love teamwork and adventure.
For the Modern Spy Thriller Lover:
* The Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz: Alex Rider is a teenage spy who gets drawn into a world of espionage and danger. Filled with gadgets, action, and gripping plots, it’s perfect for kids who love fast-paced thrillers.
* The Agent 21 series by Steve Cole: This series features a group of young agents who work for a secret organization to protect the world from danger. Fun and action-packed, with a touch of humor.
* The Lockwood & Co. series by Jonathan Stroud: This series follows three teenagers who investigate hauntings in a world where ghosts are a real threat. This series blends the detective genre with the supernatural, perfect for those who like a touch of the spooky.
For the Mystery Lover with a Touch of Humor:
* The Cam Jansen series by David A. Adler: Cam Jansen is a young detective with photographic memory who uses her unique skills to solve mysteries in her everyday life. Funny and engaging, this series is perfect for readers who enjoy a light-hearted mystery.
* The Encyclopedia Brown series by Donald J. Sobol: Encyclopedia Brown is a young boy with a knack for solving mysteries. Each short story presents a different puzzle, and the reader can try to solve it before Encyclopedia Brown does. A great choice for kids who love puzzles and deduction.
* The Nate the Great series by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat: This series features Nate, a young detective who uses his sharp wit and detective skills to solve mysteries in his hometown. Fun and engaging, with a quirky sense of humor.
Bonus:
* The Artemis Fowl series by Eoin Colfer: While this series technically features a criminal mastermind, it’s full of adventure and action, with a mix of magic and technology. A great choice for kids who like a bit of fantasy with their mystery.
Choosing the Right Book:
The best way to find a book your pre-teen will love is to consider their interests. Do they enjoy fast-paced action? Do they prefer humorous mysteries? Or maybe they like a touch of the supernatural? Once you know what kind of stories they enjoy, you can find a spy or detective book that’s perfect for them!