A smart mix of print-based and tech-powered options enables students to flex their literacy muscles, reflect on their progress with intention, and develop into more thoughtful, proficient, curious readers.

When used well, tech tools can reveal where students are struggling, highlight their progress, and challenge and inspire them to improve.

Some are cultural touchstones that belong in every kid's library. Others open kids' minds to worlds and experiences beyond their own. And some are recent releases that have the timeless quality of classics—the kind that gets handed down to siblings and passed around classrooms. Whether you have a reluctant reader or a budding bookworm, consider these surefire, kid-tested titles.

Common Sense Media editors help you choose 50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12. Surefire selections for kids and tweens.