Book for 12 year old boy

[GK Fanatic]

A young cousin of ours is undergoing chemotherapy and as he lives in the USA we are not too knowledgeable about what he likes to read. I do know he is very intelligent and reads a year or two over his age group. I've trawled through Amazon and have found a possibility so all I want to know really is if anyone knows of Julian Stockwins "Kydd" series. The writeups look good with adventure and excitement and seem to be the kind of thing that might hold his interest during the treatment. Any other recommendations would be appreciated too

[FGS51]

How about The Amber Spyglass and other books by Phillip Pullman. A good read for both adults and teenagers. Available from Amazon UK (haven't checked Amazon.com)

Link....

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Amber-Spyglass-His-Dar k-Materials/dp/043999358X/sr=1-1/qid=115977898 5/ref=sr_1_1/202-3453647-1811014?ie=UTF8&s=boo ks

[GK Fanatic]

Thank you so much, I checked it and its going on the list !!!!

[Quizmonkey]

Because of the subject matter, and your cousin's situation, maybe the His Dark Materials are not such a good idea, brilliant as they are.

[FGS51]

Ah! Thank you- good point! I should have been more 'mindful' of the circumstances before recommending.

[GK Fanatic]

Don't worry I'm still compiling a list of possibilities.

[pixie_woo]

What about the Anthony Horowitz series featuring a teenage spy called Alex Rider? A feature film of Stormbreaker has recently been released which may have stirred his interest.
Best wishes and a speedy recovery to your cousin.

[GK Fanatic]

Another brilliant idea thanks !!

[Hellion]

I would definitely recommend the Alex Rider Series. Eragon and Eldest (first 2 parts of a trilogy) they are American though so he may have read them.
Terry Pratchett's books are loved by children and adults alike and are great fun.

[Quizmonkey]

I remember reading, and being totally captivated by, William Horwood's Duncton Wood books - huge sprawling sagas set in the world of, erm, moles - beautifully written (honest!) and quite epic in their scope. I was a bit odler than your cuz but I think he'd be fine with them.

[GK Fanatic]

I've had such a wonderful response to my question, thanks to all of you who have answered and for any answers still coming in. x

[jopo]

How about Michelle Paver's Wolf Brother and Spirit Walker, both very popular with my sons. Consider also The Edge Chronicles which are perhaps easier reading but nevertheless entertaining and readily available. Good luck and speedy recovery to your young cousin!

[shoemad]

If he hasn't already read them, then the Harry Potter books are good escapism. Also as the main character is a young boy, he should be able to get into them easily. My friend's son who is now 16 has read them over last few years and can now quote chunks from them. Also my daughter read them and really enjoyed them.
Best wishes to your cousin and his family.
xx

[bookermel]

Eoin Coffier's 'Artimis Fowl' series are very good.

[BBWCHATT]

I think most of the larger book stores here in the US have gift cards (like credit cards - but with a prepaid limit depending on how much you buy). You could check them online to see if they have one where he lives and buy one online and have it sent to him - that way he could select whatever he likes.

This is my favorite and has gift cards:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/gc/gcbuynow2.asp ?z=y

This one is cheaper and has gift certificates:
http://www.booksamillion.com/ncom/gift_cert?id =3603291240668

[GK Fanatic]

Thanks again to all of you, as the weeks go on I'm sure I'll select from this very comprehensive list. Couldn't have done it with out you !! God Bless.