10+ Best Age Appropriate Books for 7-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the lookout for age appropriate books for 7-year-olds that will captivate your young reader's imagination and foster a love of reading? Finding the perfect book can be a game changer, and you're in the right place to discover a variety of picks that are just right for their age. Keep reading to explore our curated lists of age appropriate books for 7-year-olds, each packed with stories that are both engaging and suitable for their developmental stage.

Fun Age Appropriate Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A young boy named Max dresses up in a wolf suit, causes mischief at home, and is sent to bed without supper. In his room, a mysterious wild forest and sea appear, and he sails to the land of the Wild Things.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the spirit of adventure and the joy of imagination. This book helps kids explore emotions and the concept of home and safety.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love letting their imaginations run wild and those who enjoy tales of adventure and fantasy.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: This beloved story follows a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a spider named Charlotte, who tries to save him from being slaughtered.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches themes of friendship, loyalty, and the reality of life and death in a gentle manner that's accessible to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and children who are beginning to explore deeper themes in literature.

• The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: The mischievous Cat in the Hat turns a rainy afternoon into an unforgettable adventure for two young children.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its rhythmic, repetitive text and imaginative illustrations are ideal for developing readers, enhancing both their reading skills and creativity.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy playful stories and those looking to improve their reading fluency.

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Matilda is a bright young girl who loves reading. She develops telekinetic powers, which she uses to overcome her mean parents and the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates intelligence, creativity, and the power of standing up against unfair treatment.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who feel misunderstood or underappreciated and those who delight in stories of justice.

• The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This classic tale follows the mischievous Peter Rabbit as he sneaks into Mr. McGregor's garden and learns the consequences of his actions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches moral lessons through the adventures and misadventures of Peter, making it a fun way for children to learn about right and wrong.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy animal stories and those learning about personal responsibility.

Educational Age Appropriate Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Magic School Bus at the Waterworks by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Science, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Follow Ms. Frizzle and her class as they take a magical journey through the city's waterworks system to learn how water is processed from the river to their own taps.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of the water cycle, environmental science, and basic engineering
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes complex scientific concepts accessible and fun for young children through an adventurous and interactive story.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are curious about science and how things work.

• Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel
  • Genre(s): Early Reader, Friendship
  • Synopsis: This book is a collection of stories about the adventures and deep friendship between a frog and a toad.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading fluency, understanding of friendships and emotions
  • Why we recommend this book: Its simple text paired with engaging stories teaches valuable life lessons and friendship dynamics in a way that is easy for young readers to grasp.
  • Perfect for: Beginning readers and children learning about friendships.

• The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Environmental Education
  • Synopsis: Through the character of the Lorax, who speaks for the trees, this book explores the effects of corporate greed on the environment and promotes ecological responsibility.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental awareness, moral reasoning, and advocacy
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a compelling and urgent message about the importance of caring for our planet in a way that resonates with young minds.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and any child interested in nature and conservation.

• The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: The crayons in Duncan's box are tired of how they're being used and decide to go on strike, each explaining their grievances through letters.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, problem-solving, and creative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a funny and imaginative story that encourages children to think about everyday objects in a new light and teaches the value of considering others' perspectives.
  • Perfect for: Creative kids and young artists who love to color and draw.

• Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
  • Genre(s): STEM, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Inspired by real-life makers and thinkers, this story follows a curious girl named Ada, who embarks on a mission to use science to understand her world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes curiosity and perseverance in the pursuit of knowledge and problem-solving, especially encouraging young girls in science.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists and any child with a curious mind.

Challenging Age Appropriate Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A bored young boy named Milo receives a mysterious tollbooth that transports him to the Kingdom of Wisdom, a fantastical land where he embarks on a quest to rescue the princesses Rhyme and Reason.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story is rich in wordplay, puns, and philosophical ideas that require advanced comprehension and critical thinking skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages readers to see the world in new ways and appreciate the value of learning and knowledge.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy puzzles and word games, and those who are looking for a mentally stimulating adventure.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a previously unloved and spoiled child, discovers a neglected garden after moving to her uncle's house. As she restores the garden, she transforms her own life and that of her sickly cousin.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex characters and themes of loss, rejuvenation, and healing which are typically beyond the usual comprehension of this age group.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful story of transformation and the healing power of nature which can inspire empathy and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Children who love nature and stories about friendship and healing.

• Stuart Little by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Stuart Little, a mouse born into a human family, navigates the challenges of being a small creature in a big world as he embarks on an adventure to find his friend, a bird named Margalo.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel blends fantasy and reality in a way that challenges young readers to suspend disbelief and think creatively.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates differences and perseverance, and Stuart's adventures provide both excitement and thoughtful reflection.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and any child who enjoys tales of courage and exploration.

• Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Pippi Longstocking is an eccentric, super-strong, and free-spirited girl who lives alone with her horse and monkey, having adventures and flouting conventional behaviors.
  • Why this book is challenging: Pippi's unconventional adventures and the book's humorous, ironic tone provide a different perspective on societal norms and encourage critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes independence, imagination, and confidence, showing that being different is something to be celebrated.
  • Perfect for: Independent thinkers and any child who enjoys laughing and thinking outside the box.

• The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
  • Genre(s): Classic, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This tale follows the serene life of Mole, the water-loving Ratty, the wise Badger, and the erratic Mr. Toad, whose love for fast cars leads to trouble and adventure.
  • Why this book is challenging: The rich, descriptive language and the exploration of deep themes like friendship, home, and societal change are thought-provoking for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a captivating look at English countryside life and timeless lessons about personal responsibility and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Lovers of nature and classic tales with a mix of humor, adventure, and profound life lessons.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to boost your 7-year-old's reading habits, you've come to the right place. Engaging them with age-appropriate books is fantastic, but coupling that with some effective exercises can really enhance their reading experience. Here are a few fun and simple activities that can help develop good reading habits in your young reader:

• Read Aloud Together
  • What it is: Spend time reading a book aloud with your child every day.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary, improves listening skills, and makes reading a shared, enjoyable experience.
  • Tips: Let your child pick the book—it increases their interest and engagement.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a special, cozy corner in your home dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a special event and gives your child a comfortable space to dive into books.
  • Tips: Involve your child in setting it up, and make sure it's stocked with a variety of books suitable for their age.

• Book-Based Projects
  • What it is: After reading a book, work on a project related to the story or themes.
  • How it helps: Reinforces comprehension and allows your child to express their understanding creatively.
  • Tips: Projects can range from drawings and crafts to simple theatrical plays based on the book.

• Visit the Library Regularly
  • What it is: Make trips to the local library a regular part of your schedule.
  • How it helps: Exposes your child to a wide range of books and reading materials, fostering a love for reading.
  • Tips: Allow your child to choose books themselves, and participate in library events if available.

• Reading Challenge with Rewards
  • What it is: Set up a reading challenge with a clear goal and a reward at the end.
  • How it helps: Motivates your child to read more and to see reading as a rewarding activity.
  • Tips: Keep the challenges fun and attainable; the reward can be as simple as an extra hour of playtime or a small toy.

These exercises aren't just about reading more; they're about making reading a fun and integral part of your child's daily life. By incorporating these activities, you're not only helping your child develop a strong reading habit but also fostering a lifelong love for books. Happy reading!