10+ Best Chapter Books for 6-7-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect chapter books for 6-7-year-olds? You're in the right place! Whether you're looking to ignite a love for reading in your little one or searching for new adventures to stock their bookshelf, we've got a variety of picks that are just right for this curious age group. Keep reading to discover our curated lists of chapter books that are sure to capture the hearts and imaginations of young readers.

Fun Chapter Books for 6-7-Year-Olds

• The Magic Tree House by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Follow siblings Jack and Annie as they discover a magical tree house filled with books that transport them through time and space on various adventures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces history and science through engaging adventures, making learning fun and accessible.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love adventure and have a budding interest in history and science.

• Nate the Great by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat, illustrated by Marc Simont
  • Genre(s): Mystery
  • Synopsis: Nate, a young detective, solves various mysteries with the help of his dog, Sludge, and his friends.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills through entertaining and straightforward mysteries.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy puzzles and playing detective.

• Junie B. Jones by Barbara Park, illustrated by Denise Brunkus
  • Genre(s): Humor, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Junie B. Jones is a kindergartner (and later a first grader) who navigates the trials and tribulations of school life with humor and sass.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's funny, relatable, and captures the voice of a young child in a very authentic way, which keeps readers entertained and engaged.
  • Perfect for: Children who appreciate humor and are starting or currently in elementary school.

• Ivy + Bean by Annie Barrows, illustrated by Sophie Blackall
  • Genre(s): Friendship, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This series follows two unlikely friends, Ivy and Bean, who are very different but team up for various escapades in their neighborhood.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates friendship and the joy of having adventures, encouraging readers to explore their own friendships and environments.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about friendship and mischief.

• Dinosaurs Before Dark (Magic Tree House #1) by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In the first book of the Magic Tree House series, Jack and Annie are whisked away to the time of the dinosaurs and must find a way to survive and return home.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling introduction to the series that combines excitement with a touch of educational content about dinosaurs.
  • Perfect for: Children who are fascinated by dinosaurs and enjoy time-travel adventures.

Educational Chapter Books for 6-7-Year-Olds

• The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Princess Magnolia has a secret—she’s also the Princess in Black, a superhero who fights monsters and saves her kingdom!
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading confidence, understanding of good vs. evil, problem-solving skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces young readers to a strong female protagonist and blends fantasy with action in an accessible way.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love superheroes and princesses.

• Charlie & Mouse by Laurel Snyder, illustrated by Emily Hughes
  • Genre(s): Realistic Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Follow the everyday adventures of two brothers, Charlie and Mouse, in this series of charming stories.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Early literacy skills, family bonding, imaginative play
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the essence of childhood with warmth and humor, making it a delightful read.
  • Perfect for: Young children who enjoy stories about sibling relationships and everyday adventures.

• Mercy Watson to the Rescue by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Chris Van Dusen
  • Genre(s): Humor, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Mercy Watson is a porcine wonder who loves buttered toast and finds herself on hilarious adventures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Vocabulary development, reading fluency, humor appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a funny and engaging story with a lovable protagonist that encourages frequent reading.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy humorous stories and quirky characters.

• Ling & Ting: Not Exactly the Same! by Grace Lin
  • Genre(s): Realistic Fiction, Culture
  • Synopsis: Ling and Ting are twins who are not exactly the same! The book shares their fun and heartwarming adventures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, early reading skills, understanding of individuality
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches valuable lessons about diversity and individuality in a light and engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Early readers interested in stories about family and cultural identity.

• Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows by Asia Citro, illustrated by Marion Lindsay
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Zoey discovers she can see magical creatures and uses science to help them with their problems.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific method, problem-solving, empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: It uniquely combines elements of fantasy with scientific inquiry, making it both imaginative and educational.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and animal lovers who enjoy a touch of magic in their reading.

Challenging Chapter Books for 6-7-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classics
  • Synopsis: This beloved novel tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a barn spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte writes messages praising Wilbur in her web to persuade the farmer to let him live.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text introduces complex themes of friendship, loss, and the cycle of life, which are profound and thought-provoking for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers rich, emotional storytelling that helps children develop empathy and a deeper understanding of life's complexities.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are ready to explore deeper emotional themes and enjoy animal stories.

• Stuart Little by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The story of a mouse named Stuart Little who is born into an ordinary New York family. The narrative follows his adventures in the big city as he searches for his lost friend, a bird named Margalo.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features sophisticated language and a mix of realistic and fantasy elements that challenge young readers to expand their imagination and comprehension skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: Stuart's adventures are not only entertaining but also teach lessons about love, loyalty, and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy stories that blend reality with fantasy and root for underdog characters.

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the story of Despereaux Tilling, a mouse who loves music, stories, and a princess named Pea. It tells of his adventures in a castle full of darkness and rats, and his quest to rescue the princess.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure includes complex vocabulary and interwoven themes of bravery and forgiveness that are sophisticated for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written fairy tale that encourages bravery and compassion, while also engaging young readers with its thrilling plot.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love fairy tales and are interested in stories about heroism and adventure.

• The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Classics
  • Synopsis: This classic tale follows the adventures of four animals—Mole, Ratty, Badger, and the reckless Toad. The story explores their lives and adventures along a river in the English countryside.
  • Why this book is challenging: The use of rich, descriptive language and a slow narrative pace provides a more demanding read for young children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches about friendship and the importance of home, and it is a timeless story that delights with its humor and vivid descriptions of the pastoral setting.
  • Perfect for: Children who appreciate nature and stories of friendship and adventure.

• Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren, illustrated by Lauren Child
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: Pippi Longstocking is an eccentric, super-strong girl who lives alone with her horse and monkey, having adventures and bucking the conventions of how young girls should behave.
  • Why this book is challenging: Pippi's unconventional adventures and imaginative antics are presented through advanced vocabulary and themes of independence and self-reliance.
  • Why we recommend this book: Pippi Longstocking encourages freedom of spirit, creativity, and the questioning of societal norms, making it a compelling read for young minds.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous young readers who enjoy humorous stories and strong, quirky characters.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you've got a young reader at home, you know how crucial it is to nurture their budding reading skills. Here’s a list of fun and effective exercises designed specifically for 6-7-year-olds to help them develop good reading habits. These activities are not only enjoyable but also incredibly beneficial in fostering a love for reading.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a special, cozy corner dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Creates a personal space that encourages regular reading.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the nook with their favorite cushions or toys.

• Book Selection Day
  • What it is: Dedicate a day to choose new books to read together.
  • How it helps: Involves the child in the decision-making process, boosting interest and excitement.
  • Tips: Visit your local library or bookstore to make the selection process an adventure.

• Story Predictions
  • What it is: Before reading, ask your child what they think will happen in the story.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension skills and engages their imagination.
  • Tips: Keep the predictions fun and light; there are no wrong answers!

• Reading Rewards Chart
  • What it is: Create a chart that tracks the number of books or chapters read.
  • How it helps: Motivates children by giving them a visual representation of their achievements.
  • Tips: Offer small rewards for reaching reading milestones, like an extra bedtime story.

• Read Aloud Sessions
  • What it is: Set aside time when you read aloud to each other.
  • How it helps: Improves vocabulary and listening skills, and it's a great bonding activity.
  • Tips: Alternate who reads each page to keep it interactive and engaging.

• Character Dress-Up
  • What it is: Dress up as favorite characters from the books you read.
  • How it helps: Encourages deeper connection with the story and characters.
  • Tips: Use items around the house for costumes to make it easy and fun.

• Discuss the Day’s Reading
  • What it is: Have a daily discussion about what you read together.
  • How it helps: Enhances retention and comprehension.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions to encourage thoughtful responses.

Implementing these exercises can make reading a more engaging and enjoyable habit for your child. Not only do these activities support literacy development, but they also add an element of fun to reading time. Give them a try, and watch your little one grow into a lifelong reader!