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

Are you on the hunt for easy books for 7-year-olds that will captivate their imagination and boost their reading skills? You've come to the right place! Whether you're looking to stock up your home library or find the perfect gift, we've compiled various lists of engaging and age-appropriate reads that are just perfect for young readers. Keep reading to discover our top picks for easy books for 7-year-olds that are sure to be a hit!

Fun Easy Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A young boy named Max, dressed in a wolf costume, makes mischief and is sent to bed without supper. In his room, a mysterious wild forest and sea grow out of his imagination, and Max sails to the land of the Wild Things.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages imagination and creativity, showing kids that they can explore wild and fantastical worlds from the comfort of their own rooms.
  • Perfect for: Children who love using their imagination and embarking on adventures.

• The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: The story of a mischievous cat who visits two children, Sally and her brother, on a rainy day, turning a dull day into a magical adventure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces fun rhymes and lively illustrations that keep young readers engaged and entertained, helping to build early reading skills.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy playful stories and rhyming texts.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale 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 important values such as friendship, love, and the reality of life and death, all wrapped up in a beautifully written story.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers who appreciate stories about friendship and loyalty.

• Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss
  • Genre(s): Humor, Beginner Books
  • Synopsis: Sam-I-Am persistently follows another character throughout the book trying to convince him to try green eggs and ham.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its repetitive and simple words help build confidence in early readers, and its whimsical plot encourages trying new things.
  • Perfect for: Picky eaters and young readers who are just starting to read on their own.

• The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This story follows the mischievous Peter Rabbit, who disobeys his mother by sneaking into Mr. McGregor's garden and almost gets caught.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the thrill of mischief and the ensuing consequences, all while introducing children to the joys of storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about animals and adventures.

Educational Easy Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A clever mouse uses the threat of a terrifying creature called the Gruffalo to keep dangers at bay in a forest. However, the mouse is shocked to meet the mythical beast itself.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Strategy thinking, problem-solving, creativity
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating story that combines wit, clever tricks, and a delightful twist which keeps children engaged.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love stories with clever protagonists and mythical creatures.

• Magic Tree House: Dinosaurs Before Dark by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Jack and Annie discover a tree house filled with books that can transport them through time. Their first adventure takes them to the age of the dinosaurs.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, historical knowledge, imagination
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces history and science through thrilling time-travel adventures, making learning fun and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in dinosaurs and time travel.

• The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: A boy named Duncan finds a stack of letters from his crayons, each expressing their feelings and grievances about how they are used.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, problem-solving, color recognition
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on everyday objects, encouraging empathy and creative thinking.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy drawing and coloring, as well as those who appreciate a good laugh.

• Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: Inspired by real-life makers such as Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie, Ada Twist is a curious girl who embarks on fact-finding missions and conducts scientific experiments to understand the world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, curiosity, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes the importance of curiosity and perseverance, especially encouraging girls in science.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young scientists and any kid with a curious mind.

• Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola
  • Genre(s): Folklore, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Strega Nona ("Grandma Witch") is the source of magical remedies in her town. When her helper, Big Anthony, tries to use her magic pasta pot without permission, things go hilariously wrong.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Moral lessons, cultural awareness, reading comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It blends humor with important lessons about responsibility and the consequences of one's actions.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy magical stories and learning about different cultures.

Challenging Easy Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This novel follows a bored young boy named Milo who unexpectedly receives a magic tollbooth that transports him to the Kingdom of Wisdom. Here, he embarks on a quest that requires him to think differently and solve various puzzles.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces complex vocabulary and abstract concepts in a playful manner, which can be intellectually stimulating for young advanced readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking and creativity, showing how learning can turn into an exciting adventure.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy puzzles and wordplay, and those looking for a challenge.

• The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: This poetic tale tells the story of a young prince who travels from planet to planet, learning about the peculiarities of adult behavior through various encounters.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative weaves in philosophical questions about life and human nature, which can provoke deep thinking and introspection.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers timeless lessons on love, loss, and what truly matters in life, presented through simple but profound storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Young philosophers and deep thinkers.

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: Matilda is a brilliant and sensitive child neglected by her family. When she discovers she has telekinetic powers, she begins to defend her friends from their tyrannical headmistress and her uncaring parents.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story features rich language and themes of justice and personal empowerment, which are more complex than typical children's books.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the resilience and ingenuity of a young girl, inspiring readers to believe in their own power to change their circumstances.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who feel misunderstood or underapplicated, and those who love stories of triumph.

• Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren, illustrated by Lauren Child
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Humor
  • Synopsis: Pippi Longstocking is an unconventional, assertive, and extraordinarily strong girl who lives alone with her horse and monkey. Her adventures often involve outsmarting adults and bullies.
  • Why this book is challenging: Pippi's adventures and the way she challenges societal norms can inspire discussions about independence, justice, and societal expectations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages independence and thinking differently, wrapped in humor and thrilling escapades.
  • Perfect for: Independent spirits and any child who enjoys laughter mixed with adventure.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a previously unloved and spoiled child, is sent to live at her uncle's estate where she discovers a locked, neglected garden. As she brings the garden back to life, she transforms along with it.
  • Why this book is challenging: The intricate narrative and character development provide a rich reading experience that is uncommon in simpler children's books.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a story of rejuvenation and the healing power of nature, promoting themes of friendship and self-growth.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about transformation and the mysteries of exploring new places.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 7-year-old develop great reading habits, here are some fun and easy exercises to get you started. These activities are designed to be engaging and beneficial, ensuring that reading becomes a joyful part of their daily life. Let's dive in!

• Set a Daily Reading Time
  • What it is: Dedicate a specific time each day for reading.
  • How it helps: Creates a routine and helps make reading a regular activity.
  • Tips: Choose a quiet time of day when your child is most alert and relaxed.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a special, cozy corner dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a special and enjoyable experience.
  • Tips: Let your child help in setting it up with comfy cushions and their favorite books.

• Read Together
  • What it is: Spend time reading the same book with your child.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and makes reading a shared, bonding activity.
  • Tips: Discuss the story and characters to improve comprehension and engagement.

• Use Picture Books
  • What it is: Incorporate books with lots of illustrations.
  • How it helps: Visuals help in understanding the text and keep the child interested.
  • Tips: Ask your child to describe what they see and how it relates to the story.

• Visit the Library Regularly
  • What it is: Make regular visits to the local library.
  • How it helps: Gives your child access to a variety of books and fosters a love for reading.
  • Tips: Allow them to choose their own books to increase their enthusiasm for reading.

• Storytelling Sessions
  • What it is: Encourage your child to tell their version of the story after reading.
  • How it helps: Improves memory, comprehension, and verbal skills.
  • Tips: Be an active listener and praise their efforts to boost confidence.

• Reading Rewards Chart
  • What it is: Create a chart to track reading progress and reward accomplishments.
  • How it helps: Motivates children to read more and take pride in their achievements.
  • Tips: Offer small rewards like extra playtime or a choice of the next book to read.

These exercises are not only fun but also incredibly beneficial for developing strong reading habits at an early age. By integrating these activities into your child's routine, you'll help them grow into avid readers with a deep love for books. Happy reading!