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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to broaden your 7-year-old's horizons? Look no further! Our curated list of General Knowledge Books for 7-Year-Olds is packed with exciting reads that are both fun and educational. These books are designed to spark curiosity and foster a love for learning. Keep reading to discover the various options that will keep your young reader engaged and eager to learn more!

Fun General Knowledge Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Magic School Bus Inside the Human Body by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Science, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Join Ms. Frizzle and her class as they take a fascinating trip inside the human body aboard the magical school bus to learn about human anatomy and physiology.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling way for kids to learn about the human body through an adventurous and interactive story.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who enjoy science and adventure.

• National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Why by Amy Shields
  • Genre(s): Reference, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book provides answers to many common "why" questions asked by kids, covering topics from animals to technology.
  • Why we recommend this book: It satisfies curious minds and encourages a deeper understanding of the world through simple explanations and engaging visuals.
  • Perfect for: Curious young minds who have endless questions about the world around them.

• The Everything Kids' Science Experiments Book by Tom Robinson
  • Genre(s): Science, Activity Book
  • Synopsis: This book offers simple science experiments that can be done with everyday household items, teaching basic scientific concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes learning science fun and accessible, promoting hands-on learning and critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Budding scientists and any kid who loves to learn by doing.

• Maps by Aleksandra Mizielinska and Daniel Mizielinski
  • Genre(s): Geography, Cultural
  • Synopsis: A visual feast of maps filled with quirky and engaging illustrations of the world, showcasing countries with their famous landmarks, native animals, and cultural icons.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a unique and artistic exploration of the world that enhances geographical knowledge and cultural awareness.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and explorers who are fascinated by different cultures and places around the globe.

• The Kid Who Invented the Popsicle: And Other Surprising Stories about Inventions by Don L. Wulffson
  • Genre(s): History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book explores the interesting and often surprising stories behind everyday inventions, revealing the history and science behind each.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a fun way to learn about history and innovation, inspiring creativity and curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Inventive kids who are curious about how things work and the stories behind them.

Educational General Knowledge Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The World in Your Lunch Box: The Wacky History and Weird Science of Everyday Foods by Claire Eamer, illustrated by Sa Boothroyd
  • Genre(s): Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book uncovers the fascinating facts and science behind the foods we eat every day, from apples to pizza.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Nutritional science, historical knowledge, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with education, making the science of food interesting and digestible for kids.
  • Perfect for: Young foodies and budding scientists interested in understanding what's on their plate.

• Human Body Theater: A Non-Fiction Revue by Maris Wicks
  • Genre(s): Science, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel stages a theatrical presentation of the human body, explaining its functions and systems in an engaging visual format.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Anatomy, biology, visual learning
  • Why we recommend this book: Its unique graphic novel approach makes complex scientific concepts accessible and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and kids who love comics and science.

• One Hundred Steps: The Story of Captain Sir Tom Moore by Captain Tom Moore, illustrated by Adam Larkum
  • Genre(s): Biography, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book tells the inspiring story of Captain Sir Tom Moore, who walked one hundred laps of his garden to raise money for charity at the age of 99.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: History, moral values, inspiration
  • Why we recommend this book: It shares a powerful message of perseverance and charity, inspiring children to believe in making a difference.
  • Perfect for: Young readers looking for real-life heroes and motivational stories.

• Ask a Scientist: Professor Robert Winston Answers 100 Big Questions from Kids Around the World! by Robert Winston
  • Genre(s): Science, Q&A
  • Synopsis: Professor Robert Winston answers one hundred intriguing questions from kids, covering a wide range of scientific topics.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, scientific knowledge, curiosity
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses kids' natural curiosity directly, providing clear and engaging answers to complex questions.
  • Perfect for: Inquisitive minds that love to question how and why things work.

• Atlas of Adventures: A collection of natural wonders, exciting experiences and fun festivities from the four corners of the globe by Rachel Williams, illustrated by Lucy Letherland
  • Genre(s): Geography, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers on a journey around the world, exploring continents and introducing children to the diverse cultures, animals, and environments.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Geography, cultural awareness, environmental science
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s visually stunning and packed with information, perfect for sparking a love of travel and discovery.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers eager to learn about different parts of the world and their wonders.

Challenging General Knowledge Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Genius of Dogs: How Dogs Are Smarter Than You Think by Brian Hare and Vanessa Woods
  • Genre(s): Science, Animal Behavior
  • Synopsis: This book explores the intelligence of dogs through engaging scientific research and personal anecdotes, revealing how dogs have the ability to understand human gestures and solve complex problems.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces advanced scientific concepts and research methodologies related to animal psychology and cognition.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a fascinating insight into the cognitive abilities of dogs, encouraging a deeper appreciation and understanding of our canine companions.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young scientists interested in understanding animal behavior and intelligence.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This true story follows William Kamkwamba, a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to save his village from drought and famine.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of innovation, resilience, and the impact of technology on society, presented through a narrative that also touches on economic and environmental issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale that showcases the power of ingenuity and determination in the face of adversity.
  • Perfect for: Young innovators and readers interested in engineering, sustainability, and stories of personal triumph.

• The Mysteries of the Universe: Discover the best-kept secrets of space by Will Gater
  • Genre(s): Science, Space, Astronomy
  • Synopsis: This visually stunning book uncovers the secrets of space, from black holes to the Big Bang, illustrated with breathtaking photographs and detailed diagrams.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex astronomical concepts and theories about the universe that require abstract thinking and comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires awe and curiosity about the cosmos, encouraging young readers to explore and understand the vast universe.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring astronomers and any child fascinated by space and the mysteries it holds.

• Animalium by Jenny Broom, illustrated by Katie Scott
  • Genre(s): Natural History, Science
  • Synopsis: Presented as a virtual museum with "galleries" of different animal kingdoms, this book offers detailed illustrations and fascinating facts about a variety of species from around the world.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features a comprehensive and scientific approach to biodiversity, taxonomy, and the ecological relationships between different species.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an educational journey through the animal kingdom that enhances understanding of natural science and the importance of biodiversity.
  • Perfect for: Young naturalists and anyone interested in learning about the diversity of life on Earth.

• The Philosophy Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained by DK
  • Genre(s): Philosophy, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book simplifies complex philosophical concepts and introduces young readers to the thoughts and theories of some of the world's greatest philosophers, from ancient times to the modern day.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles abstract and often complex ideas that require critical thinking and reflection.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages deep thinking and introduces young minds to major philosophical questions and the art of reasoning.
  • Perfect for: Curious thinkers and young scholars eager to explore fundamental questions about life, reality, and ethics.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 7-year-old develop great reading habits while diving into some awesome general knowledge books, I've got just the thing for you. Below are some fun and educational exercises that can make reading a habit that sticks. These activities are not only enjoyable but also enhance comprehension and retention. Let's make reading a super adventure!

• Create a Reading Corner
  • What it is: Set up a special, cozy spot dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Creates a physical space that's associated with reading, making it a delightful routine.
  • Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions or posters to make it inviting.

• Book of the Week
  • What it is: Choose a different general knowledge book each week to read.
  • How it helps: Introduces diversity in topics and keeps reading fresh and exciting.
  • Tips: Allow your child to pick the book of the week to boost their enthusiasm.

• Storytelling Sessions
  • What it is: After reading, encourage your child to recount the book’s content in their own words.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and verbal skills, and helps them internalize what they've learned.
  • Tips: Make it fun by acting out parts of the book or using props.

• Reading Challenge Chart
  • What it is: Create a chart to track the number of books or pages your child reads.
  • How it helps: Motivates children by showing them tangible progress in their reading journey.
  • Tips: Offer small rewards for reaching milestones to keep the motivation high.

• Interactive Q&A
  • What it is: Pose questions about the book before, during, and after reading.
  • How it helps: Stimulates critical thinking and engagement with the material.
  • Tips: Keep the questions light and fun; make it feel like a game rather than a test.

• Link to Daily Life
  • What it is: Connect concepts or facts from the book to everyday life.
  • How it helps: Helps children see the relevance of what they read in their own world.
  • Tips: For example, if reading about animals, you might relate it to a pet or a recent trip to the zoo.

• Illustrate the Facts
  • What it is: Have your child draw or create a collage about what they learned.
  • How it helps: Encourages artistic expression and solidifies memory through visualization.
  • Tips: Provide a variety of materials like markers, magazines for cutting, or old newspapers.

These exercises are designed to be both fun and educational, ensuring that your child not only learns but also loves the process. Remember, the key is consistency and enthusiasm. Happy reading!