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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect magical adventure to captivate your budding reader? Look no further than "Harry Potter Books for 7-Year-Olds," a gateway to a world filled with enchantment, friendship, and a touch of mischief. Whether you're looking to introduce the series or find age-appropriate adaptations, this guide has got you covered. Keep reading to discover our curated lists of Harry Potter books that are just right for 7-year-old readers!

Fun Harry Potter Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling, illustrated by Jim Kay
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the first book in the Harry Potter series, where young Harry learns that he is a wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Here, he makes new friends and uncovers magical mysteries.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces magic in a very accessible way, captivating young readers' imaginations and encouraging them to explore more books.
  • Perfect for: Young readers new to chapter books and those who love magical adventures.

• Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling, illustrated by Jim Kay
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mystery
  • Synopsis: In Harry's second year at Hogwarts, he faces the opening of the mysterious Chamber of Secrets, battling new foes and uncovering hidden truths.
  • Why we recommend this book: It builds on the excitement of the first book and enhances problem-solving skills through its intriguing plot twists.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy puzzles and mysteries wrapped in a magical world.

• Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling, illustrated by Jim Kay
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Thriller
  • Synopsis: Harry faces the dangers posed by the escaped prisoner, Sirius Black, and learns more about his family's past in this thrilling third installment.
  • Why we recommend this book: The story promotes themes of friendship and courage in the face of adversity, which are great lessons for young minds.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who appreciate a good thrill and deeper character development.

• Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling, illustrated by Jim Kay
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Harry is unwillingly entered into the Triwizard Tournament, facing deadly tasks, dragons, and dark wizards.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces more complex themes and larger-scale events which can help expand a child’s comprehension and anticipation skills.
  • Perfect for: Older children ready for more complex narratives and epic fantasy tales.

Educational Harry Potter Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling, illustrated by Jim Kay
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Drama
  • Synopsis: As Harry grows older, he faces the growing threat of the Dark Lord. In this book, Harry forms Dumbledore’s Army to fight against the dark forces.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Leadership skills, strategic thinking, understanding of complex narratives
  • Why we recommend this book: It deals with themes of rebellion and resilience, teaching children about the importance of fighting for what is right.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories of resistance and personal growth.

• Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling, illustrated by Jim Kay
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Harry uncovers the history of Lord Voldemort's dark past and the secrets that could lead to his destruction. This book deepens the mystery and darkness of the series.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, problem-solving, historical context
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a deeper look into the consequences of good vs. evil and the complexities of human choices.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are intrigued by complex characters and intricate plot developments.

• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling, illustrated by Jim Kay
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Drama
  • Synopsis: In the final book of the series, Harry, Hermione, and Ron hunt for the Horcruxes that contain pieces of Voldemort's soul. Their journey leads to the ultimate battle between good and evil.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, perseverance, literary analysis
  • Why we recommend this book: It wraps up the series with a powerful conclusion, emphasizing the value of courage and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who have followed the series and are ready for the climactic resolution of the story.

Challenging Harry Potter Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany, and Jack Thorne
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Drama, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This play follows an adult Harry Potter and his youngest son, Albus Severus Potter, as they struggle with the past that refuses to stay where it belongs and the family legacy that follows them.
  • Why this book is challenging: The format as a script rather than a narrative novel requires readers to imagine the setting and emotions through dialogue and stage directions, which can be advanced for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It extends the beloved Harry Potter universe into a new generation, offering a fresh perspective while maintaining the magical charm.
  • Perfect for: Fans of the original series who are looking for a new way to experience the magical world and enjoy a story that spans generations.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Introducing young readers to the magical world of Harry Potter can be an enchanting experience. To make the journey even more beneficial, here are some tailored exercises designed to develop good reading habits in 7-year-olds. These activities are fun, easy to follow, and perfect for keeping young wizards and witches engaged.

• Character Mapping
  • What it is: Create a visual map of the different characters and their relationships throughout the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and helps children keep track of the story's various characters.
  • Tips: Use a large poster board and markers to add new characters as they appear in the story.

• Chapter Summaries
  • What it is: After reading a chapter, the child summarizes it in a few sentences.
  • How it helps: Improves retention and understanding of the plot.
  • Tips: Encourage them to express what they found interesting or important in each chapter.

• Magic Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Keep a list of new or interesting words found in the books.
  • How it helps: Expands vocabulary and enhances language skills.
  • Tips: Use the new words in daily conversations or have them write sentences using those words.

• Reading Aloud Sessions
  • What it is: Set aside time for the child to read passages aloud.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and builds confidence in reading skills.
  • Tips: Be patient and correct mispronunciations gently; praise their efforts frequently.

• Question Time
  • What it is: After a reading session, ask the child questions about what they read.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and better comprehension.
  • Tips: Keep questions simple and related to the story's events or characters.

• Draw the Scene
  • What it is: Have the child draw a scene from the chapter they just read.
  • How it helps: Fosters creativity and helps with visual memory of the story.
  • Tips: Provide colorful drawing materials and encourage them to depict as much detail as they can remember.

By incorporating these exercises into your child's reading routine, you not only enhance their engagement with the Harry Potter books but also significantly boost their reading skills. These activities make reading a more interactive and enjoyable process, setting a solid foundation for lifelong reading habits. Enjoy the magical journey through books with your young reader!