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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to introduce the wonders of the natural world to your little explorer? Look no further! Our curated selection of Nature Books for 7-Year-Olds is tailored to spark curiosity and teach fascinating facts about our planet. From backyard critters to the vastness of the oceans, each book is a gateway to adventure. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to captivate and educate your young reader.

Fun Nature Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Magic School Bus at the Waterworks by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Science, Adventure, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Join Ms. Frizzle and her class as they take a wild, educational trip through the city's waterworks to learn how water is used and cleaned for the city.
  • Why we recommend this book: It transforms complex scientific concepts into engaging, accessible information that captivates young minds.
  • Perfect for: Curious kids who love science and adventure.

• The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Environmentalism
  • Synopsis: Through the voice of the Lorax, this book tells a story about the consequences of human greed on the environment, emphasizing the importance of trees and conservation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces environmental awareness in a fun, rhythmic way that resonates with young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and fans of rhythmic, engaging stories.

• National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Why by Amy Shields
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book provides answers to common why questions asked by kids, covering a broad range of topics including nature, science, and many everyday phenomena.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages curiosity and provides satisfying explanations to the endless 'why' questions kids have about the world around them.
  • Perfect for: Inquisitive minds that crave answers and understanding of the world.

• Diary of a Worm by Doreen Cronin, illustrated by Harry Bliss
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction, Diary Format
  • Synopsis: This humorous book is written in the form of a diary from the perspective of a young worm who experiences life's challenges and adventures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and funny read that also teaches about the ecological role of worms in a way that's easy to understand and enjoy.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy humor mixed with learning and those fascinated by animals and nature.

• Owl Moon by Jane Yolen, illustrated by John Schoenherr
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Nature
  • Synopsis: A child and their father go owling on a cold winter night, experiencing the serene beauty and thrill of nature.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully captures the quiet wonders of nature and the special bond between parent and child during a shared adventure.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who appreciate nature and family bonding experiences.

Educational Nature Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Over and Under the Pond by Kate Messner, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal
  • Genre(s): Nature, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book explores the secret world of a mountain pond. Above the pond, the life of birds, bears, and other wildlife unfolds, while below the water, turtles, fish, and other creatures lead a totally different existence.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of ecosystems, awareness of environmental science, observation skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fantastic journey into a hidden world, beautifully illustrated to capture the imagination of young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love exploring nature and learning about different habitats.

• The Tree Lady by H. Joseph Hopkins, illustrated by Jill McElmurry
  • Genre(s): Biography, Environmentalism
  • Synopsis: This inspiring true story follows Kate Sessions who moved to San Diego and transformed the dry desert landscape into a lush, leafy city known for its parks and gardens.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental awareness, historical knowledge, inspiration from real-life figures
  • Why we recommend this book: It shows how one person's efforts can lead to tremendous environmental change, inspiring young readers to think about how they can impact their own communities.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and aspiring gardeners.

• A Butterfly Is Patient by Dianna Hutts Aston, illustrated by Sylvia Long
  • Genre(s): Nature, Science
  • Synopsis: An introduction to the life cycle, behavior, and types of butterflies, this book combines detailed illustrations with fascinating facts.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Life science, patience and observation, appreciation for small creatures
  • Why we recommend this book: It's not only educational but also beautifully illustrated, making the science of butterflies enchanting and accessible.
  • Perfect for: Children who are curious about insects and the natural world.

• The Curious Garden by Peter Brown
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Environmentalism
  • Synopsis: The story follows a young boy who discovers a struggling garden and decides to take care of it. As the garden blooms, so does the entire community, transforming a gray city into a green, lush paradise.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Responsibility, community involvement, environmental stewardship
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches the importance of taking care of our environment and how even the smallest efforts can lead to big changes.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy stories about transformation and nature.

• Tiny Creatures: The World of Microbes by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Emily Sutton
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: This book introduces children to the invisible world of microbes, explaining their diverse roles in the earth's ecosystem and in human lives.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Microbiology, scientific curiosity, understanding of ecosystems
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes complex scientific concepts accessible and fascinating to young minds, encouraging a deeper interest in science.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and any kid fascinated by the unseen parts of the natural world.

Challenging Nature Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate – Discoveries from a Secret World by Peter Wohlleben
  • Genre(s): Nature, Science
  • Synopsis: This book explores the complex life of trees, revealing how they communicate, support each other, and survive in the forest.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces advanced scientific concepts and ecological relationships, presented in a detailed and thought-provoking manner.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on the natural world, encouraging respect and empathy for the environment.
  • Perfect for: Nature lovers and young scientists eager to understand the deeper workings of forest ecosystems.

• The Reasons for Seasons by Gail Gibbons
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book explains the scientific reasons behind the changing seasons, detailing how Earth's position in relation to the sun affects the weather.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers complex astronomical and meteorological concepts that are typically introduced at higher education levels.
  • Why we recommend this book: It clarifies the fascinating science behind everyday natural phenomena, enhancing a child's understanding of the world.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds that are fascinated by nature and science, especially astronomy.

• 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): Adventure, Educational
  • Synopsis: This atlas takes readers on a journey around the world, exploring various cultures, landmarks, and natural phenomena through beautifully detailed illustrations and informative text.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a wealth of information on diverse topics, requiring readers to absorb and connect complex geographical and cultural concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It broadens horizons and encourages exploration, fostering a sense of adventure and curiosity about different parts of the world.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who dream of traveling and learning about new places and cultures.

• The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth: Understanding Our World and Its Ecosystems by Rachel Ignotofsky
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This illustrated guide to Earth's natural processes and ecosystems explains how different organisms interact with each other and their environments to create sustainable systems.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex ecological and biological concepts, illustrated with detailed diagrams and infographics that require careful study.
  • Why we recommend this book: It visually and textually enriches the reader's understanding of environmental science, promoting ecological awareness and responsibility.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring environmentalists and students interested in biology and ecology.

• Animalium by Jenny Broom, illustrated by Katie Scott
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Reference
  • Synopsis: Presented as a virtual museum with "galleries" of different animal kingdoms, this book offers detailed insights into various species' anatomy, behavior, and habitats.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features museum-quality detail about biodiversity and complex scientific terminology, suitable for advanced young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thorough, engaging exploration of the animal kingdom, encouraging deeper knowledge and appreciation of biodiversity.
  • Perfect for: Young naturalists who are keen on learning detailed scientific facts about animals.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to spark a love for nature in your 7-year-old, pairing reading with engaging activities can be a fantastic way to do it. Here are some fun exercises that fit perfectly with nature books and are designed to develop good reading habits. Let's dive in!

• Create a Nature Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a special place at home or outside where your child can comfortably read books about nature.
  • How it helps: Provides a dedicated and inspiring environment that can make reading more appealing.
  • Tips: Let your child help in setting up the nook with items like cushions, blankets, and maybe even a plant.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: After reading, have your child draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Reinforces what they've read by engaging their creativity and memory.
  • Tips: Provide colored pencils, markers, and paper to make this activity more enjoyable.

• Story Map Creation
  • What it is: Create a visual map of the story, including major events and characters.
  • How it helps: Helps with comprehension and recall of the story's structure.
  • Tips: Use large paper and stickers for a fun and interactive experience.

• Nature Vocabulary Jar
  • What it is: Write down new words found in nature books on pieces of paper and keep them in a jar.
  • How it helps: Builds vocabulary and helps in remembering new terms.
  • Tips: Encourage your child to use these new words in sentences throughout the week.

• Read and Discuss
  • What it is: After reading, discuss the book with your child focusing on the plot, characters, and the nature elements.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and encourages critical thinking.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions to stimulate more detailed responses.

• Book-Inspired Nature Walks
  • What it is: Go on nature walks inspired by the settings or elements in the nature books you read.
  • How it helps: Connects the content of books to real-world experiences, enhancing understanding.
  • Tips: Bring the book along and compare the natural elements you see with those described in the book.

• Nature Book Club
  • What it is: Start a book club with a few of your child’s friends focusing on nature books.
  • How it helps: Encourages social interaction and sharing of ideas.
  • Tips: Host a monthly meeting where the kids can discuss a book they all have read.

These exercises are not just about reading; they're about creating a full sensory experience around the books your child explores. By integrating these activities, you'll help your child develop a love for both reading and nature. Happy reading and exploring!