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

Are you on the hunt for engaging and age-appropriate war books for 7-year-olds? Finding the right balance between educational content and suitable storytelling can be tricky, especially when it comes to historical events. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or librarian, this blog is your go-to guide for discovering the perfect war-themed books that captivate and educate young minds. Keep reading to explore our curated lists of war books for 7-year-olds that are both informative and intriguing!

Fun War Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Butter Battle Book by Dr. Seuss
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Allegory
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of the Yooks and Zooks, who are at odds over which side of the bread to butter, leading to an escalating arms race.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces complex themes like conflict and resolution in a way that's accessible and engaging for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy rhymes and vivid illustrations, and who are beginning to learn about resolving conflicts.

• War Game by Michael Foreman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Children’s Literature
  • Synopsis: Based on true events during World War I, this story follows a group of young soldiers who experience the 1914 Christmas Truce.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a poignant look at history through the lens of young protagonists, highlighting themes of friendship and peace.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories about friendship overcoming adversity.

• The General by Janet Charters, illustrated by Michael Foreman
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of a general who decides to turn a battlefield into a garden where everyone can come together in peace.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautiful tale of transformation and peace, encouraging young readers to think about non-violence.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy stories with moral lessons and vibrant illustrations.

• Faithful Elephants: A True Story of Animals, People, and War by Yukio Tsuchiya, illustrated by Ted Lewin
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Historical
  • Synopsis: A touching story about the fate of the zoo animals in Tokyo during World War II, focusing on three elephants.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sensitively introduces the impacts of war on animals, fostering empathy and awareness in young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in historical events from a different perspective.

• The Wall by Eve Bunting, illustrated by Ronald Himler
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: A young boy and his father visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to find his grandfather's name.
  • Why we recommend this book: It helps children understand the concept of memory and loss through a deeply personal and relatable story.
  • Perfect for: Young readers learning about American history and the significance of remembrance.

Educational War Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Fly, Cher Ami, Fly! by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Robert MacKenzie
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: The story centers on Cher Ami, a carrier pigeon during World War I who saved the lives of many soldiers by delivering crucial messages across enemy lines.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: History of World War I, animal heroes in war, bravery and perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the role of animals in war and showcases the themes of courage and heroism in a way that's accessible to children.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in animal stories and historical adventures.

• The Poppy Lady: Moina Belle Michael and Her Tribute to Veterans by Barbara Walsh, illustrated by Layne Johnson
  • Genre(s): Biography, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Moina Belle Michael, who helped establish the red poppy as a symbol of remembrance for veterans.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of World War I, the significance of remembrance, social impact
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a personal connection to historical events and inspires children to appreciate the importance of honoring those who have served.
  • Perfect for: Children who are curious about history and the origins of cultural traditions.

• Shooting at the Stars: The Christmas Truce of 1914 by John Hendrix
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: Depicts the famous Christmas Truce during World War I, when soldiers on both sides laid down their arms to celebrate the holiday together.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: European history, themes of peace and humanity, critical thinking about war
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a moving story that illustrates a moment of peace and humanity amidst the chaos of war, making it a powerful lesson for young minds.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories of kindness and camaraderie during tough times.

• Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad by Ellen Levine, illustrated by Kadir Nelson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Biography
  • Synopsis: The true story of Henry "Box" Brown, who mailed himself to freedom in a wooden crate to escape slavery.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: American history, resilience and resourcefulness, understanding of slavery
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces young readers to the concepts of slavery, freedom, and the courage it takes to escape from oppression.
  • Perfect for: Children learning about American history and the struggles for freedom and equality.

• Guns for General Washington: A Story of the American Revolution by Seymour Reit
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: A thrilling account of the American Revolution focusing on a daring mission by Henry Knox to transport 59 cannons from Fort Ticonderoga to Boston in the winter of 1775-76.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: American Revolutionary War history, strategic thinking, perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the strategic challenges and heroic efforts of the American Revolution, providing a dynamic and engaging way for kids to learn about this pivotal period in history.
  • Perfect for: Young history buffs and readers who enjoy adventure and tales of strategic daring.

Challenging War Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Samurai Kids: White Crane by Sandy Fussell
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Set in feudal Japan, this book follows a young boy named Niya Moto who is the only one-legged Samurai kid in Japan. Niya and his friends at the Cockroach Ryu face challenges and adventures as they prepare for an important competition.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces complex concepts of Japanese culture and historical context, which are sophisticated for this age group.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches about resilience, teamwork, and the importance of embracing one's unique strengths.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in martial arts, Japanese culture, and historical adventures.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Copenhagen, Denmark, during World War II, this story follows 10-year-old Annemarie Johansen as she helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape the Nazis.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with the themes of war, sacrifice, and bravery under very real historical circumstances, requiring a mature understanding from young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling introduction to the history of World War II and the Holocaust, promoting values of courage and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers who are ready to learn about significant historical events through a relatable narrative.

• The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of the Balicki children in World War II Warsaw as they use a silver sword, a family heirloom, as a symbol of hope to reunite with their parents.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative includes multiple perspectives and a complex plot involving a journey across war-torn Europe.
  • Why we recommend this book: It illustrates the resilience and resourcefulness of young people in adverse situations, offering a message of hope and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Children interested in stories of adventure and survival against the odds.

• War Horse by Michael Morpurgo
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story is about a horse named Joey who is requisitioned to fight in World War I and the deep bond he shares with his young owner, Albert, who goes on a dangerous mission to bring him home.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative perspective of Joey provides a unique and emotionally complex view of war.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a poignant exploration of loyalty, the horrors of war, and the powerful bonds between humans and animals.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love animals and are interested in historical narratives that highlight emotional depth and moral complexity.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Introducing young readers to the genre of war books can be a delicate task, especially for 7-year-olds. To help them grasp the complex themes and encourage a healthy reading habit, here are some engaging exercises. These activities are designed to enhance understanding and make reading more enjoyable.

• Create a Story Map
  • What it is: Draw a map that outlines the major events or battles in the story.
  • How it helps: Helps children visualize the sequence of events and the relationships between them.
  • Tips: Use colorful markers or crayons to make the activity more engaging.

• Character Role Play
  • What it is: Act out scenes from the book as different characters.
  • How it helps: Enhances deep understanding of the characters' emotions and motivations.
  • Tips: Encourage kids to use costumes or props to make the role play more fun.

• Illustrate a Scene
  • What it is: Choose a favorite scene from the book and draw it.
  • How it helps: Helps with recall and reinforces visualization skills.
  • Tips: Display the artwork to show encouragement and appreciation for their effort.

• Question Jar
  • What it is: Write down questions about the story on pieces of paper and put them in a jar.
  • How it helps: Encourages curiosity and deeper thinking about the story.
  • Tips: Take turns drawing questions from the jar and discussing them.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: After reading a chapter, summarize it in a few sentences.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Use simple, straightforward sentences to keep it manageable and clear.

These exercises are not just about reading; they're about making reading a multi-dimensional experience. By engaging in these activities, children not only understand the content better but also develop a love for reading that can last a lifetime. Encourage them to try different exercises and find out which ones they enjoy the most! Happy reading!