Looking for the best books for your 7-year-old? Look no further! At this age, children are developing crucial reading skills, including better vocabulary and comprehension. Books can help them expand their minds and explore new worlds, making this an exciting time for young readers.
Finding the right books for your child can be a challenge, but it’s essential to keep them engaged and challenged without overwhelming them. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best books for 7-year-olds. From classics to contemporary titles, there’s something for every young reader on this list. So, let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of literature together!
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HappyBabyHub’s Best Books For 7-Year-Olds Picks
1. Eva’s Treetop Festival: A Branches Book
Get ready to soar with the Scholastic Branches series, perfect for young readers ready to take flight! These books are designed to help newly independent readers build their confidence and skills through engaging stories, simple writing, exciting plots, and plenty of illustrations on every page.
In this latest adventure, join Eva Wingdale as she takes on the challenge of planning a spring event at school. But as the deadline approaches, Eva starts to worry that she won’t finish on time, even with her best friend Lucy by her side. Will Eva have to turn to the school’s resident mean girl, Sue, for help? Or will they have to cancel the festival altogether? With the lovable owl Eva and colorful illustrations by Rebecca Elliott, this book reads like a personal diary and is sure to delight young readers.
2. Bink and Gollie
Meet Bink and Gollie, two bright little ladies who are completely irrepressible and vary in size. With lots of peanut butter for Bink and pancakes for Gollie, they set off from their opulent tree house and embark on three hilarious adventures featuring excruciatingly colorful socks, an unplanned trip to the Andes, and a most unusual wonderful friend.
A funny homage to joy and companionship, creativity and adventure, this work by Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo and award-winning novelist Alison McGhee is brought to life via the brilliantly energetic visuals of Tony Fucile.
3. Ivy & Bean
Bean and Ivy knew they wouldn’t get along the moment they laid eyes on one another. However, Ivy steps in to save Bean after she performs a practical joke on Nancy, demonstrating that sometimes the closest friends are those who were never supposed to get along. This beautiful and captivating start to the Ivy and Bean Book Series is made possible by the lively characters and loads of comedy.
For nearly 20 years, the Ivy & Bean collection by renowned children’s author Annie Barrows has delighted children of all ages in preschool, kindergarten, and elementary school. Each book follows Ivy and Bean on their various adventures through adolescence, with a focus on messages that encourage friendship, empathy, and understanding.
4. Dragons and Marshmallows
In every novel in the Zoey and Sassafras series, a different magical animal faces a challenge that calls for scientific investigation. Each novel is different; Zoey sometimes needs to do experiments, other times she needs to look into a mystery, and yet other times she needs to conduct research. In each narrative, Zoey demonstrates how to maintain a scientific diary through her handwritten entries.
A dictionary of the kid-friendly meanings of the scientific words used is included with each narrative. The themes presented in the series, which emphasize child-led scientific inquiry, are in line with both Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards.
5. Where the Sidewalk Ends: Poems and Drawings
You’ll run into a girl who eats a whale and a boy who transforms into a TV set. There are the Unicorns and the Bloaths, as well as Sarah Cynthia Sylvia Stout, who won’t pick up the trash. It is a location where you may cultivate diamond gardens and wash your shadow. It is also a place where shoes fly, sisters are sold at auction, and crocodiles see the dentist.
Readers of all ages will like Shel Silverstein’s exquisite collection of poetry and illustrations because it pushes the boundaries of imagination. Everybody should have this assortment of books on their bookshelves. Ideal for giving on special days like holidays, birthdays, and graduations.
6. Katie Fry, Private Eye #1: The Lost Kitten
Katie Fry, a young girl with a sharp mind, is on a mission to solve puzzles in this engaging and entertaining mystery book. Join her as she embarks on a quest to find Sherlock’s lost kitty, which is as adorable as it is lost.
With Katie leading the way, young readers can sharpen their problem-solving skills by searching for clues and hints throughout the book’s delightful illustrations. This beginner-level mystery is an excellent introduction to the genre, perfect for young readers looking for a fun and exciting read.
7. National Geographic Kids Just Joking: 300 Hilarious Jokes, Tricky Tongue Twisters, and Ridiculous Riddles
Just Joking will be presented in National Geographic Kids’ vibrant, photo-driven style and is jam-packed with the hilarious jokes that kids adore, including knock-knocks, tongue twisters, riddles, classic question-and-answer gags, and more.
Each joke is accompanied by a colorful image, such as a laughing animal or a hilarious person, which adds to the humor on each page. This entertaining book is ideal for throwing into a bag to share with friends at school or camp because its square trim size and candy-colored color scheme are also trademarks of National Geographic Kids.
8. Dog Man: From the Creator of Captain Underpants
Meet Dog Man, the fearless cop who is part dog, part human, and all hero. Created by the brilliant minds of George and Harold, this half-pup, half-person digs up the truth, chases down crooks, and goes after squirrels like no other.
Can he stay true to his duty and resist the call of the wild? Join Dog Man on his epic journey as he tackles challenges and faces off against foes with his unique skills and heartwarming personality. This beloved series is perfect for readers of all ages who love themes of kindness, bravery, and perseverance, and who enjoy a good laugh along the way!
9. The Best Seat in Second Grade: A Back to School Book for Kids
Hold onto your seats, parents! It’s field trip day for Sam and his furry friend, his trusty hamster! But wait… disaster strikes! George, the hamster, leaps out of Sam’s pocket and into the science museum’s hamster habitat. Oh no!
For 7-year-olds who are reading on their own but still require some guidance, we highly recommend this book. Level Two books like this one feature captivating stories, longer sentences, and language play that can help propel young readers to the next level of reading success, whether they’re enjoying the book at home or in the classroom.
10. Lulu Goes to Witch School: A Halloween Book for Kids
As the spooky season approaches, Lulu the witch girl is feeling a bit nervous about her first day at witch school. But armed with her broom and Dracula lunch box, she sets off to meet her new teacher, Miss Slime, who quickly wins her heart with her impressive wart.
During her first flying lesson, Lulu soars around the cemetery with ease. However, there’s just one thing that bothers her about witch school: Sandy Witch, with her bouncy curls and seemingly perfect performances.
Lulu Goes to Witch School is a Level Two I Can Read book that blends humor and a touch of fright, making it perfect for 7-year-olds who are just starting to read independently but still need some guidance. With Bella Sinclair’s updated illustrations, this timeless tale is perfect for Halloween and back-to-school reading alike.
11. Dinosaurs Before Dark Graphic Novel
Jack and Annie are back with their trusty time-traveling treehouse and they’re ready for action! In this installment, the duo is transported back to the Paleolithic Era, but they’re in for a wild ride when they discover they can’t return home.
Will Jack and Annie be able to make it back to the present before nightfall? Or will they end up as a dinosaur’s dinner? This classic tale has been reimagined with new, vibrant illustrations by comic book creators Kelly and Nichole Matthews, perfect for 7-year-olds who love a good adventure!
12. Mia Mayhem Is a Superhero!
Mia Macarooney, an ordinary 8-year-old girl, learns she is a SUPERHERO! She accepts an invitation to enroll in the after-school Program for In-Training Superheroes, often known as THE PITS, and her life actually transforms from completely ordinary to completely super! The absurd thing is that everything about this news feels like it was intended to be, in a bizarre sense.
Mia thought she was simply a huge klutz throughout her life, but it turns out that she is just SUPER! Mia must now strike a balance between living her normal life and keeping a hidden identity while she learns how to become the newest superhero in the world. The Mia Mayhem chapter books are ideal for beginning readers since they include simple language and images on virtually every page.
13. Home Is Where the Heart Is (1) (Good Dog)
Bo Davis, a cute and boisterous puppy, is introduced in the first book of the Good Dog series. Bo searches the entire farm after he misplaces a valuable item. On the Davis Family Farm, spring has finally sprung! A little dog named Bo gets into some muddy mischief after a spring shower. But when Bo misplaces his dog tag, he becomes serious and asks his barnyard friends for their help.
Bo’s quest leads him all around the farm, through horse stables, poultry coops, grazing pastures, and more, presenting a cast of friends and foes. The Good Dog chapter books are ideal for beginner readers since they include simple language and images on virtually every page.
14. Sam the Man & the Chicken Plan
In this delightful chapter book, Frances O’Roark Dowell introduces us to a young boy with a knack for making money. Sam is determined to find a way to earn some cash, but he’s hitting some roadblocks.
Even his little sister is raking in the dough by mowing lawns, but Sam is too young for that kind of work. So he comes up with a clever idea to help out his neighbor and earn some money at the same time. The catch? He has to convince her father, Mr. Stockfish, to go on a walk with him.
Sounds easy enough, right? Not so fast! Mr. Stockfish is a bit of a homebody, and getting him out of the house is easier said than done. And even if Sam does manage to succeed, he quickly realizes that earning just one dollar per walk isn’t going to cut it.
15. The World According to Humphrey
As the saying goes, you can learn a lot about life by observing another species. And that’s exactly what Humphrey, the hamster, does in the delightful children’s book. Humphrey starts his new life in Room 26 with a lot to discover and learn. Not only does he have fun in class, but he also spends his weekends with different students like Speak-Up-Sayeh and Lower-Your-Voice-A.J.
Humphrey soon becomes a pro at reading, writing, and even self-defense rubber band shooting. He has plenty of friends to support him and a cage that’s not entirely secure. But his perfect life is threatened by Mrs. Brisbane, his teacher, who wants to harm him!
With Humphrey’s lovable personality, 7-year-olds will be captivated by this charming book and eager to read the entire series of 12 novels.
16. The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Welcome to the tale of Despereaux Tilling, a mouse that adores Pea, the princess, and all things musical and literary. It also tells the tale of Roscuro, a rodent that dwells in the shadows and yearns for a world illuminated by light. And it tells the tale of Miggery Sow, a dim-witted servant girl with a straightforward impossibility.
These three individuals are ready to set off on a voyage that will take them into each other’s lives as well as into a dreadful prison and a magnificent palace. Then, what happens? Reader, it is your destiny to learn, to quote Kate DiCamillo.
17. The Giving Tree with CD
This is the start of a memorable, perception-based narrative that Shel Silverstein has skillfully written and artistically drawn. This inspirational fable for people of all ages provides a tender understanding of the gift of giving and a calm acceptance of another person’s potential to love back.
The tree was content because the boy would visit her every day to eat her fruits, swing from her branches, or slide down her trunk. However, as the boy got older, he started to expect more from the tree, and the tree responded by giving more and more. This is a heartfelt tale that is both sad and comforting.
18. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Hold onto your hats, kids, because Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory is finally opening its doors to the public! But wait, there’s a catch: only five lucky children will be allowed inside to see the magic of candy-making in person.
And who are the chosen ones, you ask? Well, let me tell you: there’s Mike Teavee, who can’t seem to put down his toy pistol or turn off the TV; Violet Beauregarde, the gum-chewing champion with the speediest jaws around; Augustus Gloop, the little chubster who just can’t resist a tasty treat; Veruca Salt, the spoiled rotten girl whose parents let her get away with anything; and finally, our very own hero, Charlie Bucket! Charlie may not have much, but he’s got heart, and that’s what makes him special. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime as these lucky kids enter the magical world of Willy Wonka!
19. The Dot
We know how challenging it can be to encourage our kids, especially as young as 7-year-olds to tap into their creativity. But in Peter H. Reynolds’ inspiring tale, even the most uninspired can find a spark. Vashti, a young girl who thinks she can’t draw, is surprised by her teacher’s encouragement to “just leave your mark and follow it.” Reluctantly, she makes a small dot on her paper and declares it “done.”
But what follows is an incredible journey of self-discovery and creativity as Vashti explores the possibilities of that one dot. Through Reynolds’ delightful story and whimsical illustrations, children are encouraged to find their own creative spark and follow it wherever it leads. It’s a beautiful message that both kids and adults can learn from.
20. The Bad Guys
Get ready for an exciting adventure with Mr. Wolf, Mr. Piranha, Mr. Snake, and Mr. Shark! These guys might not look or smell great, but they’re about to turn their bad reputation around. In their first mission to take down the Bad Guys, Mr. Wolf has a daring plan. They’re going to rescue 200 dogs from the Maximum Security City Dog Pound! Can they pull off Operation Dog Pound successfully? Will the Bad Guys become the Good Guys? And can someone please stop Mr. Snake from trying to nurse Mr. Piranha?
How To Choose Books For 7-Year-Olds?
- Reading Level: Make sure to choose books that are at the child’s reading level, as this will help them to better understand and enjoy the story. By now, most of them will be able to understand the concept of numbers and know day from night (1).
- Interests: Choose books that the child will be interested in, as this will help them to stay engaged with the story.
- Attention Span: Some 7-year-olds may only be able to handle short, simple stories, while others may be able to handle longer, more complex ones. Choose books that the child will be able to focus on and enjoy.
- Variety: It’s a good idea to expose your readers to a range of writing styles at this point because they can now comprehend the fundamental concepts of reading (2). Every youngster should be exposed to three basic genres: fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
What Type Of Books Should A 7-Year-Old Be Reading?
General recommendations for 7-year-olds include picture books, easy readers, and chapter books. Picture books are a great way to introduce younger children to the world of reading, and easy readers and chapter books can help to develop their reading skills and stamina.
Do 7-Year-Olds Read Picture Books?
Most 7-year-olds are able to read picture books, though they may not be able to read them as fluently as older children or adults. However, there are always exceptions to this rule, and some 7-year-olds may have difficulty reading picture books if they have not had much practice or exposure to reading.
Do 7-Year-Olds Read Chapter Books?
Most 7-year-olds are able to read chapter books, though some may find them challenging. Chapter books typically have more text than picture books, and the story may be more complicated. If your child is struggling to read chapter books, try finding ones with shorter chapters or simpler stories. You can also help them by reading aloud together or discussing the story after they’ve read it.
What Level Reader Is A 7-Year-Old?
Most 7-year-olds are at level 2 or 3 readers. This means they can read simple stories and chapters with some help. Some 7-year-olds may be at level 4, which means they can read more complex stories and chapters independently.
Should A 7-Year-Old Read Fluently?
Most seven-year-olds are able to read fluently. However, some may struggle with certain words or phrases. If your child is having difficulty reading, it is important to seek help from a tutor or reading specialist (3). With the right support, your child will be able to improve their reading skills and enjoy reading more.
