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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect bedtime story or a new adventure for your young reader? Dive into our curated selection of classic books for 7-year-olds, where timeless tales come to life, sparking imagination and joy in young minds. Keep reading to discover our top picks that promise to become fast favorites in your child’s reading journey!

Fun Classic Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This heartwarming story follows a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a wise spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte writes messages in her web to persuade the farmer to save him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches important values like friendship, loyalty, and the reality of life and death in a gentle manner that's accessible to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who love animals and stories about friendships.

• The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale features Peter Rabbit, a mischievous rabbit who disobeys his mother's warnings and sneaks into Mr. McGregor's garden, leading to a series of adventures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the imagination with its delightful narrative and charming illustrations, while imparting lessons about obedience and prudence.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy playful adventures and learning through mischief.

• Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The book introduces Pippi Longstocking, an eccentric, super-strong, and free-spirited girl who lives alone with her horse and monkey, having adventures and fending for herself against bothersome adults.
  • Why we recommend this book: Pippi's unconventional approach to life and her humorous escapades provide not only entertainment but also convey messages about independence and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous kids who appreciate humor and tales of independence.

• The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams, illustrated by William Nicholson
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This story explores the love between a boy and his stuffed rabbit, and the rabbit's desire to become real through the boy's love.
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses themes of love, reality, and the passage of time in a way that resonates with young readers, encouraging empathy and a deeper understanding of affection.
  • Perfect for: Children who cherish their toys and love heartwarming stories.

• Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne, illustrated by E.H. Shepard
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: A collection of stories about Winnie-the-Pooh, a good-natured bear, and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood, as they embark on various adventures and misadventures.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its simple yet profound narratives are filled with humor and wisdom, making it a perfect introduction to chapter books for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories of friendship and adventures.

• Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Children's fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows young Alice as she falls through a rabbit hole into a fantastical world with peculiar creatures and surreal experiences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It stimulates the imagination with its whimsical characters and bizarre plot twists, encouraging creativity and critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Curious children who delight in puzzling stories and imaginative worlds.

Educational Classic Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: An orphaned girl named Mary Lennox is sent to live with her uncle in a gloomy mansion in Yorkshire. There, she discovers a neglected garden and, with the help of her cousin Colin and new friend Dickon, brings it back to life.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, responsibility, and an appreciation for nature.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching story of friendship, healing, and the transformative power of nature.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love stories about discovery and personal growth.

• Heidi by Johanna Spyri
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: Heidi is a young girl who is sent to live with her reclusive grandfather in the Swiss Alps. The story explores her life in the mountains and her subsequent move to the city, where she changes the lives of those around her.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Compassion, adaptability, and the importance of a positive attitude.
  • Why we recommend this book: Heidi’s adventures provide not only a glimpse into Swiss culture but also teach valuable life lessons about love and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy uplifting tales of adventure and character development.

• The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the riverside adventures of Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger in the English countryside. The characters' escapades offer excitement and moral lessons alike.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social skills, understanding consequences, and environmental awareness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor, adventure, and poignant moments, making it a timeless tale of friendship and the joys of nature.
  • Perfect for: Children who love animals and stories set in the natural world.

• Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder
  • Genre(s): Historical fiction, Children's fiction
  • Synopsis: The first book in the "Little House" series, it recounts the early years of Laura Ingalls Wilder and her family as they live in a log cabin in the Wisconsin woods, detailing daily life and survival in the 1870s.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, self-sufficiency, and family values.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fascinating look at pioneer life through the eyes of a young girl, blending education with entertainment.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories of pioneering spirit.

• Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The story of Peter Pan, the boy who wouldn't grow up, and his adventures in the magical world of Neverland with Wendy, John, Michael, and the villainous Captain Hook.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Imagination, bravery, and the themes of friendship and loyalty.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the essence of childhood adventure and the bittersweet nature of growing up.
  • Perfect for: Kids who dream of adventure and magical worlds.

Challenging Classic Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Stuart Little by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: The story follows Stuart Little, a mouse born into a human family in New York City. Despite his small size, Stuart embarks on several adventures, seeking his lost friend, a bird named Margalo.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces complex themes of identity and existentialism, wrapped in the adventures of a tiny protagonist.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages readers to think about family, friendship, and the courage it takes to explore the world, regardless of one's size.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about adventure and self-discovery.

• Black Beauty by Anna Sewell
  • Genre(s): Children's fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: Told from the perspective of a horse, this novel chronicles the ups and downs in the life of Black Beauty. The story addresses the mistreatment of animals and the importance of kindness.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with heavy themes such as animal welfare and ethical treatment, using a sophisticated narrative style.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches compassion and responsibility towards animals, and it's a seminal piece in the genre of animal autobiography.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in social justice.

• The Borrowers by Mary Norton
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Children's fiction
  • Synopsis: The book follows the Clock family, tiny people who live secretly in the walls and floors of an English house and "borrow" items from humans to survive.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative incorporates rich language and a detailed fantasy world that can be complex for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sparks imagination about the unseen world and teaches the value of resourcefulness and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy fantasy and stories about miniature worlds.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the life of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is mistakenly sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert at Green Gables. Her adventures and misadventures in the small town of Avonlea are both humorous and heartwarming.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book uses advanced vocabulary and explores themes of belonging and identity through Anne's expansive imagination and emotional experiences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the importance of perseverance, the value of love and friendship, and the power of a vivid imagination.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy character-driven stories and exploring themes of personal growth.

• The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Children's fiction
  • Synopsis: The story of a wooden puppet named Pinocchio who dreams of becoming a real boy. Pinocchio's journey is filled with mischievous adventures and moral lessons.
  • Why this book is challenging: The original text contains complex themes of morality and consequences, which are explored through Pinocchio's various escapades.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches important life lessons about honesty, integrity, and the consequences of one's actions.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories with moral lessons and fantastical elements.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to get your 7-year-old excited about classic books, incorporating some fun reading exercises can make a huge difference. These activities are designed not just to keep them engaged, but also to develop strong reading habits early on. Let's dive in!

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a special, cozy corner dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Provides a comfortable and inviting space that can make reading a more enjoyable experience.
  • Tips: Let your child help in setting it up with cushions, a favorite blanket, or even some fairy lights.

• Story Map Creation
  • What it is: Draw or craft a map based on the settings of the story.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and helps children visualize the literary world.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to mark important locations or events as described in the book.

• Character Dress-Up
  • What it is: Dress up as a favorite character from the book.
  • How it helps: Encourages deeper connection with the characters and stimulates imagination.
  • Tips: Discuss why they chose that character and what they like about them.

• Book Club for Kids
  • What it is: Organize a small book club with a few of your child’s friends who read the same book.
  • How it helps: Promotes social skills and provides an opportunity to share thoughts and opinions.
  • Tips: Keep the group small and manage regular meet-ups to discuss the book.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps with recall and reinforces details about the story.
  • Tips: Provide them with mixed media supplies like crayons, markers, and paint to express creativity.

• Read Aloud Together
  • What it is: Spend time reading the book aloud with your child.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and listening skills, and makes reading a bonding activity.
  • Tips: Change your tone and voice to match different characters, making the story more engaging.

• Reading Challenge with Rewards
  • What it is: Set a reading challenge with a clear goal and rewards for completing it.
  • How it helps: Motivates children to read more and establish regular reading habits.
  • Tips: The rewards can be simple, like an extra hour of playtime or a small toy.

Incorporating these exercises into your child’s reading routine can make the journey through classic literature both educational and incredibly fun. Remember, the goal is to foster a love for reading, so keep the activities light, engaging, and aligned with their interests. Happy reading!