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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner for your little reader? Look no further! Our curated list of must-read books for 7-year-olds is packed with captivating stories that are sure to spark imagination and a love for reading. Whether you're looking for bedtime stories or independent reading adventures, we've got you covered. Keep reading to discover our top picks that will keep your young reader hooked!

Fun Must Read Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A young boy named Max, dressed in a wolf suit, makes mischief and is sent to bed without supper. In his room, a mysterious wild forest and sea appear, and he sails to the land of the Wild Things.
  • Why we recommend this book: It unleashes the imagination and explores themes of anger and redemption, demonstrating to kids how to deal with their emotions creatively.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and dreamers who love letting their imaginations run wild.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: This beloved story follows a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a spider named Charlotte, who tries to save him from being slaughtered.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches about friendship, love, and the cycle of life, presenting these themes in a gentle way that resonates with young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and any child dealing with themes of friendship and loss.

• The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: The story of a mischievous cat who visits two children, Sally and her brother, on a rainy day, turning a dull day into one filled with wild fun.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces kids to rhymes and helps with early reading skills through its repetitive and rhythmic text.
  • Perfect for: Energetic readers who enjoy a good laugh and playful storytelling.

• The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter
  • Genre(s): Classic, Animal Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story follows the curious Peter Rabbit who disobeys his mother by entering Mr. McGregor's garden and almost gets caught.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the essence of curiosity and the consequences of mischievousness in a light and educational way.
  • Perfect for: Curious youngsters who enjoy stories about animals and playful mischief.

• Magic Tree House Series: Dinosaurs Before Dark by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Jack and Annie discover a tree house filled with books that can transport them through time. In this first adventure, they travel back to the time of dinosaurs.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fantastic introduction to history and science through accessible time-travel adventures that spark imagination and curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who dream of time travel and enjoy learning about different eras and creatures.

• The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A clever mouse uses the threat of a terrifying creature called the Gruffalo to keep dangers at bay in the deep, dark wood.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches strategic thinking and the power of intelligence over brute strength.
  • Perfect for: Clever kids who love a good plot twist and engaging with witty storytelling.

Educational Must Read Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fiction
  • Synopsis: The crayons in Duncan's box are frustrated and decide to go on strike, each expressing their grievances through letters.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, perspective taking, letter writing, and color recognition
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and unique way to teach children about emotions and negotiations, all while engaging their creative sides.
  • Perfect for: Young artists and any child who enjoys colorful, imaginative stories.

• Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
  • Genre(s): Fiction, STEM
  • Synopsis: Inspired by real-life makers such as Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie, Ada Twist is a very curious girl who embarks on fact-finding missions and conducts scientific experiments to understand the world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, problem solving, perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes curiosity and perseverance, especially in science, and is an inspiration for budding scientists.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who have an undying thirst for understanding how things work.

• The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Multicultural
  • Synopsis: Unhei, a young Korean girl, moves to America and decides to choose a new name after her classmates have trouble pronouncing her real name. Through the story, she learns to appreciate her cultural identity and the importance of her own name.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, self-acceptance, social skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches the value of diversity and the importance of being proud of one’s origins and identity.
  • Perfect for: Children exploring themes of self-identity and acceptance, and those learning about cultural diversity.

• The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Environmentalism
  • Synopsis: The Lorax speaks for the trees against the greedy Once-ler in a tale that focuses on environmental conservation.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental awareness, responsibility, and conservation
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful, poignant tale that encourages young readers to think about how their actions impact the environment.
  • Perfect for: Young environmentalists and any child who loves nature and wants to learn about protecting the earth.

• Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
  • Genre(s): Fiction, STEM
  • Synopsis: Rosie Revere dreams of becoming an engineer. In her quest to build amazing gadgets, she learns important lessons about failure and success.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Engineering principles, creativity, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages kids to invent, create, and not fear failure, showcasing that each setback is a step forward.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring engineers and inventors, and any child who loves to tinker and create.

Challenging Must Read Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Matilda by Roald Dahl
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story of a brilliant and sensitive girl who uses her extraordinary intellect and telekinetic powers to manage life with her neglectful parents and tyrannical school principal.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex vocabulary and themes of rebellion and individuality.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the power of reading and the resilience of children, inspiring readers to believe in their own abilities.
  • Perfect for: Gifted readers and young intellectuals who appreciate a mix of humor and challenge.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A bored young boy named Milo unexpectedly receives a magic tollbooth one afternoon and drives through it in his toy car to embark on a journey through a land full of puns and wordplay.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex wordplay, puns, and abstract concepts that require higher-level thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages creativity and critical thinking, making it a fun and intellectually stimulating experience.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy puzzles and word games, and those who are looking to stretch their imagination.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a sickly and unloved 10-year-old girl, is sent to live with her uncle in England after her parents' death. She discovers a mysterious walled garden that has been locked for years and, along with her cousin Colin, she brings it back to life.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative style and historical setting require comprehension of more formal English and Victorian-era cultural references.
  • Why we recommend this book: It explores themes of rejuvenation and healing through nature, and the transformation of characters provides powerful life lessons.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories of transformation and the beauty of nature.

• Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Classic
  • Synopsis: Alice falls through a rabbit hole into a fantastical world where she encounters a series of peculiar creatures and experiences magical adventures.
  • Why this book is challenging: The play on logic and the nonsensical plot can be perplexing, requiring readers to think abstractly.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a whimsical classic that encourages imagination and offers a unique perspective on reality and logic.
  • Perfect for: Creative thinkers and anyone who delights in the absurd and the whimsical.

• Stuart Little by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Stuart Little, a mouse born into a human family, navigates the challenges of being small in a big world as he embarks on several adventures.
  • Why this book is challenging: The blend of fantasy and reality, along with sophisticated themes about identity and belonging, make it a thought-provoking read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a charming story with a mix of adventure and introspection, ideal for young readers looking to explore complex themes.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous spirits and those who enjoy stories about overcoming obstacles despite the odds.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to turn your little one into a bookworm, incorporating some fun reading exercises can make a world of difference. These exercises are designed to engage 7-year-olds, making reading a habit they'll love rather than a chore. Let's dive in!

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a special corner in your home dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Creates a comfortable and inviting environment that makes reading time something to look forward to.
  • Tips: Let your child help in decorating the nook with cushions, lights, and their favorite books.

• Story Predictions
  • What it is: Before reading a book, have your child predict the story or the ending based on the cover and title.
  • How it helps: Enhances imaginative thinking and sets a purpose for reading.
  • Tips: Discuss their predictions after finishing the book to see how close they were.

• Book-Themed Days
  • What it is: Choose a day to celebrate everything about a particular book, including related activities and meals.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a more immersive and enjoyable experience.
  • Tips: Use elements from the story to inspire the day’s activities, such as treasure hunts or crafts.

• Read and Draw
  • What it is: After reading a story, have your child draw scenes or characters from the book.
  • How it helps: Reinforces comprehension and allows children to express their understanding creatively.
  • Tips: Provide various art supplies and encourage them to use their imagination freely.

• Reading Buddy System
  • What it is: Pair your child with a friend, sibling, or even a parent as reading partners.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a social activity and encourages discussion about books.
  • Tips: Set specific times for reading sessions and discuss the book afterwards.

• Flashcard Fun
  • What it is: Create flashcards with new words from each book they read.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and aids in memory retention.
  • Tips: Use the flashcards to play memory games or have quick review sessions.

Incorporating these exercises into your 7-year-old's reading routine can not only improve their reading skills but also make the process a lot more enjoyable. Remember, the goal is to foster a love for reading that will last a lifetime. Happy reading!