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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read to spark curiosity in your young one? Look no further! Our roundup of nonfiction books for 7-year-olds is packed with exciting picks that are sure to captivate and educate. From awe-inspiring adventures to mind-boggling facts, these books are tailored to pique the interest of eager young minds. Keep reading to discover our top picks for nonfiction books that will both entertain and inform your 7-year-old!

Fun Nonfiction Books for 7-Year-Olds

• National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Why by Amy Shields
  • Genre(s): Reference, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book provides answers to common questions children ask, exploring the reasons behind everyday things through engaging explanations and interactive elements.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages curiosity and provides satisfying explanations tailored for young minds, making learning a fun activity.
  • Perfect for: Curious children who love to ask "Why?"

• The Magic School Bus Inside the Human Body by Joanna Cole, illustrated by Bruce Degen
  • Genre(s): Science, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Join Ms. Frizzle and her class as they take a fascinating trip inside the human body aboard the magical school bus to learn about human anatomy and physiology.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with education, making complex scientific concepts accessible and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers who are interested in science and the workings of the human body.

• Fly Guy Presents: Sharks by Tedd Arnold
  • Genre(s): Animals, Science
  • Synopsis: Fly Guy and Buzz dive into the world of sharks, providing young readers with fun facts and exciting details about these fascinating sea creatures.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great mix of humor and facts, making the learning process enjoyable and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are fascinated by animals, especially the mysterious creatures of the sea.

• What Do You Do With an Idea? by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom
  • Genre(s): Motivational, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: This is a story of a brilliant idea and the child who helps to bring it into the world. As the child's confidence grows, so does the idea itself.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires children to embrace their ideas, believe in themselves, and realize the power of persistence.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers and inventors, and any child who might need a boost in confidence.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Young Readers Edition by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This is the inspiring story of a young boy in Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to save his village from famine.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches resilience, ingenuity, and the impact one person can have on their community.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring engineers and children interested in stories of real-life heroes and sustainable technologies.

Educational Nonfiction Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Everything Kids' Science Experiments Book by Tom Robinson
  • Genre(s): Science, Educational
  • Synopsis: This engaging book offers a wide range of easy and exciting experiments, allowing kids to explore the wonders of science in their own home.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific method, critical thinking, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes science accessible and fun, encouraging hands-on learning and curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Budding scientists and any child who loves to discover how things work.

• From Seed to Plant by Gail Gibbons
  • Genre(s): Nature, Educational
  • Synopsis: The book explains the life cycle of plants, detailing each stage from seed germination to the growth of flowers and fruits.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Biology, environmental awareness, understanding of ecosystems
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides clear and detailed illustrations and explanations, making complex concepts understandable for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young nature enthusiasts and future gardeners.

• The Kid Who Invented the Popsicle: And Other Surprising Stories about Inventions by Don L. Wulffson
  • Genre(s): History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book explores the fascinating and often surprising stories behind everyday inventions.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, creativity, innovation
  • Why we recommend this book: It reveals the interesting histories behind common objects, sparking curiosity and creativity.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds and young inventors interested in how things came to be.

• How Things Work: Then and Now by T.J. Resler
  • Genre(s): Technology, History
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers on a journey through the evolution of technology, from ancient tools to the latest advances.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Technological literacy, historical context, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive overview of technological advancements, encouraging a deeper understanding of how innovations impact society.
  • Perfect for: Tech-savvy kids and those interested in the history and future of technology.

• Maps and Geography by Ken Jennings
  • Genre(s): Geography, Educational
  • Synopsis: Written by a former "Jeopardy!" champion, this book introduces young readers to the world of maps and geographical concepts.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Spatial thinking, geographical knowledge, map reading
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses fun facts and engaging challenges to make learning about geography exciting and interactive.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who are eager to learn more about the world around them.

Challenging Nonfiction Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Elements: A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe by Theodore Gray, photography by Nick Mann
  • Genre(s): Science, Reference
  • Synopsis: This book provides a detailed look at every element in the periodic table, combining fascinating information with stunning photographic representations.
  • Why this book is challenging: The content includes complex scientific concepts and detailed data about the properties of elements, which are generally not introduced at this age.
  • Why we recommend this book: It visually and intellectually engages readers, fostering a deep interest in chemistry and the building blocks of the universe.
  • Perfect for: Young science enthusiasts who are fascinated by chemistry and visual learners.

• Animalium by Jenny Broom, illustrated by Katie Scott
  • Genre(s): Nature, Reference
  • Synopsis: Presented as a virtual museum with "galleries" of different animal kingdoms, this book offers detailed illustrations and information about the animal world.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features a museum-like approach to learning with advanced taxonomy and detailed biological descriptions that go beyond simple animal facts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages a methodical and scholarly approach to learning about biodiversity and the natural world.
  • Perfect for: Young naturalists who are ready for a deeper dive into the animal kingdom.

• Timeline: A Visual History of Our World by Peter Goes
  • Genre(s): History, Visual Information
  • Synopsis: This book presents a visual history of the world from the Big Bang to the present day, illustrated with timelines that cover events, cultures, people, and inventions.
  • Why this book is challenging: It involves complex historical events and concepts presented in a timeline format, requiring readers to understand chronological relationships and historical context.
  • Why we recommend this book: It helps young readers develop a sense of time and historical progression, enhancing their understanding of how past events shape the present.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and visually oriented learners who appreciate a graphical representation of time.

• The Way Things Work Now by David Macaulay
  • Genre(s): Technology, Engineering
  • Synopsis: This updated classic explains the inner workings of machines and technologies, from levers to lasers, with detailed illustrations and accessible text.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers mechanical and technological principles that are typically taught at higher educational levels.
  • Why we recommend this book: It demystifies complex machinery and technologies, encouraging curiosity about how things work.
  • Perfect for: Inquisitive minds interested in mechanics, engineering, and technology.

• Absolutely Everything!: A History of Earth, Dinosaurs, Rulers, Robots and Other Things Too Numerous to Mention by Christopher Lloyd
  • Genre(s): History, Science, General Knowledge
  • Synopsis: This expansive book covers a wide range of topics from the Big Bang to the modern day, exploring major events and innovations in a lively, integrated narrative.
  • Why this book is challenging: The breadth and integration of topics require readers to make connections across different fields and time periods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive overview of many subjects, fostering a holistic understanding of how historical events and scientific developments are interconnected.
  • Perfect for: Curious young scholars who have a wide range of interests and a thirst for understanding the world in its entirety.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 7-year-old dive into the world of nonfiction books, here are some fun and engaging exercises to boost their reading habits and comprehension skills. These activities are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, ensuring your young reader gets the most out of their reading time.

• Create a Fact File
  • What it is: Compile facts and interesting information from nonfiction books into a personalized file.
  • How it helps: Encourages attention to detail and helps with information retention.
  • Tips: Use colorful index cards or a digital app to make the fact collection more engaging.

• Map It Out
  • What it is: Draw maps based on the geographical information found in the books.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of geography and spatial relationships.
  • Tips: Pair this activity with a globe or Google Earth to visualize locations better.

• Teach Someone Else
  • What it is: Explain a concept or fact from the book to someone else.
  • How it helps: Reinforces learning and improves communication skills.
  • Tips: Let them teach the family during dinner time for a fun discussion.

• Question Bowl
  • What it is: Write questions about the book on pieces of paper and put them in a bowl.
  • How it helps: Boosts memory and comprehension by recalling details.
  • Tips: Turn it into a weekly quiz game with small rewards for correct answers.

• Timeline Creation
  • What it is: Create a timeline based on historical events or processes described in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps understand sequence of events and their historical context.
  • Tips: Use a large piece of paper and markers to make the timeline colorful and clear.

• Role-Play Interview
  • What it is: Pretend to interview the author or a historical figure from the book.
  • How it helps: Encourages deeper engagement with the content and develops empathy.
  • Tips: Record the interview on a phone to play back and discuss.

• Sketch and Tell
  • What it is: Draw scenes or concepts from the book and explain them.
  • How it helps: Combines visual arts with verbal expression to enhance creativity and understanding.
  • Tips: Share the drawings with friends or family members to make the activity more interactive.

These exercises are not just about reading; they're about making reading a dynamic part of your child's life. By incorporating these activities, you're helping them develop a lifelong love for learning and an inquisitive mindset. So, grab those nonfiction books and let the fun and learning begin!