15 Best Books for 7 Year Olds
Parents and caregivers understand the vital role books play in the development of a child's mind, especially at the tender age of seven. This age is a magical time when children are starting to transition from learning to read to reading to learn. The books they read at this age can foster a love for reading, stimulate creativity, and help them understand the world around them. This is why we've handpicked these 15 best books for 7-year-olds, carefully selected to engage young minds, entertain them, and enhance their reading skills. These books range from classic tales, captivating mysteries, amusing adventures to fascinating science fiction.
1. The Mouse and the Motorcycle
The Mouse and the Motorcycle is a delightful children's novel by Beverly Cleary, first published in 1965. The story revolves around a house mouse named Ralph, who longs for adventure and independence. He gets his chance when he discovers a toy motorcycle belonging to a boy named Keith, who is staying at the hotel Ralph calls home. Ralph learns to ride the motorcycle and embarks on a series of thrilling escapades. The narrative not only entertains but also subtly teaches lessons about trust, responsibility, and friendship. Ralph's adventures, combined with his interactions with humans, captivate young readers and make this book a perfect choice for 7-year-olds, who are at a stage where they are starting to appreciate more complex narratives and themes.
2. Ginger Pye
Ginger Pye is an intriguing mystery about a smart puppy named Ginger, bought by Jerry Pye and his sister Rachel with their hard-earned dollar. The dog's disappearance on Thanksgiving Day triggers a town-wide search, culminating in the discovery of Ginger and the identity of the thief. This book, with its gripping mystery and the strong bond between the children and their pet, captivates the interest of 7-year-olds. It is not only an entertaining read but also a teaching tool, imparting lessons about responsibility, determination, and the importance of hope even in the most difficult times.
3. Flat Stanley
Flat Stanley is a popular children's book series written by Jeff Brown that tells the tale of Stanley Lambchop who, after being flattened by a bulletin board, embraces his new shape and embarks on unique adventures like sliding under locked doors, being used as a kite, and even helping catch art museum thieves. The book is recommended for children aged 4 to 7 due to its restrained yet humorous writing style, which enhances the over-the-top adventures, and because of the way children can identify with Stanley's feelings and enjoy his adventures. Furthermore, the book subtly conveys the lesson about the perils of going to extremes for attention, making it an excellent resource for imparting valuable lessons to young readers.
4. Big Nate
Big Nate is a comic series that follows the life of Nate Wright, a spirited, rebellious, and self-proclaimed genius sixth-grader who navigates both school life and home life with humor and audacity. Despite his less-than-stellar academic performance, Nate is a talented cartoonist and chess player, often finding himself in mischief and humorous situations.
5. Dinosaurs Before Dark
Dinosaurs Before Dark is the first book in the Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne, which introduces readers to Jack and Annie, siblings who discover a magical tree house filled with books that transport them through time and space. In this particular book, they are transported to the age of the dinosaurs. This book is suitable for 7-year-olds because it provides an exciting, educational journey into prehistoric times that promotes curiosity and a love for reading.
6. Calvin and Hobbes (The First Book)
Calvin and Hobbes: The First Book" is a collection of the popular comic strip featuring Calvin, a lively 6-year-old boy, and his stuffed tiger, Hobbes, who comes to life in Calvin's imagination. The book is perfect for 7-year-olds as it introduces them to the engaging adventures of the mischievous duo, sparking their imagination and promoting intellectual curiosity. The comic's intelligent humor, advanced vocabulary, and exploration of friendship, self-identity, and contemplation of life make it an enriching and entertaining read for children, helping them relate to the characters and navigate their own world.
7. Dog Man
Dog Man is a comic book series created by Dav Pilkey, the same author who gave us Captain Underpants. The protagonist is a part-human, part-dog superhero who seeks to serve justice while overcoming his canine habits. The series is known for its humor, action, and vivid comic book-style illustrations.
8. Encyclopedia Prehistorica Dinosaurs
Encyclopedia Prehistorica Dinosaurs is a pop-up book that features fascinating, up-to-date information about popular dinosaurs as well as many lesser-known varieties. It is best for 7 year olds because the pop-up illustrations are visually appealing and engaging, and the text is easy to read and understand. The book also includes fun facts and lighthearted humor, which will make learning about dinosaurs more enjoyable for young readers.
9. Meet Yasmin!
Meet Yasmin! is a children's book about a Pakistani-American second grader named Yasmin who is always on the lookout for "aha" moments to help her solve life's little problems. The book is best for 7 year olds because it features a relatable and inspiring main character, as well as simple and engaging text and illustrations. The book also includes a glossary of Urdu words and phrases, which can help children learn about Pakistani culture.
10. Silly Jokes for Silly Kids
Silly Jokes for Silly Kids is a book of over 100 silly jokes that are perfect for young children. The jokes are short, easy to remember, and guaranteed to make kids laugh. The book is also full of colorful illustrations that will keep kids engaged. 7 year olds are at the perfect age to enjoy silly jokes, and this book is sure to become a favorite.
The book is written by Mark Weakland, a children's author who has written several other books of jokes for kids. It is illustrated by Steve Light, a children's illustrator who has illustrated over 100 books for kids. The book is recommended for ages 7-10.
11. Ricky, the Rock that Couldn’t Roll
Ricky, the Rock that Couldn’t Roll is a story about a rock named Ricky who can't roll because he's flat on one side. His friends try to help him roll by putting rubber bands on him, pushing him down a hill, and even building him a mud mold. In the end, Ricky is able to roll away, thanks to the help of his friends and his own determination.
The book is best for 7 year old's because it teaches the importance of friendship, perseverance, and believing in yourself. The story shows how Ricky's friends never give up on him, even when he starts to lose hope. They help him to believe in himself and his own abilities, and in the end, he is able to achieve his goal.
The book is also full of colorful illustrations that will keep kids engaged. The illustrations are simple but expressive, and they help to bring the story to life. The book is also written in a clear and concise way, making it easy for young readers to understand.
Overall, Ricky, the Rock that Couldn’t Roll is a heartwarming and inspiring book that is sure to appeal to 7 year old's and children of all ages. It is a story about the power of friendship, perseverance, and believing in yourself.
12. Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot
Ricky Ricotta is a small mouse who is often bullied by the other animals. One day, he finds a giant robot that has been abandoned by its evil creator. Ricky befriends the robot and names it Mighty. Together, they use their unique skills to save the day from a variety of evil villains.
The book is best for 7 year olds because it is full of action, adventure, and humor. The story is fast-paced and exciting, and it will keep kids on the edge of their seats. The characters are relatable and likable, and the book teaches important lessons about friendship, teamwork, and using your unique skills to make a difference.
13. Zoey and Sassafras – Dragons and Marshmallows
Zoey is a young girl who loves science. One day, she discovers a magical barn where injured magical animals come to be healed. When a baby dragon named Marshmallow appears, Zoey and her cat, Sassafras, must use their science skills to help him recover.
14. Zita the Spacegirl
Zita the Spacegirl is a graphic novel about a young girl named Zita who discovers she has superpowers and must use them to save the world from an alien invasion. The story is full of action and adventure, and the characters are relatable and likable. Zita is a brave and determined girl who is willing to fight for what she believes in, even when things seem impossible. The book teaches important lessons about friendship, courage, and self-acceptance. The graphic novel format is visually appealing and engaging, and it makes the story easy to follow. The book is also available in a bilingual edition, which can help young readers learn about other languages and cultures.
15. Are You My Mother?
Are You My Mother?" is a charming story about a newborn bird who hatches while his mother is away looking for food. On a quest to find his mother, the baby bird meets various animals and objects, asking them, "Are you my mother?" This leads to a series of humorous encounters until the baby bird is finally reunited with his mother, recounting the adventures he had while searching for her.
The book is ideal for 7-year-olds because it uses basic language and humorous illustrations to keep the narrative engaging, making it an excellent choice for beginning readers. The story's anticipation aspect and its short sentences and familiar words encourage children to read independently. Moreover, it works equally well as a read-aloud, fostering a shared reading experience.
Unlock Imagination and Learning
Books are the best tool to open the wide world of imagination, adventure, and knowledge to your child. The 15 books we've mentioned in this list are perfect for 7-year-olds, ensuring a mix of fun, education, and creativity. They are not just stories but life lessons wrapped in fun and excitement, ready to be unwrapped by your little one. Remember, the love for reading is one of the greatest gifts you can give a child. So, go ahead and pick a book from this list, and let your child dive into the magical world of stories.