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10 Best Books 7 Year Olds Will Love In 2024

last updated Nov 11, 2019

Children at the age of 7 years old are starting into a new type of book. These books include chapters and fewer pictures. They are able to pay attention for longer periods of time and are able to develop their own set of interests. Reading at this age is so very important and as parents, we need to provide them with books that are perfect for their reading ability. We have created a list of the Top Books for & Year Olds. These books are designed for their age bracket and will spark their interests and keep them wanting to read more.

In a Hurry? The test winner after 21 hrs of research

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The 5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!)
87.5/100 our score
Creativity
90
Educational Value
85
Age Range
90
Effectiveness
85
The 5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!)
Why is it better?

Educational

Thoroughly fact-checked by Nat-Geo

A fun read for groups

Great for passing the time

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
The 5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!)
Test Winner: The 5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!)
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Researched Sources
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Reviews Considered
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Hours Researching
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The list below has been updated to reflect the books that are available to 7 year olds. The books are great for developing and advancing their reading skills while keeping them engaged.

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Creativity Educational Value Age Range Effectiveness By Default
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Name
Rating
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#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.5
Creativity
90 %
Educational Value
85 %
Age Range
90 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$13.72
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Creativity
85 %
Educational Value
80 %
Age Range
90 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$7.49
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Creativity
85 %
Educational Value
80 %
Age Range
90 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$7.99
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Creativity
85 %
Educational Value
80 %
Age Range
90 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$14.03
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
Creativity
85 %
Educational Value
80 %
Age Range
90 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$11.69
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Creativity
90 %
Educational Value
80 %
Age Range
85 %
Effectiveness
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$15.99
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Creativity
85 %
Educational Value
90 %
Age Range
80 %
Effectiveness
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83
Creativity
87 %
Educational Value
85 %
Age Range
75 %
Effectiveness
85 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$14.39
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Creativity
80 %
Educational Value
85 %
Age Range
90 %
Effectiveness
75 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$7.19
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
Creativity
80 %
Educational Value
85 %
Age Range
75 %
Effectiveness
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.03.24)
Amazon Link
$10.89

10 Best Books for 7-Year-Olds Reviewed

1. The 5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!)

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.5
5000 awesome facts about everything book for 7 year olds cover
5000 awesome facts about everything book for 7 year olds back
5000 awesome facts about everything book for 7 year olds page
Amazon Link
Creativity
90
Educational Value
85
Age Range
90
Effectiveness
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$13.72

Educational

Thoroughly fact-checked by Nat-Geo

A fun read for groups

Great for passing the time

It’s not an actual chapter-style book and becomes a relatively quick read

Did you ever wonder how kids come up with all of those crazy facts that they seem to pull out of thin air? Well, we’ve found out their secret and it’s a pretty great one. 5,000 Awesome Facts (About Everything!) by National Geographic is the kid’s gateway to knowing just about every random, cool fact there is to know. It’s a really fun read with a lot of crazy-sounding facts including some that may even be a surprise to you!

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Creativity

This book is perfect for those rainy days or even to pull out during a quiet reading time in class. Seven-year-olds will get a kick out of learning about virtually everything while absorbing facts about things they wouldn’t have learned about otherwise.

Educational Value

Random facts seem to always be the one thing that will hold a child’s attention and at seven years old, everything becomes fascinating. This book is full of fun knowledge that awaits your child with stunning pictures and easy-to-read wording. Books can be educational as well as entertaining if you find the right one that will hold a child’s attention.

Age Range

Reading at a young age should be fun and that’s exactly what your child will get while they’re learning 5,000 facts about the world around them.

Effectiveness

In the digital age of simply “googling” something, this fact book takes kids back to the days of encyclopedias but does it in a much more fun and creative way. With plenty of vibrant, colorful pictures and easily-read fact pages, your kids will be naming off interesting facts in no time.

2. Oh, the Places You’ll Go

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
oh the places you will go dr seuss book for 7 year olds
oh the places you will go dr seuss book for 7 year olds page
Amazon Link
Creativity
85
Educational Value
80
Age Range
90
Effectiveness
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$7.49

Teaches kids to be open to new things

Encourages kids to explore the world around them

Acknowledges the inevitable bumps in the road

Clever rhymes

Rhyming may not be for everyone

We always teach our kids early in life to be all they want to be and to follow their dreams. For some of us, we can even be poetic about it and tell them that their stars are just waiting for them. But if you really want to encourage your child to be all he or she can be, then Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” is a must-read. It’s a literary piece written in prose that strongly encourages readers, young and old, to find their own successes while weathering life’s stormy seas, coming out alive and well after the storm, and sailing safely through to continue with one’s voyage. The book addresses life’s ups and downs, delivered through humorous verse and fantastic illustrations that only Dr. Seuss can magically concoct. Life may be a balancing act but there’s always time for a bit of fun.

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Creativity

With the whimsical illustrations that are a hallmark of Dr. Seuss, this one will delight and surprise your child with witty rhymes while touching on a universal truth.

Educational Value

It’s central theme of discovering your own inner strength in the face of adversity is a lesson we all must learn, and the sooner the better!

Age Range

Technically, the book is a perfect read for anyone who is going through difficult changes as well as those who are about to embark on a new journey in their lives.

Effectiveness

Considered a classic amongst Dr. Seuss fans, this book has a simple message that very young readers can comprehend; life may be difficult at times, but there is always a reason to smile! The #1 Best Seller in Children’s Classics on Amazon, there is good reason why it has become such a beloved book.

3. Charlotte’s Web

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
charlottes web book for 7 year olds cover
charlottes web book for 7 year olds back
Amazon Link
Creativity
85
Educational Value
80
Age Range
90
Effectiveness
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$7.99

Teaches empathy

Cute animals

Depicts farm life

Explores grief from a child’s perspective

The threat of death as a central theme may be too dark for some kids

Forming friendships is one of the most essential elements to healthy social development. And the E. B. White masterpiece, Charlotte’s Web, is never amiss of pointing out this fact to whoever reads it. Follow Wilbur who’s only longing is for a friend he can call his own and who will also accept him for who he is. Cherish Fern’s love for Wilbur and make it as the cornerstone of your kid’s own love for his or her parents and friends.

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Creativity

Being able to have compassion for other beings, or to be able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes, is a key message of “Charlotte’s Web’’. With a story that is both heart-rending and poignant, it conveys the importance of helping others who may be different than ourselves.

Educational Value

Teaching about humility, love, and friendship, the book is a great read for many generations as it depicts some of the most enduring themes that everyone else experiences throughout their lifetimes.

Age Range

The book also addresses themes of life and death, concepts that may be too vague for a 7 year old. But, with the illustrations and amazing pen-play of Williams and White, respectively, dealing about these issues simply makes perfect sense

Effectiveness

Featuring amusing talking animals, the story is also about the unlikely friendships we can form on our journey through life. This story is a great way to teach your child about empathy.

4. Magic Tree House

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
magic tree house book for 7 year olds
Amazon Link
Creativity
85
Educational Value
80
Age Range
90
Effectiveness
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$14.03

Includes four books

Educational and Entertaining

Chapters are short

Includes illustrations

Some reviewers feel a few parts are too scary

Fuel your child’s imagination with Mary Pope Osborne’s Magic Tree House series. This set includes books one through four. Paperback versions of Dinosaurs Before Dark, Mummies in the Morning, The Knight at Dawn, and Pirates Past noon can all be found in this boxed set.

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Creativity

Each book in the series is full of creativity that will whisk your child’s imagination off on a wild adventure. Jack and his little sister Annie discover a treehouse in the woods. With each visit to the treehouse, the siblings are thrown into a world of adventure.

Educational Value

With each book transporting your child to a new destination, the opportunities for learning are practically endless. Readers will learn factual information about each place as well as some history.

Age Range

Each book is roughly eighty pages. The books can easily be understood by children between the grades of one and four. However, children ages seven and up may have more success when trying to read them independently. The chapters are short, thus making it easy for young readers to stay engaged. The books even include illustrations.

Effectiveness

With four books in this set, your child can continue to read, learn, and use their imagination long after finishing the first book. Not only are the books educational but they are highly entertaining. As your child’s reading skills progress they will be able to read these books independently as often as they like.

5. Junie B. Jones's First Boxed Set Ever

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
85
junie b. jones's first boxed set ever books for 7 year olds cover
junie b. jones's first boxed set ever books for 7 year olds back
Amazon Link
Creativity
85
Educational Value
80
Age Range
90
Effectiveness
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$11.69

Hilarious series of children books that keep them laughing

Set includes the first four books of the series

Written by one of the number one selling authors of children’s books

Series was named New York Times bestselling series of chapter books

Expands and promotes vocabulary

Books display broken English and misspelled words

Ton or language used by characters is less than proper

From one of the number one selling authors and a series that has been marked as one of the bestselling chapter books is a box set that will keep your 7 year old reading and laughing for hours. This is of one of the all-time classic favorites of classrooms all over the county for over 20 years. There are over 60 million copies that have been sold of this series and now the cover has a new look for the new generation. The set includes the first four books of this series, Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus which is the first book, then Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business which is the second, then Junie B. Jones and Her Big Fat Mouth and the Junie B. Jones and Some Sneaky Peeky Spying which are the third and fourth book of the series.

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Creativity

This series of books is a wonderful way to start a collection for your 7 year old of chapter books. The books have humor and tell of stories that children can understand. Make for a great teaching opportunity.

Educational Value

Reading has a ton of benefits for kids. Actively reading every day is proven to expand vocabulary. The more kids read the more words that they are able to gain access to and then the words will be able to make their way into their everyday vocabulary.

Age Range

Series of books like these ones actively keep kids reading and engaged allowing them to expand their vocabulary with a daily dose of laughter.

Effectiveness

They make a great series for a little reader that is just starting out or an avid reader who is looking for an adventurous story series. They are sure to laugh out loud at the outrageous mishaps and the crazy grammar mistakes. It is a series that will leave everyone wanting to read more and more each day.

6. I’m Not Just A Scribble

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
i'm not just a scribble book for 7 year olds
Amazon Link
Creativity
90
Educational Value
80
Age Range
85
Effectiveness
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$15.99

Includes stickers

Encourages children to be accepting of others

Vibrant illustrations

Easy to read

Some reviewers feel the author should have expanded the plot

Diane Alber wrote the book I’m Not Just A Scribble to encourage children to accept those who are different from them. The book will stimulate their creativity as they read and will continue to after they finish. This book can be purchased on the Kindle or as a hardcover.

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Creativity

The main character is Scribble. He was always very comfortable with himself until the other drawings left him out simply because he was different. Scribble then encourages the other drawings to accept him. The story ends will all of the drawings coming together to create one beautiful piece of art.

Educational Value

This book will help you teach your child about the importance of inclusion as well as being confident in their skin. As scribble experiences a wide range of emotions, you can use it to teach your child how to handle their different emotions. They can increase their color recognition skills as they enjoy the brightly colored illustrations and Scribble’s fun colors. After seeing the artwork that the drawings create when coming together, readers will learn the value of teamwork.

Age Range

This thirty-two-page book can be enjoyed by children of all ages as it is easy to read. The simplicity of the characters allows young readers to relate to the story. The rhythmic pattern of the story will keep readers engaged.

Effectiveness

Each book includes a set of stickers that will encourage your child to unleash their creativity. Using the included stickers, children can create their own scribble and even develop their own story.

7. Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
where the mountain meets the moon book for 7 year olds cover
Amazon Link
Creativity
85
Educational Value
90
Age Range
80
Effectiveness
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Charming story that includes Chinese folklore

Companion novel to author’s other award winning books

Tells a story of an adventure that a little girl embarks on

Features full color illustrations

Improves memory muscles promoting long term memory

Storyline can be hard to follow for younger readers

Story has lags contain in the middle

Written by Grace Lin, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is a New York Times Bestseller and a winner of the Newbery Honor. This Chinese folklore inspired book can be enjoyed on the Kindle or as a paperback. As a paperback, this book includes 320 pages that are beautifully illustrated. Among the stunning artwork is a story full of important lessons.

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Creativity

The story revolves around Minli, a young girl who lives with her parents in a hut. Every night her father tells her stories about the Old Man on the Moon and Jade Dragon. After hearing that the Old Man on the moon holds the answers to all of life’s questions, Minli sets off on a journey to find him. Throughout her journey, she meets a variety of creative characters. While the storyline is engaging, the vibrant illustrations really enhance the experience for readers.

Educational Value

Reading has many different advantages, but one of the more profound benefits is the effect on their memory. Reading books with stories of adventures like this one requires the reader to use their memory muscle. The muscle with more and more uses helps develop a great long term memory. It challenges the mind and creates a lifetime of healthy memories.

Age Range

Great story to read with the kids. It teaches lessons, promotes kindness, and talks of the stories from the past. The pictures really add to the story.

Effectiveness

This book is a companion story to the author's other stories; Starry River of the Sky and When the Sea Turned to Silver. It is a timeless story that displays a spirit of a little girl, who is adventurous, has faith, and shares friendships.

8. The Never Girls Collection #1

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83
the never girls collection books for 7 year olds
Amazon Link
Creativity
87
Educational Value
85
Age Range
75
Effectiveness
85
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$14.39

Multi-chapter books

Familiar Disney characters and settings

Four female leads

Emphasizes the importance of friendship and teamwork

May be too difficult for some 7-year-olds to read on their own

This New York Times Bestseller is a Disney spin-off series. The premise is that four best friends (Kate, Mia, Laney, and Gabby) make a wish and suddenly find themselves on Peter Pan’s infamous island. When Tinker Bell journeys out beyond the parameters of Neverland, the girls must try to find her. This series has many of the trademark favorites among little girls: friends, fantasy, and fairies!

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Creativity

Neverland is nearly synonymous with imagination--and that’s pretty purposeful, as you can read J.M. Barry’s original novel and see the metaphor pretty clearly. This series uses Neverland as a backdrop to tell a new story. You’ll see some familiar names and faces, but the protagonists are all original characters and their adventure is a story that’s never been told before.

Educational Value

We love that this series focuses on four young girls as the protagonists. Children look constantly for idols in the world around them and when they see characters that look like them and sound like them, they feel empowered to experience their own grand journeys and be their own heroes. These young ladies are all about friendship, helping children to explore the importance of community and teamwork.

Age Range

This is a level four book, meaning that it will be challenging but not impossible for seven-year-olds. We encourage you to read along with your child if they seem to be struggling. Some seven-year-olds were able to read it on their own but since it’s a chapter book, it requires a longer attention span and a greater comfort with vocabulary.

Effectiveness

Customers report that even children with wandering attention spans kept asking for more of these books. They’re a great beginning for kids transitioning to chapter books. The story is exciting and weaves some suspense without being frightening. All children are different, but based on the amount of kids that fell in love with these books, we think you’ve got a good chance at picking a winner here.

9. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
the lion the witch and the wardrobe book for 7 year olds
Amazon Link
Creativity
80
Educational Value
85
Age Range
90
Effectiveness
75
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$7.19

More emotional depth than most other books

Good versus evil theme

Teaches kids to listen to their intuition

Siblings must cooperate to survive

The death of some characters may be traumatic for some kids

Wolves hunting the main characters may be scary

The Chronicles of Narnia – The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is a classic fantasy that tells of the adventures of 4 siblings who discover a secret passageway into a magical kingdom that’s currently ruled by the White Witch. Mythical creatures await the return of Aslan to save them from cold and bitter enslavement. Unfortunately, a great sacrifice must be made to return one of the siblings to his kin and unite the four as one.

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Creativity

It’s an enduring story of hope, perseverance, and sacrifice. And these are the essential concepts that 7 year old kids must learn to appreciate at their age.

Educational Value

It is a story about choices and how we must learn to tell the difference between right and wrong. Likewise, it illuminates with perfect clarity the temptations we may face on our journey through life that are not always what they seem.

Age Range

A favorite of both kids and adults alike, this story has a wealth of valuable teachings within its pages. Although it can be more solemn at times than the other titles on our list, the depth of emotions the characters feel as they encounter strange beings in another world are palpable and genuine.

Effectiveness

There’s no denying the charm of the storyline especially with the sacrifices that everyone has to make in the name of a higher good. Such ideals may not be easily understood by 7 year olds but they’ll get the message.

10. Ada Twist, Scientist

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
80
ada twist scientist book for 7 year olds cover
ada twist scientist book for 7 year olds back
ada twist scientist book for 7 year olds page
ada twist scientist book for 7 year olds page
Amazon Link
Creativity
80
Educational Value
85
Age Range
75
Effectiveness
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$10.89

Fun, bright rhyme scheme

Silly mystery plot

Spirited, smart protagonist

Adorable illustrations

Teaches the scientific method

Some parents feel that Ada is depicted as too much of a trouble-maker, rather than celebrating her curiosity and tenacity

Ada is a brilliant young scientist who wreaks havoc in the lives of the adults around her as she makes her way through various science experiments. On the first day of spring, she notices something smelly outside and makes it her mission to discover the source. Using the scientific method, she develops a hypothesis and sets about some hilarious and wacky trial and error to uncover the mysterious scent. Shenanigans ensue, including an attempt to put a perfumed cat in the washing machine, a trip to the Thinking Chair, and an unsolicited mural on the wall.

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Creativity

The text all rhymes in Beaty’s usual, upbeat style. Like the author’s other heroines and zany protagonists, Ada is charming, funny, lovable, and unique.

Educational Value

Kids will identify with her curiosity and sense of adventure, as together they learn about all of the wonders of science.

Age Range

It’s nice to see books with diverse characters. Not many mainstream stories feature women or girls in scientific or academic roles, and even when they do, it’s often not young girls of color. Ada is bright, funny, boisterous, and completely lovable, and this story rejoices in her ambition and sense of wonder.

Effectiveness

This book is a great way for kids to work on their vocabulary and reading skills, while also learning about science. It does a solid job of breaking down the scientific method into easier, simpler terms and steps so children can follow along.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Creativity

Children’s literature is an ever-growing niche, with hundreds of new books being published every year. It can be overwhelming to try and wade through all the titles, not knowing which ones are worthwhile. The result is that many parents have chosen to go back to some of the classics from their own childhood, that have been around for decades and are still cherished by thousands of families. We wanted to highlight those books that have a timeless quality, whose message continues to be relevant despite our modern lifestyles. The books on our list have a reputation for enduring storytelling, and they will continue to inspire generations to come.

Educational Value

Another important criteria for our list was finding books that had inspiring main characters. For children to get the most out of storytime, books should present protagonists that they can look up to and admire, who not only amuse them but also encourage them to be better people. The books on our list can inspire your 7-year-old to become a more active community member and to think critically about the effects their actions have on others. When they become engaged in the story and are given an example of how to deal with a troubling scenario, children are more likely to practice those positive traits in their own lives.

Age Range

The challenges a 7 year old must face are very different from adult challenges, but they can be just as stressful. This means that teaching children how to be brave and persevere must be done in a way that is unique to their understanding and life stage. At this age, kids are more responsive to visual stimulus and storytelling which gives them a way to interpret the world around them. This is why the books on our list are the perfect tools to begin familiarizing your 7 year old with the realities of life’s ups and downs. The magic of these stories is that the life lessons gained from them have the potential to stay with your child well into adulthood.

Effectiveness

Not all books are created equal. Some stories really don’t appeal to children. We’ve tried to choose books that we feel your child will both enjoy and will learn from. Our top picks are all books with amazing ratings from other parents whose children loved the story or series. We make sure that the books come highly recommended and that each story has something important to teach its readers. Children are still learning behavioral rules in their younger years, so we’ve aimed to bring you books that focus on important moral lessons as well as enjoyable plots and characters.

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Parents, Did You Know?

As we have already said, choosing the right and the best pieces of literature that is ideal for 7-year-old kids is never easy. However, in our ongoing commitment to provide you with a more meaningful selection, we knew that we had to share with you tips on how you can choose the right books for your seven-year-old kid.

Parents, Did You Know?

You may know your kid’s level of language and cognitive skills, but do you know what really interests him or her? It should already be a given that you truly understand what your child really wants as opposed to what you think he or she needs. Sometimes, we push our kids into liking something that they obviously don’t have any interests on. This can result in friction in our relationship with our kids. Instead, we can guide them in choosing interests that are largely beneficial for them. Regarding books, you can try learning about the most common genres of books that the average 7-year-old reads. You can then compare these with the interests of your child so you will have an idea of what book to get.

Other Factors to Consider

Social Development

It is important to reflect on your understanding of the developmental milestones of your seven-year-old kid. Like toys, it is imperative that the literature is written in a manner that is easy to understand at the cognitive level of children of this particular age. The idea is to make sure that your child will be able to read the book by himself or herself and will not have any issues understanding most of the words used. We do recognize the fact that different kids have different cognitive and language development skills. That is why it is critical that you make an accurate assessment of your child’s language abilities particularly his or her reading, comprehension, and grammar skills, among others.

Emotional Development

Studies show that reading encourages empathy and understanding in not just children but adults, too. Stories are an important part of how we frame our world and the factors we consider as priorities in our own worldviews. It can be easy to get stuck inside our own bubble of comfort and our own head. Books allow us to experience life and events through the eyes of people who are similar to us and yet different than us at the same time. Reading also equips us with a better vocabulary with which to express ourselves and a better understanding of some of the feelings and thoughts we may be experiencing. Communication is a key aspect of life and we think it’s important that your child feels able to adequately express to you their ideas and emotions at any given time.

Style

Picture storybooks – Illustrations or graphics are used to complement and mirror the plot of the story. Typically, the pictures or illustrations provide a more dramatic effect to the reading experience.

Traditional literature – These can include folktales, fairy tales, fables, myths, and legends which are stories that are often handed down across generations. These are invaluable bridges that connect the distant past with what we have today and the near future.

Historical fiction ­– Stories that portray a particular time period, often to create interest and drama that is based on actual events, are typically called historical fiction.

Modern fantasy – This is a very broad category of books that is often characterized by storylines and elements that are purely imaginative. Examples of these include Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and Charlotte’s Web, among others.

Realistic fiction – These are almost similar to historical fiction except that the stories generally allude to current events.

Informational ­– These types of books are otherwise known as non-fiction and provide invaluable information for children. Generally, these are used to aid in academic learning.

Drama and poetry – You may not like poetry and drama but these are important in teaching kids about writing styles, symbolism, metaphors, analogies, rhythm, literary devices, verse, and prose.

Biography – Kids love reading about the story of another person as it provides them the opportunity to learn from the individual how choices, challenges, and opportunities can shape a person in real life.

Before you raise your eyebrows regarding these types or genres of books for seven-year-olds, we have to reiterate that, while these are also found in most adult books, the manner in which the content is written is critical. It should closely match the developmental skills of your child. These should have the following characteristics:

It should be written specifically for children to read on their own.
The sentences must be short and simple; although advanced readers can benefit from longer sentences.
The content should not be very lengthy; typically between 4,000 and 12,000 words is sufficient.
It can include fantasy settings or even real-life settings.
It includes a plot complete with setbacks; may include minor subplots.

It should also be worth noting that kids of this age are very fond of mystery, humor, and adventure.

Entertainment Value

It is equally important that children will be able to learn something from the story that they are reading. Books are inherently gateways to a variety of adventures that children may not necessarily have the chance to experience in the real world. These valuable lessons may or may not be readily apparent but, we’re hoping that you will also be guiding your kids in the identification of life values ingrained in the stories contained in these books. Life lessons such as the value of friendship, establishing and maintaining social relationships, the importance of family, and the idea of love, compassion, independence, freedom, humility, industry, and many more, are best taught to kids when they appreciate the way these are integrated into the fabric of the story

Design

It makes perfect sense if you’re going to choose a book that contains graphics or illustrations to aid in the understanding of the material. Sometimes, there are storylines that may seem complex to kids of this age. Providing illustrations will somehow drive home the point that the literary piece is aiming for. Besides, illustrations and graphics help reinforce your child’s object recognition, color awareness, and divergent thinking skills.
Letting 7-year-old kids read rich, vivid, and highly detailed stories that are written for their age is crucial for the continuing development of their language, social, and cognitive skills. By choosing carefully reading materials that are appropriate in content and the manner of delivery, you can feel more at ease about your kid’s future as an avid reader and as a better person.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Will my 7-year-old boy still like the book if the main character is a girl?

a:

Definitely! Although there is always a small chance that your child may not completely identify with the main character, whether they are a boy or girl will become irrelevant once they become invested in the story. The conflicts the characters must face, the illustrations and the author’s engaging writing style will all be more than enough to keep your 7 years old interested.

q: I’m worried some of the more serious subject matter like death will scare my child.

a:

This is a common concern for most parents, and for good reason; the topic of death and dying is a controversial issue in the children’s literature community. However, there is a growing consensus among authors, parents, and teachers that breaking the ice on the subject is necessary for a child’s emotional maturity. The books on our list that do deal with this topic, such as “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” present death in a way that is restrained and softened in order to minimize any reader distress.

q: Will my 7 years old be able to understand the lessons in the book?

a:

Most 7-year-olds will be able to comprehend, at least to some degree, the main message of these books. The author’s expert storytelling and use of language ensure that the themes and plot will not be too complex for a child to understand. If your 7-year-old is confused on some points after reading the book, it is always beneficial to discuss the book with them in detail. Not only does this help clarify the crucial message of the story, but it’s also a great way to bond with your child.

q: Which book will my child enjoy the most?

a:

This will mainly depend on the personality of your child, as well as your observations of their likes and dislikes. Do they love animals? Read them “Charlotte’s Web”. Are they more interested in the illustrations with minimal text? Then any of the Dr. Seuss books on our list would be perfect. Likewise, if your 7-year-old is fascinated by castles and far away lands, then try “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe”. The great thing about our list is that no matter what book you choose, your child is bound to find something about it they enjoy.

q: Which book is the most realistic?

a:

If you are looking for a story that is more concrete and will give your child a true sense of the outside world, then out of all the books on our list, “Little House on the Prairie” is your best bet. The fact that it is based on true events and narrated from a child’s point of view are the two things that make this book not only compelling but a lesson in history as well. No fantasy here; the real struggles of a family as they try to make a life for themselves in a new land are told with an honesty that immediately draws you in.

q: Which book has the most colorful illustrations?

a:

As children start to move into longer narratives and chapter books, you’ll find that there are less pictures and a lot less color in many of their stories. If your child still responds best to visual stimulation, there are some books on our list that are age-appropriate but also still aesthetically indulgent! Anything by Dr. Seuss is going to be a colorful option. Ada Twist, Scientist is a more mature picture book your seven-year-old may enjoy. National Geographics books are more informational than narrative, but they are filled with beautiful photography and infographics that kids will love!