12 Best Books for 7-Year-Olds
At the age of 7, children are at a critical juncture in their reading journey, where the magic of storytelling can truly come alive. Whether they’re exploring fantastical worlds, solving mysteries, or learning about the wonders of the real world, finding the right books can make all the difference.
So, if you’re on the hunt for the perfect literary companions for the 7-year-olds in your life, look no further!
We’ve compiled a list of the best books that promise to ignite their imaginations, spark their curiosity, and keep them flipping pages long past bedtime.
Best Books for 7-Year-Olds
1. “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak
This classic picture book tells the story of Max, a young boy who, after being sent to bed without his supper, embarks on a wild adventure to the land of the Wild Things.
Despite the monsters’ terrifying appearances, Max conquers them with his imagination and becomes their king, leading them in a wild rumpus. However, he soon longs for home, finding comfort in returning to his room where his supper is waiting for him.
What makes it amazing?
“Where the Wild Things Are” is celebrated for its imaginative storytelling and intricate illustrations that capture the wildness of a child’s imagination. Maurice Sendak’s ability to delve into the themes of anger, homecoming, and the desire for independence resonates with readers of all ages.
The book’s minimal text, combined with its powerful imagery, encourages children to explore their own feelings of anger and solitude in a safe and creative way, making it a timeless masterpiece.
2. “The Day the Crayons Quit” by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
In this humorous story, Duncan discovers that his crayons have gone on strike, each leaving him a letter expressing their grievances about how they are used. From being overworked to feeling neglected, each crayon’s complaint is unique, offering a glimpse into their colorful personalities.
The book cleverly addresses issues of fairness, creativity, and seeing the world from others’ perspectives.
What makes it amazing?
“The Day the Crayons Quit” stands out for its original premise and the way it personifies the crayons, giving them distinct voices and concerns. The blend of humor and subtle lessons about empathy and creativity make it not only entertaining but also educational.
Oliver Jeffers’ illustrations complement Drew Daywalt’s text perfectly, making the crayons’ emotions and demands come to life. This book encourages children to think creatively and to consider the feelings of others, even inanimate objects, sparking imagination and compassion.
3. “Matilda” by Roald Dahl
“Matilda” is the story of a brilliant and sensitive girl who uses her extraordinary intellect and telekinetic powers to overcome neglectful parents and a tyrannical school headmistress.
Matilda’s love for reading offers her an escape from her challenging circumstances and eventually becomes the source of her empowerment. Dahl’s characteristic wit and humor pervade the story, making it a compelling read for children and adults alike.
What makes it amazing?
“Matilda” is remarkable for its celebration of intellect and resilience in the face of adversity. Roald Dahl’s ability to create a relatable hero in Matilda, who challenges authority and stands up for what is right, inspires young readers to believe in their own power to effect change.
The book also underscores the importance of kindness, intelligence, and the transformative power of books and education, making it a motivational and uplifting read for young minds.
4. “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White
This beloved novel tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a barn spider named Charlotte.
When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte crafts a plan to save him by writing messages in her web praising Wilbur, thus convincing the farmer to spare his life. The book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, all set within a charming farmyard setting.
What makes it amazing?
“Charlotte’s Web” is a masterpiece of children’s literature, celebrated for its gentle portrayal of complex themes such as mortality and the value of life. E.B. White’s elegant prose and the heartwarming story of unlikely friendship between Wilbur and Charlotte offer profound lessons on compassion and the power of words.
The novel’s ability to address the realities of life and death in an accessible and comforting manner makes it a profound read for children, encouraging them to appreciate the beauty of relationships and the natural world.
5. “The Gruffalo” by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler
This delightful rhyming story introduces readers to a clever mouse who wanders through the woods and encounters several predators that wish to eat him. To avoid danger, the mouse invents a monster called the Gruffalo to scare them away.
However, the mouse’s surprise comes when he meets the real Gruffalo. Using his wits, the mouse manages to outsmart the Gruffalo and ensure his safety.
What makes it amazing?
“The Gruffalo” is an enchanting tale that celebrates cleverness and the power of imagination. Julia Donaldson’s rhythmic text and Axel Scheffler’s engaging illustrations create a captivating world that entertains and delights.
The mouse’s clever tactics to evade danger teach children about problem-solving and the importance of quick thinking. This book’s memorable characters and the playful twist on the concept of fear make it a favorite among children, encouraging them to face their own fears with courage and ingenuity.
6. “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” by Beatrix Potter
This charming story introduces Peter Rabbit, a mischievous and adventurous young rabbit who disobeys his mother’s warning and ventures into Mr. McGregor’s garden to steal vegetables.
The tale follows Peter’s narrow escapes from Mr. McGregor and his journey back home, where he is put to bed with a dose of chamomile tea by his mother. Beatrix Potter’s exquisite watercolor illustrations bring the story and the English countryside to life, making it a beloved classic.
What makes it amazing?
“The Tale of Peter Rabbit” is celebrated for its gentle moral lessons about the consequences of disobedience and the comforts of home and family. Potter’s ability to combine delightful storytelling with beautiful, detailed illustrations has captured the imaginations of children for generations.
The book’s exploration of curiosity, adventure, and the importance of listening to one’s parents resonates with both children and adults, making it a timeless piece of literature.
7. “The Name Jar” by Yangsook Choi
“The Name Jar” tells the story of Unhei, a young girl from Korea who moves to the United States and worries that her new classmates won’t be able to pronounce her name.
As she contemplates choosing an American name, her classmates become fascinated with her unique name and its meaning, eventually leading her to embrace her cultural identity. The story beautifully addresses themes of diversity, acceptance, and the pride in one’s heritage.
What makes it amazing?
What sets “The Name Jar” apart is its sensitive and insightful look at the immigrant experience through the eyes of a child, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and the value of one’s cultural background.
Yangsook Choi’s storytelling, combined with her expressive illustrations, captures the emotional journey of many children who struggle with their identity in a new place.
This book encourages respect for diversity and the understanding that every name has a story, making it a powerful read for children learning about empathy and inclusivity.
8. “Strega Nona” by Tomie dePaola
“Strega Nona” is a delightful folktale about a kindly witch in a small Italian town who owns a magical pasta pot. Her helper, Big Anthony, disobeys her instructions and causes the pot to create so much pasta that it nearly floods the town.
The story combines humor, magic, and lessons about responsibility and the consequences of one’s actions, all while showcasing the charm of Italian culture.
What makes it amazing?
Tomie dePaola’s “Strega Nona” stands out for its whimsical storytelling and captivating illustrations that transport readers to a magical version of Italy.
The book’s blend of humor and moral lessons, alongside the endearing characters of Strega Nona and Big Anthony, makes it a favorite among children.
It teaches important lessons about listening and the consequences of disobedience in a way that is both entertaining and memorable, highlighting the importance of respect for others’ knowledge and possessions.
9. “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats
“The Snowy Day” follows the adventures of Peter, a young boy who explores his neighborhood after the first snowfall of the season.
Through simple, yet profound narrative and vibrant collage illustrations, the book captures the wonder and excitement of a snowy day through the eyes of a child. This groundbreaking book is notable for featuring an African American protagonist, a rarity at the time of its publication.
What makes it amazing?
Ezra Jack Keats’ “The Snowy Day” is celebrated for its pioneering representation and universal appeal. The book’s depiction of the simple joys of childhood, coupled with its innovative use of collage art, makes it a visually and emotionally engaging read.
It not only captures the innocence and wonder of exploring the world after a snowfall but also broke barriers in children’s literature by featuring a Black protagonist, making it a landmark book in promoting diversity and inclusion.
10. “Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown, illustrated by Clement Hurd
“Goodnight Moon” is a calming bedtime story that features a young bunny saying goodnight to everything around him in his great green room.
The rhythmic, gentle words and the quiet, detailed illustrations create a serene bedtime atmosphere. The book’s repetitive structure and comforting content have made it a staple of children’s bedtime routines for generations.
What makes it amazing?
The magic of “Goodnight Moon” lies in its simplicity and the soothing rhythm of its text, which helps lull children to sleep. Margaret Wise Brown’s ingenious narrative technique, combined with Clement Hurd’s soft, dreamy illustrations, creates a peaceful world that feels both cozy and familiar.
This book’s enduring popularity is a testament to its effectiveness in establishing a calming bedtime ritual, helping children wind down with its quiet goodnights to the familiar and the fantastical.
11. “Dragons Love Tacos” by Adam Rubin, illustrated by Daniel Salmieri
“Dragons Love Tacos” is a whimsical and hilarious story that explores the love dragons have for tacos. The narrative humorously details how dragons react to spicy salsa, leading to unexpected fiery consequences.
Through its imaginative premise, the book invites readers into a zany world where culinary preferences can lead to explosive fun. Daniel Salmieri’s illustrations complement the text with a vibrant and playful style, making the story leap off the page.
What makes it amazing?
The unique charm of “Dragons Love Tacos” lies in its creative blend of dragons and tacos, two things not usually associated with one another. The book’s humor, engaging storyline, and playful illustrations encourage laughter and joy, making it a favorite among children and adults alike.
It promotes creativity and the joy of sharing meals, all while providing a light-hearted lesson on the importance of knowing your guests’ tastes—especially if they breathe fire!
12. “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds
“The Dot” is an inspiring story about a young girl named Vashti who believes she cannot draw. After her teacher encourages her to “make a mark and see where it takes you,” Vashti starts with a simple dot on a piece of paper.
This act of bravery leads her on a journey of self-discovery and creativity, ultimately showing her and readers the importance of believing in oneself. The book’s minimalist illustrations and direct narrative convey a powerful message about the creative spirit in everyone.
What makes it amazing?
What makes “The Dot” truly remarkable is its powerful message of encouragement and the importance of nurturing creativity. Peter H. Reynolds’ story serves as a reminder that everyone has the potential to create something beautiful, starting with a single mark.
The book not only inspires children to explore their artistic abilities but also teaches the value of encouragement and the impact a simple act of faith can have on someone’s confidence. It’s a motivational tale that encourages readers to embrace their individuality and leave their mark on the world.
