what books are 7th grade reading level

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Reading Middle Grade

Books for Kids and Grown Ups

The Best Books for 7th Graders

You’ll notice that the best books for seventh graders tend to veer into upper middle-grade territory. That’s the case with the books on this list. I have so many beloved upper middle-grade books and I’ll link to the full list at the bottom of this post, but this list also has several books I have never recommended on the blog before.

Seventh graders are on the brink of teenage life, and may relate most strongly to books about body image, crushes, and things like that. They’re also more able to tolerate tastefully done stories about sexual harassment, domestic violence, addiction, serious mental illness and other harsh, unpleasant realities of life. On this list, you’ll find books that hit all of these themes. Of course, as always mentioned, seventh graders can always read up or down. They can read and enjoy many of the books I’ve recommended for 6th graders and 5th graders , as well as books for 8th graders .

Excellent Books for 7th Graders to Enjoy

Here are some of my favorite books for 7th graders:

Genesis Begins Again

Published: January 15, 2019

Thirteen-year-old Genesis grapples with intense self-hate worsened by her father’s verbal abuse and her grandmother’s backward ideologies about skin color. Readers first meet Genesis when she brings her “friends” home for the first time. In an embarrassing turn of events, they arrive to meet all her belongings in the street. The landlord has put Genesis’s family out because her gambling, alcoholic father defaulted on the rent,  again . Things seem to look up for their family when they move into a posh neighborhood. Genesis makes new friends, joins the school choir, and even gets a helpful math tutor. Yet, her self-hate follows her. This is a remarkable middle-grade debut with a strong message about colorism, self-love, and  the power of music .

The Wrong Way Home

Published: April 2, 2024

This book is mind-blowingly good. Fern and her mother have been living on The Ranch, under the thumb of a charismatic leader named Ben. But her mom has been acting off, and Ben has put her on a water fast to help her get readjusted. One day, Fern’s mother wakes her in the middle of the night and takes her across the country from NY to CA, where they live in a motel in her mother’s teenage neighborhood and adjust back to normal life. There’s only one problem: Fern hatches a plan to return to The Ranch because she thinks her mom has made a mistake. I loved the way this book explores cults in an accessible way for tween readers, and Fern is a highly realistic character I think will resonate with a lot of kids. Readers should know that one side character in this book is gay and another is non-binary.

The Liars Society

Published: February 6, 2024

Weatherby is a new kid at a Boston private school. She’s at the school on a sailing scholarship and immediately is thrust into a world she knows nothing about. Old school phone booths, scrambled phone service at school, friends with kids who go to the country club, and a boy who seems to hate her guts. Jack is a rich kid at the school who is also on the sailing team and is constantly pressured by his father to be the best. When the money for a famed school trip is stolen, Jack, Weatherby, and some of their friends are invited to play a high-stakes secret game that leads to the revelation of shocking family secrets. This suspenseful mystery, told from Jack’s and Weatherby’s perspectives, is fast-paced and high-stakes, perfect for the upper middle-grade crowd.

Twin Cities

Published: July 19, 2022

Twins Luisa and Fernando find their paths diverging as they enter sixth grade. Luisa will attend middle school in the US just across the border from Fernando’s school in Mexico. There, they face different but equally pressing challenges that threaten to tear them apart. Twin Cities  is a fascinating look into Mexican culture, life as a twin, and finding your own identity.

Saint Ivy: Kind at All Costs

Published: May 18, 2021

Thirteen-year-old Ivy needs to be good to people, even when it’s bad for her. That’s why she pretends to be okay with her mom being a gestational surrogate, a kid at school asking her to let him copy her homework, and never sharing her problems with her friends. But can she keep up the pretense? With a touch of mystery and plenty of heart, this is a thought-provoking novel about people pleasing and being true to oneself.

Life in the Balance

Published: February 16, 2021

Veronica’s life seemed like it was on track until her parents announced that her mom is going to rehab for alcoholism. Her mom who was a softball player when she was younger, her mom the lawyer, her mom who was supposed to help her and her friends practice for softball tryouts. Veronica is frustrated, sad, worried, and even angry at her mom for being unable to stop drinking. She also worries that things will never be the same again. So she throws herself into softball — their family sport — even though she isn’t sure she’s all that into it anymore. At the same time, she’s afraid to share her family’s secret with her best friend (whose parents are getting divorced). Will Veronica ever find a balance? This is a rare portrayal of alcoholism, addiction and rehabilitation in the family — especially in a parent.

All You Knead Is Love

Published: March 30, 2021

All You Knead Is Love  follows 12-year-old Alba whose mother forces her to move from NYC to Barcelona, Spain where her grandmother lives. Alba is gender non-conforming, which means that she doesn’t like the typical “girly” dresses or frilly tops her parents often want her to wear. She’s happiest in her jeans and t-shirts. Alba’s father is physically abusive, especially towards her mother, and generally treats Alba with disregard. When Alba arrives Barcelona, she’s quickly drawn in by the vibrant city and its warm people, one of whom is her grandmother. But just when Alba begins to get comfortable, Toni’s bakery is threatened with closure because it just isn’t earning enough money. Alba needs to find a way to save the hub of her newfound community. This is a heartwarming middle-grade novel about identity, family, community, and, of course, food.

We Dream of Space

Published: May 5, 2020

Siblings Cash, Fitch, and Bird move through the daily trials of pre-teen life in the 1980’s. Fitch and Bird are twins who are now in the same grade as their older brother, Cash — because Cash was held back in the seventh grade. Bird is a space aficionado and dreams of being an astronaut. Fitch has anger issues and hates that he’s getting crushed on by a girl he doesn’t like — and whom his best friends consider unattractive. Cash feels lost and cannot seem to find his place anywhere. It doesn’t help that the situation at home is tense, with parents who are constantly bickering and a family that cannot seem to make time to talk as a unit or nurture their children. Bird is eagerly anticipating the Challenger launch and is a huge fan of Judith Resnik — the Challenger’s Mission Specialist. This novel follows the siblings until the ill-fated launch day which changes their relationship forever. This character-driven slice-of-life novel shows how different families can be, addresses the struggles of navigating sibling relationships, and highlights what difference an enthusiastic teacher can make.

Maizy Chen’s Last Chance

Published: February 1, 2022

Maizy and her mother have returned to Last Chance, Minnesota, because Maizy’s grandfather is ill. Maizy’s mom had her with the help of a sperm donor, and she seems to have taken a less traditional, unexpected career route since her parents expected her to take over their historical Chinese restaurant, The Golden Palace. However, Maizy’s grandparents love her, and Maizy quickly bonds with them, especially her grandfather. One day, she sees pictures of several young Chinese men, and when she asks her grandfather about them, he begins to tell her a sprawling story about their family’s history in Last Chance, which is interwoven with love, racism, and community. At the same time, The Golden Palace experiences a hate crime, and Maizy is shocked to discover who the perpetrator is. This is a spellbinding middle grade book about one Chinese family’s heritage and the granddaughter who ties it all together. 

More to the Story

Published: September 3, 2019

More to the Story  is a modern middle-grade novel inspired by the classic novel,  Little Women. Four Muslim-American sisters, Jamee la, Maryam, Bisma, and Aleeza, are distraught when their dad has to go abroad for six months for a job. Thirteen-year-old Jam, as she is fondly called has just become the features editor for her school’s newspaper. She’s determined to impress her dad with her first story. At the same time, a family friend’s nephew, Ali moves from the UK to Atlanta. As Jam and Ali’s friendship blossoms, one of her sisters receives devastating news about her health. This is a heartwarming, charming middle-grade novel about sisterhood, family, and following your passion, perfect for fans of books like Little Women .

Published: September 7, 2021

In the aftermath of her little brother’s death, Lucy and her parents move to a small town that is still healing from a school shooting four years ago. It’s jarring for Lucy to be around all these kids who lost friends when they were in the third grade, but it’s even harder because, unlike the situation in her home, the kids talk a lot about the shooting, their grief, and seeing therapists. But in all their sharing, the students have cast the shooter’s younger sister and their classmate, Avery — whom Lucy befriends — as an outsider. Will Lucy ever find her place and deal with her grief? Aftermath  is a powerful, heartbreaking, and hopeful middle grade book about the impact of school shootings, grief, and friendships.

Partly Cloudy

Things are looking partly cloudy for Madalyn Thomas and her family. After being out of work for the last 7 months, her dad has found work in another state and her mom’s schedule as a social worker has become more packed from taking on overtime. Madalyn’s parents send her to live with her Great Uncle Papa Lobo during the week to allow her to attend school in a different district because of security issues at her former school. But as the  only Black girl in class , Madalyn faces a new set of challenges at this new school. Partly Cloudy  is an insightful middle grade story about family, community, and handling microaggressions in middle school.

Counting Thyme

Published: April 12, 2016

I loved this story about a family dealing with a cancer-fighting child and finding the balance to be good parents to all three of their kids. If you love books that tackle hard situations with a hopeful lens and sibling stories set in NYC, you’ll adore Conklin’s debut.

Yusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero

Yusuf Azeem is not a hero like his dad who talked down a gunman in their small-town A-Z Dollar Store. But his dad’s heroism doesn’t prevent him from getting worsening hateful notes in his locker telling him to “Go Home.” Yusuf and his friend Danial had expected that this would be their year — their entry into middle school and a chance to compete in a robotics contest. However, when some of the townspeople, including a group called the Patriot Sons try to stop the construction of their town’s mosque and begin to target Yusuf and other Muslims in the community, they are forced to take a stand. This is a poignant  look at the impact of 9/11 on Muslim communities  in America.

Published: October 18, 2022

Five kids form an unlikely friend group at the start of a new school year with surprising results. Lucas is processing his older brother’s death and his mom leaving his dad and him, Robbie is the group goofball with his own challenges, Finn is the walking encyclopedia, Cat is the star athlete, and Anna is the popular girl whose drawn to the group. As the kids play sardines (reverse hide-and-seek), they learn about each other’s most wanted wishes and plot to help each one get them. But when it’s Lucas’s turn, he’s afraid to bare his soul. Can he get past the fear and make his own wish come true? Sardines  is a heartwarming middle grade novel about friendship, mental health, bullying, identity, and community. 

The Prettiest

Published: April 14, 2020

Eve, Sophie, and Nessa are three different girls in Ford middle-school whose lives are changed when their names appear on “ The Prettiest ” list posted online by someone called “LordTesla.” Sophie is the Queen Bee of middle school, and Eve is the bookworm and poetry aficionado who’s started wearing her brother’s sports jerseys to hide her changing body. Nessa is a plus-sized theater geek with a melodious voice who experiences a slew of emotions — indifference, annoyance, disgust at beauty standards — when she realizes her name didn’t even make the list. The three girls band together in an unlikely friendship to find the person who made the list and make him face the consequences of his actions. This a powerful look at female objectification and sexual harassment in middle school.

How to Find What You’re Not Looking For

Published: September 14, 2021

This book follows 12-year-old Ariel whose life is upturned when her big sister (the best of them all), Leah, elopes with her Indian-American boyfriend after the  Loving vs. Virginia  ruling. Ariel’s parents are upset, Ariel is struggling with being able to write well at school, and she can’t stop thinking about her sister and everything happening in the world. How to Find What You’re Not Looking For  is a poignant, moving, and brilliantly written middle grade novel about family, identity, and love.

Averil Offline

Published: February 13, 2024

Averil’s mom and several parents of kids in her school and neighborhood use an app called Ruby Slippers to track their kids’ location, request video and photos from them on demand, and generally monitor their behavior and actions all day and Averil and her classmate Max are sick of it. Especially when they find out that the app will be updated soon to let parents remotely turn on their kids’ cameras at will. Both kids make a plot to ditch a camping trip and find the original app developer, Rider Wollybeck, in hopes of asking him to rescind the update. This hijinks-filled story is reminiscent of classic stories where kids run away to save the day as Max and Averil stay on their town’s college campus, eating at the cafeteria and sleeping in the library for the 2-3 days needed to accomplish their plan. I love the gentle mystery, STEM angle, and theme of childhood autonomy this book explores. I think it has major kid appeal — and it’s only 208 pages long!

That’s What Friends Do

Published: January 28, 2020

Sammie and David are best friends who first met at Little League. As the only girl on the baseball team, Sammie enjoys being one of the guys, and she and David get along excellently. She’s convinced herself that she’s just better at being friends with the boys. Things are great until a new boy, Luke, moves into the neighborhood. Luke is taller than David and keeps trying to flirt with Sammie even though it obviously makes her uncomfortable. While Sammie looks to David for support, David — who has a crush on Sammie — is preoccupied with being jealous of Luke’s seemingly “smooth” skills. As a result, David starts to focus on making his affection known to Sammie, just as Luke seems to be doing. Eventually, an incident on the bus between David and Sammie jeopardizes their friendship and forces Sammie to re-examine the meaning of true friendship. I loved everything about this wonderful, wholesome story.

Violets Are Blue

Published: October 12, 2021

12-year-old Wren lives with her mom after her parents’ divorce. Her dad has moved to New York City and married his lover (with whom he was unfaithful to her mother), who is now expecting twins. Wren is also a special effects makeup aficionado. Caught up in a new school, navigating new friendships, and balancing her relationships with her parents — whose relationship with each other is strained — Wren notices her mom has begun behaving strangely. Violets Are Blue is an engaging middle-grade book with a relatable, creative protagonist dealing with parental substance abuse.

12 to 22 (POV: You Wake Up in the Future)

Published: August 16, 2022

On her 12th half birthday, her parents surprisingly gift her their approval to post on social networks. Thrilled, Harper starts posting TikTok videos like her idol, Blake Riley. Her first video goes viral and brings her closer to the popular crew in her school who only befriend her so she can teach them her edits. Their interest in her creates a rift between Harper and her best friend Ava. In the midst of the chaos, Harper tries a TikTok filter, which, combined with a wish to be 22, suddenly makes her 22! Unfortunately, her future is much different than she imagined. Is being 22 as great as she imagined? Or will she just want her old life back? And can she even get it back? Or is it too late? This is a charming, light,  feel-good story  about  time travel , social media, and treasuring friendships.

Across the Desert

12-year-old Jolene has a tough life. Her mom is misusing opioids and can barely care for her. She’s mocked at school for wearing too-small clothing and looking haggard. Jolene’s only bright spot is a tween pilot she watches via livestream at the library, “Addie Earhart.” Addie and Jolene gradually form a warm friendship and encourage each other through life’s hardships. But one day during the livestream, Addie crashes her plane. No one but Jolene is watching the stream, and Addie’s mom doesn’t know she even flies planes. It’s up to Jolene to save her, but she’s a kid with no money — and Addie’s is stuck miles away in the Arizona desert. This is a heart-pounding middle grade novel about self-worth, friendships, and the struggle of a parent with addiction.

A Perfect Mistake

Published: July 12, 2022

Max and his community are reeling from a night out gone wrong. Max and his friends Joey and Will went out with two older boys, but Will ended up unconscious and in a coma, and Joey won’t speak to Max anymore. Max also has ADHD and is over six feet tall at 11, which means he stands out in his class. Frustrated that he can’t figure out what happened to Will, Max teams up with an inquisitive classmate, but the truths he unravels aren’t pretty. Can Max get to the bottom of this mystery? A Perfect Mistake  is a pitch-perfect  middle grade mystery  about honesty, peer pressure, and standing up for what’s right. 

Published: July 5, 2022

Marianne Blume has convinced herself that she’s not smart. She’s gotten through school so far by charming teachers out of questioning her. But her eighth-grade teacher, Mr. Garcia, isn’t easily fooled. To pull up her grades for high school, Marianne tries to win his favor by joining the school’s trivia team (which he coaches). But as the term progresses, Marianne bonds with the trivia kids and learns that there’s more to being smart than book smart — but also, she’s more intelligent than she gives herself credit for. Bright  is a deeply insightful book about labels, persistence, and self-belief, featuring themes like sisterhood, female friendships, and family.

Wishing Upon the Same Stars

This debut middle-grade novel by Arab-American author Jacquetta Nammar Feldman follows young Palestinian-American Yasmeen Khoury, whose parents move from Detroit (which has a thriving Arab-American community) to San Antonio, Texas, where there are few to no other Arab-American families. But just before Yasmeen despairs, she discovers that their next-door neighbors are Arab-Americans too — only, they’re Israeli-American, not Palestinian-American. She befriends their daughter Ayelet, but her father is not pleased, especially with the current Palestinian-Israeli tensions. On top of adjusting to a new school and finding her place in the world, can Yasmeen help her dad see beyond the differences? This is a moving, poignant exploration of finding common ground despite differences and strife.

Coming Up Short

Published: June 21, 2022

Bea is winning at being a shortstop, finally making headway with her crush, and is excited to go to summer camp with her friends when her dad’s legal license is suspended in a town scandal. Suddenly, she develops a case of the yips and begs her parents to send her to another softball summer camp on Gray Island, where her mom grew up. Throughout the summer, Bea learns more about her parents’ previous marriages and other secrets.  Coming Up Short  is a sporty, summery, and serious coming of age story about a girl dealing with difficult emotions and circumstances. 

The Bridge Home

Published: February 5, 2019

This heartbreaking middle grade novel follows sisters Viji and Rukku, who flee an abusive home situation into the streets of Chennai, India, where life isn’t so much better. Faced with hunger and homelessness, the sisters befriend two other kids in the same situation and keep trying to find respite until a tragedy upends their lives. This is great for readers looking for more books about poverty and homelessness or stories set in India.

The Road to Wherever

Published: May 11, 2021

11-year-old June (Henry Junior) Ball’s mother sends him off on the road with his adult second cousins after his father disappears without a word. Cousins Thomas and Cornell are “Ford Men” traveling throughout the US to fix people’s old Ford trucks for free. The Ford owners only have to buy spare parts. As the road trip progresses, the men teach June about Ford trucks, fixing cars, and being kind. June also processes his father’s absence while expanding his heart by meeting just as many broken humans as Ford trucks. This is a heartfelt  road trip adventure story  about family,  community , and purpose. 

Golden Girl

Published: February 22, 2022

Afiyah has a problem with taking things (seemed like kleptomania) even when she tries really hard not to. Fortunately, she’s often remorseful and returns the stolen items. She’s shaken when her father is wrongfully arrested for embezzlement at the airport during a family trip. The situation puts a strain on her family and moves Afiyah to strongly examine her tendency to steal — especially after she gets caught in the act. Golden Girl  is a touching, realistic coming-of-age story about trying to break bad habits and dealing with a  family crisis . 

Best Friends, Bikinis, and Other Summer Catastrophes

Published: May 17, 2022

Alex is looking forward to spending the summer (as she’s always done) with her best friend, Will. Will’s mother runs the concession stand at their community pool, and both kids have spent several summers playing games at the pool. This summer, though, a schoolmate named Rebekah has eyes for Will — and him for her! As Rebekah and Will begin a tentative crush-friendship, Alex feels threatened and ropes Will into a big summer project (building their treehouse), for which they’ll need several summer jobs to afford building supplies. Surprisingly to Alex, Rebekah also wants to be her friend too. Can Alex get over her jealousy and other issues in her life to figure out this summer friendship drama? This is a terrific  summery middle grade book  about  evolving friendships , growing up, and adjusting to changes.

Jennifer Chan Is Not Alone

Published: April 26, 2022

Tae Keller’s newest middle grade book,  Jennifer Chan Is Not Alone , opens with new girl Jennifer Chan declared missing at her middle school. As whispers begin, her next-door neighbor Mallory Moss worries that Jennifer may have been abducted by aliens (which Jennifer believed existed). Mallory reunites with two former friends begging them to help her find Jennifer following clues from her time with Jennifer and the diary Jennifer left behind. The story alternates between past and present as readers discover that Mallory’s search is also motivated by an ulterior motive: the need to prove that she and her popular friends didn’t run Jennifer Chan out of town with their bullying. Jennifer Chan Is Not Alone  is a razor-sharp, realistic portrayal of kids mismanaging their insecurities and coping by  bullying others .

Falling Short

Published: March 15, 2022

In  Falling Short , we meet Marco and Isaac. They’ve been besties for as long as they can remember and now they share one pain in common: both their dads aren’t in their lives as they’d like. Isaac’s dad is attentive but currently struggling with alcoholism. Marco’s dad wishes Marco were more athletic, instead of nerdy. At the start of middle school, both boys decide to help each other reach their goals. For Isaac, it’s getting better at more than just basketball — getting better grades and being more responsible. And for Marco, it’s learning a sport: basketball. Can they reach their goals? And will their friendship survive it? I loved this look at a warm friendship bond between boys. 

Everywhere Blue

Published: June 1, 2021

When Madrigal’s (Maddie) older brother, Strum, goes missing from his college campus, her musical family loses its harmony. Her French mother is distraught — broken for the first time as Maddie has never seen her. Her piano-playing father doesn’t even touch his instrument, and her fiery sister retreats into a rebellious funk, drinking and partying, even though she’s only 16. Maddie tries to keep everything together: focus on her oboe lessons and compulsive counting that calms her mind. But when her parents leave to look for Strum and Maddie is left with Aria, things seem hopeless. Maddie continues trying to manage school work, friendships, practicing her instrument, and maybe joining a new eco club at school. Eventually, though, with all leads looking dead-ended, Maddie just might have what it takes to find Strum. But can she find her way to him? Everywhere Blue  is a poignant, moving  middle grade verse novel about family ,  mental health , music, and  caring for the environment .

The Kate in Between

When a bunch of popular kids seems to welcome Kate into their clique, she is torn about ditching her longtime best friend, Haddie. Things get complicated, however, when Kate is a passive participant in a bullying incident that leads to Haddie sinking on thin ice. Then, Kate is captured on camera saving Haddie, and the video goes viral. While news outlets hail “Kate the Great” as a shining example for tweens who should not be bullying other kids, Kate continues to oscillate between craving acceptance from the popular kids and trying to keep her friendship with Haddie, all the while maintaining her public image by appearing in newspapers and on popular YouTube channels. But how long can she keep up the charade? And, is Kate great? Or is she a bad person? The Kate in Between  is a timely, complex, and engaging middle grade book about identity, popularity,  bullying culture , and going viral.

Those Kids from Fawn Creek

Published: March 8, 2022

This book follows 12 seventh-graders in Fawn Creek’s middle school. These kids have grown up together in their small factory town and know each other in and out. They’ve formed semi-permanent cliques and it’s tough for them to break out from the general expectations of their peers. The story is told by multiple narrators, including the new girl Orchid Mason (who says she’s from New York and has grown up in cities around the world), shy girl Dorothy, and her best friend (and the only person she talks to) Greyson. Cousins Janie and Abby have recently become a duo since their “Queen Bee,” Rennie Dean, moved away to a nearby town but still tries to keep tabs on them and control their actions. When Rennie and her crew find out about Orchid’s seemingly exotic background, they’re at once jealous and convinced that she’s lying. But is she? Those Kids from Fawn Creek  is a gorgeously written, character-driven, slice-of-life middle grade  book about bullying  and the power of kindness.

Published: March 9, 2021

Starfish  features Ellie, a fat girl who has been bullied for her weight since she wore a whale swimsuit and made a big splash in the pool. Even her older brother and sister make fun of her weight. Her mom controls her diet, monitoring her portions and choosing lackluster “healthy” alternatives. Ellie is feeling more disheartened because her friend Viv who is also plus-sized is moving away. Thankfully, after Viv moves, Ellie finds a friend in her new neighbor Catalina and her family. The family loves food and welcome Ellie with open arms, never judging her for her weight. At school, bullying intensifies when a chair breaks after Ellie sits on it. Her mom is also pushing for gastric bypass surgery for Ellie. Eventually, her father gets her mother to ease off by taking Ellie to a therapist who helps her accept her body and defend herself against bullies. Starfish  is a powerful, fat-positive middle grade  verse novel  about a girl who is learning that she deserves to take up space.

No Fixed Address

Published: September 11, 2018

12-year-old Felix Knuttson is a sweet kid whose brain soaks up trivia like a sponge. His mom Astrid (whom he calls by her name), is loving but unreliable and can’t seem to hold on to a job or a house. When they lose their apartment in Vancouver, Astrid “borrows” a camper van from an ex and moves them in there “just for August” until she finds a job. But September comes, and there’s still no job or house, and Felix needs an address to enroll in school. Astrid figures out a way to do that, but Felix can’t tell anyone about their home situation. At the new school, he makes two new friends and finds out about a trivia contest that might change their housing situation. Unfortunately, things don’t go as planned. This is a compelling, realistic, and funny middle grade  book about homelessness, poverty , friendship, and mental health.

Violet and the Pie of Life

12-year-old Violet wishes that math could solve all her problems — and she does try to use her math. Unfortunately, her parents are fighting more and more. Her mom seems to nag constantly while her dad is the fun one who does things like buying them fried chicken for dinner. Eventually, after a heated argument one night, her father moves out and her mom won’t tell Violet where he’s gone. At school, her best friend Mackenzie seems to make fun of just about anyone, but especially the nice, pretty girl in their class, Ally. So when Violet gets cast as the Lion in the Wizard of Oz play and Mackenzie gets a small role, while Ally plays Dorothy, Mackenzie asks Violet to quit the play with her. Violet refuses. That and a budding friendship with Ally put a strain on her friendship with Mackenzie, adding to Violet’s overall stress. Violet and the Pie of Life  is a realistic portrayal of the impact of  parental separation  on a child.

A Song Called Home

Published: March 15, 2022

Lou and her sister Casey have to move from the city to the suburbs to live with their new stepfather, Steve, leaving behind their old schools and Lou’s best friend Beth Tsai. Forming this new family is hard on Lou and Casey for different reasons. Lou feels like she’s leaving their alcoholic father behind and Casey worries that Steve is being too nice and the “real Steve” will show up soon. On the day before their move (which is also Lou’s birthday) Lou finds a guitar right outside their old apartment addressed to her. Convinced it’s from her dad, she starts learning to play guitar to maintain that bond with him. As they all navigate the blending of their families, Lou learns about herself and what family truly means. A Song Called Home  is a realistic, heartrending depiction of the process of  blending a family  while dealing with the trauma of having an alcoholic parent.

Farewell Cuba, Mi Isla

Published: September 5, 2023

1960, Cuba. Cousins Victoria and Jackie love living in their island country with their large family. When when Fidel Castro’s communist government takes hold, things change swiftly, leading Victoria’s father to relocate his family to Miami, leaving Jackie and her family behind. As Victoria adapts to life in the US, Jackie and her family struggle in Cuba—until the family decides to send Jackie over to the States with Operation Peter Pan. But will Jackie ever see her family again? Both girls band together to bring the rest of their family to America. Farewell Cuba Mi Isla  is a moving, authentic book chronicling the impact of Fidel Castro’s communist regime in Cuba.

Published: March 31, 2020

When Ross is diagnosed with a rare lacrimal gland cancer (in his eye), it’s like a new trial for his seventh-grade existence. Add to that the fact that his mom died from cancer years before, he’s going blind in one eye, his best friend is moving away soon, and mean kids at school are making terrible memes about his illness, and you have a dumpster fire of a year waiting to happen. Or is it? Wink  by Rob Harrell is a brilliant, funny, and thoughtful middle grade book about navigating a cancer diagnosis in 7th grade.

Kyra, Just for Today

Published: March 5, 2024

In this companion to A Song Called Home , Kyra’s mother is an alcoholic in recovery. She could always count on having her best friend, Lu — until now. Lu has new friends and splits her time between both friend groups, eventually asking Kyra to join them sometimes. Kyra is also getting bullied for being bigger than most other 13-year-olds. Already, Kyra does so much at home: cooking, and even helping her mom out with her cleaning job. But then her mother starts acting weird, leading Kyra to believe that she’s relapsed. I loved how the author shows readers that recovery is not linear and I enjoyed watching Kyra feel safe in her own skin. Hand to fans of Sumner’s Maid for It and readers who love books featuring food and cooking.

Fox Point’s Own Gemma Hopper

Published: April 11, 2023

7th grader Gemma Hopper’s mother has left their family. Gemma lives with her dad, older brother Teddy, and their twin younger brothers. While their dad works overtime to fend for the family materially, Gemma is saddled with caring for the home and her twin siblings while also serving as a ball machine/practice partner for her brother, who’s a baseball prodigy of sorts. One day, while practicing with Teddy, she strikes him out with two impressive pitches, capturing the attention of some scouts from a competitive baseball team. All of a sudden, Gemma now also has star potential. Can both siblings find a way to work together? This is an engaging graphic novel about family (absent mothers), baseball, and  sibling relationships . 

The Braid Girls

Published: June 13, 2023

In  The Braid Girls , Maggie’s summer is off to a rocky start when her parents announce that she has a half-sister—a daughter her father never knew about until now. Callie’s presence throws off soft-spoken Maggie’s dynamic with her outspoken best friend Daija, even more when Callie joins their hair-braiding business. This is a sweet, relatable middle grade  book about sisterhood , entrepreneurship, and finding your voice.

No Matter the Distance

  Published: February 21, 2023

This book centers on young Penny, a middle schooler with cystic fibrosis. Penny has to take digestive enzymes and do her breathing treatments to help her lungs get rid of mucus that affects her breathing. While her CF case is relatively mild-moderate, she still struggles with being chronically ill. One day a dolphin shows up in the lake near their house and Penny feels a strong connection with the animal. It turns out the dolphin (whom Penny names Rose) is also sick and needs to return to her pod to get better. Penny may be the only one who can help the scientists take Rose back. But can she do that, when she feels so drawn to the animal? No Matter the Distance  is a beautiful  middle grade verse novel  about living with cystic fibrosis and finding belonging in community.

Morning Sun in Wuhan

Published: November 8, 2022

I’ve had  Morning Sun in Wuhan  on my radar for a long time because it’s set in the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic (and mostly because of the cover). 13-year-old Mei loves cooking and playing a cooking video game with two of her friends. She lives with her physician dad and is still grieving the loss of her mother. Her life suddenly turns upside down when a new virus starts killing people in her hometown Wuhan. Her dad is stuck working at the hospital and leaves Mei at home when the city is locked down. Can Mei cope with the pandemic — and find a way to help others around her? Morning Sun in Wuhan  is a fascinating, insightful middle grade account depicting the genesis of the COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan. 

Absolutely Positively Natty

  Published: May 9, 2023

Reeling from the impact of her mother’s depression on their family, Natty decides she’s going to be “Good Vibes Only.” She even starts a pep rally club in her cheerless new town. But her pursuit of positivity wears on her friendships and her–until the facade starts to crumble. An insightful exploration of toxic positivity and how kids can manage tough situations instead.

The Fire, The Water, and Maudie McGinn

Published: July 11, 2023

Maudie is a sweet, autistic girl spending the summer with her dad. When her dad’s home is razed in a California wildfire, they move to the small beach town where her father grew up. Throughout the summer, as Maudie makes new friends, starts learning to surf, and enters a surfing contest, a secret tugs at her–one her mother has asked her to keep from her dad.  The Fire, The Water, and Maudie McGinn  is a vivid, triumphant, and authentic coming-of-age story about discovering one’s inner strength.

A Work in Progress

Published: May 2, 2023

Will feels like the only chubby kid in his class and feels insecure about his weight. Add to that the bullying he faces and his observations of his mother’s attitude toward food, and he falls into a pattern of disordered eating and over-exercising. Thankfully, a budding friendship with a new classmate changes his view. This is a great book about body image issues, and it’s done in an illustrated verse format that I think kids will love.

The Wildly Unknown Myth of Apple and Dorothy

Published: September 19, 2023

Apple and Dorothy are half-gods, descendants of the Greek gods Zeus and Hera and Pandora, respectively. When Dorothy’s mother refuses to return to Olympus one solstice, she becomes a full human and is soon killed in a car accident, leaving Dorothy and her father grieving. Motivated by a promise she made to Dorothy’s mother, Apple befriends Dorothy. But when the gods rule that all half-gods must return home to Olympus and take their place as gods or remain human, Dorothy chooses Earth, to Apple’s dismay. Apple’s fear of losing Dorothy leads her to make a decision with terrible consequences. As a non-fantasy reader, I loved this book — how clever, creative, and profound it is, especially in the way it approaches friendship and grief. I think fans of  Greek mythology  will love it.

There they are: 50 of the best books for seventh graders! I hope you find something appealing for your kids. If you’d like more upper middle-grade book recommendations, here’s my list of upper middle grade books .

Which of these books for seventh graders have you read and enjoyed? And which other ones would you recommend?

More Book Lists

• Realistic fiction for 7th graders
• Mystery books for 7th graders
• Historical fiction for 7th graders

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• About Afoma Umesi

Afoma Umesi is the founder and editor of Reading Middle Grade where she curates book lists and writes book reviews for kids of all ages. Her favorite genre to read is contemporary realistic fiction and she'll never say no to a graphic novel.

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Reader Interactions

What do you think leave a comment cancel reply.

November 16, 2020 at 2:53 pm

The only one I’ve read here is Amal Unbound. So good! 🙌

November 17, 2020 at 4:57 pm

Another handy list! I’ve read a few of these and a few are new to me. I should really check out The Prettiest. The Story That Cannot Be Told caught my eye. (BTW, you have the description for One Last Shot underneath Serena Says).

November 18, 2020 at 4:10 pm

Hi Jenna! Thank you so much for your kind comment. Yes, you’ll love THE PRETTIEST! And thanks for the heads up, I’ve fixed that mistake now 🙂

November 21, 2020 at 12:40 pm

There are so many amazing books on this list! And a few I haven’t read yet!

June 14, 2022 at 7:00 pm

Bookmarking this post! Love it!

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Differentiated Teaching

June 28, 2022 ·

Must-Read 7th Grade Books: A Book List for Teachers & Homeschoolers

Reading & Literacy

Finding 7th grade books can feel overwhelming. That’s because seventh grade is a pivotal year for students. They are no longer kids, but they are not quite teenagers yet. They’re trying to figure out who they are and what they want to be. They are also working hard in school and starting to think about their future.

While we all know there are many benefits to reading literature , this period is time is especially critical for helping students problem solve and develop a sense of self. This is why it is important to give them a reading list that will challenge and engage them in critical thinking. To help, I’ve put together a list of 20 of the best books for 7th graders so you can quickly and easily create a booklist for the school year.

Whether you’re a middle school teacher or homeschooling your seventh grader, I’m sure you’ll find a good book on this list that will capture your reader’s attention. These 7th grade books cover so many important themes and genres there’s something for everyone!

The Best Books for Your 7th Grade Readers

If you’re creating book lists for your readers this year, you’ll likely want to include a mix of classic books, historical fiction novels, Newbery honor books, and more. Here are some of my top picks for the best books for seventh-grade readers:

1. When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

Rebecca Stead’s When You Reach Me is a complex puzzle that plays with time and space. The story centers around Miranda, a 12-year-old living in New York City in the late 1970s. Her mother is trying to get on the $20,000 Pyramid, her best friend has been beaten up by a bully, and some weird things are happening to Miranda—anonymous notes are coming in from the future telling her not to trust someone. It’s hard to give you much more than that without giving away spoilers—but it’s one of those books that you won’t be able to put down until you’ve finished it.

Details about When You Reach Me :

• Genre: Science Fiction
• Buy the Novel Unit: When You Reach Me Novel Study

2. Death by Toilet Paper by Donna Gephart

When it comes to 7th grade books, this one will make kids laugh out loud. This comedy is about a boy who is not gifted and talented at school, but has somehow ended up in middle school for the “gifted and talented.” In fact, he’s so bad at school that his mom takes him to a psychiatrist because she thinks something must be wrong with him. In order to get out of school, he starts a rumor that there are poisonous black widow spiders living in the toilet paper dispensers. Needless to say, this doesn’t go over well with any of the teachers or parents. With hilarious consequences, the plot revolves around how the main character deals with this problem…and eventually gets out of it. (Spoiler alert: it ends happily.)

For students who loved books like Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Captain Underpants in their younger years, Death by Toilet Paper will not disappoint!

Details about Death by Toilet Paper :

• Genre: Realistic Fiction/Humor
• Buy the Novel Unit: Death by Toilet Paper Novel Study

3. Diary of Anne Frank by Anne Frank

A powerful and harrowing story, Diary of Anne Frank is a must-read for all students as it gives a firsthand account of the fear and hardship faced by the Jewish people in Nazi Germany. The diary entries span from June 12, 1942 to August 1944. In them, Anne (aged 13 at the time) documents her life while in hiding from the Nazi regime during World War II.

Through her writing, Anne shares her hopes and dreams, as well as her fears and frustrations.

The diary ends abruptly when the family is discovered and Anne is sent to a concentration camp. However, students will be moved by her story and inspired by her strength in the face of adversity.

4. Posted by John David Anderson

After cell phones are banned from Branton Middle School, the students start using notes to communicate. Eighth-grader, Parker, starts passing sticky notes to a girl he likes. eighth-grader Margot begins receiving threatening notes from someone who knows all her secrets. Seventh-grader Simon gets drafted into being the middleman for the entire school.

Both heartwarming and lesson-packed, this book is an easier read that offers many great opportunities to discuss the impact of our words on others.

5. Ungifted by Gordon Korman

The main character in Ungifted is a middle schooler named Donovan Curtis. He’s not exactly a bad kid, but he’s not the best student either—which is why he ends up in the gifted and talented program at his school. The only problem is that Donovan isn’t gifted or talented… he just ended up in the wrong class. This book is great because it shows how being “ungifted” can actually be an asset sometimes. You can count on Donovan to find a way to get things done that no one else would even think of!

Boys who are reluctant readers will especially enjoy this book, which has short chapters in large print, and will have your son reading nonstop to find out what happens next! For boys who are starting to like reading chapter books for fun, Ungifted by Gordon Korman is a good choice for 7th grade. It’s about 300 pages long and funny enough that kids will want to read it from start to finish!

Details about Ungifted :

• Genre: Realistic Fiction
• Buy the Novel Unit: Ungifted Novel Study

6. Touching Spirit Bear by Bear Mikaelsen

Ideal for middle schools, Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen is a powerful and thought-provoking story about a troubled teenager named Cole Matthews. The novel demonstrates how people can make terrible choices, but that everyone deserves a second chance.

Cole Matthews has been in trouble for most of his life because of his anger issues. He made one mistake that changed the course of his life and it led him to an Alaskan wilderness camp as part of the Circle Justice program. The program gave him the opportunity to face himself and heal from the past so he could move forward in a positive direction. His journey is told through flashbacks that reveal more about Cole’s past mistakes and how they shaped who he was in the present time.

It’s not until Cole has to face himself, and almost lose his own life, that he’s able to find peace with what happened in the past so he can move forward with his future. A favorite of 6th grade and 7th grade readers, you’ll definitely want to give this title a look.

7. Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George

The protagonist, a young Eskimo girl named Miyax, is living with her father and grandfather in the harsh, cold climate of the Arctic tundra. She is independent and has learned to survive in this environment, but she does not feel any real connection to her family. When her father leaves for San Francisco and her grandfather dies, Miyax runs away from home to find him. After a harrowing journey through Alaska’s wilderness, she adopts a pack of wolves as her new family and they help keep each other alive until she can return home in safety.

Like Touching Spirit Bear , Julie of the Wolves focuses on the harmony between humanity and nature. Miyax quickly learned that if she wanted to survive alone in Alaska’s vast expanse of wilderness, she would have to live by its own set of rules. This meant everyone was treated as an equal—no matter what species or gender they were—and no one made decisions based on greed or vanity like humans so often do.

Despite being full of suspenseful moments that make you feel your heart racing inside your chest as you read them, these characters will make you wish you really could join their den for a while. This is one of my favorite winter novels , but it is a great read any time of year.

Details about Julie of the Wolves :

• Genre: Historical Fiction
• Buy the Novel Unit: Julie of the Wolves Novel Study

8. The Ninth Ward by Jewell Parker Rhodes

The Ninth Ward by Jewell Parker Rhodes is a beautifully written and eye-opening story about Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath through the eyes of a young girl named Lanesha. A great historical fiction book for 7th graders, it is the story of Lanesha’s life in New Orleans’ Ninth Ward with her Mama Ya-Ya, who has raised her since she was orphaned as a baby. When Hurricane Katrina hits, Mama Ya-Ya does everything she can to protect Lanesha but the storm is too powerful and they are forced to evacuate.

After the hurricane, Lanesha is sent to live with her estranged father in Houston. She struggles to adjust to this new environment and finds it hard to trust anyone after what she’s been through. But with the help of her new friend, Kaya, Lanesha starts to heal and eventually finds the courage to return to New Orleans and face her fears.

When considering 7th grade books, you should find a mix of relatable texts and those that can foster discussion and thought. The Ninth Ward is perfect for this because it is an important story that highlights the strength and resilience of the human spirit. It’s also a reminder that natural disasters can happen anywhere at any time, and we must be prepared for them.

9. Hana’s Suitcase by Karen Levine

Hana’s Suitcase is a true story about the Holocaust told through the lens of two children living half a world apart. In Tokyo, Japan, a young boy named Fumiko Ishioka is working on a school project about WWII and the Holocaust. She becomes interested in the story of a Jewish girl named Hana Brady who was sent to a concentration camp in Czechoslovakia.

Fumiko begins writing letters to Hana’s surviving brother, George, who now lives in Toronto, Canada. Through their correspondence, Fumiko and George piece together the story of Hana’s life and how she perished in the Holocaust.

Hana’s Suitcase is an important book for children to read because it shows the power of human connection and the importance of remembering the past. It is a reminder that we must never forget what happened during the Holocaust, and that we must stand up against hatred and bigotry in all forms.

Details about Hana’s Suitcase:

• Genre: Literary Nonfiction
• Buy the Novel Unit: Hana’s Suitcase Study Guide

10. Call It Courage by Armstrong Sperry

This Newbery Medal-winning book is the perfect choice for young readers who are looking for an adventure story with a strong message of courage and perseverance.

The novel follows the story of Mafatu, a young boy from an island tribe in Polynesia. Mafatu is different from the other boys in his tribe because he’s afraid of the sea. He’s constantly ridiculed and made to feel like an outcast because of his fear, but he decides that he’s going to prove everyone wrong.

Mafatu sets out on a journey by himself in a small canoe, determined to catch fish and prove that he is just as brave as the other boys in his tribe. But when a big storm hits and his canoe is overturned, Mafatu has to face his biggest fear head-on. He’s forced to swim for his life in the middle of the raging sea.

This story is an inspiring tale of courage and determination, and it shows that anyone can overcome their fears if they set their mind to it.

Details about Call It Courage :

• Buy the Novel Unit: Call It Courage Novel Study Guide

11. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

No 7th grade book list would be complete without at least a few of the classics. Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women is a coming-of-age tale set during the American Civil War. The novel follows the lives of four sisters, Jo March, Beth March, Meg March and Amy March as they grow up in Concord, Massachusetts. If you enjoy reading about history or historical fiction this is a great book for you to read.

The family struggles to maintain their lifestyle because their father is off fighting in the war. The girls have to learn how to manage the home on their own and come up with ways of making money when times are tough. This book will teach you about women’s roles during this time period as well as give you an insight into what life was like during wartime. It also tackles issues such as discrimination, feminism, and classism during this era of American history.

12. Smile by Raina Telgemeier

Graphic novels can be great additions when you’re considering 7th grade books. This coming-of-age graphic novel is perfect for middle schoolers who are looking for a relatable story about growing up.

The book follows the story of a girl in middle school who is trying to find her place in the world. She’s dealing with all the usual things that come with being a teenager, like boys, bullies, and braces. But when she gets hit in the face with a baseball and has to get surgery, things start to get really complicated.

She has to learn how to deal with her new appearance, which includes metal wires holding her teeth together. She also has to deal with mean girls at school who make fun of her. But through it all, she learns that being yourself is the best thing you can do.

I love Raina Telegemeier’s books, and you’ll find more of them on my list of Halloween books .

13. Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

The 1961 novel follows the adventures of a young boy named Billy Coleman and his two Redbone Coonhound hunting dogs in the Ozark Mountains. Set during the Great Depression, Billy spends every cent he can to purchase and train his hounds. After several years of training, they become renowned hunters and win many ribbons at competitions.

This story is mostly appreciated by readers ages 11-14 but it is well-known by people of all ages. Though it’s an easy read, “Where The Red Fern Grows” will make anyone cry at some point during their reading adventure.

Details about Where the Red Fern Grows :

• Buy the Novel Unit: Where the Red Fern Grows Novel Study Guide

14. A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park

A Long Walk to Water is based on the true story of Salva Dut, a Sudanese boy who was forced to flee his home during the Second Sudanese Civil War. When he was just 11 years old, Salva was separated from his family and sent on a dangerous journey to Ethiopia. He spent several months walking through the desert, and when he finally arrived in Ethiopia, he was placed in a refugee camp.

The story then jumps to present day, where Salva is now an adult living in America. He works for an organization that builds wells in Sudan, and he is able to return to his home country to help others who are facing the same struggles that he once faced.

This is a powerful story that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

15. The Giver by Lois Lowry

In a future society where pain, disease, war, and poverty have been eradicated, 12-year-old Jonas is selected to become the Receiver of Memory. This means that he will be responsible for carrying all of the memories of the world, both the good and the bad.

As Jonas begins to learn about the history of his society, he starts to question the rules that have been put in place. He wonders why people are not allowed to express their emotions, why they are not allowed to see colors, and why everyone must take a drug that makes them forget their memories.

Eventually, Jonas decides that the rules of his society are wrong and he starts to rebel against them. This leads to a series of events that will change his life forever.

Details about The Giver :

• Genre: Dystopian Fiction
• Buy the Unit Study Guide: The Giver Unit Study Guide

16. The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

The Invention of Hugo Cabret is a story told through pictures and words. It’s the story of a young orphan living in London who survives by stealing food and living in the walls of a train station.

Hugo’s life changes when he meets a young girl named Isabelle, who helps him try to solve the mystery of his late father’s clockwork machine. Along the way, they learn about film history and the invention of the motion picture camera.

This is a beautiful and unique story that will appeal to readers of all ages, but it is one of my favorite 7th grade books.

18. Restart by Gordon Korman

Chase does not remember what happened the day he fell off the roof and hit his head. He only knows that he somehow ended up in the hospital with a concussion. But as Chase starts to piece together what happened, he realizes something about the person he was before his accident.

Chase was a bully. He would pick on other kids, make fun of them, and even steal from them. But after his accident, Chase is determined to change. He wants to be a better person and he does not want to go back to the way he was before.

But it is not going to be easy. Change is never easy. And as Chase starts to realize that, he also realizes that he might not be able to do it on his own.

Details about Restart :

• Buy the Unit Study Guide: Restart Novel Study Guide

19. Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

In 1793, Philadelphia is gripped by a deadly fever. When Mattie Cook’s mother and grandfather fall ill, she has to take over the family business. But as the disease starts to spread, Mattie must find a way to save her family and herself.

This is a historical fiction novel that is based on the real-life events of the 1793 yellow fever epidemic in Philadelphia.

Details about Fever 1793 :

• Buy the Unit Study Guide: Fever 1793 Novel Study

20. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

The Outsiders is a classic novel about two rival gangs, the Socs and the Greasers. The story is told from the perspective of Ponyboy, a member of the Greasers. Great for advanced seventh or eighth graders, the story is a must-read for all students.

Ponyboy’s world is turned upside down when his best friend, Johnny, kills a Soc in self-defense. The boys are forced to go on the run, and they must learn to trust each other if they want to survive.

21. The Crossover by Kwame Alexander

Josh and Jordan are twin brothers who love basketball. They are also dealing with the loss of their father, who died suddenly from a heart attack.

As they try to cope with their grief, they turn to basketball as a way to connect with their dad. They start to play street ball and soon they are known as the “twin towers” of the court.

But when Josh’s game starts to suffer, he wonders if he will ever be able to play the game the way his father did.

22. The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer L Holm

In this funny and heartwarming book, Ellie’s scientist grandfather has discovered the secret to eternal youth. Now a teenager, he must figure out how to connect with his granddaughter, who is going through her own awkward phase. At the same time, he needs her help to get the formula for his discovery out to the world.

The Fourteenth Goldfish is a great book for kids who are interested in science, as it offers a look at some real-world scientific concepts. It’s also perfect for kids who are dealing with their own changes and growing up.

Details about The Fourteenth Goldfish:

• Buy the Unit Study Guide: The Fourteenth Goldfish Novel Study Guide

23. How to Steal a Dog by Barbara O’Connor

Georgina’s family has fallen on hard times. They have lost their house and they are living in their car.

Desperate to help her family, Georgina comes up with a plan to steal a dog. She knows that if she can find the right dog, she can surely find a rich owner who will pay big money to get it back.

But as Georgina starts to execute her plan, she realized that stealing a dog is not as easy as it seems. And she also begins to realize that the real value of a dog is not in the money, but in the love and companionship they provide.

Details about How to Steal a Dog:

• Buy the Unit Study Guide: How to Steal a Dog Novel Study

24. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

Every year, the people of the Protectorate offer a baby as a sacrifice to the witch who lives in the forest. But one year, they accidentally offer up Luna, a foundling who has been raised by a loving couple.

The witch, who is not really a witch at all, takes Luna in and decides to raise her as her own. But when Luna’s magical powers start to grow, the witch realizes that she may not be able to protect her from the dangers of the world.

This is a great book to introduce in October, as it has some spooky elements that make it a great Halloween read for older students. However, your students will enjoy it anytime!

25. Brian’s Winter by Gary Paulsen

By seventh grade, many students have read Paulsen’s popular book Hatchet. However, many don’t realize the book has a number of great sequels that are just as fantastic and still offer great learning opportunities for 7th-grade readers.

In this companion novel to Hatchet, Brian is stranded in the wilderness once again. But this time, it is winter and he is not prepared. Brian must find a way to survive the cold and the dangers of the forest if he wants to make it through the winter.

Details about Brian’s Winter :

• Genre: Survival Fiction
• Buy the Unit Study Guide: Brian’s Winter Novel Study

26. The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis

The Watsons are a black family living in Flint, Michigan, in the 1960s. When their youngest son, Kenny, gets into trouble at school, they decide to send him down to Birmingham, Alabama, to live with his grandparents. But when they get there, they realize that Birmingham is not the safe haven they thought it would be.

The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963 is a powerful story about family, friendship, and the fight for civil rights.

Details about The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963 :

• Buy the Unit Study Guide: The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963 Novel Study

27. The Cay by Theodore Taylor

A classic I discovered in sixth grade, The Cay by Theodore Taylor is a constant on the best seventh grade reading list. Set during World War II, the novel follows Phillip, a young boy who gets shipwrecked and stranded with an elderly Black man named Timothy. Forced to help each other survive against a harsh landscape and terrifying predators, Phillip learns about courage and friendship as he helps his newly blind companion navigate the wilderness.

Despite being written for younger audiences, this coming-of-age tale will capture the hearts of readers of all ages as they see how far one person can go to protect another. Themes like trust and acceptance are also included in this beautifully written story that aims to inspire young people with its page-turning plot.

28. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle

A Wrinkle in Time is a classic science fiction novel that has been captivating young readers for generations. The story follows Meg, who must travel through time and space to save her father from the evil forces that have captured him.

With its complex plot and themes of good vs. evil, A Wrinkle in Time is a great choice for seventh-grade readers. It is also a great choice for discussions about family, loyalty, and friendship.

Details about A Wrinkle in Time :

• Buy the Unit Study Guide: A Wrinkle in Time Unit Study Guide

29. Amal Unbound by Aisha Saeed

Seventh graders are in the midst of a period where they’re exploring their beliefs and how they align with those of the people around them. Amal Unbound is a powerful story about a young girl’s fight for freedom. Amal lives in Pakistan, where she is forced to work as a servant in her own home after her father incurs a debt to the wealthy landlord.

Determined to get an education so she can one day become a lawyer and help others like her, Amal risks everything to go to school. But when the landlord’s son takes an interest in her, Amal must decide how far she is willing to go to get the education she needs.

30. Blood on the River: James Town, 1607 by Elisa Carbone

This historical fiction novel is based on the true story of the founding of James Town, Virginia. The story follows Samuel Collier, a young boy who is indentured to English captain John Smith and must go to America to work off his debt.

Once in America, Samuel finds himself in the middle of a conflict between the English and the Native Americans. When the English start to starve, Samuel must make a decision: should he help the Native Americans who have been so kind to him, or should he help his own people?

Blood on the River is a great choice for seventh-grade readers who are interested in history and want to learn more about the early days of America.

Details about Blood on the River:

• Buy the Unit Study Guide: Blood on the River Unit Study Guide

31. Playing Atari with Saddam Hussein by Jennifer Roy & Ali Fadhil

This is a true story about the author’s brother, Ali Fadhil, who was living in Baghdad during the Gulf War. When Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait, Ali’s family was forced to flee to America.

While they are in America, the Gulf War starts and Ali is glued to the television, watching as his home country is bombed. He is also playing a lot of video games, including Atari, which he is very good at.

One day, Saddam Hussein appears on television playing the same game that Ali has been playing. This leads Ali to believe that if he can beat Saddam at the game, maybe he can stop the war.

Playing Atari with Saddam Hussein is a great choice for seventh-grade readers who are interested in history, the Middle East, or video games.

32. PICKLE: The Formerly Anonymous Prank Club of Fountain Point Middle School by Kim Baker

This hilarious novel is perfect for seventh-grade readers who are looking for a laugh. The story follows Ben, Frank, Oliver, and Bean, a group of middle school students who start a prank club. But when their pranks start to get out of hand, the boys must figure out how to stop before they get into serious trouble.

PICKLE is one of those 7th grade books that will make students laugh and is a great choice for readers who are looking for a funny and light-hearted read. It is also a great choice for discussions about bullying, peer pressure, and making good choices.

Details about PICKLE :

• Buy the Unit Study: PICKLE Novel Study

33. Front Desk by Kelly Yang

This is a heartwarming story about Mia Tang, who moves to America from China with her parents. Mia’s family runs a motel, and Mia does everything she can to help, even though she is only nine years old.

Mia struggles to adjust to life in America, but she quickly makes new friends with the other kids who live at the motel. Together, they start a secret business to help the guests at the motel and to stand up to the mean manager.

Front Desk is a great choice for seventh-grade readers who are looking for a feel-good story about friendship, determination, and standing up for what’s right.

34. Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli

This is the story of a young boy named Misha who lives on the streets of Warsaw during World War II. Misha is a member of the resistance movement, and he helps smuggle Jewish children out of the ghetto.

But when Misha is caught by the Nazis, he must use all his strength and courage to survive. Milkweed is a great choice for seventh-grade readers who are interested in history or in stories about the Holocaust.

Details about Milkweed:

• Buy the Unit Study Guide: Milkweed Unit Study Guide

35. Apple in the Middle by Dawn Quigley

This coming-of-age story centers on a 16-year-old girl named Apple. Despite being half Native American and half white, a formative experience on the playground as a child left Apple unsure just where she belongs.

When her father drops her offer with her Native American relatives one summer on the Turtle Mountain Indian reservation in North Dakota, Apple experiences a new way of life and learns about her heritage. Ultimately, what felt foreign at first begins to feel like home, as Apple discovers her place in the world.

Apple in the Middle is a great choice for seventh-grade readers who are looking for a story about identity, family, and belonging.

Details about Apple in the Middle:

• Buy the Unit Study Guide: Apple in the Middle Novel Study

Ready to Plan your 7th Grade Novel Study?

These are just a few of the great books that seventh-grade readers will enjoy. For more book recommendations, be sure to check out our other blog posts or contact your local librarian.

While you’re here, grab my free novel study planning roadmap to get step-by-step support to plan a high-quality literature unit for your seventh-grade students whether you’re in the classroom or homeschooling. Whether you’re planning your first novel study or just looking for new ideas, you’ll love this great tool.

Looking for more great books to add to your home or classroom library?

It’s so important for kids to love to read. After all, reading is the key that unlocks the door to understanding everything else in school. Reading is also crucial for making and keeping friends, and being a good friend helps kids manage stress and anxiety.

If you’ve got a broad range of reading levels or are trying to diversify your classroom library without spending a ton of money , here are some of my favorite books for other reading levels.

If you’ve already filled your book list for 7th grade, don’t worry! I’ve got you covered. Click a grade level below to access more great novels.

50 Must-Read Books for Seventh Graders

by AuthorAmy

Welcome to Amy’s Bookshelf! Here, teachers will find carefully curated book lists for each grade level from kindergarten to twelfth grade. Moving forward, new lists filled with book recommendations will be published weekly. Sometimes, these lists will be organized around a specific theme, like a holiday or seasonal event. Other times, they will feature rockstar books – books practically guaranteed to get your students reading. 

Before jumping into reading recommendations, a few words about how books are selected.

First, it is so important that teachers prioritize reading interest over reading level. Students will often choose to read well above or below their reading level if they are particularly interested in a book or topic. Teachers only hurt students by limiting them to a specific selection of titles grouped according to an arbitrary number or level. Think of the books on these lists as starting places for you and your students, but if a student wants to read up (or down), that is a-ok.

Also, please note that these lists lean heavily toward modern selections as opposed to the classics many teachers are familiar with. A true renaissance is happening in children’s literature today, and the books coming out are truly exciting. One of the factors that makes this such an exciting time for kid lit is how diverse the selections are in terms of genre, characters and subject matter. These lists will feature fiction and nonfiction selection as well as graphic novels, novels written in verse, and more.

Any book list or classroom library worth its salt includes books featuring LGBTQIA+ characters, racially diverse characters, characters with disabilities, characters in the foster care system, characters from a wide variety of socioeconomic and religious backgrounds, and so on. Importantly, the diversity of the characters doesn’t always need to be the focus of the literature – in other words, a book featuring a black character or gay character doesn’t need to be about those individuals exploring their blackness or their gayness; those characters can have kid problems that apply to all children regardless of their race or sexual orientation. Similarly, students should be encouraged to read stories featuring people of diversity all year long – not just during a month set aside to celebrate a specific heritage.

One final note: today’s children’s literature does not shy away from frank discussions of gender, race, sex, sexuality, abuse, mental illness, and more – nor should it. I will not censor books from these lists based on these controversial areas. What books you recommend will depend on the specific district you work in and your clientele. I encourage you and your students to read widely without fear.

Seventh Grade

Seventh grade is a time of growing pains for many students, a time of growing up and sometimes growing apart from friends. It’s a time of forging one’s own path and finding your own way in the world. Middle grade fiction, especially novels, tends to reflect this transition time in children’s lives. 

by Raina Telgemeier

Get it  HERE .

In this graphic novel sequel to Smile, Raina can’t wait to be a big sister, until her little sister is actually born and she realizes that babies aren’t a lot of fun. Over the years, they learn to stick together and stand up for each other.  

2. I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark

by Debbie Levy and illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley

Another picture book biography, this time about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. This particular biography tells Gindburg’s story through her many famous dissents. 

3. The Giver by Lois Lowry 

On the day Life Assignments are given out, 12-year-old Jonas is selected as his community’s next Receiver of Memory in this famous dystopian story. This is a must read. Author Lois Lowry has written three companion novels to The Giver. 

4. The Fourteenth Goldfish

by Jennifer L. Holm 

Ellie likes her life and hates change. One day, a new kid shows up in school, and he reminds Ellie an awful lot of her grandfather…her grandfather who has always been obsessed with immortality. 

5. A Snicker of Magic

by Natalie Lloyd 

Felicity and her family move to the town of Midnight Gulch for her mother’s new job, but Felicity doesn’t trust that it will last long. Her mother is cursed with a wandering heart, after all.  But Felicity soon learns that Midnight Gulch was once a magical place until a curse drove away all the magic. She starts to think that, if she can get the magic to return, maybe her mother will finally settle down, too. 

6. The Invention of Hugo Cabret

by Brian Selznick

Don’t let students be intimidated by the 500+ pages in this book, Hugo Cabret is a wonder. It’s part graphic novel, part text, and a whole lot of wonder. Hugo survives as an orphan on the streets of London by helping wind an old clock and through thieving. All of this changes and Hugo’s secrets threaten to come spilling out when he crosses paths with an old toy shop owner. 

7. A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park 

The Sudanese water crisis is told through two perspectives – that of Nya, a Sudanese girl in 2008 who walks two hours to retrieve water, and Salva, in 1985, who becomes one of the lost boys of Sudan. This is based on a true story and is extremely powerful. 

8. Inside Out and Back Again

by Thanhha Lai

Hà loves her home in Vietnam, but when the Vietnam War reaches Saigon, her family boards a ship headed for the United States. Hà tells her story in verse, and it is based on the author’s childhood. 

9. The Girl Who Drank the Moon

by Kelly Barnhill 

The witch in the forest, Xan, is kind, but the people of the Protectorate don’t know this. They leave her an offering each year – an offering of a child. Xan takes the children and places them with adoptive families in a neighboring town. One year, Xan decides to keep a child and raise her as her own. This child is Luna, and as Luna turns 13, her magic starts to unfold while a man from the Protectorate is on a mission to kill the witch and free his people. 

by Pam Munoz Ryan 

Echo is very impressive middle grade magical realism. This is the story of three children who are connected by a magic harmonica in the World War II era. It’s hard to put down. 

11. Amal Unbound

by Aisha Saeed 

A young Pakastani girl, Amal, is forced into indentured servitude by her village’s corrupt landlord. Amal is determined to make sure her dreams aren’t dashed in the process. 

12. Playing Atari With Saddam Hussein by Jennifer Roy with Ali Fadhil 

Ali Fadhil is 11 years old in 1991 when Saddam Hussein goes to war with the United States. Ali’s father is a medic and is sent to war. The family spends the duration of the war trying to survive.

13. 14 Hollow Road

by Jenn Bishop 

Maddie’s sixth grade dance is abruptly ended  when a tornado races through her town, destroying her family’s home and the home of her crush, Avery. A neighbor opens their home to both Maddie and Avery’s families, and suddenly, Maddie is spending the summer living with the boy she likes. 

14. All’s Faire in Middle School

by Victoria Jamieson 

Imogene, or Impy, has been homeschooled by her two parents who work at a renaissance fair. She is convinced she has what it takes to be brave like a knight, and her noble quest is enrolling in public school, just in time to try to survive middle school. 

15. Death on the River of Doubt: Teddy Roosevelt’s Amazon Adventure by Samantha Seiple

Theodore Roosevelt and his two sons were given the opportunity to map an uncharted river in the Amazon jungle in 1913. They faced many dangers, and this is a really engaging account of that journey. 

16. A Dog in the Cave: The Wolves Who Made Us Human by Kay Frydenborg

This is a really unique nonfiction book for the middle school set. Most middle grade nonfiction is encyclopedic in nature, whereas this is a novel-length science text telling the story of man’s domestication of wolves, and the ways that those early canines influenced our evolution, too. 

17. American Pharoah: Triple Crown Champion by Shelley Fraser Mickle

This is the life story of American Pharoah, the horse that won the Triple Crown in 2015. The story goes into great detail about the horse himself as well as the trainers, breeders, and jockey who were a part of his team. 

18. Well, That Was Awkward by Rachel Vail 

Gracie likes A.J., but A.J. likes her best friend Sienna. So Gracie plays Horatio for Sienna, writing texts to A.J. for her, all the while assuring herself that she’s just fine with the arrangement. 

19. Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life

by Wendy Mass

Right before Jeremy’s thirteenth birthday, a mysterious box arrives in the mail. A letter proclaims that this box holds the meaning of life for Jeremy but the key is missing. Jeremy sets off with his best friend to find the key and open the box. 

20. Hello Universe

by Erin Entrada Kelly 

Chet Bullins pulls a prank gone wrong and shy Virgil Salinas ends up at the bottom of a well with his pet guinea pig. When three other kids, Valencia, Gen, and Kaori, realize Virgil is missing, they set out to find him. 

21. Dead End in Norvelt

by Jack Gantos

Jack Gantos is grounded for life. His mom assigns him to a local neighbor to help type obituaries for the iconic people in his town. A mystery begins to unfold as Jack notices some unusual details in the obituaries that start painting a bigger picture of intrigue.   

22. The Charmed Children of Rookskill Castle

by Janet Fox 

Kat and her brother are sent to a Scottish moor to escape the bombing of London. They wind up at Rookskill Castle and are quite convinced the castle is haunted – or worse. 

23. Under the Mesquite

by Guadalupe Garcia McCall 

Lupita’s Mami is diagnosed with cancer, and Lupita abandons her adolescent worries to do everything she can to save Mami’s life. This includes babysitting her seven younger siblings. This is a gorgeous coming-of-age story written in verse. 

24. All the Broken Pieces

by Ann E. Burg

Matt Pin was airlifted from his war-torn home in Vietnam and adopted by a family in the United States. This novel in verse is a story of healing as Matt faces fears, uncertainty, and prejudice in his new home. 

25. Inkheart

by Cornelia Funke

Meggie’s father reads her a bedtime story and accidentally releases a villian into the real world. Meggie must stop him. This is the first in a trilogy. 

26. Trudy’s Big Swim: How Gertrude Ederle Swam the English Channel and Took the World

by Storm written by Sue Macy and illustrated by Matt Collins

Yet another incredible picture book biography, this one about Gertrude Ederle who became the first woman to swim across the English Channel. Really excellent back matter gives more biographical information than the story itself. 

27. Wolf Hollow

by Lauren Wolk

Annabelle recognizes a bully as soon as Betty Glengarry moves to town. Betty’s bullying soon makes reclusive neighbor Toby, a friend of Annabelle’s, a target. She determines she will put a stop to Betty. 

28. The Golden Compass

by Philip Pullman

Orphan Lyra Belacqua lives a happy life among the scholars of Jordan College until one day her uncle, Lord Asriel visits the college along with Mrs. Coulter. Both adults seem to hold the key to the epidemic of children who have been disappearing lately. This is the first in a bestselling trilogy that warns about the corrupting power of religion (and is thus controversial and often challenged). 

29. Among the Hidden

by Margaret Peterson Haddix

This dystopian novel imagines a world where parents are only allowed two children. Luke is a third, a shadow child, and he lives his life in hiding. This is the first book in the Shadow Children series. 

30. She Loves You: Yeah, Yeah, Yeah by Ann Hood

Trudy Mixer is 12 years old and life is pretty rough. Her beloved Beatles fan club is down to three of the least popular kids in the school. Trudy sets out to see The Beatles when they come to Boston, quite the feat for a middle schooler living in Rhode Island. 

31. The Length of a String

by Elissa Brent Weissman

Imani, who is adopted, decides she is finally ready to find her birth parents. Her search turns inward when her great-grandmother passes away and Imani finds her diary, which details her fleeing from the Nazi regime. 

32. Marabel and the Book of Fate

by Tracy Barrett

Princess Marabel has lived in the shadow of her twin brother, Marco, her whole life. But on their thirteenth birthday, Marco is kidnapped and Marabel has a chance to save the day. 

33. Squirrel Power: Unbeatable Squirrel Girl Vol. 1

by North Henderson 

Doreen Green is a friend of Tony Stark, and like most of Stark’s friends, she has a superhero alter ego as Squirrel Girl. She is a college student by day and crime-fighting superhero at night. This is the first of five volumes. 

34. The Inventors at No. 8 by A.M. Morgen

George is an orphan, and when he finds out that his family heirloom, a map to the Star of Victory, has been stolen, it’s the last straw. He sets out, along with Ada Lovelace, to get the map back. 

35. Rising Above: Inspiring Women in Sports

by Gregory Zuckerman with Gabriel and Elijah Zuckerman

The women profiled in this nonfiction book are household names – Simone Biles, Venus and Serena Williams, and so many more. This is a collection of biographies of women athletes who overcame tremendous obstacles to rise to the top in their sports. 

36. The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden 

This book tackles difficult issues like the gun debate and domestic violence through the eyes of Zoey. Zoey, her siblings, and her mom live with Lenny in the most comfortable home they’ve ever known. When Zoey is asked to join the debate team, she starts noticing things through different eyes and finds a voice to speak up. 

by Barbara O’Connor

Charlie does not know what it means to have a “put together” family. She is sent to live in the Blue Ridge Mountains with her aunt and uncle. Here, she meets a stray dog christened Wishbone and meets Howard, who becomes her close friend. This book deals heavily with the theme of abandoned children, making it a read that is at time difficult. 

by John David Anderson 

Cell phones are banned from Branton Middle School, so the kids must resort to leaving old-fashioned notes for each other in the form of sticky notes left around the school. This book looks at the power of words to hurt and to heal. 

39. One Shadow on the Wall

by Leah Henderson 

Mor made a promise to his father on his father’s death bed – to keep his sisters safe and keep the family together. Yet, try as he might, the pressures of these promises seem to great for an 11 year old. This novel’s back drop is modern-day Senegal. 

40. Amina’s Voice

by Hena Kahn 

Amina, a Pakistani-American girl, faces all the usual pressures of middle school. Her best friend starts talking about changing her name to something more American and Amina starts grappling with her identity. Meanwhile, a neighborhood mosque is vandalized in a hate crime. 

41. Wild Bird

by Wendelin Van Draanen

Wren is enrolled in a survivalist wilderness therapy class after her parents don’t know how to handle her anymore. She arrives at camp bitter and angry, but during her eight-week stay in the wild, she finds redemption. 

42. The Cat Ate My Gymsuit

by Paula Danziger

Marcy finds her life pretty boring. School is stupid. Her dad verbally abuses her and her mother. But when Ms. Finney becomes Marcy’s English teacher and actually treats her like a person, Marcy checks back into life. 

43. Ninth Ward

by Jewell Parker Rhodes

Ninth Ward is about a 12-yera-old girl who lives through Hurricane Katrina with her family and friends in New Orleans. It does a nice job contextualizing and explaining the natural disaster to children. 

44. See You in the Cosmos

by Jack Cheng 

Alex’s hero is astronomer Carl Sagan. Sagan launched his Golden Record into space and Alex dreams of doing the same with an iPod containing his podcast.

45. The Friendship Experiment

by Erin Teagan 

Madeline Little wants to be a scientist, and she doesn’t have time for the fun and games of other kids her age. She doesn’t want to start middle school, she just wants to run experiments in her father’s lab. 

46. Front Desk

by Kelly Yang

Mia’s family lives in a motel. Her parents, immigrants themselves, secretly hide away other immigrants in empty motel rooms, putting the whole family at risk. On top of that, Mia dreams of being a writer, though her first language isn’t English and her mother suggests she sticks to math. She’s in for a tough year!

47. Forever or a Long, Long Time

by Caela Carter

Siblings Flora and Julian don’t trust the foster care system that has shuttled them from home to home, and they certainly don’t trust their adoptive parents. With the help of their new mom, the two siblings research their past so they can learn to trust again. 

48. Navigating Early

by Clare Vanderpool

Jack and Early are friends at a boys’ boarding school in Maine. During a school break, they set out to hike the Appalachian Trail searching for a black bear. This story is their odyssey, as they meet new friends (and enemies) and learn about themselves in the process. 

49. York by Laura Ruby 

In this alternate history, the Morningstar Twins helped build New York City into the city it is today. The twins disappeared, leaving the Old York Cipher behind them, a puzzle constructed by the architects that no one has been able to solve – until, that is, three modern-day kids band together to see if they can crack the code.

50. Denis Ever After

by Tony Abbott

Denis died seven years ago and has been stuck in limbo ever since, because his twin brother Matt cannot let him go. Denis goes back to help Matt uncover the mysterious circumstances surrounding his death so that he and his family can be at peace. 

Other book lists from Amy’s bookshelf you’ll love: 

• 50 Must-Read Books for Kindergarteners
• 50 Must-Read Books For First Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books for Second Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books For Third Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books for Fourth Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books For Fifth Graders
• 50 Must-Read Books For Sixth Graders

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Home » Reading lists for Middle School children » 7th grade reading books for children aged 12-13

7th grade reading books for children aged 12-13

Books for grade 7 – this list of suggested reading books for grade 7 has been curated and compiled for middle and high school students aged 12-13. There is a range of exciting and thought-provoking books to suit all abilities in the 7th Grade, including easy readers and more difficult texts. This list of 7th grade reading recommendations includes titles by Lois Lowry, Lana Krumwiede, Markus Zusak, Kwame Alexander and S.E. Hinton.

Books for Grade 7 – our recommendations

Starfish by lisa fipps.

Using free verse, 12-year-old Ellie tells the reader about her swimming pool safe place where she can escape a world that fat shames and bullies her. With the help of her new neighbor, her dad, and her therapist, Ellie grows in confidence. An inspiring, empowering, and personal story that will appeal to less confident readers. Perfect for book club discussion.

Amal Unbound by Aisha Saeed

Amal’s dreams of being a teacher when she’s older are put on hold when she has to look after her siblings instead of going to school in rural Pakistan. But her hope is further shattered when she is forced into working for a rich family to pay off a family debt. The corruption she sees and the enemies she makes put her in grave danger. Will she be able to save her family and realize her dreams? A sparkling story of bravery, resilience, justice, and revenge.

The Glass Town Game by Catherynne M. Valente

To keep themselves from thinking about being sent away to boarding school, Charlotte, Branwell, Emily, and Anne Brontë create a game to pass the time. But in a spectacular story of enchantment, their Glass Town game comes alive, their toy soldiers have real weapons, and there’s a magic potion to be found and fought over. Highly recommended, this is a highly original and imaginative fantasy.

Small Town Pride by Phil Stamper

When 13-year-old Jake comes out, his family and his friends at middle school are supportive. But the same cannot be said for the small-town mindset of Barton Springs, Ohio. When Jake’s father shows his support by planting an enormous pride flag in their front yard, the townsfolk feel threatened and raise concerns with the Mayor. But Jake is not deterred and becomes determined to organize a town pride parade. In an era of book bannings and veiled homophobia, this heartwarming and positive book is a breath of fresh air.

New Kid by Jerry Craft

Jordan loves to draw – especially cartoons. Denied the chance to go to art school by his parents, he is sent to an upmarket academic school away from his friends. Jordan has to find a new path and adapt to his new surroundings. A graphic novel – this will appeal to reluctant middle school readers.

A Place to Belong by Cynthia Kadohata

An insightful chapter book that covers a less well known period of history. A Japanese / American family released from internment after WW2 are pressured to revoke their US citizenship and return to Japan. Bewildered hurt, and confused over her identity, young Hana finds herself living near Hiroshima with her elderly grandparents. Starvation, disease and the difficulty of coping with an unfamiliar Japanese culture awaken Hana to the realities of war.

The Giver by Lois Lowry

When 12-year-old Jonas is appointed the Receiver of Memory he starts to uncover and understand the buried secrets held by the people he lives amongst. The first in a gripping quartet.

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

When Winnie Foster stumbles upon a fountain of eternal youth she thinks all her prayers are answered. But then she meets a family who drank from the spring water. Will she decide to live forever? Will she keep the magic water secret? A modern classic and an ideal seventh-grade group reader.

The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin

When millionaire Samuel Westing dies, he leaves a will like no other. Sixteen people will have to play a cunning game to inherit his vast fortune. A cracking page-turner which will appeal to young adults.

The Wednesday Wars by Gary D Schmidt

Told over the course of one year between 1967 and 1968 in Long Island, this novel follows Holling, a seventh-grader who juggles his home life, getting into trouble at school and growing up amid the backdrop of the Vietnam War. Great to read in one sitting.

Watership Down by Richard Adams

An atmospheric quest story about a group of rabbits fleeing from danger to danger in search of a peaceful and safe life. When Fiver, Hazel, Bigwig, and friends think they’ve found the perfect location, events take a turn for the worse. An ideal 7th grade reading book for more advanced students.

The Crossover by Kwame Alexander

A stunning story, set entirely in verse, about two brothers who compete against each other in life and on the basketball court. Gripping and ideal for reluctant readers.

Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen

When Cole Mathews commits a terrible crime, the judge gives him an unusual choice: jail time or a rehabilitation program on a remote Alaskan wilderness island He chooses the latter and soon has to fight for his life in a captivating story of survival and iron will. A great addition to a 7th grade reading bookshelf.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

A captivating and gripping story – told from the eyes of death – and set in Nazi Germany in 1939 which follows Liesel, a girl who steals books. A surprising friendship develops which allows her to read the vast library of a local dignitary. Her view of the world changes completely. A challenging and thought-provoking book for a 7th grade reading list.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

A multi-award-winning middle-grade fantasy novel about Xan, a girl who breaks a sacred tradition and feeds a baby bound for sacrifice with moonlight. As a result, the child grows to become extraordinarily powerful with dangerous magical abilities.

Snow White by Matt Phelan

A highly engaging graphic novel film noir style retelling of the Snow White tale. Set in 1930s New York, Samantha White has come home after years of exile, protected by seven street urchins. With vibrant artwork, this book is great for reluctant seventh-grade readers.

Trials of Apollo by Rick Riordan

Cast down from Mouth Olympus by his angry father Zeus, Apollo finds himself fending for himself as a regular teen boy in New York. A regular teen with no superhuman powers. Can he ever make it up with his father and return to the gods?

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

After years of saving and waiting, Billy buys two pups, Old Dan and Little Ann. Soon he feels invincible, exploring the Ozarks with his stellar hunting dogs. But danger lurks just around the corner. This modern classic is a perfect easy reader for 7th grade.

Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D Schmidt

A startling and moving story about family and sacrifice. 12-year-old Joe narrates the story of his friend Joseph, a father at the age of 13, but he has never seen his daughter and will do anything to find her. A gripping page-turner for more mature seventh-grade readers.

The Land of Stories by Chris Colfer

An epic fantasy series about Alex and Conner, twin brothers who find themselves embroiled in adventures in a fairy tale world after reading from a strange and magical book. This is an addictive and enthralling set of books which is bound to appeal to reluctant readers in grade 7.

Sea of Trolls by Nancy Farmer

The year is 793 in a quiet Saxon settlement. When Viking Berserkers appear from the mist and kidnap 11-year-old Jack, he and his sister are thrown into an epic quest with Olaf One-Brow.

The Pigman by Paul Zindel

When a practical joke goes badly wrong the unforeseen consequences last longer than high school friends John and Lorraine could ever have imagined. Perhaps their only chance of redemption is for them to tell the story of Pigman. A classic young adult novel ideal for more advanced readers.

Brian’s Winter by Gary Paulsen

In a sequel to Hatchet, Gary Paulsen asks the question – what if Brian hadn’t been rescued? What if he had to survive long enough to face the dangers of winter? Will he survive? Find out in this thrilling and exciting adventure.

The Girl with the Ghost Machine by Lauren DeStefano

A fun and easier read for children in grade 7. When Emmaline’s mother dies suddenly, her father Monsieur Beaumont tries to build a ghost machine. But when he spends longer and longer on the machine, Emmaline decides she must either destroy it or make it work herself. An ideal book to use in class when discussing loss or grief.

Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

When Marty finds a stray dog in the woods, the beagle soon becomes the most important part of his life. But when he discovers who the dog ran away from, will the dangerous secret become too much for Marty to bear? A moving story that is perfect for less confident readers.

Tex by SE Hinton

A thought-provoking and a character-driven novel about carefree Tex and his tense home life in the care of his resentful older brother. When their often absent father returns, Tex runs away and events spiral out of control. An ideal novel for 7th-grade book clubs.

The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani

Sophie and Agatha are sent to the school for Good and Evil where students are trained to be heroes and villains. A highly original and enchanting series of stories where which intertwine characters into fairy tales from which they must try to escape. Fast-paced – these books are ideal for less confident readers.

Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt

When four siblings are abandoned by their mother in a parking lot they have to use their wits and luck to trek across America’s East Coastal Highway from Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Crisfield in Maryland where their grandmother lives. A more challenging read for seventh-grade students.

Counting by Sevens by Holly Goldberg Sloan

A story of triumph in the face of adversity. When introverted Willow’s parents both die tragically in a car accident she finds herself completely alone in a world she already finds challenging. Will she ever be able to connect with people and have a normal family life? A great book for group discussion.

Nothing by the Truth by Avi

Philip is left out of the track team due to his English grades but Philip is convinced it is all because of his unfair teacher Miss Narwin. However, when he stages a rebellious protest, he isn’t prepared for what follows when it goes viral…

River Thunder by Will Hobbs

In this high-octane sequel to Downriver, each one of the teenage crew has something to prove. Can Trey learn to work with other people? Is Jessie brave enough? Can the crew survive the perilous rapids? A stimulating book that is ideal to provoke 7th-grade reading discussions.

Crown of Three by JD Rhinehart

Tarlan, Elodie, and Gulph are triplets with superpowers who have never met each other. Events conspire to force them together in this epic tale of good and evil in a magical land filled with danger. Will they fulfill the ancient prophecy and bring peace and harmony to the world?

Where the Lilies Bloom by Vera & Bill Cleaver

A classic historical drama that examines poverty and hardship in rural America. Mary Calls stops at nothing to carry out her dying father’s last wish to keep the family together. An uplifting tale of survival against the odds.

Loot by Jude Watson

March’s father’s dying wish is for his son to find his long lost twin sister – Jules. But there’s no happy ending when he finds her – both are soon kept under lock and key in a dark orphanage. Will they find a way to escape and pull off the life-changing robbery their father had planned?

Redwall by Brian Jacques

A despotic rat called Cluny the Scourge threatens to invade and conquer an enclave of peace-loving mice in Redwall Abbey. Seemingly, nothing can stop the rat army unless unlikely alliances can be made. A tale of good versus evil and an easier reader for children in the seventh grade.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Thomas knows who he is, but that’s it. Finding himself trapped in a walled encampment he has to choose friends and alliances carefully to survive the dangers of the maze. Thrilling and edgy, this story will appeal to reluctant readers. A captivating read for any 7th-grade reading group.

The Absolute Value of Mike by Kathryn Erskine

Mike wants to relate to his dad, but that’s hard when his dad is obsessed with math. When Mike agrees to stay with relatives for the summer vacation to appease his father, he cannot imagine the adventure that awaits. A great story about the human condition.

Freakling by Lana Krumwiede

In this dark dystopian fantasy, Taemon unexpectedly loses his power to move objects with his mind – a power everyone in his world has. Faced with shame, discrimination and worse, how can he stop people from finding out? Or will the exile he fears turn out better than he could have imagined? An ideal novel for 7th-grade book clubs and class discussion.

The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien

High fantasy adventure with Bilbo Baggins joins Gandalf on an epic quest to the Lonely Mountain where vast treasure and the fierce dragon Smaug await them. The prequel to The Lord of the Rings.

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Home / Learning / 150 Brief Guide On 7th Grade Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

150 Brief Guide On 7th Grade Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

The post will explore the importance of selecting engaging and age-appropriate reading books for 7th graders aged 12-13. We will offer valuable insights into the benefits of fostering a love for reading at this critical age and provide a curated list of recommended books that cater to their interests and developmental needs. Our goal is to help parents, educators, and young readers discover captivating literature that entertains and nurtures their imagination and cognitive skills. Explore our guide on 7th Grade Reading Books for enriching literary experiences.

Welcome to our 7th Grade Reading Collection , an exceptional assortment of books meticulously chosen to engage and enrich the minds of 12 to 13-year-olds.

As children stand at the threshold of teenage years, their reading material needs to resonate with their evolving intellect and imagination.

Our collection does just that, offering a diverse range of genres from spellbinding fantasy to gripping historical fiction and thought-provoking mysteries.

Each book in this selection is more than just a story; it’s a window to different worlds, ideas, and experiences. These narratives are carefully woven to challenge young readers, enhancing their vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.

Beyond academics, these books are instruments of inspiration, fueling curiosity and empathy. With characters that young readers can relate to and learn from, this collection is essential in shaping their understanding of the world and themselves.

Dive into this literary journey designed to captivate , educate, an inspire the young minds of 7th graders.

Did You Know? Reading at ages 12-13 significantly boosts cognitive development and empathy. Engaging with diverse characters and stories expands worldviews, enhancing critical thinking and social skills. This pivotal age marks a key moment for cultivating a lifelong love for reading.

Why Is It Important To Choose The Right Books For 7th Graders?

Choosing the right books for 7th graders is important for several reasons:

• Cognitive Development: Children experience significant cognitive growth between ages 12 and 13. The right books challenge their understanding, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills .
• Vocabulary Expansion: This age is crucial for language development. Appropriate books introduce new words and concepts, enhancing their vocabulary and comprehension.
• Emotional Growth: Books with relatable characters and situations help 7th graders navigate emotions and social challenges, fostering empathy and emotional intelligence.
• Academic Success: Reading proficiency at this stage is linked to academic achievement. Quality books support curriculum learning and improve reading skills.
• Lifelong Reading Habits: Cultivating a love for reading in the early teen years can lead to lifelong reading habits, contributing to continuous learning and personal growth.
• Safe Exploration: Books offer a safe way for young teens to explore and understand complex topics and diverse perspectives, crucial in their formative years.

What Benefits Do Children Aged 12-13 Gain From Reading At This Critical Stage?

Children aged 12-13 gain several benefits from reading at this critical stage:

Enhanced Cognitive Skills

Reading complex material improves brain function, enhancing memory, focus, and analytical skills.

Improved Academic Performance

Regular reading boosts comprehension and vocabulary, improving performance across all subjects.

Emotional Development

Books provide insights into different emotions and situations, helping children understand and manage their feelings.

Empathy and Social Understanding

Exposure to diverse characters and cultures through books fosters empathy and a broader understanding of the world.

Critical Thinking

Reading encourages children to think critically, question concepts, and form opinions.

Concentration and Discipline

Reading enhances concentration and self-discipline, valuable skills for academic and personal success.

Imagination and Creativity

Reading stimulates the imagination, encouraging creativity and innovative thinking.

Language and Communication Skills

Regular reading enhances language skills, improving verbal and written communication.

Stress Reduction

Reading can be a relaxing activity that helps reduce stress and anxiety levels in children.

Preparation for Higher Education

Advanced reading skills prepare children for the more demanding academic work in high school and beyond.

What Are The Typical Reading Skills And Levels Of 7th Graders?

Typical reading skills and levels of 7th graders include:

• Advanced Comprehension: Ability to understand and analyze complex texts, including identifying themes, motives, and inferences.
• Critical Thinking: Skill in evaluating arguments, comparing and contrasting ideas, and forming well-reasoned opinions based on text.
• Vocabulary Expansion: Knowledge of a broader range of vocabulary, including more sophisticated and subject-specific words.
• Fluent Reading: Smooth and expressive reading with appropriate pace and intonation, enhancing understanding.
• Summarization Skills: Capability to summarize key points and main ideas from both fiction and non-fiction texts.
• In-depth Analysis: Analyzing characters, settings, and plot developments in fiction; understanding and evaluating main arguments and details in non-fiction.
• Contextual Understanding: Understanding and interpreting meaning from context clues and text structure.
• Research Skills: Competence in using texts for research purposes, including locating, evaluating, and integrating information.
• Discussion and Presentation: Skills in discussing texts, expressing opinions, and presenting ideas based on reading material.
• Diverse Genre Exposure: Familiarity with various genres, including novels, poetry, plays, and informational texts.

How Do The Interests Of 12-13 Year-Olds Shape Their Reading Choices?

The interests of 12-13 year-olds significantly shape their reading choices:

• Personal Experiences and Identity: As they explore their identity, children often choose books that reflect their own experiences or offer insights into the lives of others like them.
• Curiosity about the World: This age group is curious about the world around them. They may be drawn to books about different cultures, countries, or historical events.
• Fantasy and Adventure: Many in this age group are attracted to fantasy and adventure genres, which provide an escape from reality and stimulate their imagination.
• Social Themes: Books that address themes like friendship, family, school life, and first crushes resonate with their personal social experiences.
• Growing Autonomy: Their growing independence leads them to choose books themselves, often influenced by peers, trends, and media.
• Exploration of Complex Ideas: As their cognitive abilities mature, they show interest in books with more complex ideas, moral dilemmas, and challenging content.
• Hobbies and Interests: Specific hobbies or interests, like sports, music, science, or art, often guide their book choices.
• Educational Aspirations: Their academic interests and future aspirations can influence their reading, leading them towards certain subjects or genres.
• Escapism and Entertainment: Like adults, many read for entertainment and escapism, seeking stories that engage and amuse them.
• Technology and Multimedia Influence: The digital age impacts their choices, with many seeking books related to or expanded from multimedia content like movies, games, or online platforms.

What Genres Are Most Appealing To 7th Graders?

The most appealing genres to 7th graders include

Magical worlds, mythical creatures, and supernatural elements captivate their imagination.

Stories with exciting journeys and daring exploits are highly engaging.

Science Fiction

With its futuristic and technological themes, this genre appeals to their curiosity about the future and innovation.

Mystery and Detective Stories

Solving puzzles and unraveling mysteries intrigues and engages them.

Realistic Fiction

Stories that reflect real-life situations and challenges they can relate to are appealing.

Graphic Novels

Combining visual and textual storytelling, these are popular for their accessibility and entertainment value.

Historical Fiction

This genre allows them to explore different historical periods and events in an immersive way.

Biographies and Autobiographies

Stories about real people’s lives can be inspiring and educational.

Non-Fiction

Topics ranging from science and history to hobbies and sports cater to their diverse interests and expanding intellect.

Light-hearted and humorous books are often a hit, offering entertainment and stress relief.

List Of 120 Books For 7 Grade Children Aged 12-13

This extensive list of 120 books, carefully curated for 7th graders aged 12-13, spans various genres, including fantasy, science fiction, mystery, and non-fiction.

Each book is chosen to captivate and challenge young minds, fostering a love for reading while contributing to their intellectual and emotional development .

Whether exploring distant galaxies, solving intriguing mysteries, or embarking on thrilling adventures, these selections promise to enrich and inspire inquisitive young readers.

15 Fantasy Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13 

1. “The Enchanted Forest Chronicles” by Patricia C. Wrede: Follows Princess Cimorene as she defies expectations and lives with dragons, encountering magic, wizards, and unexpected adventures.

2. “Percy Jackson & The Olympians” by Rick Riordan: A modern-day teen discovers he’s the son of a Greek god, leading to thrilling adventures with mythological creatures and ancient gods.

3. “Artemis Fowl” by Eoin Colfer: A young criminal mastermind kidnaps a fairy for ransom, delving into a high-tech fairy world full of magic and intrigue.

4. “The Amulet of Samarkand” (Bartimaeus Trilogy) by Jonathan Stroud: A young magician summons an ancient djinni, Bartimaeus, embarking on a dangerous adventure filled with magical espionage.

5. “The Girl Who Drank the Moon” by Kelly Barnhill: A story about a magical girl raised by a witch, a tiny dragon, and a swamp monster, and the unexpected journey that awaits.

6. “Inkheart” by Cornelia Funke: Meggie discovers her father can bring book characters to life by reading aloud, leading them into a fantastical and perilous world of story-made-real.

7. “The School for Good and Evil” by Soman Chainani: Two girls are taken to an enchanted school where they must survive fairy tale training and uncover surprising truths about good and evil.

8. “Eragon” by Christopher Paolini: A farm boy finds a dragon egg, leading to a journey filled with magic, power, and a fight against an evil empire.

9. “The Spiderwick Chronicles” by Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi: Upon discovering a field guide to fantastical creatures, three siblings find themselves involved in an unseen world of faeries and magical beings.

10. “The Graveyard Book” by Neil Gaiman: A boy raised by ghosts in a graveyard navigates the world of the living and the dead, uncovering his past and destiny.

11. “Magyk” (Septimus Heap Series) by Angie Sage: Follows the seventh son of a seventh son, Septimus Heap, as he discovers his magical heritage and battles dark forces.

12. “The Unwanteds” by Lisa McMann: In a society where creativity is a crime, “unwanted” children are sent to a magical world where they learn to use their creativity as magic.

13. “The Red Pyramid” (The Kane Chronicles) by Rick Riordan: Two siblings discover they are descendants of Egyptian pharaohs and must master magic to save the world from ancient gods.

14. “The Serpent’s Secret” (Kiranmala and the Kingdom Beyond) by Sayantani DasGupta: Kiranmala discovers she’s a princess from another realm and embarks on a journey filled with riddles, demons, and cosmic battles.

15. “Dragon Rider” by Cornelia Funke: A young dragon rider teams up with a brownie and an orphan girl on a quest to find the Rim of Heaven, meeting various magical creatures along the way.

Fun Fact Fantasy books often contain rich, imaginative worlds that boost creativity and problem-solving skills. They allow readers to explore complex ideas and emotions in a safe, magical setting.

15 Adventure Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

16. “Hatchet” by Gary Paulsen: A gripping tale of a boy who survives a plane crash and must fend for himself in the wilderness with only a hatchet.

17. “The Explorer” by Katherine Rundell: Four children crash-land in the Amazon rainforest, embarking on a dangerous journey to find their way back to civilization.

18. “Island of the Blue Dolphins” by Scott O’Dell: A young girl is left to survive alone on an island, showcasing her resilience and connection with nature.

19. “City of Ember” by Jeanne DuPrau: Two teens discover secrets about their dying city’s past and embark on a quest to save their people.

20. “The Maze Runner” by James Dashner: Teens wake up in a mysterious maze with no memory of the outside world, facing challenges and uncovering dark secrets.

21. “Treasure Island” by Robert Louis Stevenson: The classic tale of pirates, treasure maps, and high-seas adventure as a young boy sets off on an epic journey.

22. “The Call of the Wild” by Jack London: The story of a domesticated dog thrust into the harsh landscape of the Alaskan Yukon during the gold rush.

23. “Wild Robot” by Peter Brown: A robot unexpectedly wakes up in the wild and must adapt to survive in this unique tale of nature and technology.

24. “The Mysterious Benedict Society” by Trenton Lee Stewart: Gifted kids are recruited to infiltrate a mysterious institution in this story full of puzzles and intrigue.

25. “Journey to the Center of the Earth” by Jules Verne: An adventurous journey deep into the Earth’s core, filled with scientific discoveries and fantastical creatures.

26. “Stormbreaker” (Alex Rider Series) by Anthony Horowitz: A teenage spy embarks on dangerous missions that combine high action and adventure.

27. “The Swiss Family Robinson” by Johann D. Wyss: A family shipwrecked on an island uses ingenuity and teamwork to survive and thrive in a new world.

28. “The Boundless” by Kenneth Oppel: Set on a transcontinental train, this story combines history, fantasy, and adventure as a boy encounters thieves and strange creatures.

29. “Hoot” by Carl Hiaasen: A tale of a boy who moves to Florida and discovers a group of owls threatened by construction, leading to a mission to save them.

30. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry: A boy living in a seemingly perfect community uncovers dark secrets and embarks on a journey to understand the real world beyond.

Fun Fact Adventure books’ thrilling journeys and daring exploits are great for enhancing decision-making and resilience. They transport readers to exciting realms, fueling a sense of exploration and discovery.

15 Science Fiction Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

31. “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle: A thrilling adventure through space and time, following three children as they battle darkness across the universe.

32. “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins: Set in a dystopian future, this intense novel follows a young girl forced to compete in a brutal, televised survival game.

33. “Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card: A young prodigy is trained through advanced war games to prepare for an impending alien invasion.

34. “The City of Ember” by Jeanne DuPrau: In an underground city with failing light, two teens uncover secrets to save their people.

35. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry: A boy in a seemingly perfect community uncovers the troubling truths behind his society’s lack of choices and emotions.

36. “Among the Hidden” (Shadow Children Series) by Margaret Peterson Haddix: In a future where families are limited to two children, a third child must stay hidden or face grim consequences.

37. “The 5th Wave” by Rick Yancey: After alien invasions devastate Earth, a teenage girl searches for her brother while trying to survive.

38. “The House of the Scorpion” by Nancy Farmer: A young clone in a future world struggles with his identity and the harsh realities of his existence.

39. “Cinder” (The Lunar Chronicles) by Marissa Meyer: A futuristic retelling of Cinderella, where Cinder is a cyborg mechanic entangled in political intrigue and a deadly plague.

40. “The Lightning Thief” (Percy Jackson Series) by Rick Riordan: Modern-day demigods face ancient challenges and adventures, blending Greek mythology with science fiction elements.

41. “Uglies” by Scott Westerfeld: In a society where everyone undergoes an operation to become ‘pretty’ at sixteen, one girl rebels against the system.

42. “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” by Ransom Riggs: A mysterious island, an abandoned orphanage, and a collection of strange photographs lead to an unforgettable adventure.

43. “The Maze Runner” by James Dashner: Teens trapped in a massive maze without memory of the outside world must solve its puzzles to escape.

44. “H.I.V.E.” (Higher Institute of Villainous Education) by Mark Walden: This thrilling series trains Gifted children to become criminal masterminds.

45. “Artemis Fowl” by Eoin Colfer: A genius teenage criminal mastermind matches wits with high-tech fairies in a series of daring adventures.

Fun Fact Science fiction books blend imaginative storytelling with scientific concepts, sparking interest in technology and space. They often predict future advancements, to dream big and innovate.

15 Mystery And Detective Stories Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

46. “The Westing Game” by Ellen Raskin: A twisted puzzle involving an eccentric millionaire’s will brings together an unlikely group to solve the mystery.

47. “Nancy Drew” series by Carolyn Keene: The classic adventures of teenage sleuth Nancy Drew, solving mysteries with intelligence and courage.

48. “The Hardy Boys” series by Franklin W. Dixon: Brothers Frank and Joe Hardy take on intriguing cases, combining detective skills and bravery to solve crimes.

49. “The Mysterious Benedict Society” by Trenton Lee Stewart: Gifted kids are recruited to solve a series of puzzles and stop a global disaster.

50. “Greenglass House” by Kate Milford: A snowed-in inn, a series of thefts, and a group of unusual guests make for a complex mystery.

51. “The Name of this Book Is Secret” (Secret Series) by Pseudonymous Bosch: Two brave kids discover a secret society, a magician’s diary, and an imminent danger.

52. “Spy School” series by Stuart Gibbs: A middle schooler is unexpectedly recruited into a junior CIA spy school and must uncover a mole.

53. “Chasing Vermeer” by Blue Balliett: Two kids get entangled in an art heist involving a Vermeer painting and a series of puzzles.

54. “Holes” by Louis Sachar: A wrongful conviction leads a boy to a camp where a deeper mystery involving an old curse and hidden treasure unfolds.

55. “Enola Holmes” series by Nancy Springer: Sherlock Holmes’ younger sister, Enola, is a formidable detective in her own right in Victorian London.

56. “The London Eye Mystery” by Siobhan Dowd: Ted and Kat’s cousin disappears while on the London Eye, and they must work together to solve the mystery.

57. “Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library” by Chris Grabenstein: A night locked in a library of games and puzzles turns into an exciting, intricate mystery.

58. “The 39 Clues” series by various authors: Two siblings race worldwide to solve a family mystery involving historical secrets and treasures.

59. “Murder Most Unladylike” (Wells & Wong series) by Robin Stevens: At a 1930s girls’ boarding school, two students form a detective society and solve their first real murder case.

60. “Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer” by John Grisham: A 13-year-old with a passion for the law gets caught up in a high-profile murder trial, using his legal knowledge to uncover the trut

Fun Fact Mystery and detective stories sharpen critical thinking and deductive reasoning skills. They engage young readers in problem-solving as they decipher clues and unravel plot twists alongside the protagonist.

15 Realistic Fiction Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

61. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio: A heartwarming story of a boy with facial differences attending school for the first time and facing challenges with kindness and courage.

62. “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton: A powerful tale of friendship and belonging, focusing on the rivalry between two teenage gangs.

63. “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo: A touching story about a girl who, with her dog Winn-Dixie, explores themes of friendship, community, and healing.

64. “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson: A story of friendship, imagination, and dealing with losing a close friend.

65. “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie: A coming-of-age story about a Native American boy navigating life between his reservation and a predominantly white high school.

66. “Holes” by Louis Sachar: A blend of mystery and adventure, this story follows a boy unjustly sent to a detention center and unravels his family’s past.

67. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: A profound novel about racial injustice in the American South, seen through the eyes of a young girl.

68. “A Monster Calls” by Patrick Ness: A poignant tale of a boy dealing with his mother’s illness, aided by nightly visits from a storytelling monster.

69. “Anne of Green Gables” by L.M. Montgomery: The adventures of a spirited and imaginative orphan girl adjusting to her new life in Prince Edward Island.

70. “Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan: The story of a young girl’s journey from a privileged life in Mexico to the hardworking fields of California during the Great Depression.

71. “Walk Two Moons” by Sharon Creech : A young girl sets out on a road trip to find her mother and discovers stories and truths about her family and herself.

72. “The War That Saved My Life” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley: A touching World War II story about a disabled girl who finds love and acceptance after evacuation from London.

73. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry: A thought-provoking story about a boy living in a seemingly perfect community without pain or suffering who discovers the dark truths behind his society.

74. “The Skin I’m In” by Sharon G. Flake: A powerful story about a girl learning to accept herself and overcome bullying and racism.

75. “Out of My Mind” by Sharon M. Draper: The inspiring story of a brilliant girl with cerebral palsy determined to share her voice despite her physical limitations.

Fun Fact Realistic fiction helps young readers develop empathy and understand diverse life experiences. These stories mirror real-world situations, offering valuable insights into emotions, relationships, and social issues.

15 Graphic Novels Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

76. “Smile” by Raina Telgemeier: A true story about the author’s experience with dental drama during her teen years, focusing on self-esteem and growing up.

77. “Amulet” series by Kazu Kibuishi: A blend of fantasy and adventure, following siblings who enter a magical world to save their mother.

78. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series by Jeff Kinney: The humorous adventures of Greg Heffley as he navigates middle school life, depicted in a diary format with drawings.

79. “Dog Man” series by Dav Pilkey: A comic series about a half-dog, half-man hero, packed with humor and action.

80. “Drama” by Raina Telgemeier: A colorful and inclusive look at middle school drama club life, addressing themes of friendship and identity.

81. “Ghosts” by Raina Telgemeier: A story about two sisters encountering ghosts in their new town, exploring themes of family and the concept of death.

82. “The Baby-Sitters Club” graphic novels by Raina Telgemeier and Gale Galligan: Adaptations of Ann M. Martin’s books, focusing on friendship and the adventures of babysitting.

83. “El Deafo” by Cece Bell: A semi-autobiographical comic about the author’s childhood experiences with hearing loss and finding her identity.

84. “Sisters” by Raina Telgemeier: A true story about the ups and downs of sibling relationships during a family road trip.

85. “Nimona” by Noelle Stevenson: A fantasy tale of a shape-shifting girl who becomes the sidekick to a villain, exploring themes of heroism and friendship.

86. “New Kid” by Jerry Craft: A story about being the new kid and one of the few kids of color in a prestigious private school, tackling issues of race and class.

87. “Roller Girl” by Victoria Jamieson: A coming-of-age story of friendship and perseverance centered around the world of roller derby.

88. “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series by Rick Riordan, adapted by Robert Venditti: Graphic novel adaptations of the popular Percy Jackson series, blending Greek mythology with modern adventure.

89. “The Prince and the Dressmaker” by Jen Wang: A tale of a prince who loves wearing dresses and the dressmaker he befriends, exploring themes of identity and acceptance.

90. “Awkward” by Svetlana Chmakova: A heartwarming story about navigating the challenges of middle school life and the power of kindness and friendship.

Fun Fact Graphic novels combine visual literacy with storytelling, enhancing comprehension and engagement. They’re especially effective in appealing to reluctant readers, making complex stories accessible and enjoyable.

15 Historical Fiction Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

91. “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak: In Nazi Germany, a young girl finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with others, including a Jewish refugee hidden in her home.

92. “Little House on the Prairie” series by Laura Ingalls Wilder: Chronicles the life and adventures of the Ingalls family in the American Midwest of the late 19th century.

93. “Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan: The story of Esperanza, a girl from a wealthy family in Mexico who becomes a migrant farm worker in California during the Great Depression.

94. “The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963” by Christopher Paul Curtis: A humorous and poignant story of an African American family who traveled to Birmingham during a tumultuous civil rights movement period.

95. “Island of the Blue Dolphins” by Scott O’Dell: Based on a true story, this novel follows a young Native American girl stranded for years on an island off the California coast.

96. “Catherine, Called Birdy” by Karen Cushman: Set in medieval England, it’s the diary of a young girl who resists her father’s plans to marry her off.

97. “Fever 1793” by Laurie Halse Anderson: Tells the story of a teenage girl struggling to survive during the yellow fever epidemic in Philadelphia in 1793.

98. “Chains” (Seeds of America Trilogy) by Laurie Halse Anderson: A gripping story about a young enslaved girl fighting for freedom during the American Revolution.

99. “The War That Saved My Life” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley: A moving tale of an evacuee from London during WWII who finds a new life in the countryside.

100. “Bud, Not Buddy” by Christopher Paul Curtis: During the Great Depression, a ten-year-old boy sets out to find his father, guided by a few sparse clues.

101. “Sarah, Plain and Tall” by Patricia MacLachlan: A touching story of a mail-order bride and her step-children set in the American Midwest.

102. “Echo” by Pam Muñoz Ryan: Interconnected stories tied together by a magical harmonica, spanning from pre-WWII Germany to the Great Depression in Pennsylvania, and post-Pearl Harbor America.

103. “The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas” by John Boyne: A haunting story of the forbidden friendship between the son of a Nazi commandant and a Jewish boy in a concentration camp.

104. “Wolf Hollow” by Lauren Wolk: A coming-of-age story set in rural Pennsylvania during WWII, addressing themes of prejudice, courage, and justice.

105. “Number the Stars” by Lois Lowry: Set in WWII Denmark, this story follows a young girl helping her Jewish friend escape the Nazis.

Fun Fact Historical fiction opens a window to the past, bringing history to life. These books enrich knowledge about different eras and cultures, blending learning with engaging storytelling.

15 Biographies And Autobiographies Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

106. “I Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World” by Malala Yousafzai: The inspiring story of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani girl who fought for her right to education.

107. “Who Was Anne Frank?” by Ann Abramson: A poignant biography of Anne Frank, detailing her life, the historical context of WWII, and her famous diary.

108. “Brown Girl Dreaming” by Jacqueline Woodson: A memoir in verse, sharing the author’s experiences growing up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s.

109. “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer: The true story of a Malawian teenager who built a windmill from scraps to bring electricity to his village.

110. “Steve Jobs: The Man Who Thought Different” by Karen Blumenthal: A biography of Steve Jobs, focusing on how his innovation and vision changed the world.

111. “Hidden Figures Young Readers’ Edition” by Margot Lee Shetterly: The untold story of the African American women mathematicians who played a crucial role in NASA’s space program.

112. “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank: Anne Frank’s diary offers a moving and powerful account of life during the Holocaust.

113. “Soul Surfer” by Bethany Hamilton: The autobiography of Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm to a shark attack and triumphantly returned to professional surfing.

114. “Boy: Tales of Childhood” by Roald Dahl: The beloved author shares stories from his childhood with the same wit and poignancy found in his famous books.

115. “To Be a Slave” by Julius Lester: This book presents a stark and powerful look at slavery in America compiled from narratives of enslaved people.

116. “Elon Musk: A Mission to Save the World” by Anna Crowley Redding: The life of Elon Musk, from his early years to his ambitions in space travel and sustainable energy.

117. “Frida Kahlo: The Artist who Painted Herself” by Margaret Frith: The story of renowned artist Frida Kahlo, told through her artwork and personal experiences.

118. “I am Sacagawea” by Brad Meltzer: A biography of Sacagawea, the Native American woman who played a crucial role in the Lewis and Clark expedition.

119. “Albert Einstein: The Genius Who Failed School” by Margaret Davidson: A look at the life of Albert Einstein, focusing on how his unique mind and perseverance led to some of the greatest scientific discoveries.

120. “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls” by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo: A collection of biographies of extraordinary women from history designed to inspire young readers with their stories of courage and determination.

Fun Fact Biographies and autobiographies give a personal glimpse into remarkable lives, offering inspiration and life lessons. They connect readers with historical events and figures in a relatable, compelling way.

15 Non-Fiction Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

121. “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer: An inspiring true story of a Malawian teenager who built a windmill to save his village from famine.

122. “Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon” by Steve Sheinkin: A gripping account of the development of the atomic bomb during World War II.

123. “Hidden Figures Young Readers’ Edition” by Margot Lee Shetterly: The remarkable true story of the African American women mathematicians at NASA who helped win the space race.

124. “How We Got to Now: Six Innovations That Made the Modern World” by Steven Johnson: Explores six innovations—glass, cold, sound, clean, time, and light—that shaped modern life.

125. “Guts & Glory: The Vikings” by Ben Thompson: An exciting look into the world of Vikings, their culture, and their impact on history.

126. “Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World” by Rachel Ignotofsky: Celebrates the contributions of female scientists and their impact on our world.

127. “The Omnivore’s Dilemma: Young Readers Edition” by Michael Pollan: Explores the complexities of our food system and our choices about what we eat.

128. “Phineas Gage: A Gruesome but True Story About Brain Science” by John Fleischman: The astonishing tale of Phineas Gage, a railroad worker who survived a traumatic brain injury.

129. “A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story” by Linda Sue Park: The dual stories of two eleven-year-olds in Sudan, a girl in 2008 and a boy in 1985, highlight the country’s difficult history and its impact on its people.

130. “The Family Romanov: Murder, Rebellion, and the Fall of Imperial Russia” by Candace Fleming: An intriguing look at the last Russian tsar’s family and the revolution that ended their reign.

131. “Trapped: How the World Rescued 33 Miners from 2,000 Feet Below the Chilean Desert” by Marc Aronson: The dramatic true story of the 33 Chilean miners who were trapped underground for 69 days.

132. “I Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World” by Malala Yousafzai: The memoir of Malala Yousafzai, who became a symbol of the fight for education rights.

133. “The Boy on the Wooden Box” by Leon Leyson: A moving memoir of one of the youngest survivors of the Holocaust, saved by Oskar Schindler.

134. “Undefeated: Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian School Football Team” by Steve Sheinkin: The story of Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian School Football Team, an underdog team that changed American football forever.

135. “Climate Change: Discover How It Impacts Spaceship Earth” by Joshua Sneideman and Erin Twamley: An informative guide to understanding climate change and its effects on our planet.

Fun Fact Non-fiction books expand knowledge on many topics, feeding curiosity and fostering a lifelong love for learning. They provide factual insights in an engaging narrative form.

15 Humor Reading Books For Children Aged 12-13

136. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series by Jeff Kinney: The hilarious adventures of Greg Heffley navigating middle school with its trials and tribulations, depicted in diary format with drawings.

137. “The Terrible Two” by Mac Barnett and Jory John: A story of pranks and friendship as new kid Miles and Niles form a mischievous duo in their quest to become the best pranksters.

138. “Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life” by James Patterson: Chronicles the struggles of Rafe Khatchadorian in middle school, filled with humor and heart.

139. “Big Nate” series by Lincoln Peirce: Follows the daily adventures and mishaps of witty and rebellious Nate Wright, told through comic strips and text.

140. “Dork Diaries” by Rachel Renée Russell: Nikki Maxwell navigates the ups and downs of middle school life with a humorous take on friendships, crushes, and school drama .

141. “Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing” by Judy Blume: The relatable and amusing story of Peter Hatcher and his little brother, Fudge, who often causes chaos.

142. “I Funny” by James Patterson and Chris Grabenstein: A young aspiring stand-up comedian, Jamie Grimm, navigates school life and family challenges with humor and resilience.

143. “The Strange Case of Origami Yoda” by Tom Angleberger: A unique and funny story involving a finger puppet of Yoda, offering surprisingly wise advice to sixth graders.

144. “Tom Gates” series by Liz Pichon: The doodle-filled diary of Tom Gates showcasing his everyday adventures and ambitions to rock out with his band, and annoy his sister.

145. “Timmy Failure” series by Stephan Pastis: Follows the comic misadventures of Timmy Failure, a clueless detective, and his polar bear partner.

146. “My Life as a Book” by Janet Tashjian: A summer of misadventures and drawings as Derek Fallon finds creative ways to avoid reading.

147. “The Brilliant World of Tom Gates” by Liz Pichon: Filled with doodles and comic sequences, this book humorously depicts Tom Gates’s life, his epic ideas, and his encounters with teachers and classmates.

148. “Sideways Stories from Wayside School” by Louis Sachar: A collection of absurdly funny stories from the students at Wayside School, built 30 stories high.

149. “The 13-Story Treehouse” by Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton: The first in a series about Andy and Terry’s wild and imaginative adventures in their treehouse with 13 stories.

150. “Frank Einstein” series by Jon Scieszka: A mix of science and humor, following kid-genius and inventor Frank Einstein in his quirky, funny experiments.

Fun Fact Humor books entertain, reduce stress, and improve mood. They often use wit and satire to offer fresh perspectives on everyday situations.

What Are Some Tips For Encouraging Regular Reading Habits In 12-13-Year-Olds?

Encouraging regular reading habits in 12-13-year-olds involves both inspiration and strategy. Here are some effective tips:

• Provide a Variety of Books: Offer a wide range of genres and topics that cater to their interests and curiosity.
• Create a Reading Space: Designate a comfortable and quiet reading space, free from distractions like TV and video games .
• Set Aside Regular Reading Time: Establish a routine where a specific time of the day is dedicated to reading, such as before bed or after school.
• Lead by Example: Model reading behavior. When children see adults in their lives reading, they’re more likely to pick up the habit themselves.
• Incorporate Technology: Use e-readers or audiobooks to engage tech-savvy kids, making reading more accessible and appealing.
• Join a Book Club or Reading Group: This can provide social interaction around reading, making it a fun and engaging activity.
• Visit Libraries and Bookstores: Regular visits can help them discover new books and develop a love for book-browsing and reading.
• Discuss What They Read: Show interest in their reading choices. Ask questions and have discussions about their books to deepen their engagement.
• Set Reading Challenges: Encourage them to set and achieve reading goals like reading several monthly books.
• Use Books to Address Their Experiences: Offer books that reflect the changes and challenges they may face at this age, making reading relevant.
• Limit Screen Time: Encourage a balance between screen time and reading time.
• Personalize Their Reading Experience: Help them select books matching their reading level and interests, making reading more enjoyable and less chore.
• Encourage Writing: Encourage them to write stories or keep a journal, which often fosters a greater appreciation for reading.
• Reward Reading: Recognize their reading achievements with praise or small rewards, reinforcing reading as a positive habit.
• Stay Involved: Keep up with current children’s literature trends so you can make informed recommendations that resonate with their age group.

Keep In Mind 

• Diverse Book Selection: Offer various genres and subjects to cater to various interests.
• Comfortable Reading Environment: Create a quiet, cozy space dedicated to reading.
• Routine Reading Time: Establish a daily reading habit at a specific time.
• Adult Role Modeling: Regularly read yourself to demonstrate the value of reading.
• Leverage Technology: Use e-readers and audiobooks for tech-savvy appeal.
• Encourage Social Reading: Promote book clubs or reading groups for interaction.
• Frequent Library Visits: Regular trips to libraries and bookstores can spark interest.
• Engage in Discussions: Talk about their reading materials to deepen understanding.
• Set Achievable Goals: Challenge them with attainable reading targets.
• Balance Screen Time: Encourage a healthy balance between reading and electronic devices.
• Personalize Reading Choices: Help select books that match their interests and reading level.
• Encourage Writing: Support related activities like writing and enhancing literary appreciation.
• Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward their reading efforts.
• Parental Involvement: Stay informed about children’s literature to make relevant suggestions.
• Address Their Experiences: Choose books that reflect their life stage and challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How can i encourage my child to read more.

Encourage reading by providing a variety of books that match their interests, creating a comfortable reading space, and setting a consistent time for reading. Lead by example, discuss books with them, and use technology like e-readers or audiobooks to make reading more engaging.

What Are The Best Books For 12-13-Year-Olds?

The best books for this age group often include a mix of genres, such as fantasy, science fiction, mystery, and realistic fiction.

Titles like Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, and The Hunger Games are popular. It’s important to choose books that are both age-appropriate and interesting to the individual child.

How Can I Help Improve My Child’s Reading Comprehension?

To improve reading comprehension, encourage your child to read various texts and discuss what they’ve read. Ask open-ended questions about the plot, characters, and their thoughts on the book.

Reading regularly and using tools like vocabulary lists or reading guides can also be helpful.

Is It Okay For My Child To Read Graphic Novels And Comic Books?

Absolutely! Graphic novels and comic books can be a great way to get children interested in reading. They can help with visual literacy, reinforce story structure understanding, and are often just as sophisticated in themes and narrative as traditional novels.

How Much Time Should My 12-13-Year-Old Spend Reading Each Day?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, a good goal is to encourage at least 20-30 minutes of reading daily. This time can be adjusted based on the child’s schedule, reading ability, and interest. The key is to make reading a consistent and enjoyable part of their daily routine.

https://princetonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/list/share/104628707/1944597739

https://www.differentiatedteaching.com/7th-grade-books

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Best Books for 7th Graders

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The Best Books for 7 th Grade Readers

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60+ Books for a 7th Grader Who Loves to Read

August 17, 2015 by ami 3 Comments

After typing out Elijah's 6th Grade Reading List , I determined to get serious about sharing my other lists. I know there are other moms out there like me who have voracious readers and who want to give their students quality literature.

I purposefully saved some of these books for Elijah's 7th grade reading list, even though the reading level may not be as high because some of the themes are more mature. Some of the books have minimal language. You can check for reviews at Plugged In in order to determine if a book is suitable for your child. I do not preview everything for Elijah. He typically comes to me with questions and concerns. 

The list below represents many of the books Elijah read for his 7th grade year.

Classic Literature

The Call of the Wild by Jack London

The Complete Tales of Uncle Remus by Joel Chandler Harris

The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann D. Wyss

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain

Men of Iron by Howard Pyle

The Complete Stories of Hans Christian Andersen

Biography and Nonfiction

Flight: The Complete History by R. G. Grant

Louis Pasteur: Founder of Modern Medicine by John Hudson Tiner

Teresa of Calcutta by D. Jeanene Watson

Corrie ten Boom by Janet and Geoff Benge

Invincible Microbe: Tuberculousis and the Never-Ending Search for a Cure

Chasing Lincoln’s Killer by James L. Swanson

Lincoln’s Grave Robbers by Steve Sheinkin

Poetry for Young People Series (various poets)

Historical Fiction

The Watsons Go to Birmingham *  by Christopher Paul Curtis

Bud, Not Buddy *  by Christopher Paul Curtis

Elijah of Buxton *  by Christopher Paul Curtis

The Mighty Miss Malone by Christopher Paul Curtis

The Madman of Piney Woods  by Christopher Paul Curtis

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry * by Mildred D. Taylor

The Shakespeare Stealer by Gary Blackwood

Year of Impossible Goodbyes by Sook Nyul Choi (please preview)

Crispin: The Cross of Lead *  by Avi

Crispin: At the Edge of the World  by Avi

Crispin: The End of Time  by Avi

A Single Shard *  by Linda Sue Park

I, Juan de Pareja *  by De Trevino

On the Wings of Heroes by Richard Peck

Mary, Bloody Mary by Carolyn Meyer  

The Westing Game * by Ellen Raskin

Realistic Fiction

Summer of the Swans * by Betsy Byars

Chu Ju’s House by Gloria Whelan 

On My Honor *  by Marion Dane Bauer

Maniac Magee * by Jerry Spinelli

Moon Over Manifest *  by Clare Vanderpool

A Long Way from Chicago * by Richard Peck

A Year Down Yonder * by Richard Peck

A Season of Gifts by Richard Peck

Code of Silence by Tim Shoemaker

Back Before Dark by Tim Shoemaker

Below the Surface by Tim Shoemaker

Fantasy 

Flora and Ulysses *  by Kate diCamillo

Redwall by Brian Jacques

Outcast of Redwall by Brian Jacques

Mariel of Redwall by Brian Jacques

The Legend of Luke by Brian Jacques

Mossflower by Brian Jacques

Martin the Warrior by Brian Jacques

The Bellmaker by Brian Jacques

Salamandastron by Brian Jacques

Mattimeo by Brian Jacques

The Pearls of Lutra by Brian Jacques

Marlfox by Brian Jacques

Taggerung by Brian Jacques

Triss by Brian Jacques

Loamhedge by Brian Jacques

Rakkety Tam by Brian Jacques

High Rhulain by Brian Jacques

Eulalia! by Brian Jacques

Doomwyte by Brian Jacques  

Any title with an asterisk (*) notes a book that is a Newbery award winner or honor book. 

What books would you add to a 7th grade reading list?

If you are looking for more lists for kids who love to read, please check out my Reading Lists for Voracious Readers page . 

August 25, 2015 at 8:46 pm

Thank you so much for these lists!  As the mom of 3 voracious readers, it can be difficult to keep enough books around or have suggestions for a library visit.  This is a big help!

August 27, 2015 at 9:59 am

I am so happy to hear this! I have more lists in the works. I’ve been finding books for voracious readers for nine years! I’m not sure why I haven’t posted about it before. 

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Lexile Levels: What Parents Need to Know

Get the facts on your child's reading level, and learn about this important measurement tool..

What Is a Lexile Level?

A popular method used by schools to measure a student reader’s ability is Lexile level or a Lexile Measure. A Lexile measure is a valuable tool for teachers, parents, and students. It serves two unique functions: it is the measure of how difficult a text is OR a student’s reading ability level. The Lexile Framework was developed by MetaMetrics © , an educational assessment and research team, funded originally by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. 

What Does Lexile Score Mean?

A student receives his or her Lexile measure from one of two ways: taking a school-administered SRI (Scholastic Reading Inventory) test , which is specifically designed to measure Lexile or reading ability OR by taking a standardized reading test which converts the reader’s results to a Lexile measure. If a student gets a 550L then he or she is a 550 level Lexile reader. 550L is the measure of his or her readability level. It is important to note it is never called a score! This encourages student achievement. 

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How to Find a Child’s Lexile Level 

The Lexile level will always be shown as a number with an “L” after it — for example 770L = 770 Lexile. The higher the Lexile measure, the higher the student’s reading level. The reader’s Lexile Framework works in intervals of five with 5L being the lowest. The highest possible measure is 2000L. Anything below 5L is assessed as a BR or Beginning Reader.

How to Find the Lexile of a Book

A book’s Lexile measure is analyzed by MetaMetrics © . After a text is assessed, it is given a measure like that of a student’s readability level, 600L for example. In this measure, MetaMetrics © is assessing the text’s difficulty level. A book or magazine at a 500L has a Lexile Level of 500. MetaMetrics © predicts and assesses how difficult a text will be for a reader to comprehend. The two main criteria it tests are word frequency and sentence strength. A text’s Lexile Framework works in increments of 10 with 10L being the lowest. Measures below 10L are classified as BR or Beginning Reader.

Lexile Levels in Practice

The ideal for both reader and text is to match both their assessed Lexile measure. For example a book or magazine with a 770L and a reader assessed at a Lexile level of 770. The reading levels per classroom are wide-ranging and varied. There are many factors that go into matching a student to his or her ideal text. The Lexile Framework is a good place to start in picking the right book at the right Lexile level as it targets areas in need of intervention and encourages achievement across grade levels and curricula.   

How to Find Books on Your Child’s Lexile Level

Lexile levels are scientifically and mathematically assigned based on the difficulty and readability of a book. Once you know your child’s Lexile level, you can search for books that match this level to expand your home library and encourage daily reading practice in your own home. Use the Lexile database to search by Lexile level, title, or subject to find books your child will enjoy and be able to read without becoming discouraged at his or her reading achievement. 

Use the chart below to compare Lexile Levels with other leveled reading systems:

Shop recommended Lexile Level books by grade below. You can find all books and activities at  The Scholastic Store .

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Shop Recommended Lexile Level Books for Kindergarten

Shop recommended lexile level books for 1st grade, shop recommended lexile level books for 2nd grade, shop recommended lexile level books for 3rd grade, shop recommended lexile level books for 4th grade, shop recommended lexile level books for 5th grade, shop recommended lexile level books for 6th grade.

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20 Good Nonfiction Books for 7th Graders to Read

by Nikki | Jul 15, 2018 | Reading Lists | 0 comments

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Looking for some really good nonfiction books for 7th graders? These top 20 books introduce your tweens to a myriad of fascinating subjects and help them learn more about the world around them! From ancient art to modern technology, there’s something here for every interest!

While I’ve always been a fiction kind of girl myself, my son is the opposite. Sure, he has his favorite fiction series (he’s especially into manga right now), but the bulk of his library consists of books filled with fun facts about his favorite subjects or how-to guides for his favorite games.

He’s learned more through reading nonfiction books that he picked out himself than he has in 7 years of elementary and middle school. Don’t get me wrong, school is important, but our kids are much more likely to retain information when they have some choice in how they receive it.

Since Jake just finished 7th grade, I thought now would be a great time to share some of the good nonfiction books that taught him so much throughout the year! Check them out!

Good Nonfiction Books for 7th Graders to Read

*The book links are affiliate links, which means that I earn a tiny commission (at no extra charge to you) when you make a purchase through them. I broke this list down into the most popular nonfiction book categories to make it easier to browse. I’ve also embedded a preview whenever available. Some of these books are only available in print, though, because they are graphic-heavy and don’t translate well to an ebook.

1. Everything You Need to Ace Science in One Big Fat Notebook

2. Girls Think of Everything:  Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women

3. Rocket Science for the Rest of Us

4.  Maker Lab: 28 Super Cool Projects: Build * Invent * Create * Discover

5.  Super Earth Encyclopedia 

Computers & Technology

6.  the way things work now.

7.  Get Coding!

8.  The LEGO Power Functions Idea Book

9.  Coding Games in Scratch

10. Minecraft Guide Collection

11.  Harry Potter – A Journey Through A History of Magic

12.  Four Perfect Pebbles: A True Story of the Holocaust

13.  The Boy Who Became Buffalo Bill: Growing Up Billy Cody in Bleeding Kansas

14.  Amazing Leonardo da Vinci Inventions: You Can Build Yourself 

Leonardo da Vinci is the grandfather of pretty much every amazing discovery and invention. In this book by Maxine Anderson , tweens first learn about the times in which da Vinci lived and what inspired him to create such revolutionary (at least back then) inventions. Then, they can try their hand at making some of his simpler creations themselves using common household supplies!

15.  1001 Inventions and Awesome Facts from Muslim Civilization

16.  The Creativity Project: An Awesometastic Story Collection

17.  The Future Architect’s Handbook

18.  Legends, Icons & Rebels: Music That Changed the World

19.  National Geographic Kids Guide to Photography

20.  National Geographic The Photo Ark

It was hard to narrow down the vast sea of good nonfiction books for 7th graders, but these are my top picks for each category. While many of them are written for kids from 9-12, I picked books that weren’t too “little kiddie” so that they would appeal to preteens.

Do you know of any other good nonfiction books for 7th graders to read? Share with me below so I can check it out!

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Best book series for 7th graders — ever

by: Grace Montgomery

Print book list

The American Fairy Trilogy

by: Sarah Zettel - (Bluefire, 2013) 320 pages.

The hook: When Callie LeRoux’s mother disappears in a sandstorm during the Depression, she sets off to California on a quest to find her parents and her destiny. Half-fairy and half-mortal with African-American heritage, Callie must piece together the truth about her past to rescue her family. She embarks on a cross-country adventure, uncovering some dark secrets along the way. This richly imaginative and well-researched series cleverly combines fascinating historical details about the Dust Bowl era with folklore and fantasy. It’s a refreshing change from the usual vampire or dystopian teen fare. Parents should note a few uses of historically accurate racial slurs, like the N-word.

Perfect for: Tweens and teens who like historical stories with a twist.

Find our favorites at your local library: Dust Girl , Golden Girl , Bad Luck Girl .

CHERUB series

by: Robert Muchamore - (Simon Pulse, 2013)

The hook: Formed during WWII, CHERUB is an elite, secret sector of the British Security Service that employs minors aged 9 to 17 — mostly orphans — as intelligence officers. The 12 books in the first series are stay-up-late page-turners. Savvy, capable heroes and heroines infiltrate gangs, take down terrorists, and investigate international arms dealers, all while maintaining covers as “normal” teenagers.

Perfect for: Your high-flying daredevil, problem-solving genius of a middle-schooler.

Find our favorites at your local library: Divine Madness , The General , Brigands M.C.

Dairy Queen series

by: Catherine Gilbert Murdock - (HMH Books for Young Readers, 2007)

The hook: The books follow the high school passions and perils of D.J., a teen who has all the drama of a 90210 socialite — just swap out star-spotting in glitzy LA for football games and farm life in rural Wisconsin. You see, Darlene Joyce “D.J.” has been picking up the slack around her family’s dairy farm ever since her dad got hurt and her football-star brothers left to play college ball, which includes a daily five a.m. wake-up call to milk their 32 cows. A little on the husky side, D.J. is also a major football fan. When she decides to become a player, there’s drama, dissent, and a little dalliance with the rival team’s quarterback.

Perfect for: hardworking, athletic girls who love their families, their sports, and their lives — even when they don’t all come wrapped in a pretty package.

Find our favorites at your local library: Dairy Queen , The Off Season , Front and Center .

The Ender quintet

by: Orson Scott Card - (Tor Books, 1985) 384 pages.

The hook: In a desperate attempt to win a century-long war with an alien race, Earth breeds genetically modified geniuses to train as child soldiers. Ten-year-old Ender Wiggins excels at the simulated tactical war games used in military training. But when he resists his role in saving the human race, the adults must decide how far to push him. This riveting series raises compelling questions about empathy and morality and is a good gateway to reading for pleasure, particularly for older tween boys who would rather be playing video games. Parents should note that the books contain violence, bullying, and some mild profanity.

Want to see the movie? The 2013 film starring Harrison Ford adapts the futuristic sci-fi plot of the first book to the big screen.

Perfect for: Video game lovers.

Find our favorites at your local library: Ender’s Game , Speaker for the Dead .

Eragon: The Inheritance Cycle, Book 1

by: Christopher Paolini - (Knopf, 2003) 528 pages.

The hook: On a hunting trip on the foreboding mountain range known as the Spine, 15-year-old Eragon finds a mysterious blue stone that turns out to be a dragon egg. The dragon hatches and brands his palm with the silver mark that signifies that the two are a bonded pair, the last dragon and dragon rider in all of Alagaesia. When terrifying visitors destroy Eragon’s farm, Eragon and Saphira set out with the town storyteller, Brom, to pursue their destiny — to defeat the evil king, Galbatorix. This is the first book in the four-book Inheritance Cycle series, which is reminiscent of Tolkien and full of ancient magic, elves, dwarves, and dragon lore. A map and glossary help kids keep track of the exotic place names and words in fantasy languages. And the fact that the author was 15 when he began writing the series may inspire young readers to get writing themselves.

Want to see the movie? The 2007 adaptation, Eragon , may help readers visualize creatures and events in the book.

Perfect for : Readers (and budding writers) of epic fantasy fiction.

Find our favorites at your local library: Eragon , Eldest , Brisingr .

The Girl of Fire and Thorns trilogy

by: Rae Carson - (Greenwillow Books, 2012) 448 pages.

The hook: Despite being one of the chosen few bearing a Godstone, a symbol that she’s destined to be a hero, 16-year-old Elisa has always fallen in her sister’s shadow. But when she’s sent to be the secret wife of an embattled king, she knows it’s time to embrace her destiny. Caught between different loyalties and struggling to fulfill the prophecy that claims she can save the world, Elisa must first find a way to survive. This intense trilogy spans a lot of genres, combining fantasy, romance, and spirituality with a plucky plus-size heroine who’s not your usual princess. Teen girls swoon over the romantic plot points, though parents should note there’s some sexual content (talk about birth control, some steamy kisses, and a brief sex scene) and some violence.

Perfect for: Teens who like books with a little romance and a lot of action.

Find our favorites at your local library: The Girl of Fire and Thorns , The Crown of Embers , The Bitter Kingdom .

The Hunger Games series

by: Suzanne Collins - (Scholastic Press, 2008) 384 pages.

The hook: Beginning with The Hunger Games , this three-book series follows Katniss Everdeen, a reluctant hero in a post-apocalyptic future. Each year, as penance for past rebellion against the Capital, citizens of the 12 districts of Panem must choose two children to fight to the death in the televised Hunger Games. When Katniss’s little sister, Prim, is chosen, Katniss volunteers to take her place. Her bravery sets off a chain of events that will determine the future of Panem. A taut storyline and engaging characters make this series hard to put down for tween and teen readers, though parents should know the books contain mature themes and violence.

Want to see the movie? Check out the four film adaptations, starting with The Hunger Games , which closely follow the plot of the trilogy.

Perfect for: Tweens and teens who admire strong female characters.

Find our favorites at your local library: The Hunger Games , Catching Fire , Mockingjay .

Little Women

by: Louisa May Alcott - (Roberts Brothers, 1868) 816 pages.

The hook: It’s the Civil War and the four March sisters are struggling to grow up to be well-bred young ladies after their family has fallen on hard times. Pretty Meg, the oldest, finds it the hardest to be poor. Tomboy Jo has big dreams of becoming a writer. Kind Beth just wants a quiet life at home with her sisters. And impish Amy struggles with being impulsive and a bit vain. Holding them all together is Marmie, their wise and independent mother, who lovingly guides them as they change from girls to women while their father is away at war. This family story is a great read-aloud book for younger kids and a good challenge for tweens who want to tackle a longer read.

Want to see the movie? There are several versions to choose from, including the classic 1949 adaptation starring Elizabeth Taylor.

Perfect for : Tweens and teens who like stories about family dynamics.

Find our favorites at your local library: Little Women , Little Men , Jo’s Boys .

Legend trilogy

by: Marie Lu - (Speak, 2013) 352 pages.

The hook: In a future, dystopian Los Angeles, 15-year-old June is being trained to be a leader in the Republic’s ruling party. Day, an outlaw, was born in the slums and will do whatever he can to make a better life for his family. When June’s brother is murdered and Day is blamed for the crime, these two teens on opposite sides of the law are thrown together, uncovering dangerous truths about the Republic. Although the themes aren’t new — teens finding love during a violent, dystopian future — the compelling writing and emotional nuances keep this trilogy feeling fresh. Parents should know that these books contain violence and mature themes.

Perfect for: Tweens who want more after The Hunger Games and Divergent.

Find our favorites at your local library: Legend , Prodigy , Champion .

The Lunar Chronicles

by: Marissa Meyer - (Square Fish, 2013) 448 pages.

The hook: What if Cinderella was part cyborg and Rapunzel’s tower was actually a satellite stuck out in space? Classic fairy tales are reimagined with futuristic twists in the dark and imaginative Lunar Chronicles, a four-book series that combines Cinderella, Rapunzel, Little Red Riding Hood, and Snow White. Each heroine isn’t just a damsel in distress waiting for her prince to save her — they’re each strong, intelligent (Rapunzel is a hacker), and ready to fight to save humanity from a deadly virus and the impending war between Earth and the moon. Teen girls love the strong female role models in this compelling series, but parents should note the mature themes and violence.

Perfect for: Teens who like fairytales with a twist.

Find our favorites at your local library: Cinder , Scarlet , Cress .

Matched trilogy

by: Allyson Braithwaite Condie - (Speak, 2011) 416 pages.

The hook: Beginning with Matched, this three-book series follows 17-year-old Cassia as she begins her adult life in Society, a sanitized futuristic world that’s taken free will away from its citizens. With her career already chosen for her, Cassia is thrilled to learn her future husband will be her best friend, Xander. But when her neighbor Ky, who’s been shunned as an “aberration,” shows up on her match screen instead by accident, the Society’s mistake opens up Cassia’s mind to the possibility that her utopian world isn’t what she thought it was. Although the trilogy deals with mature themes, it’s much less violent than most of the teen dystopian cannon and keeps the sexual content to a few intense kisses.

Perfect for: Tweens and teens who like dystopian fiction.

Find our favorites at your local library: Matched , Crossed , Reached .

by: Brian Jacques - (Puffin/Philomel Books, 2002) 352 pages.

The hook: For generations, the Redwall Abbey has been home to peaceful woodland animals. But throughout the Abbey’s long and storied history, there have been those who seek to destroy their ways of kindness. Fortunately, a hero can always be found to maintain the peace. This epic 22-book series, set in an imagined medieval past with talking animals, isn’t written in chronological order, so each title can stand on its own. The rich and exciting prose makes this a great read-aloud choice for younger readers who may struggle with the dense writing on their own and stronger readers who like classic adventure tales, though parents should note there is some violence.

Perfect for: Readers who like sprawling adventures.

Find our favorites at your local library: Redwall , Mossflower , Martin the Warrior .

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

by: Ann Brashares - (Delacorte Press/Random House Children's Books, 2001) 336 pages.

The hook: Soon-to-be high school sophomores Bridget, Carmen, Lena, and Tibby have been best friends forever. Just as they’re about to spend their first summer apart, the four girls come upon a pair of jeans that somehow fits all four of them perfectly and makes each girl look and feel amazing. The friends vow to share the pants and send them back and forth to each other throughout the summer. The first in a series of five books, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants sweetly captures the high school experience in way that will be especially compelling to tween readers.

Want to see the movie? Check out the 2005 adaptation starring Blake Lively, America Ferrera, Alexis Bledel, and Amber Tamblyn.

Perfect for: Tweens who like stories about high school.

Find our favorites at your local library: The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants , The Second Summer of the Sisterhood , Girls in Pants: The Third Summer of the Sisterhood .

Daughter of Smoke & Bone series

by: Laini Taylor - (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2012) 448 pages.

The hook: Raised by four half-human, half-animal creatures called chimaera, blue-haired Karou is not your typical 17-year-old. While traveling between worlds on a mission to find teeth (for what purpose she isn’t sure), Karou is attacked by a seraphim named Akiva. All of a sudden, her portal back to her family is closed. Karou finds herself drawn into a war between angel and chimaera and against a strong attraction to Akiva that she can’t explain. Although this fantasy series falls in the angel romance camp, the intriguing mystery plot and strong writing help it avoid the clichés of the genre and make it a popular pick for adults and mature teens.

Perfect for: Teens who like romantic fantasies.

Find our favorites at your local library: Daughter of Smoke and Bone , Days of Blood and Starlight , Dreams of Gods and Monsters .

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Reading Levels Explained: A Guide for Parents and Teachers

What they mean, why we use them, and more.

As a child starts school and begins learning to read, parents are likely to hear the term “reading level.” A teacher might share that a student is reading at, above, or below level. They may also provide specific numbers, like 440L or GR J. Parents can find all this confusing, so we’ve put together this simple guide for teachers to share as they discuss what reading levels mean for their students.

What are reading levels?

Source: Scholastic

Reading levels are a way of determining the reading skills a student already has. They measure a child’s reading comprehension and fluency, using a variety of factors like phoneme awareness, decoding, vocabulary, and more. Teachers use reading levels to understand what a student knows and what they need to work on. They might also be used to assemble kids into small reading groups.

Many children’s book publishers indicate reading levels on their books, so parents and kids can quickly find options to suit their needs. Choosing the right reading level can be key for many children. If the book they try to read is too difficult for them, they may give up. On the other hand, reading books that are too easy won’t challenge them to build their skills.

Suggestions, Not Rules

It’s extremely important to remember a few things about these levels. First of all, in some cases, the score evaluates the ease of reading of a book, but not the content. For instance, a book like Alice Walker’s The Color Purple earns a 4.0 score on the AR/ATOS scale, indicating it’s written at a fourth grade level. However, most people would agree that the content of this book isn’t right for fourth graders. In fact, this type of book is what’s known as “high-low,” meaning the content and interest level is meant for higher-grade students, while the readability score is low enough that less-skilled readers will find it within their range. ( Learn more about high-low books here. )

So while level numbers can be helpful, they aren’t the only indicator you should use when choosing a book. In fact, many teachers caution against using levels to limit kids’ reading choices . If a child is willing to tackle a more difficult book because the subject matter interests them, go ahead and let them! On the other hand, if they want to reread old favorites just for fun, that’s great too. The most important thing is to get students reading, whenever and however possible.

How To Determine Reading Levels

Source: The Groovy Teacher on Twitter

Schools give reading assessments one or more times each year. These assessments measure a student’s reading level based on one of several available systems. Each system has its own formula for determining a score, and your child might even be given a score in several different reading level systems.

Below are some of the most common systems you’ll find in schools, districts, and libraries. Every leveled book has a different score in each system, and you can find equivalency charts online to help you compare the various scores. Note that there are many systems out there, with different companies and publishers often designing their own. These basic four will cover most schools and students, though.

Lexile® Reading Levels

Lexile® is one of the most common reading level systems. These levels are indicated by a number followed by the capital letter L. They range from 10L for brand-new readers to 2000L and above for advanced readers. The first digit of the score roughly corresponds with grade level, so a book rated 370 would be appropriate for most third graders. When looking for “just right books” for Lexile levels, aim for those that are rated 100L below to 50L above your child’s current score.

Example Lexile measures include:

• David Goes to School: 210L
• Judy Moody and the Bad Luck Charm: 470L
• The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson): 680L
• The Hobbit: 1000L

Guided Reading Levels (Fountas and Pinnell)

The GRL reading level system was developed by two Ohio State University professors, Irene Fountas and Gay Su Pinnell. You might hear it referred to by either of these names or by the abbreviation GRL. In recent years, this system has faced controversy as one of its core theories has been disproved by cognitive scientists. ( Learn more about this dispute here. ) Still, many schools and publishers continue to use the system, which grades books with letters from A (early readers) to Z+ (advanced). Choose books at the same letter level or one above to match kids with the best choices for their abilities.

Example GRL scores include:

• David Goes to School: GR Level G
• Judy Moody and the Bad Luck Charm: GR Level M
• The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson): GR Level W
• The Hobbit: GR Level Z

ATOS/AR Reading Levels

The Accelerated Reader level is also called the ATOS score. This system analyzes the average sentence and word length, the vocabulary grade level, and the number of words in a book. Books are scored using an X.X format, where the first number indicates the grade level (0 = kindergarten), and the second indicates the approximate month of that level. For instance, a score of 5.4 would indicate the book should readable for a student in the fourth month of fifth grade.

Example AR scores include:

• David Goes to School: ATOS/AR 0.9
• Judy Moody and the Bad Luck Charm: ATOS/AR 3.1
• The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson): ATOS/AR 4.7
• The Hobbit: ATOS/AR 6.6

DRA Reading Levels

The Developmental Reading Assessment (DRA) tests various reading skills like phonemic awareness, phonics, and fluency. Student scores can range from A1 (for beginners) to 80 (advanced). Choose books at or slightly above a child’s DRA level to challenge them just enough, but not too much to frustrate them.

Example DRA scores include:

• David Goes to School: DRA 12
• Judy Moody and the Bad Luck Charm: DRA 24
• The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson): DRA 60
• The Hobbit: DRA 70

Still have more questions about reading levels? Drop by the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook to chat and ask for advice.

Plus, check out what is the science of reading.

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7th Grade Reading Level Books: Summaries of Books for 7th Graders

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Do you want your son or daughter to do more reading outside of school? Are you compiling a summer reading list of 7th grade level books? Read on for some book suggestions that may appeal to both you and your 7th grader.

What Books Are 7th Graders Reading?

Right now, your 7th grader is likely reading young adult books. These books deal with complex themes, like love, loss and change, and they often have edgier material than elementary school books. The following 7th grade level books cover a range of genres, such as historical fiction, suspense and horror.

• 7th Grade Reading List

The Underneath by Kathi Appelt

This book may appeal to animal-loving 7th graders, but be aware that it contains scenes of animal cruelty. The Underneath tells the tale of a friendship between a pregnant, abandoned cat and Ranger, an abused and neglected bloodhound. Ranger is chained to the porch by his owner - the reclusive Gar Face - and he hides the cat and her kittens in 'the Underneath' of the porch to prevent Gar Face from finding and killing them. One day, a curious kitten wanders out, setting off a chain of events that change all the characters' lives.

On the Wings of Heroes by Richard Peck

Historical fiction fans may enjoy this story about Davy Bowman and his family's experiences during World War II. Growing up, Davy idolizes both his father and his brother. Then, his brother goes off to fight the war, which upsets his father and throws the family into turmoil. Davy soon finds himself in a confusing world of metal and rubber scrap collecting, food rationing and air raid drills. However, he may find that there can still be moments of humor and normalcy, even in a tumultuous time.

The Vampire Blood Trilogy by Darren Shan

If your child is into vampires, he or she might get engrossed in this immensely popular trilogy, which is part of the 12-book The Saga of Darren Shan series. This trilogy includes the novels Cirque du Freak, The Vampire's Assistant, and Tunnels of Blood. The three books tell the story of Darren, a young boy who becomes half vampire in order to save his friend's life. The story follows his struggle to adapt to change and find self-acceptance.

Diamonds in the Shadow by Caroline B. Cooney

Your 7th grader may already be familiar with Caroline B. Cooney, since she has authored numerous young adult books. In this novel, the Finch family takes in the Amabo family, who are African refugees. At first, everything is going well in the Finch family's suburban Connecticut household. However, a dangerous situation soon arises when an Amabo relative enters the U.S. illegally, wishing to claim something that the family smuggled into the country for him. When the eldest Finch boy realizes what's going on, he's forced to take action.

Stranded by Ben Mikaelsen

Lovers of adventure stories may enjoy this tale of 12-year-old Koby. Since losing her foot in a bicycle accident, Koby feels unsure of herself and her classmates are awkward around her. Her parents are separated and always arguing. The only time Koby feels at peace is when she's floating around the Florida Keys aboard her dinghy. One night , her courage and self-reliance are tested when she finds herself stranded in the ocean with a hurricane approaching and two injured pilot whales that need her help.

Other Articles You May Be Interested In

By reading books with an international focus, your child can gain a deeper understanding of the diverse and complex world outside of the United States. The following list includes stories set throughout the world, including the jungles of Peru, an Israeli hospital and an African village.

Young adult literature is full of novels that celebrate music, whether your teen is interested in classical, rock, hip-hop or any other genre. In novels such as those discussed here, teens discover the power of music, which can bring people together, heal emotional wounds and help unlock mysteries.

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35 Best 7th Grade Books in a Series

This post may contain affiliate links.

Looking for the best 7th grade books in a series for your 12-year-old middle school kids or students in 7th grade? Find the most amazing middle-grade and YA books that will keep your kids hooked on reading good books.

These are not book series that start great and lose quality by the 2nd or 3rd book — these are the best book series that STAY good throughout the entire series. Trust me. That’s my pet peeve, too. 🙂

That being said, I realize there are many more fantasy and sci-fi books than in other genres, so I will continue to add to this 7th grade reading list as I find more exceptional books in other genres. I think part of the issue is coming of age, realistic books generally are one-and-done. Book series are not as common for the upper middle school reading choices as they are for younger middle-grade choices.

What do you think? Which of these books would your seventh grader want to read first?

Go HERE to find all of my book recommendations for 12-year-olds.

Go HERE to see book series ideas for 6th graders.

Want a free printable pdf download of this book list? Get it here!

Best 7th Grade Books in a Series

Lockwood & Co The Screaming Staircase  by Jonathan Stroud GHOST ADVENTURE Dangerous ghosts and spirits appear everywhere in London, but only certain kids can see them and therefore, erradicate them.  Teens Lucy, Anthony, and George badly need money for their ghost-hunting agency, Lockwood & Co., so they take a perilous job that may just be their last if the ghosts have their way. This mesmerizing series is also a  now a Netflix show !

Rain Rising  by Courtne Comrie REALISTIC RAIN RISING is a multilayered story about mental health, racism, family, friendship, and self-love — with a main character that you’ll cheer on through her tricky and beautiful growing-up journey.  Rain’s older brother Xander always has taken good care of her; he helps her on her saddest days, especially after their dad left and their mom is gone at work most of the time. But, when Xander gets brutally attacked, he’s a shell of himself and barely speaks…and Rain can barely cope. In an after-school group, she starts to make new friends, and slowly finds her way back to health through the group and therapy. I LOVE this book. ( Sensitive readers: this story contains cutting. )

Ali Cross by James Patterson MYSTERY If you want an enthralling adventure & mystery that you can’t put down, read this one next. It’s Christmas Eve and Ali’s friend Gabe is missing, his FBI-agent dad is falsely accused of murdering an old man, and someone broke into their house while they were at church and stole his dad’s service weapon. Ali knows he has to try to fix things, starting by finding his friend Gabe. Don’t miss book two, Like Father, Like Son .

Escape from Atlantis  by Kate O’Hearn ADVENTURE Don’t miss this wildly inventive, exciting, and thought-provoking adventure.  Riley, her dad, her cousin, and her aunt are sailing in the Bermuda Triangle when they’re attacked by a leviathan. Riley and her unpleasant cousin, Alfie, wake up on an island with overly friendly, rule-centered people including half-animal people. They soon learn the sinister truth of the rule-centric community and are determined to escape. What a great book for 7th graders!

Barren Grounds: The Misewa Saga  by David A. Robertson FANTASY /  INDIGENOUS CULTURE Foster  kids with Indigenous heritage , Morgan and Eli, discover a portal in the attic leading to a magical world of Cree language and mythology.  It’s a world with talking animals who need their help. Ochek, the Fischer, asks the kids to help solve the starving community’s forever winter by finding the human man who stole all the birds and summer. Their dangerous quest triggers Morgan’s memories of her mother and a new perspective on who she is.

Winterhouse  by Ben Guterson, illustrated by Chloe Bristol MYSTERY Elizabeth, an orphan, is unexpectedly sent to a large, stately hotel with a kind, grandfatherly proprietor for Christmas vacation. There,  she discovers a magical book, a sinister couple, a family mystery , and a new friend who loves puzzles as much as she does. The writing is mesmerizing, the mystery is fascinating, and the characters are enchanting.

The Van Gogh Deception  by Deron Hicks MYSTERY  /  ADVENTURE One of the best edge-of-your-seat mystery books for middle grade.  A boy with no memory is found at the National Gallery staring at a Degas sculpture. Strangely, this boy does know a great deal about art and artists. Soon we learn a team of professional bad guys is hunting him. The boy, Art, and his foster sister escape from several kidnapping attempts and begin to unravel who he is and what’s going on. Exceptional!

Pretty  by Justin Sayre REALISTIC  / COMING OF AGE Hiding her mom’s alcohol addiction affects everything, even Sophie’s schoolwork.  When her mother leaves for a “trip,” her aunt moves in and gently helps Sophie learn about being a strong, beautiful, biracial woman. Sophie blossoms with the love and kindness of her aunt. Soon, Sophie must decide what she’ll do next — move with her aunt or stay with her mother who eventually returns home from rehab.

The School for Good and Evil   by Soman Chainani FANTASY Two girls are selected to attend the school for villains and school for heroes. Only all your stereotypes will be blown out of the water with which girl goes where.  This book series for 12 year olds will make you think deeply about what makes someone good, friendship, and love.    Boxed Set HERE .

Deep Blue  by Jennifer Donnelly FANTASY If you like  strong girl power books  for teens, you’ll love this  story of five mermaids who journey to find each other and the sea witches.  An ancient evil is being unleashed and is not just trying to kill the girls but also planning on enslaving or killing their communities. Very entertaining.

Mark of the Thief   by Jennifer A. Nielsen HISTORICAL / FANTASY Set in historical Rome we follow the life of a slave abandoned by his mother in the mines.  After he accidentally discovers Julius Cesar’s magical amulet and its protector griffin, he’s in constant danger. It’s an exciting adventure with an unexpected revelation that will have you eager for the next book.

Beneath  by Roland Smith ADVENTURE Pat’s parents are checked out and his brother is missing.  Pat sneaks off to spend his Christmas vacation tracking his brother, Coop’s, last movements. His search leads him to an underground community but Coop isn’t there anymore, he’s gone deeper under the ground. And he is in terrible danger. One of the more popular books for 7th graders.

The London Eye Mystery  by Siobhan Dowd MYSTERY This middle-grade book for 12-year-olds is a puzzling mystery that only the boy named Ted who seems to be on the spectrum (his brain is different but not explained) can solve. How did his cousin disappear from a closed pod on the London Eye? The enjoyable action and intrigue will keep your attention throughout — and you’ll wonder why you didn’t guess the ending before Ted.

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BOOK SERIES LISTS

>  1st Grade Books (Age 6)

>  2nd Grade Books (Age 7)

>  3rd Grade Books (Age 8)

>  4th Grade Books (Age 9)

>  5th Grade Books (Age 10)

>  6th Grade Books (Age 11)

>  7th Grade Books (Age 12)

Melissa Taylor, MA, is the creator of Imagination Soup. She's a mother, former teacher & literacy trainer, and freelance education writer. She writes Imagination Soup and freelances for publications online and in print, including Penguin Random House's Brightly website, USA Today Health, Adobe Education, Colorado Parent, and Parenting. She is passionate about matching kids with books that they'll love.

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Wow. So many great suggestions. My son is reading all the time and I expected that he would have read most of your suggestions but really he has only read the The Lord of The Rings books and the Maze Runner. I will show him your other ideas!

I hope he finds something that interests him.

Not much for girls, or those not into sci-fi fantasy. I have a 12 year old niece who’s a good reader, but doesn’t like this genre. I always give her books for birthday, Christmas, etc., but am at a loss. She’s also not fond of teen romance (thank God!). There just isn’t much out there for this “tween” age group that’s not fantasy or dystopian.

(The Laurie Halse Anderson books are good ones, tho!)

Some of her favorites were books like When You Reach Me, Orphan Island, Beyond the Bright Sea, Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy.

Thanks for the comment — and I love that your niece is a reader! There are many good books like you wrote about that are not in a series. If she prefers realistic, try this list of recommendations: https://imaginationsoup.net/excellent-realistic-books-for-kids/ and scroll to the middle and end to find books for her age group. Also, https://imaginationsoup.net/best-books-12-year-olds/ includes a variety of excellent book choices but not necessarily books in a series. I’ll keep looking for more realistic books to add to this series round-up. 🙂

The Ranger’s Apprentice series is for girls and boys. There are several strong female main characters that have just as much responsibility as the males. Also, are viewed as equals and treated as such with respect. No romance just good friendships.

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7th grade reading & vocabulary

Unit 1: trailblazing women, unit 2: mysteries of the past, unit 3: living tongues.

Snowy Owl – Haiku for older children

Gabriel Rosenstock

Categories: Age 10-13 years , Age years 13+ , All FKB Books , Gabriel Rosenstock , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Grade 7+ , Intermediate English , Older Children , poetry , Young Adult

Gabriel Rosenstock is back with a great collection of inspiring bilingual Haiku set to thought provoking artwork and photographs, including some issues on child labour in the US. Sample Page from Snowy Owl Gabriel Rosenstock See more from Gabriel Rosenstock on FKB For more about Haiku, see here: https://vcbf.ca/event/about-haiku/. It is noted that while Japanese …

Make Your Own Mystery Book – MYOB Series

Melanie Dawn Harmon

Categories: Activities and Crafts , Adventure , Age 10-13 years , All FKB Books , Children , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Grade 7+ , Imagination , Melanie Dawn Harmon , Older Children , School Projects

Instead of just reading books together at bedtime, aspiring young authors can now make their own book and share it! Spark imagination with the most popular children’s book genres and learn about story structure and creative writing. In this book, Write your Own Mystery Book, there are intriguing prompts of xxx and much more, to …

Make Your Own Sci-Fi Book – MYOB Series

Categories: Activities and Crafts , Adventure , Age 10-13 years , Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Children , Colouring , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Grade 7+ , Imagination , Melanie Dawn Harmon , Older Children , School Projects , science fiction

Instead of just reading books together at bedtime, aspiring young authors can now make their own book and share it! Spark imagination with the most popular children’s book genres and learn about story structure and creative writing. In this book, Write your Own Fantasy Book, there are beautiful prompts of fairytale castles, dragons, unicorns, fairies …

Make Your Own Fantasy Book – MYOB Series

Categories: Activities and Crafts , Adventure , Age 10-13 years , All FKB Books , Children , Colouring , Dragons , fairytale , Fantasy , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Grade 7+ , Imagination , Melanie Dawn Harmon , Older Children , School Projects

Coming Out Handbook – The Trevor Project

The Trevor Project

Categories: All FKB Books , Behaviour , Editor's Picks , Family , FKB Make a Difference , Grade 7+ , Non-Fiction , Older Children , School Textbooks , Young Adult

Sexual identity and gender identity are topics that can involve intense confusion for teens and young adults. Discovering your sexual identity and/or gender identity is the first step that one must undertake and this book helps by first explaining how gender identity and sexual identity are not just black and white – or pink and …

Orang-utan: Haiku set to images for older children

Categories: Age 10-13 years , Age 6-9 years , Age years 13+ , All FKB Books , Creative Commons , Gabriel Rosenstock , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Grade 7+ , Intermediate English , Older Children , poetry , School Projects , Young Adult

Another beautiful volume of Haiku set to beautiful art from Gabriel Rosenstock. Very suitable for older children or school studies. Each poem in this thought provoking poetry anthology contains a stunning public domain artwork or image.  Gabriel Rosenstock See more from Gabriel Rosenstock on FKB   For more about Haiku, see here: https://vcbf.ca/event/about-haiku/. It is …

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Guidance for Teens – SAMSHA

Categories: Age years 13+ , Behaviour , Emotions , Grade 7+ , Health , Non-Fiction , Public Domain , Young Adult

This is a collection of guidance material for teens about mental health and substance abuse from the US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration including the contents detailed below. If you or a teen you know may have any of these issues make sure they are aware of the information and that there is help out …

Create a Book! – by FKB

Free Kids Books

Categories: Activities and Crafts , Age 10-13 years , Age 6-9 years , Age years 13+ , All FKB Books , Children , Creative Commons , Danielle Bruckert , Free Kids Books , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Grade 7+ , Intermediate English , Non-Fiction , Older Children , School Projects , Young Adult

This book takes readers through 10 simple steps to creating a book, including software, images, format, and publishing. This book is written in simple terms to be used as a guide by children or as a lesson plan by teachers or parents. If you create a book and want to share it on Free Kids …

Survival Guide – There is Help

Categories: Age years 13+ , All FKB Books , Books for a Cause , Bullying , Editable Files , Emotions , FKB Make a Difference , Free Kids Books , Grade 7+ , Health , Non-Fiction , Older Children , Public Domain , Young Adult

This is a survival guide and workbook designed specifically for teens or young adults who may have thoughts of self-harm. The ebook is available as a pdf which you can print and fill in by hand or edit using the pdf annotate tools and also as an editable odg file (Open Office Draw). Note the …

Walk with Gandhi

Text: Gabriel Rosenstock Illustrations: Masood Hussain

Categories: Age 10-13 years , Age years 13+ , All FKB Books , Biography , Books for a Cause , Creative Commons , Editor's Picks , Gabriel Rosenstock , Grade 7+ , History , Inspirational , moral , Non-Fiction , Older Children , poetry , Spiritual , Values , Young Adult

An enlightening text on the life of Gandhi, containing enlightening snapshots of Gandhi’s life, with lots of questions for reflection, making it very suitable for school use – social studies, history, art, or English. The Haiku, images, and text reflect the remarkable life of Mahatma (‘great soul’) who brought freedom to India through non-violent protest. …

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Report: 7 in 10 third graders cannot read at grade level in Illinois

R OCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — 70% of third graders cannot read at grade level in Illinois, according to Illinois Policy based on numbers from the Illinois State Board of Education.

Studies also show that children in third grade go from learning to read to reading to learn. If students are not ready, it could cause issues later on in school.

Stateline schools also show troubling numbers as well. The only Stateline school about 50% proficient at reading is Rockford’s Thurgood Marshall topping the charts at 88%.

Bryon is at nearly 45% proficient, Center Elementary in Freeport is 35% proficient, Poplar Grove Elementary is 34% and some schools are under 20% proficient.

If you are interested in how your child’s school stacks up click here .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.

Hannah Schmid

Policy Analyst

Literacy in Illinois: Low third-grade reading proficiency warns of trouble ahead

Third grade marks a critical reading milestone: if students struggle then, they will face greater problems during the rest of their educations. State data shows 7 of 10 Illinois third graders can’t read at grade level, meaning there’s trouble awaiting most Illinois students.

Third grade is a critical reading milestone because students need to have learned to read by then or they will not be able to absorb the rest of their education.

“Students who do not ‘learn to read’ during the first three years of school experience enormous difficulty when they are subsequently asked to ‘read to learn,’” according to the National Center to Improve the Tools of Educators .

Thousands of Illinois third graders are set to experience enormous difficulty in the years to come as nearly three-quarters did not meet Common Core Standards in reading on the Illinois Assessment of Readiness in 2023.

Students will not be the only ones to suffer the consequences of Illinois’ low reading proficiency rate. Society will pay the cost for the reading struggles of Illinois’ early elementary students.

A student’s reading skill at the end of third grade is a reasonable predictor for their likelihood to graduate high school. If Illinois does not prepare its students to read proficiently by the end of third grade, it must expect more students to drop out of high school. High school dropouts have a higher unemployment rate and the cost to the economy is often lower tax contributions and higher reliance on welfare.

Parents and lawmakers need to understand the scope of the literacy epidemic in Illinois. They then must work together to ensure every Illinois student has the opportunity to receive a quality education and the preparation needed to succeed after graduation.

Third grade is critical reading juncture for students

Research shows students who fall behind in reading skills, especially in lower elementary grade levels, “fall farther and farther behind in school, become frustrated, and drop out at much higher rates than their classmates.”

This is because students need to have mastered the skill of reading by third grade so they can use reading to learn from fourth grade onwards. According to the Children’s Reading Foundation, if a student struggles to read at grade level by this critical point, up to half of the printed fourth-grade curriculum is  incomprehensible .

Students who can’t read by third grade are more likely to have trouble mastering other subjects such as history or math. They need to read to understand the concepts being taught.

Illinois uses Common Core State Standards for English language arts on the Illinois Assessment of Readiness. Reading standards are separated into three focus areas: literature, informational text and foundational skills.

According to Common Core, “The K–5 standards… define what students should understand and be able to do by the end of each grade.”

By the end of third grade , students who meet proficiency in reading on the IAR understand and are able to do the following skills, among others:

• “Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers.”
• “Determine the main idea of a text; recount the key details and explain how they support the main idea.”
• “Describe the relationship between a series of historical events, scientific ideas or concepts, or steps in technical procedures in a text, using language that pertains to time, sequence, and cause/effect.”
• “Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words.”
• “Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.”

These skills become the building blocks for Illinois students to succeed in subsequent grade levels. Unfortunately, many Illinois third grade students have not mastered these skills.

Few third graders can read at grade level, hitting low-income and minority students harder

In 2023, not even 29% of Illinois third-grade students met or exceeded reading proficiency standards on the IAR. That means 7 in 10 third graders could not read at grade level.

Third-grade students recorded the lowest percentage of students able to read at grade level compared to every other grade level tested on the IAR in 2023.

Not a single third-grade student could read at grade level in 81 of Illinois’ public schools. Chicago Public Schools accounted for 51 of those. Two of the other schools, Hazel Dell Elementary School and Laketown Elementary School , are located in Springfield, the state’s capital.

The statistics are even worse among Illinois’ minority and low-income students. Only 13% of Black third graders and 17% of Hispanic third graders read at grade level on the IAR in 2023. Only 16% of low-income third graders reached proficiency.

While 32 Illinois public schools had no white third-grade students proficient in reading, there were 110 schools with no Black third graders able to read at grade level and 69 schools where no Hispanic third graders could read at grade level.

There were 156 schools where not a single low-income, third-grade student could read at grade level.

Low reading proficiency hits all Illinois grades

While third grade is an important indicator of a student’s future academic success and a particular point of interest, students in every grade in Illinois are struggling to meet grade level standards in reading.

Students in grades 3 through 8 take the IAR each spring, which includes a reading assessment. Eleventh grade students take the SAT to assess proficiency in reading.

In 2023, eighth grade students achieved the highest proficiency rate in reading compared to the other grades tested, yet even among that group not even 41% met grade level standards in reading.

In each grade, Black students achieved reading proficiency at the lowest rate, followed by Hispanic students. Low-income students also achieved proficiency in reading at much lower rates.

16 states outperform Illinois on Nation’s Report Card

Every two years, the National Center for Education Statistics administers the National Assessment of Educational Progress, which is also known as “The Nation’s Report Card.” According to the center, the purpose of the assessment’s scores is “to measure the educational achievement and progress of the nation’s students at established grades and ages.” Additionally, the scores allow comparisons of students between states.

The assessment evaluates elementary school students in fourth grade, middle school students in eighth grade and high school students in 12th grade.

Like the results of Illinois’ IAR testing, the assessment reports just 33% of Illinois fourth-grade public school students performed at or above proficiency standards in reading in 2022.

Sixteen states had a higher percentage of fourth-grade public school students at or above the assessment’s proficiency standards for reading compared to Illinois.

In the Midwest, three additional states had 33% proficiency among fourth graders on the reading assessment: Iowa, Indiana and Wisconsin.

Ohio and Nebraska are the only Midwestern states with a higher percentage of fourth graders performing at or above reading proficiency than Illinois, with 35% in Ohio and 34% in Nebraska. The other six Midwestern states had a lower percentage, including four states – North Dakota, Kansas, Missouri and Michigan – which recorded a lower percentage than the national percentage of 32%.

Illinois outperformed the national percentage by one percentage point.

Reading struggles in lower elementary grades lead to high-school dropouts

A  report  by the Annie E. Casey Foundation warns about these negative effects of a student’s inability to read effectively by the end of third grade. The research shows a student’s likelihood to graduate high school can be predicted with reasonable accuracy by their reading skill at the end of third grade. By the beginning of fourth grade, students transition from learning to read to reading to learn.

The authors warn that “if we don’t get dramatically more children on track as proficient readers, the United States will lose a growing and essential proportion of its human capital to poverty, and the price will be paid not only by individual children and families, but by this entire country.”

The price paid by students for poor third-grade literacy is lower future earning potential. The median annual earnings of adults ages 25 through 34 who had not completed high school were $6,000 a year lower than the earnings of those with a diploma, according to  data  from the Census Bureau’s 2017 Current Population Survey.

The unemployment rate for high school dropouts was 13% compared to the 7% unemployment rate of those whose highest level of educational was a high school credential.

Additionally, the average high school dropout cost the economy approximately $272,000 compared to individuals who complete high school because of “lower tax contributions, higher reliance on Medicaid and Medicare, higher rates of criminal activity, and higher reliance on welfare,” according to the National Center for Education Statistics .

Data from the Census Bureau’s 2022 American Community Survey found 9.6% of Illinoisans aged 25 and over never earned their high school diploma. That includes 5% who failed to reach higher than ninth grade.

Only 17 states have a higher portion of individuals over age 25 who have not earned their high school diploma. Illinois has the second-highest rate in the Midwest, with only Indiana recording a higher percentage of those aged 25 and over without a high school diploma at 9.8%.

Illinois students deserve a quality education

Students in Illinois schools should receive quality teaching which prepares them to flourish in life after graduation. Too many students are struggling to meet grade-level standards in Illinois public schools. This threatens students’ futures plus threatens to be a burden on the rest of society.

Ensuring students have the tools and instruction necessary to read at grade level in their early years of schooling can help keep students engaged in their later years, through to high school graduation and brighter futures.

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