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The Best Books To Read In 7th Grade

“What are the best books to read in 7th?” We looked at 528 of the top books, aggregating and ranking them so we could answer that very question!

The top 19 books, all appearing on 3 or more, “Best 7th Grade” book lists, are ranked below by how many times they appear. The books include images, descriptions, and links. The remaining 500+ books, as well as the lists we used, are in alphabetical order on the bottom of the page.

For more Best School Year book lists, check below!

The Best Books To Read In Kindergarten The Best Books To Read In 1st Grade The Best Books To Read In 2nd Grade The Best Books To Read In 3rd Grade The Best Books To Read In 4th Grade The Best Books To Read In 5th Grade The Best Books To Read In 6th Grade The Best Books To Read In 7th Grade The Best Books To Read In 8th Grade The Best Books To Read As A Freshman In High School The Best Books To Read In High School The Best Books To Read After High School Or Before College The Best Books To Read In College

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Top 19 7th Grade Books

19 .) matched trilogy by ally condie.

Lists It Appears On:

• Kate Messner
• Great! Schools

Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander’s face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham’s face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black. The Society tells her it’s a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she’s destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can’t stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society’s infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she’s known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.

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18 .) Eragon by Christopher Paolini

• Pernille Ripp
• Imagination Soup

Fifteen-year-old Eragon believes that he is merely a poor farm boy—until his destiny as a Dragon Rider is revealed. Gifted with only an ancient sword, a loyal dragon, and sage advice from an old storyteller, Eragon is soon swept into a dangerous tapestry of magic, glory, and power. Now his choices could save—or destroy—the Empire.

17 .) The False Prince by Jennifer A. Nielsen

• Pragmatic Mom

“Choose to lie…or choose to die. In a discontent kingdom, civil war is brewing. To unify the divided people, Conner, a nobleman of the court, devises a cunning plan to find an impersonator of the king’s long-lost son and install him as a puppet prince. Four orphans are recruited to compete for the role, including a defiant boy named Sage. Sage knows that Conner’s motives are more than questionable, yet his life balances on a sword’s point — he must be chosen to play the prince or he will certainly be killed. But Sage’s rivals have their own agendas as well. As Sage moves from a rundown orphanage to Conner’s sumptuous palace, layer upon layer of treachery and deceit unfold, until finally, a truth is revealed that, in the end, may very well prove more dangerous than all of the lies taken together. An extraordinary adventure filled with danger and action, lies and deadly truths that will have readers clinging to the edge of their seats.”

16 .) Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

• Picky Kid Pix

“Stargirl. From the day she arrives at quiet Mica High in a burst of color and sound, the hallways hum with the murmur of “Stargirl, Stargirl.” She captures Leo Borlock’ s heart with just one smile. She sparks a school-spirit revolution with just one cheer. The students of Mica High are enchanted. At first. Then they turn on her. Stargirl is suddenly shunned for everything that makes her different, and Leo, panicked and desperate with love, urges her to become the very thing that can destroy her: normal. In this celebration of nonconformity, Newbery Medalist Jerry Spinelli weaves a tense, emotional tale about the perils of popularity and the thrill and inspiration of first love.”

15 .) Last Shot by John Feinstein

• Benicia Public Library
• Lipscomb Academy

When Stevie wins a writing contest for aspiring sports journalists, his prize is a press pass to the Final Four in New Orleans. While exploring the Superdome, he overhears a plot to throw the championship game. With the help of fellow contest winner Susan Carol, Stevie has just 48 hours to figure out who is blackmailing one of the star players . . . and why.

14 .) The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine

As twelve-year-old Marlee starts middle school in 1958 Little Rock, it feels like her whole world is falling apart. Until she meets Liz, the new girl at school. Liz is everything Marlee wishes she could be: she’s brave, brash and always knows the right thing to say. But when Liz leaves school without even a good-bye, the rumor is that Liz was caught passing for white. Marlee decides that doesn’t matter. She just wants her friend back. And to stay friends, Marlee and Liz are even willing to take on segregation and the dangers their friendship could bring to both their families.

13 .) The Giver by Lois Lowry

The Giver, the 1994 Newbery Medal winner, has become one of the most influential novels of our time. The haunting story centers on twelve-year-old Jonas, who lives in a seemingly ideal, if colorless, world of conformity and contentment. Not until he is given his life assignment as the Receiver of Memory does he begin to understand the dark, complex secrets behind his fragile community.

12 .) Among the Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix

“In a future where the Population Police enforce the law limiting a family to only two children, Luke, an illegal third child, has lived all his twelve years in isolation and fear on his family’s farm in this start to the Shadow Children series from Margaret Peterson Haddix. Luke has never been to school. He’s never had a birthday party, or gone to a friend’s house for an overnight. In fact, Luke has never had a friend. Luke is one of the shadow children, a third child forbidden by the Population Police. He’s lived his entire life in hiding, and now, with a new housing development replacing the woods next to his family’s farm, he is no longer even allowed to go outside. Then, one day Luke sees a girl’s face in the window of a house where he knows two other children already live. Finally, he’s met a shadow child like himself. Jen is willing to risk everything to come out of the shadows — does Luke dare to become involved in her dangerous plan? Can he afford not to?”

11 .) Legend trilogy by Marie Lu

“What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic’s wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic’s highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country’s most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem. From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths – until the day June’s brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family’s survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias’s death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.”

10 .) I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

“John Smith seems like an ordinary teenager, living a normal life with his guardian Henri in Paradise, Ohio. But for John, keeping a low profile is essential, because he is not an ordinary teenager. He’s an alien from the planet Lorien, and he’s on the run. A group of evil aliens from the planet Mogadore, who destroyed his world, are hunting anyone who escaped. Nine Loric children were sent to Earth to live in hiding until they grew up and developed their Legacies, powers that would help them fight back—and help them save us. Three of them are now dead. John is Number Four, and he knows he’s next….”

9 .) Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25 by Richard Paul Evans

To everyone at Meridian High School, fourteen-year-old Michael Vey is nothing special, just the kid who has Tourette’s syndrome. But in truth, Michael is extremely special—he has electric powers. Michael thinks he is unique until he discovers that a cheerleader named Taylor has the same mysterious powers. With the help of Michael’s friend, Ostin, the three of them set out to discover how Michael and Taylor ended up with their abilities, and their investigation soon brings them to the attention of a powerful group who wants to control the electric teens—and through them, the world.

8 .) The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson is a good kid, but he can’t seem to focus on his schoolwork or control his temper. And lately, being away at boarding school is only getting worse-Percy could have sworn his pre-algebra teacher turned into a monster and tried to kill him. When Percy’s mom finds out, she knows it’s time that he knew the truth about where he came from, and that he go to the one place he’ll be safe. She sends Percy to Camp Half Blood, a summer camp for demigods (on Long Island), where he learns that the father he never knew is Poseidon, God of the Sea. Soon a mystery unfolds and together with his friends — one a satyr and the other the demigod daughter of Athena — Percy sets out on a quest across the United States to reach the gates of the Underworld (located in a recording studio in Hollywood) and prevent a catastrophic war between the gods.

7 .) Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick

Two boys – a slow learner stuck in the body of a teenage giant and a tiny Einstein in leg braces – forge a unique friendship when they pair up to create one formidable human force.

6 .) Divergent series by Veronica Roth

“Perfect for fans of the Hunger Games and Maze Runner series, Divergent and its sequels, Insurgent and Allegiant, are the gripping story of a dystopian world transformed by courage, self-sacrifice, and love. Fans of the Divergent movie will find the book packed with just as much emotional depth and exhilarating action as the film, all told in beautiful, rich language. One choice can transform you. Beatrice Prior’s society is divided into five factions—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). Beatrice must choose between staying with her Abnegation family and transferring factions. Her choice will shock her community and herself. But the newly christened Tris also has a secret, one she’s determined to keep hidden, because in this world, what makes you different makes you dangerous.”

5 .) Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer

“I guess I always felt even if the world came to an end, McDonald’s still would be open. High school sophomore Miranda’s disbelief turns to fear in a split second when an asteroid knocks the moon closer to Earth, like “”one marble hits another.”” The result is catastrophic. How can her family prepare for the future when worldwide tsunamis are wiping out the coasts, earthquakes are rocking the continents, and volcanic ash is blocking out the sun? As August turns dark and wintery in northeastern Pennsylvania, Miranda, her two brothers, and their mother retreat to the unexpected safe haven of their sunroom, where they subsist on stockpiled food and limited water in the warmth of a wood-burning stove. Told in a year’s worth of journal entries, this heart-pounding story chronicles Miranda’s struggle to hold on to the most important resource of all—hope—in an increasingly desperate and unfamiliar world. An extraordinary series debut!”

4 .) The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

“Bestselling author Sherman Alexie tells the story of Junior, a budding cartoonist growing up on the Spokane Indian Reservation. Determined to take his future into his own hands, Junior leaves his troubled school on the rez to attend an all-white farm town high school where the only other Indian is the school mascot. Heartbreaking, funny, and beautifully written, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, which is based on the author’s own experiences, coupled with poignant drawings by Ellen Forney that reflect the character’s art, chronicles the contemporary adolescence of one Native American boy as he attempts to break away from the life he was destined to live.”

3 .) The Maze Runner by James Dashner

“When Thomas wakes up in the lift, the only thing he can remember is his name. He’s surrounded by strangers—boys whose memories are also gone. Outside the towering stone walls that surround them is a limitless, ever-changing maze. It’s the only way out—and no one’s ever made it through alive. Then a girl arrives. The first girl ever. And the message she delivers is terrifying: Remember. Survive. Run.”

2 .) The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak

“It is 1939. Nazi Germany. The country is holding its breath. Death has never been busier, and will become busier still. Liesel Meminger is a foster girl living outside of Munich, who scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement. “

1 .) The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins

In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. Long ago the districts waged war on the Capitol and were defeated. As part of the surrender terms, each district agreed to send one boy and one girl to appear in an annual televised event called, “The Hunger Games,” a fight to the death on live TV. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she is forced to represent her district in the Games. The terrain, rules, and level of audience participation may change but one thing is constant: kill or be killed.

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A 7th Grade Reading List for Teachers & Homeschoolers

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 7th grade reading list with 20 of the best books for this age group so you can quickly and easily plan novel studies or grab some new reads 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 allowed him 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.

Details about A Long Walk to Water :

• Genre: Historical Fiction (Based on a true story)
• Buy the Novel Unit: A Long Walk to Water Novel Study

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.

Details about The Outsiders :

• Genre: Coming of Age Novel – Historical Fiction
• Buy the Unit Study Guide: The Outsiders Novel Study

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.

Details about The Crossover :

• Buy the Unit Study Guide: The Crossover

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.

Details about Front Desk :

• Buy the Unit Study: Front Desk Novel Study

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.

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Great 7th Grade Books (Ages 12 – 13) for Summer Reading

This post may contain affiliate links.

I think the hardest age for summer reading is middle school, don’t you? Try these good 7th grade books for ages 12 and 13 for summer reading. I think they’ll entice your middle schoolers to read throughout the dog days of summer.

Who am I to suggest these middle grade and YA books?

Besides being a former teacher and parent of two, I read hundreds of books every month to find the best books for you and your readers. I’ve read and reviewed all of these books. If you want to read more about each book, visit this list of book reviews for 7th graders .

Are your 7th graders reading on a device? My daughter does. At least most of the time. And I like that she’s reading, so I don’t care if she reads on a Kindle, an iPad, a paper book, or phone. Just that she’s reading is good. Without too much nagging… So, consider adding technology to your 7th grader’s summer reading.

What else can motivate your 7th grade reader?

Give your reader a choice of books to read.

Give your 7th graders books — lots of books — whether library books or store-bought books!

Help your 7th grader find blocks of time to read.

Remember that audiobooks count as reading! (See:  audiobooks for tweens  &  audiobooks for teens .)

SHOP THIS LIST.

More 7th Grade Books

All books for 7th graders

Summer reading lists by grade level

Books for Other Grade Levels

6th Grade Summer Reading List (age 11 – 12)

8th Grade Summer Reading List (age 13 and up / teen)

Download a free printable pdf list!

Download the free printable of this summer reading list. NOTE: If you don’t see the printable sign-up below, please clear your cache and try again.

7th Grade Books for Summer Reading List (Ages 12 – 13)

Fantasy & science fiction 7th grade list.

If you like fantasy, paranormal, & sci-fi books , you’ll love:

• Bite Risk  by S.J. Wells
• The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera
• Steelheart  by Brandon Sanderson
• Cinder   by Marissa Meyer
• House of Scorpions   by Nancy Farmer
• Lightcasters   by Janelle McCurdy
• Phenomena: The Golden City of Eyes by Brian Micahel Bendis and Andre Lima Araujo (graphic novel)
• Brick Dust and Bones  by M.R. Forunet
• Once There Was  by Kiyash Monsef
• First State of Being  written by Erin Entrada Kelly

REALISTIC 7th Grade Summer Reading List

If you like realistic books , you’ll love:

• Rain Rising  by Courtne Comrie
• What Happened to Rachel Riley?  by Claire Swinarski
• Gone to the Woods by Gary Paulsen
• House Arrest  by K.A. Holt
• The Probability of Everything  by Sarah Everett
• Something Like Home  by Andrea Beatriz Arango
• Louder Than Hunger  by John Schu
• Match Point   by Maddie Gallegos
• Rare Birds  by Jeff Miller
• The Fire, The Water, and Maudie McGinn  by Sally J. Pla

ADVENTURE & MYSTERY 7th Grade Books Summer Reading List

If you like adventure , try these books:

• City Spies  by James Ponti
• Charlie Thorne and the Last Equation by Stuart Gibb
• 96 Miles   by J.L. Esplin
• Whale of the Wild by Rosanne Parry
• The Van Gogh Deception by Deron Hicks
• Scar Island by Dan Gemeinhart
• Beneath  by Roland Smith
• The Liar’s Society by Alyson Gerber

HISTORICAL FICTION 7th Grade Summer Reading List

Love historical fiction ? Try a book from this list:

• Allies  by Alan Gratz
• The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman
• Brothers Keeper by Julie Lee
• Finding Junie Kim by Ellen Oh
• The Last Cherry Blossom  by Kathleen Burkinshaw
• When the World Was Ours by Liz Kessler
• The Songbird and the Rambutan Tree  by Lucille Abendadon
• The Night War   by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

NONFICTION 7th Grade Books Summer Reading List

Try a nonfiction book ! Here are incredible choices you won’t be able to put down:

• Rise Up: Ordinary Kids With Extraordinary Stories   by Amanda Li
• History Comics: The Roanoke Colony: America’s First Mystery by Chris Schweizer (graphic novel)
• Anne Frank’s Diary: The Graphic Adaptation adapted by Ari Folman
• Accidental Archeologists: True Stories of Unexpected Discoveries  by Sarah Albee
• Unforgotten The Wild Life of Dian Fossey and Her Relentless Quest to Save Mountain Gorillas  by Anita Silvey
• Never Caught, The Story of Ona Judge: Young Readers Edition  by Erica Armstrong Dunbar and Kathleen Van Cleve
• Race Against Death  by Deborah Hopkinson
• The Mona Lisa Vanishes: A Legendary Painter, a Shocking Heist, and the Birth of a Global Celebrity   written by Nicholas Day 

KEEP READING

Best 7th Grade Book Series

Best Read Aloud Books for 7th and 8th Grades

Summer Reading Lists for Kids

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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14 Comments

I love this site as a book hoarder and reading teacher I am constantly looking for books to recommend and read to share with kids. I teach IDS and wanted to get aprintable copy of the 7th and 8th grade reading list, but can’t find a link.

Thanks for your support and enthusiasm on your page.

rhonda lawson

Thank you so much!

Here are the links: https://imaginationsoup.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/7th-grade-summer-reading-list.pdf https://imaginationsoup.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Teen-8th-grade-summer-reading-list.pdf

Hi! I’m going into the 7th grade and will definitely try this list.

Happy reading!

Best Books for 7th Graders

Check out the standout books for 7th graders, aggregated from top literary sources. these selections are the most mentioned and recommended across respected publications..

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The Best Realistic Fiction Books for 7th Graders

If you know one thing about me, it’s that realistic fiction is my jam! I’ve met so many young readers recently who also love this genre, and I’m more than happy to share my favorite books with them. Because I’m always reading, many of the books I on this list of realistic fiction for 7th graders are newer releases. So if you want more backlist titles, check out my older list of books for 7th graders . If your kid is always reading up a storm like me, you’ll love this list of newer realistic fiction titles perfect for 7th graders.

📚 Disclaimer in the books: Just so you know, Reading Middle Grade uses affiliate links. This means that when you shop via the links in our posts, we may earn a cent or two at no extra cost to you. Thanks for adding to our book buying fund.

Get a printable of this list  to take to your library. Just pop your email in the box below and it’ll come right to you!

Here are 20 of the best realistic fiction books for 7th graders:

The Hurricane Girls

Published: August 29, 2023

Greer, Joya, and Kiki are three best friends born just after Hurricane Katrina. Now 12 years after the catastrophe, they’re dealing with personal life struggles. Greer feels responsible for an accident that left her sister paralyzed from the waist down and has stopped running track–something she loved dearly before the accident, Kiki is grappling with an absentee father, and Joya is trying to help her financially strained family. Kiki decides that the three girls will sign up for a triathlon to get Greer back into running, but the plan ends up changing all three girls’ lives.

The First Magnificent Summer

Published: May 30, 2023

It’s the 90s, and Tori (Victoria) Reeves is planning the first magnificent summer with her father since he left their family over two years ago. He now has a new partner and two kids but is taking Victoria and her two siblings with his new family camping in Ohio. As the trip progresses, Victoria and her siblings realize that their father hasn’t changed much from the emotionally abusive parent he was. But will he stop Victoria from writing her own story?

Tiger Daughter

Published: August 15, 2023

Wen is a first-gen daughter of Chinese immigrants living in Australia. Her dad is angry because he hasn’t been able to re-qualify as a medical professional in Australia, and he tries to control Wen and her mother’s lives. Wen plans to go to high school far away from their town — she and her best friend at school, another first gen immigrant kid. But when a tragedy occurs in Henry’s family, Wen and her mother must step up to support him if they want to achieve their dreams.

This is a brilliant new middle grade book that is fantastic on audio. Readers should know that a child’s parents takes their own life in the course of the story.

Published: March 31, 2020

Ross Maloy just wants to be a normal seventh-grader, but he’s been diagnosed with a rare eye cancer and has to do radiotherapy to stay alive — after a surgery that makes him blind in one eye. To top things off, his best friend is moving away and he’s somehow in a band with his school bully. This book is hilarious, precious, and manages to appeal to kids and adults with Ross’s authentic voice.

Published: August 2, 2022

Invisible  is a powerful, heartwarming graphic novel  about immigration , homelessness, racism, and finding your tribe.

Five different students have yet to complete their community service for a school offense and must explain why (as well as what they did) to their principal. Thus, these five seemingly socially invisible kids each share from their perspectives how they got in trouble — and readers are definitely in for a ride. There’s George, the smart kid who Latino, but can’t speak Spanish; Sara, the loner; Dayara, the tough kid, Miguel, the baseball player; and Nico, the rich kid. The story is told in Spanish and English.

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.

Published: October 24, 2023

Max Plink’s life is rough. She has a Class II malocclusion and has to wear braces, but now her dentist is saying she’ll also need headgear if she wants to avoid dental surgery and fix her teeth for good. To add to the trauma, her sister is being really mean to her, teaming up with school bullies to make fun of her. Her mom won’t stop smoking and her dad keeps drinking, which means the two keep fighting.

Through it all, Max learns the power of her voice and manages to make the best of life’s lemons. This is one the most moving, relatable books I’ve ever read. Kids who like stories with writer protagonists and realistic family dynamics will enjoy this.

Published: November 21, 2023

This stunning graphic novel follows Cinzia, Avvisi writer’s apprentice living in sunny Sianerra. They write stories/pamphlets to the city with news but not everyone likes when they tell the truth. After an edition exposing the principessa for extortion, cinzia and her mestra are arrested at night and she has to join forces with the princess to fight back against censorship. This is closer to fantasy but without magical elements and set in an old-timey Italian village, so it could work for lovers of realistic fiction too.

Fox Point’s Own Gemma Hopper

Published: April 11, 2023

Fox Point’s Own Gemma Hopper  follows 7th grader Gemma Hopper whose 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. Understandably, she’s tired and frustrated sometimes.

Her schoolwork is also proving a bit challenging. This school year, her teacher has asked their class to create a family tree project, which Gemma is not thrilled about because of her mother. 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? And can Gemma get through the family tree project?

Make a Move Sunny Park!

Sunny Park is a socially anxious girl obsessed with her favorite K-Pop band, Supreme Beat. She has one friend, Bailey, and tries to be there as much as possible (to a fault) for her—even when it means quitting ballet which she loved.

But when Bailey drags her to audition for her school’s dance team, Sunny gets in, and Bailey doesn’t. Sunny’s mom insists that Sunny continues on the team, to Bailey’s dismay. As Sunny makes new friends, she starts to realize that maybe Bailey isn’t such a great one.

This was a fun, relatable (at times frustrating) story about standing up for oneself, dance, fandom, and finding true friends. Like  Kim’s Yumi Chung , this is on the longer side, but Sunny is an engaging character who I think young readers will identify with.

Something More

Published: June 6, 2023

Something More  by Jackie Khalilieh is an original, relatable, and funny young adult novel about autism, family, and coming-of-age.

Jessie is a fifteen-year-old Palestinian-Canadian who’s getting into high school soon after an autism diagnosis. She feels “abnormal,” especially as she doesn’t have a cellphone, but is determined to belong to a friend group and fall in love this school year. However, when she finds herself caught between two very different boys, she realizes that things don’t always go to plan.

The Unofficial Lola Bay Fan Club

Published: April 18, 2023

Sixth graders Iris and her best friend Leeza love singer Lola Bay. But after some mean girls take over their plan to start an official Lola Bay fan club, the girls befriend eighth-grader Dana, who says she’s starting an “unofficial” fan club.  Leeza quickly gets bored and finds other interests, while Iris is delighted to be friends with an older girl. But soon, Dana’s actions start to worry Iris. She keeps hacking into websites, then she uses Iris’s parents’ credit card to buy tour tickets! Can Iris find help before it’s too late?

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 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. This book shines in its realistic portrayal of familial complexities and the ups and downs of friendship.

Lo and Behold

Published: May 2, 2023

In  Lo and Behold , Addie has reluctantly moved across the country with her dad for his summer job in the virtual reality industry. He’s working on research to use virtual reality (VR) for therapeutic purposes, such as helping people cultivate empathy. Addie is not into VR, but that starts to change when she meets Matteo another kid on campus, and tries out VR on her own. Eventually, the two find a helpful use for VR that helps other people.

The Kate in Between

Published: May 18, 2021

Kate McAllister’s life is in need of a refresh. Her mother has left town chasing the highest tier in an MLM scheme and Kate is living with her cop dad and getting driven to school in his police car. When a bunch of popular kids seems to welcome Kate into their clique, she is torn about ditching her longtime best friend, Haddie. Haddie marches to the beat of her own drum and could care less about being accepted. 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?

Curlfriends: New in Town (A Graphic Novel)

Published: October 10, 2023

Charlie is the new kid for the umpteenth time, but this time things will be different. Her dad is no longer in the military, and this is a more permanent home, so she feels more pressure to find and impress some new friends. When she meets a cool group of Black girls with varying interests, she decides to hide her “babyish” style and hobbies to befriend them. But she soon learns that with true friends, you can be your whole self. This is cute first book in a new graphic novel series about Black hair, girlfriends, fashion, and adjusting to change.

Mia is part of two tribes, although she’s only known one for most of her life. She lives with her Jewish mom and stepfather in California but has always been curious about her father and his Muscogee heritage. Her mom and dad did not have an amicable divorce, so her mother doesn’t like to talk about her dad.

Eventually, Mia’s curiosity gets the best of her, and she uses her Bat Mitzvah money to travel to her father in Oklahoma, telling her mom that she’s at a Jewish camp. There, she learns about her Muscogee family and their culture. But of course, her mom finds out, and Mia is in a fix. Can she embrace both sides of herself even when she’s in California?

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder

Published: February 4, 2020

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder  follows British teen Pippa Fitz-Amobi who’s decided to do her senior capstone project on a local murder case that was closed 5 years ago. Five years ago, high schooler Andie Bell went missing and her boyfriend Sal Singh sent his father a text admitting to the crime, after which he was found in what seemed like an apparent suicide. But Pip doesn’t buy it. With the help of Sal’s younger brother, Ravi, she investigates the events surrounding Andie’s disappearance and Sal’s murder. But the culprit won’t let her find the truth so easily. Can Pippa hack the crime?

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. I really enjoyed this historical fiction release based on the author’s mother’s experience as a Cuban refugee.

There they are: 20 of the best realistic fiction books for 7th graders! Which of these books have you read and loved? Which ones are on your radar?

More Books for 7th Graders

• 70 books for 7th graders
• The best books for 12 year olds
• Great books for 12 year old boys

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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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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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Bell Ringers

My favorite books for 7th graders.

One of the best parts of being an ELA teacher? Getting to read young adult literature (especially with students). There is no better feeling than a lively classroom discussion or socratic seminar about a class novel. That’s why I wanted to share some books for 7th graders that always result in passionate classroom discussions!

You can use this book list to find new books for your 7th grade reading curriculum or to add books to your classroom library.

Freak the Mighty – Realistic Fiction

Max is a slow learner inside the body of a teenage giant. Kevin is a tiny genius in leg braces. Together, they make an unlikely and powerful duo. This is a story of overcoming shame and loss, and embracing imperfection.

When I read this book in class, you could hear a pin drop! My students are zoned in and completely immersed in the novel. Of course, that’s followed by a lively discussion as we dive into this novel. My students always have a lot to say about this book. If you want help leading discussions and socratic seminars for Freak the Mighty , check out the novel study .

Restart – Realistic Fiction

Chase has lost all of his memories. He doesn’t even know his name. When Chase wakes up from a coma, he must start over. But who exactly is Chase? When he goes back to school, he begins to discover that the person he was, may not be the person he wants to be.

Okay, I’m a sucker for any book with a great theme. This explores bullying, fitting in, and the dynamics of school. This book works really well in literature circles or book clubs because students can lead independent discussion with these topics.

Fever 1793 – Historical Fiction

It’s the summer of 1793, and mosquitos are invading Philadelphia. People are becoming sick with fever. At first, Polly is happy that her family business is growing as people visit her coffeehouse, far from the mosquito-infested river. But then the fever strikes closer to home…

This is a fictional story about the yellow fever epidemic. Not only is this a good book, but I enjoy being able to pair nonfiction passages with the novel. We also make connections to the world (even more relevant in our COVID world). I have a full novel study for Fever 1793 here!

Brown Girl Dreaming – Nonfiction

Jaqueline Woodson grew up in the 1960s and 1970s during a pivotal time in America. As an African American girl, she watched the Civil Rights movement spark to life. This novel, which details her childhood, shows Jaqueline searching for her place in the world.

This novel is really powerful. This is another book that works well for pairing. I like to bring in primary sources and news articles to read along with the text. You can also dive into characterization with Brown Girl Dreaming . I created a full novel unit , which hits every single nonfiction ELA standard!

Hey, Kiddo – Graphic Novel, Memoir

Jarrett has a complicated family. His mom is an addict, constantly in and out of rehab. His dad is a mystery. Jarrett lives with his loud, loving grandparents. Jarrett begins to express himself through art, and grapples with his complicated family.

Anytime I add a new graphic novel to my library, I know it will be checked out almost instantly. There is always a wait list for this book in my class because word gets around quickly about how good it is. This book contains some older themes, which I think makes it even more appealing to 7th graders. But it discusses everything in an age appropriate way.

Out of the Dust – Poetry, Historical Fiction

Billie Jo is fourteen years old and living through some of the darkest times. As the Oklahoma dust storms rage through Billie’s family farm, she chronicles the emotional and environmental turmoil that comes with it. 

If you are looking for another addition to your poetry unit or something to pair with The Dust Bowl, this is the novel for your class. This book can be a tough one because the emotion is easily felt. I think it makes for great discussion on diction and the power of poetry. Of course, I have a novel unit for Out of the Dust , which includes discussion questions, lesson plans, and PowerPoints to make teaching simple.

Divergent – Dystopian

Chicago has been divided into five factions each dedicated to a different value. Beatrice must make a choice between her family and being true to herself. The faction she chooses surprises everyone, and the events that come after put Beatrice through more challenges than she could have imagined.

I always like to include books in my library that have been turned into movies. For lots of my reluctant and struggling readers, this often motivates them to read! Divergent is one of those easily recognizable books, and enough students have read it that I can always find a student willing to booktalk it for the class!

The Maze Runner – Dystopian Fiction

Thomas wakes up in a strange place with no memories. The same thing has happened to every single boy in this strange place – they woke up with no memories. And now, they are trapped in a changing maze. That is until one day, a girl arrives in the maze and the message she delivers startles them all.

I have lots of 7th grade students who love action and suspense, so this ends up being one of their favorite class novels every year! I have created a super in-depth novel unit for The Maze Runner , containing 28 lesson plans. By the end, I think your students will be obsessed with this book as mine were! If you want more books for 7th graders, I have more novel units available . Because sometimes you just want to enjoy reading with your 7th graders, instead of worrying about all the pesky planning!

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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.

Click the buttons below to purchase all of the books in this 7th grade book list, as well as classroom sets of any of these books and many more, from Bookshop.org. Or buy the 20 most popular titles from this list from Amazon – ideal for gifts or stocking your school library. If you are ordering from outside the US, have a look at our ‘worldwide orders’ page which makes this process easy.

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The 57 Best Chapter Books for 7th Graders to Read (In 2022)

Books suitable for seventh graders are a bit of a dilemma.

That being so, we’ve scoured the world for the best books for seventh grade. From fantasy and adventure to historical fiction and simple biographies, here are the 57 best chapter books you could possibly hope to find.

1. The Maze Runner – James Dashner

2. the benefits of being an octopus – ann braden.

While rich kids her age worry about homework and crushes, seventh-grader Zoey has to think about taking care of her younger siblings. Not only that but she’s also forced to join the debate club, which further puts a wall between her and her peers. So, can she speak her mind, even if it means risking her peaceful life? You tell us.

3. Summerlost – Ally Condie

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4. The Girl With The Ghost Machine – Lauren Destefano

It tells the moving story of Emmaline, who watches her father obsessively trying to bring her mother from the dead. Thus, with the help of her two best friends, Emmaline decides to put a stop to his endeavors in hopes of getting him back.

5. The Girl Who Drank The Moon – Kelly Barnhill

6. restart – gordon korman, 7. the hunger games – suzanne collins.

I’ve never met a middle schooler that hasn’t enjoyed, or at least been taken in, by the first installment of The Hunger Games trilogy. Truly, this book has the perfect mix of underdog protagonist and dystopian future that’ll have middle school readers hungry for more. So, take a stab at this book and see what Katniss has to do to beat 23 people looking to kill her.

8. The Story That Cannot Be Told – J. Kasper Kramer

9. the ruins of gorlan – john flanagan, 10. the unwanteds – lisa mcmann.

Another book to add to your 7th-grade reading list should be the Unwanteds. In a world where people are divided into Wanteds and Unwanteds, what can two brothers do when they’re separated and then pitted against each other? Honestly, this book will leave middle school readers at the edge of their seats, waiting for the worst and hoping for the best.

11. The Places We Sleep – Caroline Brooks Dubois

12. the wednesday wars – gary d. schmidt.

Though set in the time of the Vietnam war, when it comes down to it, this is a story of a seventh-grade student who can’t seem to figure out his place in the world. More importantly, he can’t for the life of him understand his English teacher or why he has to read the works of Shakespeare, which, let’s be honest, some of us still don’t know the answer to.

13. York: The Shadow Cipher – Laura Ruby

The list of best books for 7th graders would have to include York: The Shadow Cipher. It’s basically one great, splendid puzzle whose pieces keep coming together with every new chapter. Accordingly, middle-grade readers who have a thing for mystery and secret would absolutely love this book.

14. Eragon – Christopher Paolini

15. the great and only barnum: the tremendous, stupendous life of showman p. t. barnum – candace fleming.

Middle schoolers will greatly appreciate the true story of P.T. Barnum. While many people either think of him as good or evil, this book shows that things are more complicated than that, making younger readers more thoughtful of their thoughts and actions.

16. When Stars Are Shattered – Victoria Jamieson

17. the prettiest – brigit young, 18. genesis begins again – alicia d. williams .

Young Genesis has a long list of reasons concerning why she dislikes herself. However, she discovers that there are things that she likes about herself as well, and she eventually learns that her attitude towards herself is the first thing she should fix.

19. The Book Thief – Markus Zusak

20. serena says – tanita s. davis, 21. the midnight zoo – sonya hartnett .

7th-grade chapter books don’t get much better than The Midnight Zoo. In it, three siblings living during the time of Nazi Germany witnessed their friends and family being captured. While walking around searching for food, they encounter a zoo that has talking animals in dire need of help and hope.

22. The Science Of Breakable Things – Tae Keller

23. freak the mighty – rodman philbrick.

Not everyone finds it easy to fit in. So, that’s exactly why two very different boys, one oversized and one tiny, decide to team up and find their way in the world. It goes without saying, this book is positively uplifting, and it’ll tackle some major issues that middle school students go through.

24. Planet Earth Is Blue – Nicole Panteleakos

Nova and her big sister, Bridget, have always been there for each other. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, Nova is placed with a new foster family, and she gets separated from her sister. Will the sisters make it back to each other, or will this story have a sad ending? Read and find out.

25. The Westing Game – Ellen Raskin

Even though Sam Westing is dead, he’s still maintaining his reputation as the eccentric millionaire. This is demonstrated when he gathers sixteen people, one of them a stranger, at his will reading for a chance to inherit his fortune. Why? Only he knows.

26. Last Gamer Standing – Katie Zhao

In this book, professional gamers are the top celebrities. Accordingly, kids start gaming from a young age in the hopes of joining a professional e-sports team. Reyna is one such kid. However, she keeps her identity hidden to avoid harassment. Still, what she fears comes to be, and she’s forced to confront the issue head-on, all while battling the biggest battle of her life.

27. Forget Me Not – Ellie Terry

Calliope has Tourette’s Syndrome, but she and her mother want nothing more in the world than to hide this little fact. That being so, she keeps moving around. So, when she finally settles down and makes a friend, will her friend stay by her side when the truth gets out, or will she be forced to move once again?

28. The Lightning Thief – Rick Riordan

Want a book that transports you away from real life? Then, this is the book for you. Honestly, Percy Jackson makes for the perfect character; brave, kind, and most importantly, sarcastic. And add to this some fast-paced adventures centered around Greek mythology; it’s no wonder this series has quite the following.

29. The Bridge Home – Padma Venkatraman

Can children with no parents or homes survive long enough on their own without the help of grown-ups? While it seemed possible at first for our four main characters, a new development makes their situation dire. Honestly, this book is a wonderful addition to any classroom library, and it would make for a wonderful class discussion about when it’s okay to ask for help.

30. Reckless – Cornelia Funke 

Jacob Reckless certainly lives up to his name in this novel. He frequently leaves his real life for another magical world named Mirrorworld. However, when his younger brother gets entangled with this world, Jacob must find a way to save him, or else all will be gone.

31. How To Find What You’re Not Looking For – Veera Hiranandani

Another wonderful coming-of-age story is found in this book. It follows the life of twelve-year-old Ariel Goldberg, who feels as if her life is in shambles. From her parents’ financial troubles to her eloping sister, Ariel tries to cultivate the one constant in her life; her voice.

32. Everything Sad Is Untrue – Daniel Nayeri

33. hearts unbroken – cynthia leitich smith.

When you’re caught between family obligations and your heart’s desires, which should you choose? Louise Wolfe is trying to find out that answer as she goes about her life, and many middle school students will definitely relate to her dilemma. That’s why this book is one of the absolute best books for 7th grade and a must-read for any young adult.

34. The Poet X – Elizabeth Acevedo

Since she started growing up, Xiomara Batista feels as if her family no longer hears her. However, she decides to take matters into her own hands and start saying what she wants. On a piece of paper, of course. However, when Xiomara is invited to join a slam poetry club, can she hide the fact from her parents, or will she be discovered? Read and see for yourself.

35. Ghost Boys – Jewell Parker Rhodes

In a devastating turn of events, little Jerome gets shot when a police officer thinks he’s holding a gun. Now, Jerome wanders the world as a ghost, watching his family and community deal with the aftermath until he meets another ghost that helps him through the ordeal.

36. Nightmares! – Jason Segel And Kirsten Miller

Charlie can’t sleep from all his nightmares. Still, the lack of sleep isn’t so bad when you come to realize that Charlie’s nightmares don’t just stay in his head. No, they start creeping onto the waking world and leaving a trail of chaos in their wake.

37. Wonder – R.J. Palacio

Auggie was born with some extensive physical deformities. However, he’s finally ready to leave home and go to a real school. As you can expect, Auggie doesn’t have an easy time at the school, where he’s constantly ogled at and bullied. You can’t help but cry and root for him, and when he finally finds his place, you’ll be practically cheering in your chair.

38. Counting By 7s – Holly Goldberg Sloan

39. divergent – veronica roth.

In a world where you’re meant to join just one faction, Tris has a world of trouble brewing if anyone ever finds out she can join any faction she wants. So, will our divergent hero be able to keep her secret and live her life peacefully, or will sinister forces start hunting her down?

40. The School For Good And Evil – Soman Chainani 

41. the menagerie – tui sutherland .

Looking for an easy, fun read? The Menagerie is your book. It depicts what happens to Logan when he discovers a griffin under his bed, which leads to the bigger discovery of a menagerie meant for magical creatures. However, not all is well in the menagerie, so Logan and his friend must find out what’s causing the problem in order to protect the beautiful menagerie.

42. The Space Between Lost And Found – by Sandy Stark-Mcginnis

If you’re looking for some inspiring and heart-wrenching stories, then you’ve come to the right place.

43. No Fixed Address – Susin Nielsen

44. echo – pam munoz ryan .

Advanced readers of the world absolutely love this book. Not only is it very well written, but it also has a plot that was executed perfectly. Basically, it consists of three short stories, every one set in different time periods. However, these stories are all tied thanks to a magical harmonica, believe it or not.

45. The Case Of The Missing Moonstone – Jordan Stratford

46. the girl with the glass bird – esme kerr , 47. the blackthorn key – kevin sands .

You’d do well to read a copy of The Blackthorn Key at any point in your life. It’s highly intriguing and set in a beautiful world, where Christopher and his friend try to discover who’s been murdering the apothecary owners.

48. Violet And The Pie Of Life – D. L. Green

49. the astonishing color of after – emily x.r. pan, 50. crown of three – j. d. rinehart .

Three siblings were separated at birth but came together to fulfill a prophecy and bring peace to a magical land. However, they must first learn to work together and use their powers in order to fight the evil forces ravaging the land, and as you can imagine, that’s not exactly a walk in the park.

51. Seven Dead Pirates – Linda Bailey 

52. the absolute value of mike – kathryn erskine , 53. the hobbit – j.r.r. tolkien.

The Hobbit is the prequel to the beloved Lord Of The Rings series. In it, Bilbo Baggins and Gandalf go on an epic adventure to the Lonely Mountain and have their share of close calls and splendid success.

54. Where The Red Fern Grows – Wilson Rawls 

55. everywhere blue – joanne rossmassler fritz, 56. the fog diver – joel ross.

A fog covers the earth, and only humans who live on the highest mountaintops can survive. However, our heroes will need to brave the fog in order to save the closest thing they have o a mother, and well, it won’t exactly be an easy journey.

57. Hatchet – Gary Paulsen

So, that’s it for our picks of the best books for the 7th grade they’d surely love.

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The Guide to 7th Grade: Reading and Writing

Review reading and writing curricula for 7th grade, including what to expect and resources to support learning..

Seventh graders are able to focus more on growing the skills they began to develop in the 6th grade without the added stress to adjusting to the new middle school environment. By 7th grade, it is expected that students have acclimated to life as a middle school student and are therefore expected to work more independently and organize their time and schedules with less (but still some) guidance.

In general, in 7th grade, students build on the skills they learned in 6th grade by writing and reading more complex and longer texts and essays. This work will prepare them for 8th grade where they will cement and further their skills, ultimately setting them up for success in high school.

Read on for what to expect this year, and shop all seventh grade resources at The Scholastic Store . 

7th Grade Reading

In 7th grade, students deepen their ability to analyze the texts they read and provide evidence from the text to do so. Specifically, 7th graders learn to examine texts more closely and use details from the text in order to develop ideas, analyze, and make inferences.

In addition, they analyze the relationships between elements within one text and across multiple texts while supporting this analysis by citing evidence from the text.

In order to build reading skills, your 7th grader:

• Analyzes texts using the text as evidence to support the analysis.
• Makes inferences about texts and uses evidence from the text to support the inferences.  
• Understands the message or ideas in a text and uses evidence to support these claims.
• Understands, tracks the progress of, and summarizes the main idea of a text, using evidence from the text.
• Analyzes and explains the relationship between different elements such as character and setting.
• Analyzes the impact of specific language and word choice used in a text.
• Understands how the different structures used in a text, such as poetry or drama, affect the text.
• Compares and contrasts the different perspectives and points of views in a text.
• Determines the author’s point of view in a text using evidence from the text.
• Compares different versions such as a stage version, film, or audio version of a text, paying specific attention to the way in which elements such as lighting, scenery, or audio sounds affect the message of the text.
• Compares a historical account of an event, person, or place with a historical fiction text about the same period.
• Read a variety of texts, including stories, poetry, drama, non-fiction, or informative texts.
• Compares multiple texts written by different authors about the same topic and determines how their different perspectives are presented through their presentation of facts and the inferences they make. 

7th Grade Writing

Similar to the work they do in reading, 7th graders deepen their writing skills by using analysis, paying close attention to detail and providing reasons, proofs, and examples for the ideas they express. 7th graders write a variety of genres, including informative pieces, opinion pieces, and narratives and they complete both short-term and long-term writing assignments.

There is also particular attention paid to research and teaching students to do their own independent research and research projects as described below, specifically through the use of digital resources.

In order to build writing skills, your 7th grader:

• Introductions
• Acknowledgements of opposing claims
• Logical and orderly presentations of reasons and evidence
• The use of  appropriate transitions, words, and phrases to connect claims
• A concluding sentence or paragraph which supports the argument made
• A formal tone and style
• Use supporting claims and evidence that are based on credible texts and resources
• Include an introduction that has an explanation of what follows
• Develop topics through the use of facts, detailed quotations, and examples and subject specific terms and definitions
• Include transitions that connect concepts and paragraphs
• Include a conclusion that supports the presented idea(s)
• Maintain a formal “essay type” style
• Integrate other forms of media and formats, such as graphs, charts, headings, and audio or video when appropriate
• A narrator, characters, and a point of view
• Descriptive detail and sensory language to describe characters, settings, and experiences
• Dialogue details and descriptions of characters, setting, and experiences
• A clear structure with a logical order and flow, as shown through the use of transition words
• A conclusion that is connected to and builds on the narrative
• Plans, revises, and edits writing, specifically with guidance from teachers and peers, focusing specifically on trying new approaches and making sure the writing has a purpose and appeals to its audience
• Uses technology and the Internet to produce and publish writing
• Works with others and cites sources
• Works on multiple, short research projects that answer a specific question and cite multiple sources, while gathering additional questions for later research
• Uses both print and digital resources to conduct research, focusing on using appropriate search terms and reliable sources
• Uses quotes and a standard format for citation
• Uses research to analyze and make inferences

Shop the best resources for seventh grade below! You can find all books and activities at  The Scholastic Store . 

Explore other grade guides: 

• Kindergarten
• First Grade
• Second Grade
• Third Grade
• Fourth Grade  
• Fifth Grade
• Sixth Grade
• Eighth Grade

Your Seventh Grade Book Checklist

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7th grade books so great, they made a movie

by: Grace Montgomery

Print book list

Can watching the movie version make you smarter? You bet! Under the Common Core Standards, comparing a written story to an audio, film, or staged version and analyzing the effects of techniques such as lighting, color, and camera angles is a key reading skill for seventh graders. After your child has read a book and seen the movie, talk about how the two compare. For example, How are the characters different in the movie than you imagined while reading the book? What parts of the book did the filmmaker omit and why? If you were reviewing this movie for a magazine, what would you write?

by: Judy Blume - (Bradbury Press, 1981) 256 pages.

After 15-year-old Davey’s father is killed in an armed robbery, her mother moves the family to New Mexico. Overwhelmed with grief over her father’s violent death, Davey feels lonely and disconnected until she meets an older boy, Wolf, while hiking in a canyon. With his help, she finally begins to rebuild her life, even as her family falls apart around her. This hauntingly beautiful book has resonated with tween and teen readers since it was first published in 1981. Parents should note that there are scenes of violence and teens drinking.

Want to see the movie? The 2013 adaptation, which was directed by Blume’s son, stays very true to the book.

Perfect for: Tweens who like realistic dramas.

Find Tiger Eyes at your local library.

by: Neil Gaiman - (Spike, 1999) 288 pages.

In an effort to convince his sweetheart Victoria to marry him, Tristran Thorn promises her a shooting star that they saw land just outside the wall that separates their small English town from the world of Faerie. But what Tristran doesn’t realize is that the star is actually a beautiful Faerie woman named Yvaine. On his journey to retrieve the star, Tristran encounters a dizzying array of magical creatures from gnomes to witches to talking trees. He finds new love and a surprising secret about his own history. Parents should note there is some sexual content in this book.

Want to see the movie? Check out the 2007 adaptation featuring Claire Danes and Robert De Niro, which cuts out the sex scenes from the book but is a bit more violent.

Perfect for: Tweens who like elaborate fantasy stories.

Find Stardust at your local library.

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 .

Shoeless Joe

by: W.P. Kinsella - (Houghton Mifflin, 1982) 272 pages.

Ray is obsessed with baseball and, in particular, with Shoeless Joe Jackson, who was kicked out of baseball in disgrace after the Black Sox Scandal of 1919. So when a voice tells Ray to build a baseball field in the middle of his corn field so that Shoeless Joe can play again, he listens. Even those who don’t like baseball will be drawn into this bizarre but engaging story, which is a wonderful introduction to magical realism for tween and teen readers.

Want to see the movie? Check out Field of Dreams (1989) starring Kevin Costner, which mostly follows the plot of the book, but changes some details.

Perfect for: Baseball lovers and tweens who pursue their dreams.

Find Shoeless Joe at your local library.

The Princess Bride

by: William Goldman - (Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 1973) 512 pages.

After her true love Westley’s boat is sunk by pirates, the beautiful Buttercup agrees to marry Prince Humperdinck, even though she doesn’t love him. But before the wedding can take place, Buttercup is kidnapped by three outlaws: cunning Vizzini, revenge-obsessed Inigo, and Fezzik the giant. When a mysterious masked man rescues her from their clutches, Buttercup discovers that her beloved Westley is very much alive and ready to do whatever it takes to win her back. The fanciful story and funny, tongue-in-cheek writing will charm tween readers.

Want to see the movie? The 1987 film version, also written by Goldman, closely follows the book but simplifies some plot points.

Perfect for: Tweens and teens who appreciate the fantastic and the absurd.

Find The Princess Bride at your local library.

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 .

Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café

by: Fannie Flagg - (Random House, 1987) 448 pages.

Evelyn is wrapped up in her own midlife troubles and just trying to kill time when she meets the elderly Mrs. Threadgoode at a senior citizen’s home. But when Mrs. Threadgoode starts spinning a tale about tomboy Idgie and her soft-spoken friend Ruth, who ran the Whistle Stop Café in 1930s Alabama, Evelyn is mesmerized. Many details later, including talk of barbecue, southern hospitality, and a mysterious murder, Evelyn finds that her life has changed — for the better — forever. Parents should note that the book explores mature themes and has references to spousal abuse, racism, and murder.

Want to see the movie? Check out the 1991 adaptation starring Kathy Bates, Jessica Tandy, and Mary-Louise Parker.

Perfect for : Tweens who appreciate the life-changing power of a good story.

Find Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café at your local library.

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 .

by: J.R.R. Tolkien - (Houghton Mifflin, 1966) 300 pages.

Bilbo Baggins wasn’t looking for adventure — it arrived on his doorstep in the form of 13 dwarves and the wizard Gandalf, who ask him to join their quest to reclaim a stolen treasure. The reluctant hobbit goes on a thrilling journey to confront the dragon Smaug, and in the process encounters hungry trolls, killer spiders, and an ancient magical ring. Readers may recognize some of the characters from The Lord of the Rings trilogy in this prequel, which is a more approachable read for tweens.

Want to see the movie? Try the live-action trilogy inspired by the book, beginning with The Hobbit: The Unexpected Journey from 2012.

Perfect for : Kids who like epic adventure stories.

Find The Hobbit at your local library.

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 .

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 .

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

by: John Boyne - (David Fickling Books, 2007) 215 pages.

It’s 1942. Bruno is a naive 9-year-old raised in a privileged Berlin household. Bruno’s father is a commandant in Hitler’s army. When the family moves within 50 feet of Auschwitz, Bruno is curious about the fence he can see from his bedroom window. He doesn’t know what horrors are happening on the other side of the fence, or what his father’s role is. In his explorations, he befriends Shmuel, a boy in the camp, and their friendship comes to a tragic end. For sixth graders who are familiar with the historical details of the Holocaust, this book is a powerful addition to Holocaust fiction, and an example of the multiple perspectives a narrative can take — in this case, the perspective of a young bystander.

Want to see the movie? The 2008 adaptation merits its PG-13 rating for the mature content depicting life in a concentration camp.

Perfect for: Kids who like historical fiction.

Find The Boy in the Striped Pajamas at your local library.

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Book Review Writing Examples

Examples: learn from the efforts of others.

Learning how to write strong reviews takes time and not a little effort. Reading the reviews others have done can help you get a feel for the flow and flavor of reviews.

If I Never Forever Endeavor Review by Hayden, age 4, Southeast Michigan Mensa

This book was about a bird who didn't yet know how to fly.

The bird has to decide if it will try to fly, but it was not sure if it wants to. The bird thought, "If I never forever endeavor" then I won't ever learn. On one wing, he worries he might fail and on the other wing he thinks of how he may succeed. He worries that if he tries, he may get lost in the world. That makes him want to stay in his nest where he's safe.

I think this book would help other children to learn that trying new things can be scary, but sometimes when we try, we can find things that make us happy too. And this book will help others know that mistakes are okay and part of learning.

My favorite part is that the bird tried and learned that she could fly. I also liked that I read this book because it gave me a chance to talk to mom about making mistakes and how I don't like making them. Then I learned they are good and part of learning.

Boys and girls who are 3 to 8 years old would like this book because it teaches about trying a new thing and how it's important to get past being scared so you can learn new things.

I give the book 5 stars since I think it's important for other children to learn about courage.

Flesh & Blood So Cheap Review by Umar B., age 8, Central New Jersy Mensa

I liked this book. People who are interested in national disasters and US history as well as immigration will most probably be interested in reading this book.

Readers can gain knowledge of what it was like to work in New York City in the early 1900s. One of the things that was especially interesting was that there were no safety laws at work. Also, there was a big contrast between the rich and the poor. Some people may not like this book because it is very depressing, but it is an important event in history to remember.

This book was very well written. It has black and white photos along with descriptions of the photos. These photos give us a better idea of what people's lives were like. This book is suitable for 9-20 year olds.

I give this book 5 stars.

Galaxy Zach: Journey to Juno Review by Young Mensan Connor C., age 6, Boston Mensa

Journey To Juno is the second book of the Galaxy Zack series. It is just as good as the first one. It's awesome!

Zack joins the Sprockets Academy Explorers Club at school. They fly on a special trip to Juno, a new planet no one has ever visited. Zack gets paired up with Seth, the class bully, and that's dreadful but Zack is excited when he finds a huge galaxy gemmite. A gemmite that large had not been found in 100 years! Kids will love this book!

Boys and girls will both like it. It's an easy chapter book with pictures on every page. I love the illustrations. I think ages 6-8 would like this but younger kids would like the story being read to them.

My favorite parts are the galactic blast game (it is similar to baseball except there are robots playing), recess at Zack's school where everything is 3-D holographic images, the rainbow river in a crystal cave on Juno, and the galaxy gemmite that Zack finds on Juno. I also loved when a life-size holographic image of his Earth friend appears in Zack's room because he calls him on a hyperphone. I give this book one hundred stars! There is a "to be continued" at the end so you have to read the next book see what's in store. I can't wait to find out what happens!!!

I Capture the Castle Review by Lauren W., age 17, Mensa in Georgia

Dodie Smith's novel I Capture the Castle is a journey through the mind of a young writer as she attempts to chronicle her daily life. Seventeen-year-old Cassandra Mortmain has recently learned to speed-write, and she decides to work on her writing skills by describing the actions and conversations of those around her.

Cassandra lives in a fourteenth-century English castle with an interesting cast of characters: her beautiful older sister, Rose; her rather unsociable author father and his second wife, artist-model Topaz; Stephen, the garden boy; a cat and a bull terrier; and sometimes her brother Thomas when he is home from school. One fateful day they make the acquaintance of the Cotton family, including the two sons, and a web of tangled relationships ensues.

While I definitely recommend this book to other readers, I would recommend it to older teenagers, mainly because it will resonate better with them. The writing is tame enough that younger teens could also read it, but most of the characters are adults or on the verge of adulthood. Older readers would take the most from it since they can not only relate, but they may also better pick up on and appreciate Cassandra's sometimes subtle humor.

Over the course of the novel, Cassandra undergoes a definite transformation from child to mature young adult, even though it's only over the course of several months. I love that I could see into her mindset and read exactly what she was feeling when she thought out situations. Her thoughts flowed well and moved the book along very quickly.

Cassandra's narrative voice is wonderful. She is serious at times, but also very witty, which makes for an engaging read. It feels absolutely real, as though I'm reading someone's actual journal. Sometimes I forget that I am reading a story and not a real-life account. Her emotions and the dialogue are so genuine, and they are spot-on for a seventeen-year-old girl in her situation.

Cassandra has many wonderful insights on life, on topics ranging from writing to faith to matters of the heart. I personally have had some of the same thoughts as Cassandra, except Ms. Smith was able to put them into words.

Capture the Castle should be essential reading for aspiring writers, those looking for historical fiction or romance, or anyone who loves reading amazing classic books. Dodie Smith is an exceptional writer, and I Capture the Castle is a book that will never become obsolete.

Frankenstein's Cat Review by Zander H., age 12, Mid-America Mensa

I appreciated Frankenstein's Cat for its fascinating explanation about the often baffling subject of bioengineering and its sister sciences. Emily Anthes explains the many sides of today's modern technology, such as gene modification, cloning, pharmaceutical products (from the farm), prosthesis, animal tag and tracking and gene cryogenics. This book provides a well-rounded summary of these complicated sciences without being boring or simply factual. Her real world examples take us on a journey from the farm, to the pet store and then from the pharmacy to the frozen arc.

Have you ever wondered if the neighborhood cat is spying on you? Read about Operation Acoustic Kitty and find out if this feline fantasy fiction or fact. Do you think bugs are creepy? What about a zombified cyborg beetle? Is Fido so special that you want two of him? Money can buy you an almost exact copy of your pooch BUT don't expect the same personality. Emily Anthes makes you crave more information. She makes you want to know the future of Earth's flora and fauna, as well as humanity itself.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who desires a guide to the future of biological science and technology. Frankenstein's Cat is best read by the light of a glow-in-the-dark fish, while cuddling your favorite cloned dog and drinking a glass of genetically modified milk.

About Marsupials Review by Connor C., age 6, Boston Mensa

About Marsupials is the title so the book is about...marsupials, of course. It's non-fiction. I really think everyone would like the book. I think someone who likes animals would especially like to read it.

The glossary of facts in the back of About Marsupials is the most useful part. I thought the most interesting parts were that some marsupials have their pouch at their back legs and one marsupial, the Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby, is very small but can jump 13 feet wide!

Kids in the 4-8 age range would like this book. Even though it's not a story book, 4 year olds would like the few words on each page and they would love the beautiful pictures. But older kids would like it because of all the facts in the back of the book. There's a lot of information for each animal. I think boys and girls (and parents) would enjoy reading it. This book is very interesting. I give it 4 stars.

Mapping the World Review by Umar A., age 10, Central New Jersey Mensa

Every day, people around the world use maps. Whether it is an airplane pilot or businessman, housewife or museum group, maps have always and will continue to provide useful information for all.

Mapping the World talks about the uses of maps, as well as how to differentiate between the type of map projection and type of map.

In this series, we travel to the past and learn about historical mapmakers, from Claudius Ptolemy (who stated the idea that the Earth is at the center of the universe) to Gerardus Mercator (who created one of the most widely used map projections) and more. This series goes into tremendous detail on the cartographer's life and maps. We then journey to the present era to learn about map projections and the diverse types of maps used today. You might ask, "What is the difference between the two? They sound the same to me." No map projection is perfect, because you cannot really flatten a sphere into a rectangle. An uncolored projection could be used in many ways. We could use it for population concentration, highways, land elevation, and so many other things!

For example, we could make a topographic map of the U.S., which shows land elevation. We could make it a colorful map that shows the amount of pollution in different areas, or it could be a population map, or it could even be a map that shows the 50 states, their capitals and borders! Our last step in this amazing excursion is the near future, where we see some hypothetical solutions as to what maps will be used for. Currently, we are working on better virtual map technology.

Now, scientists have been able to put maps on phones. Back in the early 1900s, people had to lug a lot of maps around to find your way from place to place, or just keep asking for directions. Now, all the information is on a phone or global positioning system (GPS). It is amazing how much maps have changed technology and the world in this century.

The Mapping the World 8-book set goes into amazing levels of detail. It is a long read, but it gives an immense range and amount of information that you would not find in any other book or series on maps. The flowing way the chapters and books are organized makes it easy to link passages from different books in this series together. Mapping the World is a treasure box, filled with the seeds of cartography. Collect and plant them, and you soon will have the fruits of cartography, beneficial to those who want to be cartographers. Use this series to the utmost, then the fruits of mapping will be sweet for all who endeavor to succeed in cartography.

This series of lessons was designed to meet the needs of gifted children for extension beyond the standard curriculum with the greatest ease of use for the educator. The lessons may be given to the students for individual self-guided work, or they may be taught in a classroom or a home-school setting. Assessment strategies and rubrics are included at the end of each section. The rubrics often include a column for "scholar points," which are invitations for students to extend their efforts beyond that which is required, incorporating creativity or higher level technical skills.

• Grades 6-12
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50 Ideas, Tricks, and Tips for Teaching 7th Grade

Brilliant ideas from brilliant teachers (like you).

Let’s be honest; seventh grade is a unique year in a child’s (and a teacher’s) life. It takes a special kind of patience to teach middle school—and particularly seventh grade. Look no further than these 50 tricks, ideas, and tips for teaching 7th grade from our community of teachers on the WeAreTeachers Helpline and around the web. And, we’ve organized the list by topic to make it easy to find the tips most relevant to you!

The First Days of School

1. stock up on math supplies.

We’ve gathered all the math supplies you need for the 7th grade classroom.

2. And ELA supplies too!

We’ve got you covered with this list of small but critical middle school English supplies for the classroom.

3. Introduce yourself creatively

There’s nothing quite like the very first moment of the first day of school. You stand at the front of the classroom, looking at all those expectant faces for the very first time. Now’s your chance to introduce yourself to your students, to let them know who you are and what they can expect over the year to come. We love these creative ways to introduce yourself .

4. Connect the middle school years

Seventh graders don’t understand how each year builds on the one before, so you’ll have to make it explicit for them. Use the upcoming year’s syllabi to set goals for summer work. For example, reading four short stories that take place during the Civil War to prepare them for studying the Civil War in eighth grade or, read five science articles to prepare them to work with current events in science class.

5. Start the year with ice breakers and review

“Do a day of getting-to-know-you and then check for prior understanding of content. I teach social studies, so some maps and a quick review of topics they should have been exposed to.” —Beth T.

“I teach seventh grade English and actually had BINGO posted the first day but changed a few to specifics about our city/school. In addition to BINGO, I made a classroom scavenger hunt students completed in groups…Making time for procedures in between is, of course, critical for the year as well.” —Erin B.

Check out these ice breakers that really work!

Tips for Classroom Management

6. don’t assume that yes means yes.

“Asking ‘do you understand?’ is the wrong question when you’re teaching 7th grade. They will always ‘yes’ you to death. Instead, after you have explained what to do, ask five people to tell you what they’re supposed to do. After that’s over, if someone still asks a question, get one of the students to answer the question to the whole class.” —Kym M.

7. Ask questions

Sixth graders (and most middle schoolers, for that matter) aren’t known for offering up their opinions or thoughts as readily as younger students. Come prepared with questions that are easy and fun for kids to answer. Check out our  favorite introduction questions to check in.

8. Don’t assume that they remember (or heard) the directions

“After I give directions, I ask, ‘what are your questions?’ Then, wait time…make them uncomfortable for a minute or two, until someone asks a question…then the questions will flow and you’ll get to see what you need to clarify.” —William W.

9. Teach a growth mindset

Put simply—some people believe that intelligence is fixed, while others think that it’s malleable depending on effort. Identify your students who have a fixed mindset, those who see having to try as a threat to their intelligence, and build a culture that fosters a growth mindset. Check out this interactive quiz and TED Talks to learn more about “fixed” and “growth” mindsets.

10. Get to know your students’ brains

Middle school brains are changing every day. After infancy, this is the time when kids’ brains are growing and reshaping the most. Know what’s happening in your students’ minds by reading books like Age of Opportunity by Laurence Steinberg. As one teacher says, “So many times, I have found myself thinking, “Why did he do that? Why would she take that risk? Didn’t he consider what would happen based on that choice?” Well, now you’ll know.

11. Be specific when giving directions … like very specific!

“The biggest shock for me about teaching 7 th grade was how detailed and specific I needed to be in giving direction. Assume they don’t know anything.” —Tiffany P.

12. Break out all your organization skills

“Be ORGANIZED. Have a procedure for everything.” —Pam W.

13. Create a foolproof lesson plan

“You need a foolproof lesson plan (one that you’ll love to teach and they’ll love to participate in) to pull out of the air during high-stress times.” —Lisa A. 

Here are five we love for the days when you’re seriously exhausted.

14. Try flipping your class

Try teaching a flipped class with Flipgrid . You and your students can record videos that kids can watch at home or in a small group/center. You can use the classroom time for working with students.

15. Develop your own style

“The classroom management system that ends up working for you is likely very different from the management system that works for every other teacher in your building. I made the mistake my first two years of trying to emulate a teacher who screams all the time…what ended up working for me was a more positive tone and having a concrete system of behavior grades that students could see and check. Experiment and try everything until you hone in on what works for you.” — Lillie M. quoted in Education Week

16. Talk Positive

“Aim to make more than half of what you say positive and enjoyable to listen to. If everything you say is consistently harsh, punitive, or nasty, humans of all ages are far less likely to listen.” — Lillie M. quoted in  Education Week

17. Laugh (and laugh some more)

“My best advice after teaching 7 th grade for 13 years is to have some fun with the kids and laugh every single day!” —Tammy S.

Tips for Language Arts

18. give students choice in literature circles.

Seventh graders love literature circles, and they encourage strong discussion and ownership over reading. Build choice into your literature circles by providing them with a few novel choices and a blank calendar to plan out their reading. Check out our book lists here  and  here  for middle grade books we love.

19. Introduce over 50 short stories

It can be a challenge to get middle schoolers interested in reading. The thought of tackling a thick novel can be overwhelming, especially during distance learning.  Short stories are always a great choice .

20. Include poetry

It can be hard to know which poems will spur your middle and high schoolers into deep, meaningful discussion and which will leave them yawning! So we asked experienced teachers to share their favorite poems that always get a reaction, even from teens.  Check out the list of poems here .

21. Deck out your classroom library with seating

“I use the camping chairs and my kids love them.” —Martha C.

“I got pillows from thrift stores, cheap pillowcases, and made my own covers. I let my students sit on the floor or lay under their desks to write and read if they feel the need.” —Linda W.

“Get camp chairs, you can get quite a collection for cheap and they take up little space when folded up.” —Deanna J.

22. Make writing explicit

Teach seventh grade students how to write clearly by assigning them to write a simple essay—how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Then, try to follow each set of directions. The results might not surprise you (the essays won’t be easy to follow), but your students will take the lesson to heart.

23. Don’t skip the daily read aloud

Seventh graders do like to be read to; in fact reading to them can inspire them to explore new genres and share a common reading experience. This read aloud list from Read Aloud America suggests titles like Boy by Roald Dahl and My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George.

24. Adjust the reading level for current events

“ NEWSELA has current events articles that span a variety of topics. Students are able to adjust the Lexile to the appropriate (or close) level.” —Kimberly W.

25. Differentiate reading instruction and keep pace

“Let them choose from several books with similar themes rather than having everyone in the class read the same book at the same time. Give them assessment options (such as tic-tac-toe boards), so they can choose. Don’t spend forever on the same book (i.e., 6-week units) because most will finish the reading the first day or so and be bored when the book is still being picked apart a month later.” — Kristy W.

26. Get flexible with annotation

Annotation is a difficult skill, but 7 th graders need to master and internalize it. Have them use plastic covers to practice annotation in different kinds of books—the classics, textbooks, and even magazines.

27. Host a Socratic Seminar

Socratic seminar is a way for students to both engage in and reflect on deep discussion. Here’s a guide to Socratic seminars from ReadWriteThink .

Tips for Math

28. use math manipulatives.

“Get some manipulatives, like fraction circles, pattern blocks, power solids, geoboards, playing dice, spinners, etc.”  —Gayle H.

29. Build a digital escape room!

Digital escape rooms provide students with a way to challenge, review, and compete. It’s a more exciting way to do  math.

30. Blow their minds

It’s easy (too easy) to catch middle schoolers off-guard and surprise them. Blogger 7th Grade English uses curveball questions like: “When the day after tomorrow is yesterday, this day will be as far from Friday as this day was from Friday when the day before yesterday was tomorrow. What day is it?” to catch his students off guard and really make them think.

31. Gamify math

“Using Kahoot! in my middle school math class has helped to gamify content, practice vocabulary, and serves as a fun way to review.” —Erika

32. Get practical

Make math applicable for seventh grade students by bringing in lessons like scaling up candy wrappers and using Barbie to teach proportional reasoning .

Tips for Social Studies

33. teach the branches of government.

More than ever, our country is examining the laws that were put in place to protect and guide us. It can be overwhelming, however, to explain exactly how that works. To help you give your lesson plans a boost,  we’ve put together this list of resources  that help teach kids about the branches of government.

34. Use Instagram

Embrace the selfie culture (kind of). These tips for teaching 7th grade using Instagram (like creating a historical figure’s account) will make them learn and smile.

35. Use online learning

There are some amazing websites out there for teaching social studies lessons.  Check out our 50+ favorites .

Tips for Science

36. conduct appropriate science experiments.

Kids of every age love hands-on science! Teachers do, too, because the learning is a lot more meaningful when students see concepts in action.  This roundup of seventh grade science experiments  and activities has a little something for everyone—from biology and ecology to physics and chemistry.

37. Pull up a science website

Science is exciting. Unfortunately, students can find the lessons a little dry. Whether you’re in the classroom or teaching online, finding the right resources can bring these complex concepts to life! To help you get started,  here’s a list of the best science websites for middle school .

38. Use virtual field trips

Middle schoolers want to learn all they can about the world, but a field trip a week just isn’t in the cards. Try our top virtual field trips !

39. Help students develop research skills

Seventh graders are developing the research skills they’ll use in high school and beyond. Help them ask authentic questions, complete useful prewriting, narrow their purpose, and share their work with these tips from the Middle School Teacher to Literacy Coach blog.

40. Turn science into a challenge

When you’re teaching science, “stress that the goal isn’t to make the lab experiment ‘work’ but to work collaboratively and problem solve together. Teach students how to ask questions and watch them figure out how to find answers.” —Laurie P. 

41. Mix up your science instruction

“Do a rotation of lectures and notes with videos, labs, other labs. Do mini labs that last 15 minutes and longer labs that last class periods or multi-day project. That way, they don’t get bored and neither do you.” —Kathie N .

Tips for Projects and Grading

42. use a plagiarism checker.

Don’t fret over those essays! Use a plagiarism checker to make sure everyone’s writing is unique.

43. Schedule class time for projects

“Seventh graders need more direct instruction and in-class work time when it comes to projects.” —Tesha L.

44. Divide projects into chunks

“I found it helpful to provide students with project worksheets that divided the project into stages. Each stage has its own deadline.” —Candy J.

45. Use mini-rubrics to keep students on track

“I recommend mini-rubrics along for each section along with strong guiding questions.” —Lindi E.

46. Consider pre-research

“With some groups, I needed to do pre-research for them to narrow down the scope of information to filter. I simply found quality resources, printed and organized them into a bundle and gave them to students.” —Linda E.

47. Hold students accountable

It’s inevitable that you’ll get unacceptable work from your students. Combat that by stapling redo slips to work that is a far cry from A-material. Students have to rethink their work, fix it, and return. This and more teaching 7th grade tips on  Panicked Teacher .

Tips for the Arts

48. get on stage.

“Go to the MTI ( Music Theatre International ) website. You can buy what’s called a Showkit that has everything you need to do a show, and a great guide for first-time directors. I am directing the first show at my school, although I’ve directed community shows. Make sure you communicate well with parents and get them involved! It’s a great thing for kids!” —Beverly B.

49. Teach thesis

A song’s chorus is similar to a research paper’s thesis—it’s what the singer wants the listener to take away, no matter what. Connect chorus and thesis with this series of lessons, you’ll capture your musical students.

50. Get crafty.

Even seventh graders like to make crafts like duct tape hearts for Valentine’s Day, flower pens for Mother’s Day, or 3-D shape flipbooks in math. Even better if crafts overlap with other concepts!

Do you have any great tips for teaching 7th grade? Share them in the comments below!

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125 Words Every 7th Grader Should Know 

Vocabulary you need to succeed.

By analyzing student data and commonly taught texts, Vocabulary.com has compiled this collection of essential vocabulary for students in 7th grade. Master high-frequency, high-utility words that you'll encounter across the curriculum.

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Other learning activities, teaching tools, vocabulary lists in this collection:.

• instinctive
• sophisticated
• contemporary
• inconceivable
• predicament
• incorporate
• inexplicable

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Whether you’re a teacher or a learner, Vocabulary.com can put you or your class on the path to systematic vocabulary improvement.

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• Mini English Lessons

How to Write a Review That Stands Out: A Guide for English Learners

Writing an online review is a powerful way to share your experiences and help others make informed decisions.

This guide will help you understand how to write clear and effective reviews that offer valuable insights and help potential customers make decisions.

Things to consider before writing a review

What are you trying to achieve.

Before you start writing, think about what you want to achieve with your review. Are you trying to share a positive or negative experience? Do you want to provide valuable insights to help others? Do you just want to express your feelings?

Your review can influence a business’s online reputation and guide other customers, so be clear about your goal to make sure your review is helpful and effective.

How to format your review

Formatting your review properly is important to make sure it’s clear and easy to read. Start with a brief introduction that summarises your experience. Then, provide specific details about what you liked or didn’t like.

Use paragraphs to separate different points and make sure to proofread your review for any spelling or grammar mistakes. A well-formatted review shows your attention to detail and makes a stronger impact.

Consider your audience

Think about who will be reading your review. Are you addressing the company to provide feedback, or are you writing for other customers to help them make informed decisions?

Shape your language and specific details to suit your audience. For example, if you’re writing a review for other customers to read, focus on how the product or service met your needs and why you would highly recommend it (or not).

If you’re addressing the company, be sure to provide constructive feedback that could lead to improvements.

Types of reviews and how to write them

How to write a book review.

When writing a book review, include specific details about the plot, characters, and writing style. Mention what you liked or disliked and why. Your insights can have a significant impact on other readers.

Book review example sentences:

• “The author’s descriptive writing made the scenes come alive.”
• “I didn’t enjoy the book because it was slow and uneventful.”
• “The plot was engaging and full of unexpected twists, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire story.”

How to write a movie review

A good movie review should talk about the story, acting, and direction. Share your positive or negative thoughts and provide details. This helps others decide if they want to watch the movie.

Movie review example sentences:

• “The actors delivered outstanding performances.”
• “The direction was sloppy and uninspired, lacking any clear vision or creativity, which made the movie difficult to follow and unenjoyable to watch.”
• “The story was captivating from start to finish.”

How to write a product review

In a product review, describe how the product or service worked for you. Mention any customer service experiences. Be honest and include both pros and cons to give a balanced view. Good reviews are clear and helpful.

Product review example sentences:

• “The product worked perfectly and exceeded my expectations.”
• “I had a terrible experience with customer service, they were very unhelpful.”
• “I would not recommend this product to anyone; it broke after being used once.”

How to write a restaurant review

For a restaurant review, talk about the food, service, and atmosphere. Would you highly recommend the food? How was the customer service from the wait staff? Your review can help guide others looking for a great dining experience.

Restaurant review example sentences:

• “The food was delicious and beautifully presented.”
• “The service was slow and unprofessional.”
• “The atmosphere was noisy and uncomfortable; I would not eat here again.”

How to write a travel review

When writing a travel review, include specific details about the location, accommodation, and activities. Mention what you enjoyed and what could be improved. This helps others plan their trips better.

Travel review example sentences:

• “There were plenty of fun activities to do, and all within walking distance.”
• “I highly recommend this beautiful destination to other travellers.”
• “The hotel was hard to find, with poor signage and confusing directions, and once we finally arrived, it was not worth the effort due to its outdated facilities.”

How to write a customer service review

A customer service review should focus on the quality of service you received. Did the staff respond to your needs? Were they helpful? Customer reviews that highlight good or bad service can influence a company’s online reputation.

Customer service review example sentences:

• “The staff responded quickly and resolved my issue.”
• “Everyone was friendly and went above and beyond to make sure we had a good time.”
• “I’m very disappointed with the service. The staff were unresponsive, and my issue was not resolved despite multiple attempts to get help.”

Leave us a review in the comments section below!

Now that you’ve learned some top tips on how to write a review, it’s time to practice your skills! Leave a comment below and tell us what you thought of this article.

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I am happy with the course as it is informative and educative. It has helped me to improve my knowledge of the English language. English is my second language. I’ve become a much more confident speaker of the English language thanks to this course.

I have enjoyed having classes in group as well as doing pre-class tasks on my own. I am happy that our group has had different teachers as we can improve our listening skills while listening to a new teacher and stay more focused on the material of the lesson. British Council teachers are professionals who help us a lot with learning and understanding the topics better. British Council, thank you for your work. 🙏

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English 7 covers literature, vocabulary, writing, and grammar with an emphasis on critical thinking from a biblical worldview. In this course, students will explore English grammar conventions, writing instruction, and literature studies. Mrs. Cofer encourages her students to be better thinkers by applying principles of discernment to their everyday lives through their study of English 7.

What should 7th-grade students expect in English 7?

Daily lessons in English 7 will be in two parts, Video A and Video B. Video A will cover writing and grammar from the Writing & Grammar 7 student worktext. Some chapters will focus on grammar conventions and others will focus on developing writing skills through a writing project.

Video B will cover the literature lesson for the day. One lesson will introduce the content by presenting literary terms, author information, and new vocabulary. The following lesson will discuss the literary piece, incorporating critical-thinking questions and encouraging deeper discussions.

Special Features of English 7

Special segment with Will Cunningham that explores information about authors.

Writer’s Dungeon

Special segment featuring an accomplished video gamer, Chris Conquers, to explore writing skills.

About Online Video Courses

Through the Homeschool Hub you have access to an all-in-one homeschool curriculum. Your students receive online video courses and engaging lessons from expert teachers, plus you have the help you need to meet your state’s work and time requirements for your homeschool year. Use Steps 1–2 to customize your kit format. The third step, available with grade kits, allows you to customize the grade level of some courses and add electives.

With all online orders, textbooks ship right away, and you will receive access to all current courses as soon as your order processes. You will have 16 months from your purchase date to complete online courses.

* Unless otherwise noted, kits may not have any partial returns or substitutions.

Technical Requirements for the BJU Press Homeschool Hub

• Compatible Devices: Windows Desktop and Laptops, MacOS devices, iOS devices, Android devices, and Kindle Fire tablets (other devices may be compatible)
• Supported Browsers (using the latest version is recommended): Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Firefox, Chrome Mobile, Safari Desktop, Safari Mobile, Amazon Silk
• Adobe Acrobat Reader 7 or later
• High-speed internet connection: LAN, Cable or DSL Modem
• An active email account

Each subject includes a printed Student Worksheets/Handouts packet. A PDF of the Teacher Edition, an eTextbook copy of the Student text (where available), and other resources are available when you log in to  homeschoolhub.com . Grades 5-12 take tests and quizzes online.

• How To Write A Book Review

How to Write a Book Review: Tips for Writing a Book Review

A book review is an individual’s critique about what the book is about and what another reader can expect from it. In short, it is an individual’s thoughts on the book. It is written after you have read a book. It is a great way of letting fellow readers know about the book — let your readers know if the book is exciting or boring. Whether writing on social media or on your personal blog, try to make it informative and helpful to the readers.

To help you write a good book review, we have provided a few tips. Read the article and try writing a book review on your own.

Table of Contents

Topic or hook, essential information about the book, basic summary, praise and critiques, recommendations, tips for writing a book review, frequently asked questions on how to write a book review, what to include in a book review.

To write a review of a book and grab the audience’s attention, you will have to add the important points listed below.

• Topic or hook
• Essential book information
• Basic summary
• Praise and critique
• Recommendation

While writing a book review, keep in mind that the added information must be your own. It must be your personal opinion and review of the book.

A topic or a hook can be added in the very first sentence of the book review. It is like an introduction, which must be attention-grabbing and must sound interesting. The first sentence or the hook makes the readers want to read the review instead of scrolling past it. The hook can be a statement or a question that creates curiosity in the reader’s mind.

Mentioning the details of the book, like the name of the author, the title, the year of publication, etc. is essential. Keep in mind to add only the important details of the book rather than adding all the information. Do not forget to mention if the book is a part of any series, and whether they should read the other series before reading this book.

Share a storyline synopsis with your audience so they can get a sense of what the story is about. To prevent spoiling the suspense of the story for your audience, it’s best to leave out the book’s climax or finale, and avoid giving out spoilers. Remember that it is not a complete summary, so make sure you just give a short outline to the story and not the entire story.

For example, it is always better to just state that the plot has an unexpected twist instead of revealing the name of the villain or any such spoilers.

Summarising a book or a topic is easy but criticising the book is the most crucial part. You can say if the book was a good read or a bad read but that alone is not very helpful. You will have to mention the valid reasons why you would or would not recommend the book. Sharing your own thoughts and opinions will help your audience decide if they wish to read the book or not.

After you have shared your critiques, you can give your recommendation to people if they should read the book or not. Remember that your recommendations must have some valid reasons to prove that your recommendations are valid.

Your ratings shall matter to a lot of people. Nowadays, we all check the ratings of a particular product before buying it. Similarly, a lot of people check the ratings of a book before buying it. So before rating it, make sure to provide the rationale for the same.

• Keeping the Review Short and Crisp: A review is written to make the book understandable to the readers. Therefore, the length of the review is a matter of concern. Writing lengthy reviews can make it sound confusing to the audience.
• Proofreading and Editing: Make certain that your spelling and punctuation are correct. A review with numerous typos might be difficult to read and may not be regarded seriously.
• Do Not Use Harsh Language: You can give your honest reviews but also keep in mind that the writer has put in a lot of effort to write the book and to publish it. Be honest with your reviews but try to use mild language. Imagine yourself in the shoes of the author, and write accordingly, consider their feelings too. However, you should never let that affect your final judgement of the book.

What is a book review?

A book review is an individual’s critique about what the book is about and what another reader can expect from it. In short, it is an individual’s thoughts on the book.

Why is a book review important?

A book review is essential for the audience to know the ratings of a book. It lets the audience know if the book can be recommended to someone or not. The reader can get a brief idea of what the book is about.

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