As schools and libraries continue to navigate the challenges of COVID-19, parents are facing a multitude of obstacles. From distance learning to social opportunities and summer reading, it’s no wonder that many are feeling overwhelmed. Fortunately, one area where you can find some relief is in choosing great books for your 7th grader. Whether they’re looking to escape into a fantasy world or stay current with recent award winners, there are plenty of excellent options to explore.
In fact, many of these titles also make for engaging read-alouds for younger students, and I’ve even enjoyed them myself as an adult librarian!
Classic Books for 7th Graders
Running Out of Time by Margaret Peterson Haddix
The novel, which served as the inspiration behind the movie The Village, commences with a young girl stumbling upon a shocking truth: her seemingly idyllic colonial-era existence is merely a façade, designed to masquerade a 1990s tourist destination. As the story unfolds, it only gets more astonishing.
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
The A Wrinkle in Time graphic novel adaptation is a masterpiece that seamlessly blends the classic story’s endearing qualities with stunning visuals. The tale of Meg, Calvin, and Charles Wallace embarks on an unforgettable adventure through time to rescue Meg’s father, as they navigate the mystical realm of sci-fi magic. The iconic female protagonist shines bright alongside her companions, and the graphic novel’s unique artwork brings this beloved story to life in a captivating way.
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
This novel, a companion piece to A Wrinkle in Time, transports readers to the late 1970s, where they’ll encounter relatable teenage struggles alongside breathtaking magical adventures through time travel. The result is a hauntingly beautiful story that stands out as a rare gem, effortlessly blending familiar themes of adolescent angst with otherworldly escapades.
Graphic Novels for 7th Graders
Sheets by Brenna Thummler
This enigmatic graphic novel eschews traditional frightful fare for a poignant and heart-wrenching narrative, perfectly complemented by a soothing blue hue that adds to the emotional depth.
Princess Princess Ever After by Katie O’Neil
In this captivating tale, traditional gender norms are delightfully subverted in a thrilling adventure that’s sure to captivate readers of all ages. The author, Katie O’Neil, has earned a special place in the hearts of my young students, including my 5th-grade class, who adore her work and are equally impressed by the stunning artwork.
Hey Kiddo by Jarrett Krosoczka
When sharing graphic novels about family stories with my students, I’ve found that ‘Hey Kiddo’ is a clear winner. This powerful graphic memoir, which features photographs and artifacts from the author’s own life, has resonated deeply with many readers.
Fantasy Books for 7th Graders
Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi
In our household, the Aru Shah series from Rick Riordan’s imprint has earned a special place as a family favorite. What sets this series apart is its unique blend of fun, excitement, and fresh interpretations of Hindu mythology. Each new character introduced in the series quickly becomes endearing, and many are guaranteed to elicit at least one laugh-out-loud moment.
The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
With its alluring title, this fantasy novel exudes a timeless charm. The narrative is infused with whimsical elements, featuring forest witches, diminutive dragons, and fantastical occurrences such as consuming starlight. The story’s pace quickens with missions to save the village from impending doom, where magic spikes in intensity, evoking a sense of danger and excitement.
Books Set At School for 7th Graders
Star-Crossed by Barbara Dee
In the world of young adult literature, there’s no backdrop quite like the one set by a school play. And Star Crossed takes this trope to new heights by setting its story against the vibrant backdrop of a production of Romeo and Juliet. The protagonist, Mattie, finds herself swept up in a whirlwind of emotions as she navigates her long-held crush on Elijah, who’s playing Romeo alongside the captivating lead actress playing Juliet.
As the highs and lows of the middle school Shakespearean production unfold, Mattie’s romantic feelings ebb and flow with the drama on stage. This sweet and empowering tale is sure to delight readers of all ages.
The Best At It by Maulik Pancholy
As Rahul, a gay Indian American boy, navigated the unpredictable landscape of middle school, he found solace in the wisdom imparted by his grandfather: ‘Find one thing you’re good at, and become the best at it.’ This sage advice echoed through his mind as he traversed the ups and downs of adolescence. Amidst the chaos, Rahul’s grandfather’s words became a beacon of hope, guiding him to focus on what truly mattered – excellence in something he was passionate about.
Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World by Ashley Herring Blake
Ivy Aberdeen’s world was turned upside down when a literal tornado tore through her life, leaving her family displaced and herself feeling lost and ignored. But amidst the chaos, a deeper concern weighed heavily on her mind: the disappearance of her precious secret drawings, featuring girls holding hands with girls. Those intimate moments, once confined to her sketchbook, had become an integral part of her sense of self.
As if sensing her distress, mysterious messages began appearing in her locker, prodding her to reveal who she truly is. Could it be the girl she secretly harbored feelings for?
Award-Winning Books for 7th Graders
Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez
With its well-developed characters, unconventional family dynamics, and vivid science fiction elements, this book seamlessly blends subtle magical realism with poignant explorations of grief and loss, all set against the relatable backdrop of middle school challenges. The result is an utterly captivating read.
Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky by Kwame Mbalia
Immersed in a world where tragedy strikes from multiple fronts, this book delves into the dual struggles of Tristan, haunted by the devastating consequences of a school bus accident, and Alke, a realm beset by a malevolent force that threatens to erase the cherished African American folk tales. As the narrative navigates the blurred lines between reality and self-told stories, it raises poignant questions about the potency of the tales we live and the ones we conjure in our minds.
Front Desk by Kelly Yang
In a small town, Mia, a bright and ambitious young girl, plays an integral role in managing her family’s motel alongside her parents. As Chinese immigrants, they face significant employment discrimination not only as individuals but also as members of their community. Despite the challenges, they refuse to be held back by societal barriers, instead choosing to take proactive steps to reclaim their rights and overcome the obstacles in their path.
New Kid by Jerry Craft
Jerry, a seventh-grader with a passion for comics, had always dreamed of attending art school. However, his family had other plans for him, opting to send him to a private institution outside his familiar neighborhood where he was one of the few students of color.
As Jerry navigates the challenges of this new environment, he finds himself grappling not only with the difficulties of being a middle schooler but also the complexities of building relationships with old friends and forging new connections in an unfamiliar setting.
Books About Awesome Kids for 7th Graders
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser
In this heartwarming tale, the Vanderbeeker family finds themselves in a festive predicament at Christmas time. As they strive to persuade their reluctant landlord to grant them another year of tenancy, they reveal a depth of character that is impossible to ignore. With their collective determination and unwavering optimism, these lovable youngsters will capture your affections and leave you rooting for their success.
The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl: Squirrel Meets World by Dean Hale and Shannon Hale
In the world of young superheroes, one name stands out – Doreen Green, just 13 years old. This audio tale shines with delightful storytelling, brought to life by memorable characters and clever nods to the Avengers universe. The story follows an extraordinary teenager, her remarkable abilities, and the supportive family behind her – a winning combination that’s sure to charm listeners of all ages.
Dear Sweet Pea by Julie Murphy
As Patricia DiMarco, affectionately known as Sweet Pea, navigates the complexities of adolescence, she’s simultaneously grappling with the aftermath of divorced parents, a fractured friendship, and the uncertainty that comes with growing up. The unexpected arrival of an advice columnist’s mail, entrusted to Sweet Pea for forwarding while her neighbor is away, sets off a chain reaction that will have far-reaching consequences not only for Sweet Pea herself but also those around her.
Nonfiction Books for 7th Graders
Rad Girls Can: Stories of Bold, Brave, and Brilliant Young Women by Kate Schatz and Miriam Klein Stahl
Meet extraordinary young women who have left an indelible mark on the world, brought to life through striking papercut artworks. This captivating collection is designed for effortless reading, making it a great way to discover inspiring stories of trailblazing females throughout history.
Undefeated: Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian Football Team by Steve Shenkin
Combining two often underexplored subjects – the rich history of American football and the unfortunate, ongoing narrative of government mistreatment towards Native Americans and their erasure of indigenous culture – this story offers a compelling read that will captivate even the most reluctant of readers. And as an added bonus, several titles on this list have engaging sequels or launch successful series.
For those seeking more magic in middle grade literature, explore our curated list of graphic novels tailored for 7th graders.