Thought-Provoking 7th Grade Reading List

Every year I piece together my own reading curriculum for my kids.  I like having the flexibility to choose books that I consider important.  This 7th grade reading list is no exception.

This book list was created for my 7th grade daughter, but she reads well above a 7th grade level.  This will likely be her last year of middle school language arts.  Next year she will officially start high school level coursework in at least reading.

In past years I assigned each book to a particular month.  I chose the order in which the reading list was completed.  This year I am switching it up.  7th grade is a great time to start having a little educational independence, so Hannah will read the books in the order she chooses.  I am hopeful that this will create more interest in the books as she is choosing to read them and I’m not placing a book in her school basket and telling her to read it.

My goal was to include a variety of books.  A few classics, a little science fiction, two autobiographies, and a variety of time periods.  A 7th grade reading list is a great way to explore a variety of genres and themes.

I can not wait to start discussing these books with my daughter.

Thought-Provoking 7th Grade Reading List

Every family defines age appropriate differently.  Use your own discretion when choosing reading material.

Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain

This classic novel tells the tale of mistaken identity.  Two boys, one rich and one poor, look very similar and decide to switch places.  They realize that their assumptions about the other’s lifestyle are incorrect.  The old saying “Never judge a book by it’s cover” rings true in this story.  This is a lesson that has stood the test of time and can still be applied today.

I Am Malala:  The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai

This book showcases a phenomenal young woman. The drive for education, survival, and peaceful protest are all great examples for anyone to read, but the fact that this is the story of a girl, not much older than my daughter, is amazing. I think this is the perfect book for a 7th grade reading list.  Middle school is an age where girls really need to see stories of girls conquering obstacles. Malala is a strong female role model.

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare

Sixteen year old Kit Tyler is forced to start life anew in Colonial Connecticut.  She struggles to fit in and befriends a lady believed to be a witch.  This historical fiction novel explores themes such as identity, the definition of home, religion, and judgement and justice.  The search for ones true identity feels perfect for a middle schooler.

Update:  We chose a great list of historical fiction titles for 9th grade reading.

The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien

This modern classic is a book my husband suggested.  The reader follows Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit, as he embarks on an adventurous quest.  Science fiction is a great way to explore themes such as heroism and race.  Sometimes deep topics are easier to dive into when they focus on a fictional character.

I Will Always Write Back:  How One Letter Changed Two Lives by Caitlin Alifirenka and Martin Ganda

In this bestseller, two middle school students, one in America and one in Zimbabwe, become pen pals.  They remain close friends sharing their lives through letters long after the school project ends. This story gently opens ones eyes to injustice in the world and sparks the desire to help those less fortunate.  It also explores the true definition of friendship.  This book is on my 7th grade reading list, but I would recommend this book for adults too.

Sticks and Stones by Abby Cooper

Elyse was born with an unusual affliction.  Words that people think of to describe Elyse show up on her arms and legs.  This isn’t a problem for her until middle school when people start to think of her harshly.  Words like ‘loser’ and ‘pathetic’ start showing up on her body.  This book illustrates the importance of being kind and choosing words carefully.  Children will either identify with Elyse or the people thinking unkind thoughts, but there is a learning opportunity either way.

Trapped by Michael Northrup

Trapped is the young adult thriller that tells the tale of 7 high school students that are snowed in at school.  A major snowstorm has cut off the power and the roof threatens to collapse.  Will they be rescued in time? I chose this book to explore ideas of safety and survival.

Farenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

My husband also chose this book. I consider this a classic dystopian novel.  Hannah loves books so I think she will be instantly hooked reading about a world where it is illegal to own books.  Books are in pretty much every room of our home . . .and even the cars!  This book contains themes such as censorship, ignorance, and true knowledge.

Anne Frank:  The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

This tragic biography is something I think every single person should read.  This young girl had to literally hide for her life. It really puts our minor inconveniences into perspective. We will explore topics such as freedom, loneliness, and war.

I can not wait to get started on this 7th grade reading list with my daughter.

Have you read any of these books?

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