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Readers Club
Grade 7 Core Literature List
Welcome to the Grade 7 Reading List! This year's collection brings together thought-provoking novels, historical fiction, and timeless adventures, each offering new perspectives, compelling characters, and opportunities to reflect on history, humanity, and imagination. These books encourage Grade 7 readers to deepen their understanding of empathy, courage, and resilience through unforgettable stories.
Encourage your child to read for 20-30 minutes each day and fill in their weekly reading logs, which can be redeemed for exciting rewards at the Motivation Station!
Our Curated Book List:
The Giver
By Lois Lowry
In a seemingly perfect society, young Jonas is selected to inherit the memories of the past. As he learns the truth about his world, he faces complex choices and uncovers secrets that challenge everything he once believed. This thought-provoking novel explores themes of freedom, memory, and individuality.
Theme: Dystopian, Coming of Age
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry
By Mildred D. Taylor
Set in 1930s Mississippi, this powerful story follows Cassie Logan, a young African American girl, as she witnesses the impact of racism on her family and community. Through Cassie’s eyes, readers experience the courage and strength required to stand up against injustice.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Social Justice
The Samurai’s Tale
By Erik Christian Haugaard
In 16th-century Japan, a young boy named Taro is taken from his family and grows up as a servant in a samurai household. This gripping tale of loyalty, honor, and self-discovery offers a glimpse into the samurai culture and the struggles of a young warrior.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Adventure
Catherine Called Birdy
By Karen Cushman
Catherine, a spirited girl in medieval England, defies the conventions of her time as her father attempts to marry her off. Through her diary entries, she shares humorous and insightful reflections on her world and her quest for independence.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Humor
Adam of the Road
By Elizabeth Janet Gray
Set in 13th-century England, this tale follows Adam, a minstrel’s son, on a journey to find his lost father and dog. As he travels, Adam learns valuable lessons about loyalty, kindness, and the importance of family.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Adventure
A Day No Pigs Would Die
By Robert Newton Peck
This poignant novel follows young Rob Peck, the son of a poor farmer, as he faces the hardships of rural life. Through moments of love, loss, and maturity, Rob learns about responsibility, compassion, and what it means to be part of a family.
Theme: Coming of Age, Realistic Fiction
The Black Pearl
By Scott O'Dell
In this suspenseful tale set in Mexico, young Ramon discovers a giant black pearl that brings both fortune and danger. With the arrival of a mysterious creature from the sea, Ramon must confront his fears and learn the true meaning of courage.
Theme: Adventure, Legend
The Castle in the Attic
By Elizabeth Winthrop
When William receives a magical toy castle with a silver knight inside, he is transported into an adventure where he must face his fears, make difficult choices, and learn the power of bravery and friendship.
Theme: Fantasy, Adventure
The Door in the Wall
By Marguerite de Angeli
After an illness leaves him disabled, young Robin learns the strength of spirit and resilience in this heartwarming medieval tale. With the help of friends and mentors, he overcomes obstacles and discovers his path in life.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Perseverance
Dragonwings
By Laurence Yep
This story follows Moon Shadow, a young Chinese immigrant in San Francisco in the early 1900s, as he and his father pursue the dream of building a flying machine. This touching novel explores themes of family, cultural identity, and the pursuit of dreams.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Family
I, Juan de Pareja
By Elizabeth Borton de Treviño
In this inspiring story based on true events, Juan de Pareja, a slave to the Spanish artist Diego Velázquez, overcomes adversity and discovers his own talent for painting. Set in 17th-century Spain, it’s a story of courage, artistry, and friendship.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Art
Jacob Have I Loved
By Katherine Paterson
On a small island, Sara Louise feels overshadowed by her talented sister Caroline. As she navigates the struggles of sibling rivalry, she learns about self-acceptance, resilience, and the complexities of family love.
Theme: Realistic Fiction, Family
The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood
By Howard Pyle
Join Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men as they embark on adventures in Sherwood Forest. This classic tale of chivalry, bravery, and justice brings to life the legendary hero’s quest to help the poor and stand against tyranny.
Theme: Classic, Adventure
The Pearl
By John Steinbeck
When a poor fisherman named Kino finds a valuable pearl, he believes it will solve all his problems. However, this timeless story of greed, ambition, and misfortune explores the consequences of human desires and the true nature of happiness.
Theme: Realistic Fiction, Tragedy
Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes
By Eleanor Coerr
Based on a true story, this moving tale follows Sadako, a young girl in Hiroshima who develops leukemia due to the atomic bomb. Determined to fold a thousand paper cranes, Sadako’s story symbolizes hope, peace, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Friendship
The Story of King Arthur and His Knights
By Howard Pyle
This timeless tale brings the legend of King Arthur to life, chronicling his rise to the throne, his formation of the Round Table, and his battles with enemies. This story of chivalry and bravery captures the grandeur and magic of Arthurian legend.
Theme: Classic, Adventure
Trumpeter of Krakow
By Eric P. Kelly
Set in medieval Poland, this Newbery Medal-winning novel follows young Joseph and his family as they guard a precious crystal. Full of suspense and mystery, this story explores loyalty, courage, and the power of legend.
Theme: Historical Fiction, Mystery
Yeh-Shen: A Cinderella Story from China
By Ai-Ling Louie
This Chinese version of Cinderella introduces Yeh-Shen, a kind and gentle girl who overcomes hardship with the help of a magical fish. Rich in cultural detail, this tale reminds readers of kindness, resilience, and the universal appeal of the Cinderella story.
Theme: Folktale, Cultural
Zlata’s Diary
By Zlata Filipović
This real-life diary chronicles the experiences of young Zlata during the Bosnian War, offering a heartfelt and powerful perspective on war, resilience, and the desire for peace. Zlata’s reflections resonate with readers and provide a personal view of global events.
Theme: Memoir, War
Hey Reading Rangers,
Remember to log your reading every day in your Weekly Reading Log. Once completed, get it signed by a parent and redeem your points at our Motivation Station for fun rewards! Happy reading!
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