If left to her own ways, my daughter, who loves to read, would settle in on modern fantasy books alone. And so, we came up with a compromise that worked quite well last year (her 7th-grade year.)
I created a list of books that I’d like her to read by end of 8th grade. I had her choose a book from that list each month for independent reading. These were in addition to her other favorites that she reads… and re-reads. 🙂
Most of these books started off slow for her but were appreciated by the time she got to the end.
The books on this list can be read by boys or girls, and also kids younger or older than 7th grade. These just happen to be the (assigned) books she read during her 7th-grade year.
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Book List for a 7th Grade Girl
A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park
Historical Fiction Novel that takes place in 12th century Korea. I had hoped to do this one as a family read-aloud for the Middle Ages, but we did not get around to it, so I was glad she picked this one!
Freckles by Gene Stratton Porter
A classic story about a disabled orphan who overcomes much.
A Girl of the Limberlost by Gene Stratton Porter
Sequel to Freckles. This well-loved story is about a poor girl whose love for nature leads her to extraordinary circumstances.
Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
This is an adventure story about a boy and his beloved hunting dogs.
The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald
This classic children’s fantasy novel was written in the 1800s and has stood the test of time. Written by George MacDonald whose works inspired and influenced C.S. Lewis.
Crispin: The Cross of Lead by Avi
Another historical fiction piece that takes place in the Middle Ages. This was a favorite of hers!
Lassie Come Home by Eric Knight
Sophia’s War: A Tale of the Revolution by Avi
Historical Fiction novel that takes place during the Revolutionary War.
Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
The Giver by Lois Lowry
(Not technically assigned but was received as a gift during the summer and ended up being a favorite!)
