For some middle schooler students, reading often can feel like a chore. But it doesn’t have to! Maybe the child struggles with reading and they are embarrassed to admit it, or maybe they just haven’t had the opportunity to be introduced to books that they like. Finding topics of interest can be key to encourage better reading habits. These relatable books will help your rising 7th grader get excited about reading.
1. “All’s Faire in Middle School” By. Victoria Jamieson
Imogene is an 11-year-old who has been homeschooled for her whole life due to her parent’s lifestyle of working at the Renaissance Fair. But now for the first time, she is going to go to public school! This book contains all the bittersweet parts of middle school like meeting new friends and trying to fit in.
2. “Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life” By. Wendy Mass
In this one of a kind adventure, Jeremey Fink’s summer takes a turn after he is delivered a box that says it holds the meaning of life. The instructions say he can open the box on his 13th birthday but there are no keys to open the box! Jeremey and his best friend Lizzy, set out on a quest to find the keys to the box and hopefully the meaning of life!
3. “Hello Universe” By. Erin Entrada Kelly
This novel celebrates people coming together and the blossoming of new friendships. The book alternates points of view from Virgil, Valencia, Kaori, and Chet and tells the story of a prank gone wrong, a daring rescue, and the good that comes from it all.
4. “Bomb” By. Steve Sheinkin
This is the perfect read for history buffs. This nonfiction book is set in 1938 when 3 continents around the world began the race to create the atomic bomb. This story walks the reader through the steps of the scientific arms race that involves spying, boldness, and brilliance.
5. “Front Desk” By. Kelly Yang
Mia Tang is a 10 year old Chinese immigrant who just came to America with her parents. After many struggles, they begin running a motel 5 miles from Disneyland and Mia finds herself working the front desk! When most kids her age are out playing, Mia is working to help her family have a better life. This story is one of resilience, kindness, and hard work.
6. “Sisters” By. Raina Telgemeier
This story is one that MANY kids can relate to. Raina thinks she is excited for a little sister but when Amara comes along, she realizes it’s not all that great. Their relationship isn’t the best but when ANOTHER baby comes along and their parents seem like they are on the rocks, Raina and Amara decide to figure out how to get along. They are sisters after all.
7. “Ghost” By. Jason Reynolds
Castle Cranshaw (also known as Ghost) has had a difficult past and always seems to be getting into trouble. One day, Ghost catches the eye of an elite track team Coach who thinks that Ghost has crazy talent. He thinks Ghost could be the best sprinter in the city but first he has to get himself together. This is a great read for students who are interested in sports as it teaches them all the responsibility that comes with being on a team.
8. “New Kid” By. Jerry Craft
Written in the style of a graphic novel, this book is a great pick for your reluctant reader. Jordan Bank’s parents are sending him to a prestigious private school that has a great academic program. Jordan struggles to balance his new school friends and his old neighborhood friends. With Jordan being one of the few people of color in his new school, this book sheds light on how minority students deal with day to day struggles.
9. “Space Case” By. Stuart Gibbs
This futuristic, funny, mystery takes place on the moon. 12 year old Dashiell Gibson is living on Moon Base Alpha and he is starting to go a little stir crazy. When a top scientist turns up dead, Dashiell doesn’t think it’s an accident and sets off to discover the truth. This is the first book in a series of 3 is great for the young budding detective!
10. “Booked” By. Kwame Alexander
This book makes poetry cool! This book is written in verse and is sure to get the soccer fans’ stamp of approval. Nick is 12 years old and obsessed with soccer but doesn’t care for reading. This story is about his journey to enjoy reading but on his own terms as he also navigates friends, soccer, family, and much more.
No matter what interests your child the most, they’re sure to relate to one or many of the books on this list. Finding a topic or story that they really show an interest in can help encourage them to read more, willingly.
Sometimes if a student really doesn’t like reading, it could also mean that they struggle with it and could use some extra one-on-one attention from a tutor to identify the problem and help correct it. Request more information to learn more about how School is Easy Tutors in your area can help!
