The Ultimate 7th Grade Homeschool Book List: A Parent’s Guide to Engaging Learning

*Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase - at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog

Homeschooling our 7th grader has been one of the most rewarding journeys we've embarked on. As a parent, finding the right resources that not only educate but also ignite a passion for learning is paramount. Over the years, we've curated a list of books that have transformed our homeschool experience, making it both enriching and enjoyable. In this post, I’m excited to share our ultimate 7th grade homeschool book list, packed with recommendations that cover literature, science, history, and more.

Why a Curated Book List Matters

Seventh grade is a pivotal year in a student's educational journey. It's a time when they transition from elementary concepts to more complex subjects. A well-thought-out book list can:

Enhance Critical Thinking: Books that challenge perspectives encourage deeper thinking.
Foster a Love for Reading: Engaging stories make reading a delightful habit.
Support Diverse Learning Styles: A mix of genres caters to various interests and learning preferences.

Our Ultimate 7th Grade Homeschool Book List

1. Literature & Fiction

"The Outsiders" by S.E. Hinton
A timeless classic that delves into themes of class conflict and friendship. It's a compelling read that resonates with young readers.
"The Giver" by Lois Lowry
This dystopian novel introduces students to concepts of society, freedom, and individuality, sparking thoughtful discussions.
"Wonder" by R.J. Palacio
A heartwarming story that promotes empathy and understanding, perfect for character development studies.
"The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien
An adventurous tale that enhances imagination and introduces rich vocabulary.

2. Science & Nature

The Story of Science: Aristotle Leads the Way: This first volume introduces students to the foundational ideas of ancient scientists like Aristotle, offering a rich narrative that sets the stage for the evolution of scientific thought. It's an excellent starting point for middle school learners.

The Story of Science: Newton at the Center: Building upon the first, this second volume explores the scientific revolution through the lens of figures like Newton. It provides a comprehensive look at the developments that shaped modern science.

The Story of Science: Einstein Adds a New Dimension: The final volume delves into the 20th century's scientific advancements, focusing on Einstein's contributions. This book introduces more advanced concepts, making it suitable for students ready to tackle complex ideas.

Each of these editions offers unique insights into the history of science, making them valuable additions to your homeschool library. Depending on your child's current understanding and interest level, you can select the volume that best fits their needs.

The Magic School Bus: Inside the Human Body: This book offers an in-depth look at the human body's systems, making complex biological concepts accessible to young readers.
The Magic School Bus - Lost in the Solar System: Ideal for introducing students to the wonders of our solar system, this book provides a fun and informative journey through space.
The Magic School Bus Inside the Earth: This edition delves into the Earth's layers, offering insights into geology and the planet's structure.
The Magic School Bus Inside a Hurricane: Perfect for studying weather phenomena, this book explains hurricanes and tornadoes in an engaging narrative.

Each of these books provides a unique perspective on scientific concepts, making them valuable additions to your homeschool library. Depending on your child's current interests and the topics you're focusing on, you can select the volume that best fits their learning needs.

"National Geographic Kids Almanac"

A treasure trove of facts, this almanac is both informative and visually captivating.

3. History & Social Studies

"A History of US" by Joy Hakim
An engaging series that presents American history through stories, making it relatable and memorable.
"The Bronze Bow" by Elizabeth George Speare
A historical novel set in ancient times, offering insights into culture and resilience.
"The Diary of Anne Frank"
A poignant account that provides a personal perspective on history, fostering discussions on human rights and perseverance.

4. Poetry & Creative Writing

"Where the Sidewalk Ends" by Shel Silverstein
A collection of whimsical poems that inspire creativity and an appreciation for language.
"The Crossover" by Kwame Alexander
A novel-in-verse that blends poetry with storytelling, appealing to both reluctant and avid readers.
Poetry for Young People: Robert Frost: This volume offers a selection of Robert Frost's most beloved poems, accompanied by stunning illustrations and helpful notes, making it an excellent introduction to his work.
Poetry for Young People: Emily Dickinson: Featuring over thirty-five of Emily Dickinson's most well-known poems, this edition pairs each poem with vibrant visuals and insightful commentary, providing a comprehensive look at her work.
Poetry for Young People: Langston Hughes: This collection includes twenty-six of Langston Hughes's most influential poems, curated and annotated by leading poetry experts, and features gallery-quality art that adds rich dimension to the words.
Poetry for Young People: Maya Angelou: An acclaimed anthology that includes twenty-five of Maya Angelou's finest poems, capturing a range of emotions and experiences, from the playful "Harlem Hopscotch" to the soul-stirring "Still I Rise."
Poetry for Young People: William Shakespeare: Introducing the poetry of William Shakespeare through a sampling of sonnets and excerpts from his plays, this volume enhances each piece with beautiful, highly realistic color paintings that bring each excerpt to vivid life.

Each of these editions offers a unique perspective on the poet's work, making them valuable additions to your homeschool library. Depending on your child's current interests and the poets you're focusing on, you can select the volume that best fits their learning needs.

5. Supplementary Resources

"Living Books" Approach

Incorporating living books into our curriculum has been transformative. These are well-written, engaging books that bring subjects to life, making learning more enjoyable.

"Charlotte Mason's Homeschooling Philosophy"
Embracing this philosophy has encouraged us to focus on quality literature and nature studies, fostering a love for learning in our child.

Tips for Implementing the Book List

Create a Reading Schedule: Allocate specific times for reading to establish a routine.
Discuss Themes: After reading, engage in discussions about the book's themes and lessons.
Incorporate Activities: Pair books with related activities, like art projects or field trips, to deepen understanding.
Encourage Independent Reading: Allow your child to choose books that interest them to cultivate a love for reading.

By integrating these books into our homeschool curriculum, we've seen our child's critical thinking, creativity, and love for learning flourish. I hope this list serves as a helpful guide in your homeschooling journey, providing both educational value and a wealth of enjoyment. Happy reading!

Join the Conversation

I'd love to hear about your experiences and any book recommendations you have for 7th-grade homeschoolers. What books have inspired your child? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!

Search This Blog

Cleverly Kindred

Featured Post