7 Children’s Books To Read For Halloween
Photo by Lina Kivaka
When I was growing up, one of the most delightfully memorable parts about each season of the year was bringing out my family’s collection of holiday-themed books. My mom kept them stored away until their holiday approached, making each seasonal arrival all the more special.
The cozy, spooky season of fall and Halloween boasted some of my favorite stories (though I was not overly-fond of scary tales.) Below are seven of those top seasonal titles that hopefully will make you and your little ones shout with laughter instead of fright.
01 | The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid Of Anything
by Linda D. Williams, illustrations by Megan Lloyd
This entertaining tale can be interactive, the illustrations are delightful, and it shares a valuable message about bravery and kindness. I think it’ll be one you’ll be reading on repeat.
02 | Too Many Pumpkins
by Linda White
This book, which I actually didn’t discover until a few years ago, also features captivating illustrations by Megan Lloyd but stars a different little old lady who, this time, has an intense dislike of pumpkins. It’s funny and colorful and presents a good lesson in sharing, creativity, and overcoming stubbornness.
03 | Mousekin’s Golden House
story and illustrations by Edna Miller
Filled with serene, realistic illustrations, this jewel of a book tells how little Mousekin prepares a discarded Jack-o-lantern to be his cozy winter home. Along the way, he meets other forest animals, and we witness nature’s preparations for winter. This sweet book will make you want to curl up, snug and warm, with your little one in your comfiest blanket.
04 | Boola’s Secrets
by Pamela Bradbury
I loved, loved this book as a kid (and still do!). Unfortunately, I don’t think it is still being printed, but you can certainly find used copies. This darling story depicts the unexpected friendship between a little ghost named Boola and a little boy named Patrick. Their adventures demonstrate the importance of sharing, imagination, and learning from those who are different from yourself. The pictures are adorable, too!
05 | Boo… And I Mean It!
from the Junie B. Jones series by Barbara Park with illustrations by Denise Brunkus
If you are unfamiliar with Junie B., let me introduce you to a precocious, imaginative, sometimes naughty, hilarious little girl who will have you laughing out loud. In this installment, Junie B. must face her fears about Halloween (bats in your hair, witches, the fact that candy corn isn’t really corn, oh my!) and go trick-or-treating. This short chapter book would make an amusing read-aloud that the whole family could enjoy.
06 | It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
by Charles M. Schulz
No holiday is complete without an adventure with Snoopy and the Peanuts gang. Join Linus as he patiently waits for the Great Pumpkin’s arrival; Snoopy, aka a WWI Flying Ace, battling the Red Baron; and Charlie Brown as he trick-or-treats with his friends. After you’ve read the book, be sure to watch the animated classic, available on DVD and for streaming on Apple TV+.
07 | The Berenstain Bears Trick or Treat
by Stan and Jan Berenstain
You can never go wrong with a classic like a Berenstain Bears’ book. There are a few Halloween-themed stories, but I think this one is the best. Brother and Sister Bear learn that appearances can be deceiving when they trick-or-treat at the frightening house of the neighborhood “witch.” The warm, colorful pictures, of course, will make you want to spend the fall “down a sunny, dirt road deep in Bear Country.”
In short…
These engaging, fun Halloween children’s books are certainly all treats, no tricks. Hopefully, they will become a delightful part of the fall festivities and memories in your households, too!
