As much as I love a spooky, Halloween read, I know there are some little readers who want the thrill with less of the fright. Working in schools of all age groups, I’ve seen a few good Halloween themed books. I thought it might be helpful for parents, teachers, or families, to list some of what I would consider to be the best Halloween reads this year. So here’s to some hopeful family favorites!
I tried to include a mix of classic Halloween stories and modern Halloween twists. Likewise, I included some variation in reading levels. Some of these stories are great for the whole family, others for individual enjoyment, and some for new readers. I hope you find some books to enjoy with your family in this spooky Halloween season.
The Witches by Roald Dahl
I devoured Roald Dahl’s books growing up. I read through his entire kids collection by the 4th grade and would reread my favorite from time to time. This one is for our older kids. I wouldn’t say it is nightmare producing, but there are witches running around turning kids to mice. Nevertheless, with Dahl’s creative writing style and whimsy, there is sure to be enjoyment from any reader.
This story is about witches, plain and simple at a glance. However, these witches don’t come with the average stereotypes of broom riding and pointy hats. These witches look like ordinary ladies. Which begs the question, how do you spot a witch? Find out soon, as these witches despise children most of all.
The Ickabog by J.K Rowling
J.K Rowling is another piece of my childhood with her beloved world of magic. This is another great story. Perfect for growing readers looking for a monster filled story this Halloween season. With some slightly darker themes, this would be great for older elementary and beyond, or maybe a guided reading with family.
Two young kids seek an adventure to uncover the secrets behind the Ickabog. The monster known to lurk north of the Marshlands in the kingdom of Cornucopia. Myths vary, some say it breaths fire like a dragon, spits poision like a dart frog, or even roams through the mist, carrying off wayward children. Then again, some say it’s just a myth. Bert and Daisy are set to discover the truth.
Little Witch by Anna Elizabeth Bennet
I think this one suits as a read-along. It is an older book so the dialogue may need explaining from some of our younger readers. However, the story still stands true. A little story about a little witch sets the tone perfectly for Halloween.
Minikin Snickasnee, Minx, wishes greatly that she was not a witch’s child. She wants to go to school, meet kids her age, and have a bedtime. So she sneaks off to school. The story centers around her extreme contrast between home and school. Between Minx navigating normal life as an abnormal witch, this story is sure to spark some interest.
Coraline by Neil Gaiman
This one is likely the spookiest on the list, therefore set aside for our older readers. Neil Gaiman is well known horror and fantasy author. Coraline made for a great Tim Burton film, however the book reveals a lot darker themes. I think it is a great introduction to the horror genre for our older readers as it is spooky and bone chilling with less gore and fright.
Coraline’s family moved into a new flat. This flat is filled with windows and doors. All which open but one. Coraline finds her way into this door, only to discover another house, much like her own. Except, in this house, everything is better. The food, the toy’s the books, things are more enjoyable and time is well spent. Except, the other mother and other father don’t want to let Coraline go. The other lost souls put their hope into Coraline, she’s their only way back out.
The Little Kitten by Nicola Killen
Another cute fit for our family story time. The illustrations in this book are so simple and eye-catching. I could flip through the pages just to look at the pictures. However, that is not what makes this picture book so great.
Ollie and her cat discover a lost kitten. Ollie is quick to helping the little kitten and the three of them are quick to friendship. When Ollie discovers posters displaying a look-a-like kitten, she knows she must make a tough decision. With Halloween coming quickly, magic arises, and Ollies good deed is rewarded in unexpected ways.
Hardly Haunted by Jessie Sima
Back to our younger readers, this story is a perfect fit. A self-conscious house is unsure if she’s haunted or not. This leads to questions of value and worth. With the soft illustrations, gentle text, and overall comforting message, it quickly became a favorite for me. This spooky tale brings about the message of self-acceptance in a gentle way.
Gustavo the Shy Ghost by Flavia Z. Drago
I buy a lot of kids books, whether it be for my nephews, family friends, or work. A fun thing about Barnes and Noble, is they offer exclusive kids books. This was one of the first ones I picked up and it was an instant favorite. The story line focuses on facing fears and it is a great pick for little kids who are anxious around making friends and standing out.
Gustavo is a shy ghost. He struggles to fit in with his peers and often feels unseen, but Gustavo plans to change this. Between the bright illustrations and overall positive message, this will be a hit with your younger kids.
The Nightmare Before Christmas by Tim Burton
Lastly, we have a classic. This story fits perfectly for both Christmas and Halloween. Not-so-secretly, this story has always been one of my favorites. Barnes and Noble had the hit claymation movie presented in story mode for another of the exclusive picture books and I had to grab it. I don’t think I need to give you a synopsis, but perhaps you need a reminder of how great this family-friendly story is.
Jack Skellington is down and out about his role in Halloween Town. The same thing, year after year has him wishing for more. Suddenly, he discovers a town covered in white. Presents rest under trees and towns people are scurrying to fill socks with treats. How bizarre, but it’s just the change he’s looking for. Now Jack races to see if he can be as good as the esteemed Sandy Claws, but at what cost.
I hope you find some new family favorites or remeneisce on some old family stories. Reading holiday themed books has always been one of my favorite traditions and one I hope to have with my own family one day. What books are we missing? What are some of your favoirte Halloween traditions? Let us know in the comments.
And as always, happy, spooky reading!