The Best Halloween Books for Kids- Part 2

We are back at it with a second post on Halloween books. There is something comforting to me about the predictability and rhythm of the fall season. I also realized I love warm October days because it feels like they are bonus sunshine days. I’m usually expecting chilly and rainy days, so an afternoon without a sweatshirt just fills me with joy.

We listed to some of these books in audiobook form, so I do not have styled shelves to show you. And be sure to check out Part 1 of this series for even more seasonal reads.

Again, I like to include books for each of the kids. The age differences means they have different wants and needs in a book. Sometimes I still grab a board book for our bedtime story because we are usually racing the clock to get everyone in bed on time. Please tell me I’m not alone in that struggle.

Here is what we have on our shelves currently:

Board books

• The Itsy Bitsy Pumpkin- A nice quick read with the rhythm of a classic nursery rhyme, but with Halloween flare.

• You’re My Little Pumpkin Pie- I love the rhymes in this book and the other books in this series. Also still keeps the interest of my older kids.

• Spooky Pookie- We love every single one of the Sandra Boynton books, and this is no different. The kids ask for this book again and again. Plus it helps us discuss costumes and how they can be different than wearing regular “daytime” clothes.

• Llama Llama Trick or Treat- Having food allergies in our house can make a day centered around candy a little tough to navigate. The kids sometimes get books from my mom (aka Bubba) on special occasions, and this title joined our house last year. Again, the bigger kids still love the story line, making this a win for all three of them.

• Apples and Pumpkins- This sweet story includes all the traditional fall bucket list items. The simplicity of the story is endearing.

• Ghost Afraid of the Dark- Adorable pictures are featured in this book about a shy ghost who finds his bravery.

Story Books

• Night Animals- While this is not strictly a Halloween book, the dark cover follows the mood of our October book shelves. Plus, the kids love learning about different animals, especially nocturnal ones.

• Sweep- This is my favorite pick from this list. We borrowed this book from the library originally, but I liked it so much that we now own it. A wonderful story of big emotions with beautiful illustrations. Seasonal without being Halloween specific.

• Gustavo, the Shy Ghost- Lovely pictures and a great opportunity to discuss making friends, even when you are nervous. This is a cute story that can be read any time of year, but fits our Halloween theme perfectly.

• Skeletons ARE NOT Spooky- This is a book that I find humerus and the older kids love. Adorable illustrations make this a hit.

• Boneaparte Falls Apart- The kids crack up when Bonaparte loses his bones! A funny story featuring friendship, this isn’t Halloween specific, but skeletons are always a good way to go.

• The Little Kitten- A charming story with a Halloween nod, but not about monsters or candy.

• Cats’ Night Out- This counting book fits the aesthetic and is a fun bedtime read.

• Stumpkin- Will Stumpkin get to be a jack-o'-lantern? Can he without a stem? A good story with great pictures.

• Pick a Pumpkin- I love this book. The illustrations are beautiful, and this author knows how to conjure up all the nostalgia and focuses in on this Halloween tradition.

• Too Many Pumpkins- If I had a penny for every time I read this book last year, I would be able to pay for all of the books on this list! Rebecca Estelle hates pumpkins, but what happens when she has way too many? Clearly the kids loved this one.

Halloween is 2 weeks away and we are finalizing our costumes. I’ve been going the homemade route the last few years and have enjoyed thinking about how to accomplish the look each kid requests. I also love learning more about each child when they pick what they want to wear. The last few years have included cheese, flamingos, a strawberry, Madeline, and a taco.

Do you participate in Halloween? Do you buy costumes or make them?

I hope you enjoyed this second book roundup and found a new favorite from this list. Comment below which title you are buying and please, share this post with a friend! Your support means so much me to and helps keeps this blog going. Happy Halloween!

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