Halloween books for kids are the topic of our blog post today!
Ah, October—when the leaves start to turn, pumpkins pop up on porches, and children’s imaginations run wild with the anticipation of Halloween. But let’s be real: The magic of Halloween doesn’t just come from costumes, candy, or even the occasional fright. It’s also about the stories that transport us into worlds of witches, ghosts, and ghoulish adventures—all from the safety of our living rooms or classrooms.
This season, why not delve into some enchanting reads that not only entertain but also offer up valuable lessons? After all, books are like mini time machines and magic portals rolled into one, and what better time to experience that than during Halloween?
So, grab your witch’s hat, your favorite cozy blanket, and let’s jump into a cauldron full of spellbinding Halloween books for kids. From interactive board books to classic tales of bravery, these stories are bound to captivate young minds, while also giving us adults a few things to ponder. And trust me, after years of teaching and curating content in the educational sphere, I can’t stress enough how impactful a good book can be—Halloween-themed or otherwise.
For more options, check out our comprehensive Halloween Books for Kids list
For more educational materials, make sure to check our Halloween resources page.
Halloween Books for Kids
Here are our top picks for Halloween books for kids:
1- Creepy Pair of Underwear! by Aaron Reynolds (Author), Peter Brown (Illustrator)
Meet Jasper Rabbit, a bunny who insists he’s all grown up and absolutely not afraid of the dark—or creepy underwear. But, oh boy, does he get a shock! The new underwear he chooses has a life of its own. It glows an eerie greenish glow in the dark, giving Jasper the creeps. No matter what he does to get rid of them, those haunted boxers find their way back to him.
Honestly, I’m a fan of books that deal with childhood fears in a humorous and relatable way. As someone who’s spent over a decade in classrooms, I find it important to address these small but significant issues kids face. Aaron Reynolds hits a home run here by transforming something as trivial as a pair of underwear into a tale of bravery and humor. Trust me, your little ones will have a good laugh, and so will you!
2- Goodnight Goon: a Petrifying Parody, by Michael Rex (Author, Illustrator)
This one’s a delightful spin-off of the bedtime classic, adding a monstrous twist. It takes the original calming lullaby tone and cleverly flips it into a parody that keeps the Halloween spirit alive. It’s a board book, making it a great pick for younger kids who are just starting to explore books.
You know, parodies can be a hit or miss, but Michael Rex nails it with this one. The art is vibrant, and the text is playful, making it a repeat read for many bedtime routines. It also opens up a space for discussions about parodies and adaptations.
3- The Witches – Illustrated, by Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl’s “The Witches” is an iconic book that dives deep into the world of witches as told by a Grandmamma to her curious grandson. The witches despise children and have frightening ways to make them disappear. The book gains momentum when the grandson encounters the Grand High Witch and plots to stop her wicked plans.
I have a soft spot for classics, and Roald Dahl’s work is evergreen. “The Witches” stands out for its narrative strength and memorable characters. It also prompts children to question the nature of good and evil—a theme I find deeply enriching. If you’re up for a more intense Halloween read, this one’s for you.
4- Pete the Cat: Trick or Pete, by James Dean (Author, Illustrator), Kimberly Dean (Author)
If you’re into interactive books that engage little hands and minds, “Pete the Cat: Trick or Pete” is a real treat—no tricks here! The story follows our favorite laid-back cat, Pete, as he embarks on a Halloween adventure. It’s not just about reading; kids get to lift flaps to discover a bunch of Halloween surprises waiting behind the doors Pete knocks on. A spooktacular delight for young trick-or-treaters!
The Pete the Cat series has always been a hit in classrooms I’ve been in, mainly because of its relatability and charm. If you’re looking to add an interactive layer to your kid’s reading this Halloween, this book is the way to go
5- Spooky Pookie, by Sandra Boynton (Author, Illustrator)
Ah, the eternal dilemma of picking the perfect Halloween costume! “Spooky Pookie” is a charming tale about a little pig named Pookie who is as indecisive as they come. As Pookie tries on multiple costumes, the suspense builds up. Will Pookie find the perfect attire for Halloween? It’s a book with Sandra Boynton’s signature wit and charm, promising a delightful read.
I appreciate books that mirror real-life situations kids go through. Picking a Halloween costume is not just child’s play; it’s a decision-making process, however whimsical. Sandra Boynton does a terrific job at capturing this small but significant moment in a child’s life. The illustrations are adorable, and the story is simple yet memorable. It’s a great pick for toddlers and their caregivers to enjoy together.
6- Room on the Broom, by Julia Donaldson (Author), Axel Scheffler (Illustrator)
“Room on the Broom” sweeps you off your feet with its delightful narrative and valuable lessons on friendship and bravery. A witch and her cat are on a peaceful broom ride when the wind disrupts their journey, blowing away some of their belongings. Animals find the lost items and, in return, want a ride on the broom. Tensions rise when it’s unclear if there’s enough room for everyone, and things take an exciting turn when they encounter a dragon.
You know, this is one of those books that blend moral lessons with fun so effortlessly that you hardly notice you’re learning something valuable. As someone passionate about instilling virtues like friendship and teamwork in children, “Room on the Broom” is an essential recommendation. The story also presents a fun way to engage kids in predicting outcomes—a skill often overlooked in traditional learning settings but crucial for cognitive development.
7- Little Blue Truck’s Halloween, by Alice Schertle (Author), Jill McElmurry (Illustrator)
Beep, beep, make way for the Little Blue Truck who’s steering its way into Halloween festivities! This interactive board book takes young readers on a delightful ride as Little Blue Truck picks up his animal pals for a costume party. Guess what? You get to lift flaps to unveil who’s wearing what. Will Little Blue Truck join in on the costume fun?
Board books with interactive features are like the Swiss Army knives in the world of children’s literature—functional, engaging, and downright fun! Little Blue Truck’s Halloween is no exception. I always find that kids get a kick out of books where they can interact, and it’s a great way to boost those fine motor skills.
8- Creepy Carrots! (Creepy Tales), by Aaron Reynolds (Author)
In a world where veggies have a life of their own, “Creepy Carrots!” takes the cake. The story features delightful art and a humorous narrative that revolves around the theme of greed. It’s a cautionary tale told in a light, entertaining manner that’s just perfect for Halloween.
Let’s be real, not all life lessons need to come in serious packages. Sometimes a little humor can go a long way in getting a message across, and “Creepy Carrots!” accomplishes just that. I see it as a fantastic conversation starter on the concept of “enough is enough,” which is a valuable lesson for children and adults alike. And given that Aaron Reynolds is the same author who gave us “Creepy Pair of Underwear,” you’re in for a treat!
9- The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything, by Linda D. Williams (Author), Megan Lloyd (Illustrator)
This classic Halloween tale celebrates the spirit of fearlessness. The story takes us through a series of encounters where a little old lady meets all sorts of spooky things. But guess what? She isn’t scared one bit. It’s a fun read-aloud that guarantees engagement, making it perfect for classroom settings or cozy bedtime stories.
A lesson in bravery wrapped in Halloween-themed packaging? Count me in! As a former teacher, I can totally see this book becoming the cornerstone of a lesson on courage and overcoming fears. This one is a must-add to your October reading list, as it not only entertains but also educates.
10- Hello, Harvest Moon, by Ralph Fletcher (Author), Kate Kiesler (Illustrator)
This beautifully written and illustrated book captures the essence of harvest time and the role of the moon in it. As the moon climbs the sky, it influences the activities of humans and animals alike. For a young girl and her cat, it’s an invitation to appreciate nature’s wonders during nighttime.
Sometimes the simplest tales are the most evocative, and “Hello, Harvest Moon” is a testament to that. The book serves as a gentle reminder of the natural world’s wonders and rhythms, something increasingly overlooked in our tech-centric lives. It offers a calm, almost poetic, celebration of the harvest moon, making it a unique but fitting read for the season.
Final thoughts
So there you have it—a veritable treasure trove of Halloween books to spark the imaginations of young and old alike. I’ve always believed that stories do more than just entertain; they shape our worldviews, teach us empathy, and challenge our thinking. And let’s not forget the unadulterated joy that a good book can bring to a child (or hey, even us grown-ups).
What’s beautiful about this selection is that it touches on so many facets—courage, curiosity, humor, and the simple pleasure of a good scare, all wrapped up in gorgeously illustrated pages. As someone deeply involved in educational research and technology, I can tell you that while apps and gadgets have their place in learning, nothing can truly replace the tactile and emotional experience of reading a book.
So, whether you’re a parent looking to fill those bookshelves, a teacher in need of some October classroom inspiration, or simply a book lover like me, these reads promise to make this Halloween a memorable one. Enjoy these stories, discuss them, and let them inspire you and the young minds around you.
