18 Best Halloween Picture Books for Kids: Spooky & Fun Reads for Young Readers
Oct 26, 2024
One of the best ways to get kids into the spooky spirit of Halloween is with themed picture books! Halloween picture books for kids are fun, engaging, and perfect for setting a festive mood without being too scary. Whether you’re looking to entertain toddlers or elementary-aged kids, these Halloween books are packed with enchanting illustrations, friendly ghosts, and tales that celebrate the magic of the season. Let’s take a look at our top picks! And, if you find something you want simply click on any book name or picture to purchase (We have included amazon links for you:)
18 Best Halloween Picture Books for Kids
1. Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson
Age Range: 3-7 years
This whimsical story follows a kind-hearted witch who invites animals to join her on her broom. The rhyming text and vibrant illustrations make it a fun, engaging read. Kids will love the silly situations, and parents will appreciate the positive message about friendship.
2. Bruce and the Legend of Soggy Hollow by Ryan T. Higgins
Age Range: 4-8 years
Part of the beloved Mother Bruce series, this Halloween installment is filled with the quirky humor and lovable characters fans have come to expect. Bruce the bear’s Halloween adventures will have kids giggling as they follow along on his spooky journey.
3. The Ugly Doodles by Valeria Wicker
Age Range: 4-8 years
In this creative and inspiring tale, a young artist learns that even her “ugly” doodles have value. Although not traditionally spooky, this book celebrates imagination and self-acceptance, which is perfect for Halloween’s spirit of playfulness.
4. Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds
Age Range: 4-8 years
In this quirky and slightly spooky story, a bunny suspects carrots are out to get him. The dark, monochromatic illustrations add a fun element, and kids will giggle at the clever storyline. This is a series! So, if your kiddo likes this one try Creepy Underpants and Creepy Crayon too!
5. How to Make Friends with a Ghost by Rebecca Green
Age Range: 4-8 years
This gentle and humorous guide teaches children how to befriend a ghost and care for it. The story’s charming illustrations and heartwarming message make it a delightful read that’s both Halloween-themed and deeply comforting.
6. Gustavo, the Shy Ghost by Flavia Z. Drago
Age Range: 3-7 years
Gustavo is a shy ghost who struggles to make friends. This endearing story, with its bright and lively illustrations, shows how Gustavo finds the courage to connect with others. Perfect for kids who might be a little shy themselves!
7. Pig the Monster by Aaron Blabey
Age Range: 3-7 years
Pig the Pug returns for a Halloween-themed adventure, bringing his signature silliness and greediness. This book, with its playful rhymes and colorful illustrations, is a treat for kids and perfect for Halloween night giggles.
8. Bitsy Bat, School Star by Kaz Windness
Age Range: 4-8 years
Bitsy Bat is different, and going to school isn’t easy. This book, while not strictly Halloween, uses bat imagery to help kids understand inclusivity, kindness, and finding friends who appreciate you for who you are. Great for Halloween or any time of year!
9. Maurice the Unbeastly by Amy Dixon
Age Range: 4-8 years
Maurice isn’t your typical monster—he’s polite, tidy, and loves vegetables, which doesn’t sit well with the other beasts. This charming story teaches kids about embracing their unique qualities while also delivering plenty of laughs. It’s a fun Halloween read that emphasizes kindness and individuality over scare factor, making it perfect for young readers. Adding Maurice the Unbeastly gives kids another relatable character who shows that it’s okay to be different, adding even more depth to your Halloween reading list!
10. The Little Kitten by Nicola Killen
Age Range: 3-7 years
This sweet, autumnal story follows a girl and her kitten on a magical adventure. While more cozy than spooky, it’s an enchanting tale that pairs perfectly with the Halloween season.
11. The Crayons’ Trick or Treat by Drew Daywalt and Oliver Jeffers
Age Range: 3-7 years
In this Halloween adventure, the crayons are back and ready to go trick-or-treating! If you loved The Day the Crayons Quit then this book is a cute addition to the series. With their quirky personalities and funny dialogue, this story is filled with humor that both kids and adults will enjoy. A lighthearted read that’s perfect for the Halloween season!
12. The Good, the Bad, and the Spooky by Jory John and Pete Oswald
Age Range: 4-8 years
From the creators of The Bad Seed, this Halloween story features the Bad Seed himself, who’s determined to find the perfect Halloween costume. With its colorful illustrations and witty storyline, this book is a fun exploration of Halloween costume creativity. If you like this book then grab others from the series...there a quite a few!
13. Construction Site Gets a Fright by Sherri Duskey Rinker and AG Ford
Age Range: 3-6 years
The team from Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site is back for a Halloween adventure! Kids will love watching their favorite construction vehicles encounter some “scary” sights on the site. With just the right amount of suspense, it’s ideal for little ones who enjoy trucks and construction themes. This is also part of a series so be sure to look for Goodnight Construction Site too!
14. Dr. Seuss’s Spooky Things by Dr. Seuss
Age Range: 2-5 years
In this Halloween-themed board book, readers are introduced to all sorts of spooky and silly things, from ghosts to pumpkins. With classic Seussian rhymes and colorful illustrations, it’s a great pick for toddlers experiencing their first Halloween.
15. The Dark by Lemony Snicket, illustrated by Jon Klassen
Age Range: 4-8 years
This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of Laszlo, a young boy who confronts his fear of the dark. Though not strictly Halloween-themed, it’s an ideal read for the season, encouraging kids to face their fears with courage.
16. The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse by Mac Barnett and illustrated by Jon Klassen
Age Range: 4-8 years
This quirky story follows a wolf who swallows a duck and a mouse, who then form an unlikely friendship inside his belly. Filled with humor, wit, and Klassen’s signature illustrations, it’s a slightly spooky yet entirely unique story that kids will love.
17. Leonardo, the Terrible Monster by Mo Willems
Age Range: 3-7 years
Leonardo is a monster who’s just not scary. No matter how hard he tries, he can’t seem to frighten anyone! This humorous and heartwarming story is about finding confidence and embracing who you are, even if you’re not a “typical” monster. With Mo Willems’ signature style and humor, it’s a delightful choice for Halloween that’s more sweet than spooky.
18. Night Animals by Gianna Marino
Age Range: 3-6 years
This funny and endearing story follows a group of nocturnal animals who are afraid of the dark and each other! As skunks, possums, and bats encounter mysterious sounds in the night, kids will love the playful illustrations and humorous dialogue. It’s a great, non-scary introduction to night creatures and perfect for Halloween bedtime reading.
Tips for Creating a Fun Halloween Reading Experience
• Set the Mood: Dim the lights, add some Halloween decorations, or even use a flashlight to create a spooky ambiance. Have a special reading nook or a special book shelf just for holiday books!
• Get Creative with Costumes or Pj's: Dress up as characters from the book to make reading time extra fun. Or throw on some Halloween or glow in the dark pajamas.
• Halloween Snacks: Make it a full experience by matching books with themed treats like pumpkin cookies or “monster” popcorn.
• Get the Kids Involved: Let kids choose which book to read or take turns reading lines together if they’re old enough.
FAQs about Halloween Picture Books for Kids
Are Halloween books too scary for toddlers?
Most Halloween picture books for young children are designed to be fun, not scary. Books like Construction Site Gets a Fright and The Little Kitten have lighthearted themes and friendly illustrations, perfect for toddlers. But, only you know your own child! If you have a highly sensitive child or one who is prone to getting nightmares then be sure to preview the book first. If you don't think it is appropriate for your kiddo or you think it may be too scary...return it! Not every book is appropriate for every child, and that's okay!
Why are holiday-themed books good for kids?
Reading holiday-themed books is a great way to add excitement to the season! Let reading become a family tradition. This will promote bonding and it's a great way to make reading more interactive.
What age is best for introducing Halloween books?
Halloween books can be introduced as early as age two, with stories that are tailored to be age-appropriate. (SO BE SURE YOU READ THEM OR A REVIEW FIRST) Start with simple, light-hearted books for toddlers and build up to slightly spooky stories for older kids if they enjoy spooky. Some older kids may not like anything spooky if they are more sensitive or deeply feeling and that's okay too!
There you have it—our top picks for Halloween picture books for kids that are sure to become seasonal favorites in your home. Adding these books to your Halloween collection will ensure a well-rounded mix of spooky, sweet, and silly options that can engage kids of various ages and interests. Enjoy the fun, and happy Halloween reading!
We’d love to hear from you! Comment below with your favorite Halloween books or let us know which ones you’ll be reading this season.
Related Posts
• 3 Easy Halloween Parenting Hacks to Make Your Life Easier
• 28 Great Trick-Or-Treat Alternatives for a Fun Halloween
• 5 Simple Tips to Help your Highly Sensitive Child Enjoy Halloween
By adding these books to your family library, you’re creating memories, sharing holiday traditions, and inspiring a lifelong love of reading.
Happy Halloween, and happy reading!
From Dr. Emma Hostetter & Aparently Parenting
Disclaimer: We have included amazon links for you to browse and make purchases. As an amazon affiliate partner we do make a few pennies when you grab a book from the links that we share. This helps us be able to continue to offer these articles free of charge. And, it takes the work out of you having to hunt for the books online! However, the books that we have selected to recommend have not been influenced in any way by amazon or any other third party. These are simply books we love and have in our own home.
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