Book Guide:

When I think of fall, I picture more than crisp air and golden leaves. It’s the season when creativity stirs—when cozy sweaters reappear, fires crackle, and imaginations spark as brightly as the autumn colors. From kids dreaming up Halloween costumes to writers spinning spooky tales, fall seems to invite stories to unfold. And what better way to celebrate the season than curling up with a good book?

Here’s the Fall 2025 Book List, perfect for readers from picture book lovers to middle grade adventurers!

The Cozy & Classics 

The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt by Riel Nason
This charming picture book tells the story of a little ghost who feels different because, unlike the other ghosts who are made of sheets, he’s made of a heavy quilt. His differences make it hard for him to keep up—until Halloween night, when being unique finally helps him shine. With sweet illustrations and a tender message about embracing what makes us special, this book is a cozy, heartwarming choice for Halloween. It’s perfect for families who want a not-so-spooky story with warmth and humor.

Grades: Pre-K -3rd 

Buy the book! 

Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler
This beloved rhyming picture book tells the tale of a kind witch and her cat who make room on their broom for several animal friends—until the broom breaks under the weight and they face a hungry dragon. With its playful rhythm, engaging repetition, and expressive illustrations, this story is both fun to read aloud and full of Halloween charm. It’s a great seasonal pick for younger readers, mixing a classic witch’s adventure with themes of friendship and teamwork.

Grades: Preschool - 2nd 

Buy the book! 

Kiki’s Delivery Service by Eiko Kadono
This whimsical novel follows Kiki, a young witch who leaves home at thirteen to begin her independent life in a seaside town with only her broomstick and her cat, Jiji. She starts a flying delivery service and faces challenges of self-discovery, belonging, and independence. While not scary, the magical atmosphere, broomstick flights, and gentle humor make it a delightful read for the Halloween season. It’s a perfect choice for readers who want a touch of magic and empowerment rather than frights.

Grades: 4th and up!

Buy the book! 

Gustavo the Shy Ghost by Flavia Z. Drago
Gustavo, a shy little ghost, longs to make friends but struggles to be seen. On Día de los Muertos, he finally finds a way to show others who he really is. This book blends adorable ghostly fun with vibrant, colorful illustrations that highlight Mexican culture and tradition. It’s a perfect Halloween (and fall season) read because it balances spooky imagery with themes of courage, kindness, and cultural celebration. Both playful and meaningful, it will leave kids smiling and inspired.

Grades:  Preschool - 2nd 

Buy the book! 

Silly Spooky Stories

 Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Peter Brown
This quirky and slightly spooky story follows Jasper Rabbit, who can’t stop munching on carrots—until he’s convinced they’re following him! With bold, cinematic illustrations and a mix of humor and suspense, this Caldecott Honor book is a Halloween favorite. It’s a perfect read for kids who like a little scare wrapped in lots of laughs. If you are a fan of this story, check out Aaron Reynolds other creepy stories!

Grades: 1st -5th 

Buy the book! 

Garlic and the Vampire by Bree Paulsen
In this cozy graphic novel, Garlic is a shy vegetable person living in a garden community, until she’s tasked with confronting a vampire in a nearby castle. With themes of bravery, friendship, and learning to believe in yourself, this story blends a gothic atmosphere with heartwarming charm. A wonderful pick for middle grade readers who like spooky vibes without too much fright.

Grades: 3rd - 6th 

Buy the book! 

A Spoonful of Frogs by Casey Lyall, illustrated by Vera Brosgol
This hilarious picture book tells the tale of a witch trying to film a cooking show—but the frogs she needs for her potion recipe have other ideas. With lively illustrations and slapstick humor, it’s a silly, spooky read-aloud that kids will love. Perfect for Halloween fun and giggles!

Grades: Preschool - 2nd 

Buy the book! 

How to Catch a Witch by Alice Walstead, illustrated by Megan Joyce
Part of the popular “How to Catch” series, this book features clever traps and rhymes as kids try to outsmart a mischievous witch on Halloween night. It’s playful, fast-paced, and brimming with festive spirit. Young readers will enjoy the imaginative tricks and bright, colorful illustrations.

Grades: Kindergarten - 3rd 

Buy the Book! 

Novels to Read With the Light On

Small Spaces by Katherine Arden
When eleven-year-old Ollie’s school bus breaks down near a mysterious farm, she and her classmates find themselves caught in a chilling supernatural adventure with scarecrows that come alive at night. This middle grade horror novel blends suspense, folklore, and bravery in just the right measure for Halloween chills. A fantastic pick for kids who are ready for a spooky mystery to solve!

Grades: 5th and up! 

Buy the book! 

City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab
After a near-death experience, Cassidy Blake can see ghosts. When her family travels to Edinburgh, Scotland, she encounters restless spirits and uncovers secrets darker than she expected. With its gothic setting, eerie atmosphere, and gripping pace, this book is perfect for readers who love ghost stories with heart.

Grades: 5th and up! 

Buy the book! 

Escape by K.R Alexander 

In this thrilling sci-fi adventure, a group of kids win the chance to enter ESCAPE, the world’s most advanced adventure park where anything seems possible and no adults are around to say no. For Cody, an ordinary kid with big dreams, it’s everything he’s ever wanted, until the games begin to glitch and the park’s illusions turn deadly. Blending high-tech wonder with heart-pounding suspense, this story explores courage, morality, and what happens when fantasy becomes too real. A perfect pick for readers who love fast-paced, cinematic adventures with a dark twist.

Grades: 4th - 8th 

Buy the book!

Root Magic by Eden Royce

Set in 1963 South Carolina, Root Magic follows Jezebel Turner as she discovers her family’s legacy of rootwork—African American folk magic. Just as her world begins to change. Between school integration, loss, and rising supernatural threats, Jez must learn to trust her power and her roots. Royce blends history, folklore, and coming-of-age with lyrical grace, creating a story that’s both eerie and empowering. A beautiful, magical read perfect for fans of historical fiction with a hint of haunt.

Grades: 4th - 8th 

Buy the book!