Now that October is here, the buzz over Halloween – well – everything! is picking up speed. From what costume to wear to which trick or treating route to take, it’s a big topic of conversation. For even more help getting into the season’s spirit, snuggle up with one of these Halloween-themed books, hand-picked for you by Annie Bloom’s Books.
For Ages 0-3
This is a Halloween board book that won’t frighten little ones. Baby gets ready for Halloween with pumpkin carving and costume choosing and – of course – trick or treating. Kirkus Reviews called it “a warm and cuddly celebration of the creepiest holiday.”
For Ages 3-6
Leo: A Ghost Story, by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Christian Robinson
Most people can’t see Leo, a very lonely ghost. Then Leo meets Jane, and everything changes. This charming tale of friendship is from two of the best young minds in picture books: the author of the Caldecott Honor winning Extra Yarn and the illustrator of the Bologna Ragazzi.
For Ages 4-8
Grimelda, the Very Messy Witch, by Diana Murray, illustrated by Heather Ross
Grimelda thinks her messy house is perfect, until she can’t find the pickle root she needs. A delightful (and messy) rhyming book that’s perfect for reading aloud with a child at Halloween as well as all year round, or for emerging readers to enjoy on their own.
Monster and Son, by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Joey Chou
A variety of monsters spend the day with their sons, causing havoc for humans along the way. Readers big and small, young and old, wild and tame, will roar with laughter and take this book by the horns, teeth, and fur…discovering that monsters and humans aren’t so different especially in the ways they love each other.
10 Little Monsters Visit Oregon, by Rick Walton, illustrated by Jess Smart Smiley
Even monsters love to visit Oregon’s unique places, from Crater Lake to Tillamook Cheese and-of course-Powell’s Books!
For Ages 8-12
Bunnicula: A Rabbit-Tale Mystery, by Deborah and James Howe, illustrated by Alan Daniel
The newest pet in the Monroe household is a cute little bunny – with fangs! This one is a classic for a reason.
A little Italian village is afflicted with witches. It’s also home to some brave friends who try to make their acquaintance. This is the first book in an exciting new series.
Coraline, by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean
You may know this one by the movie, but the book is just as memorable. When Coraline steps through the door to find another house strangely similar to her own (only better), things seem marvelous… until they don’t. Creepy and delightful – just like an old-fashioned fairy tale.
The Night Gardener, by Jonathan Auxier
This book follows two abandoned Irish siblings who travel to work as servants at a creepy, crumbling English manor house. But the house and its family are not quite what they seem. This Victorian ghost story make you shiver.
They look normal until they take off their gloves and shoes and wigs. A gathering of witches means evil is brewing. Beware the Great High Witch and what she plans to do to children!
Thanks to Annie Bloom’s Books for the picks! Annie Bloom’s is an independent book store located in Multnomah Village. It carries a broad range of new books across many genres, including children’s and young adult.
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