The following books are among the best releases of the season. The first five are picture books perfect for ages four and up, followed by two early chapter books. The final three titles are engaging fiction for readers ages eight to twelve.
To Catch a Ghost, by Rachel Michelle Wilson, centers on a young girl preparing for Show & Tell. She’s determined to bring something extraordinary and decides on a ghost! Her clever plan to catch one unfolds with humor and charm. The illustrations, done in chalk pastels and acrylic, evoke a nostalgic 1970s feel.
Creepy Sheepy, by Lucy Ruth Cummins and vividly illustrated by Pete Oswald, tells the story of Sleepy Sheepy, who wishes to be a cool werewolf. On Halloween night, however, he gets an unexpected surprise. This playful rhyming tale celebrates individuality and makes a delightful bedtime read.
The Zombees, by Justin Colon and illustrated with bright digital art and humor by Kaly Quarles, is a perfect Halloween choice for little readers who prefer fun over fright. This rhyming story follows bees with a zombie stare as their shadows take flight toward the moon—leading to a surprising twist at the end.
Zombie and Brain are Friends, by Stephanie V. W. Lucianovic and illustrated by Laan Cham, tells the quirky tale of Zeb, a young zombie who lives with his family on a brain farm. When he befriends a small brain growing in the patch, their bond blossoms in the most unusual way. Packed with clever puns and adorable artwork, this story is both funny and endearing.
Aggie and the Ghost, by Matthew Forsythe, begins with Aggie moving into her own home—only to find it already inhabited by a ghost. Though she sets ground rules, her ghostly roommate doesn’t always follow them. Their unlikely friendship unfolds through stunning artwork in watercolor, gouache, and colored pencil, with dramatic color shifts setting the mood on each page.
The Only Ghost at School, by Tara J. Hannon, is a charming early chapter book for ages seven to ten. It introduces Ghostie, who moves with his family to a human town and becomes the only ghost at school. As he figures out how to make friends, readers are treated to a fun, fast-paced adventure. Also check out The Only Ghost in Summer Camp.
Brume: The Dragon Awakens, by Jerome Pellisier and beautifully illustrated by Carine Hinder, is a short graphic novel filled with magic and adventure. Brume, a tiny would-be witch, dreams of mastering spells. Her journey begins when her father gives her a secret spellbook, setting off a series of enchanting escapades. This first book in a planned series will captivate readers ages seven to ten.
Free Piano (Not Haunted), by Whitney Gardner, is a delightful graphic novel bursting with color and heart. When Margot finds a synthesizer labeled “Free (Not Haunted),” she sees it as her chance to create music and impress her absent father. But the instrument has secrets of its own. What begins as a creative pursuit turns into a journey of self-discovery, all told through vibrant panels.
Dead Ends! Flukes, Flops & Failures That Sparked Medical Marvels, by Lindsey Fitzharris and illustrated by Adrian Teal, is a fascinating nonfiction collection packed with bizarre, gross, and true medical stories. From shocking diagnoses to strange experiments, this book proves that even failures can lead to incredible breakthroughs—perfect for curious readers with strong stomachs.
Press 1 for Invasion, by J. A. Dauber, is a fast-paced, hilarious page-turner. Ten-year-old Matt desperately wants a cell phone, but his parents refuse. Everything changes when he finds one on the sidewalk and snaps a photo of his school crossing guard—only to see a monster staring back. With humor, surprises, and nonstop twists, this is a perfect read for the season.
