Happy Fall, friends! Spooky season is upon us, and we’ve got some fun books for you. From funny graphic novels to books about managing fear, there’s something for everyone! All books are available at the Free Library of Philadelphia.
Picture Books
“How To Draw a Zombie”
by Zoey Abbott and August Wagner
Did a zombie write this? This “instructional” picture book has a zombie guiding the reader through how to draw one, and maybe some cool accessories as well. This fun read-aloud is just spooky enough to bring some chills, so grab a pencil and paper to get drawing, and reading!
“Spells To Cast on Your Parents”
by Pete Holmes
Jesse the dragon is not impressed with you — the reader’s spell-casting abilities! This fun-filled and interactive picture book brings you right into the story, having you cast the spells. Can you impress Jesse by the end of the story? Get ready to read this one again and again!
“A Not-So-Scary Story”
by Barney Saltzberg
Little Mouse does not like being scared and didn’t think anyone did! However, Big Mouse is ready to tell a spooky tale to bring chills and fun. As Little Mouse begins to get scared in the dark, he decides that adding some not-so-scary things to the tale might help. Perfect for little ones who like their spooks light!
“Pumpkin Smash”
by Michelle Schaub and Rilla Alexander
What happens to all those pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns after Halloween is over? In this brightly illustrated picture book, we learn how they decay, smell … and the fun to be had smashing them! With simple rhyming text, the reader will see how pumpkins can be used as compost.
Easy Reader/Chapter Books
“Marion’s Pumpkin Patch Mystery”
by Callie Barkley and Marsha Riti
In this Critter Club early chapter book, Marion is excited about the sleepover at the pumpkin patch, and to show off the pumpkin she grew, Gerty. However, there seems to be a little critter interested in eating Gerty! The Critter Club is on the case. With black-and-white illustrations sprinkled throughout and simple text, this early chapter book is perfect for newly-independent readers.
“Frankie D, Vegan Vampire’s First Halloween”
by Sally Dutra, Brian Dutra, and Tiffani Brown
Frankie is adjusting to life in the human world, but it hasn’t been easy. A classmate might have discovered his secret — that he’s a vampire! Frankie is hopeful that he can be himself on Halloween. With vampire lore sprinkled throughout, this early chapter book is filled with humor and heart.
“The Gingerbread Man: Trick-or-Treaters on the Loose”
by Laura Murray and Mike Lowery
It’s time for the Gingerbread man and his classmates to celebrate Halloween! Follow along as they make their own costumes, play games and trick-or-treat. With colorful illustrations and easy-to-read text, this easy graphic novel is great for beginning readers interested in graphic novels. A great celebration of all things Halloween!
Middle Grade Books
“Squirrel Lock Holmes: Mystery at the Corn-y Maze”
by Ashley Belote
A corn maze is a lot of fun, unless you can’t get out! Detective Squirrel Lock Holmes, and her sidekick Mole Watson, must save their missing friends. In this hilarious middle grade graphic novel, follow along as these detectives try to solve the case!
“Boo!: Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Fear (but Were Afraid to Ask)”
by Clive Gifford and Rohan Eason
Fears are something everyone has, but where do they come from and how can you manage them? In this nonfiction book, readers will learn about different fears and how our brains work in relation to these fears. Also, learn about haunted places, long-told spooky stories, famous people and their fears and a whole lot more. A perfect read for spooky season!
“A Guide to Plants for Little Witchlings: 15 Spells, Charms and Crafts”
by Jennifer Lane
This whimsical nonfiction book describes some common plants/flowers, how they grow, and “spells” to make using them. With colorful illustrations, this book will have you going on a nature walk in search of your own plants!
