Spooky Season
It’s officially spooky season! For a household of “chicken littles”, you’d think we wouldn’t enjoy October as much but, boy, do we love it!
As the air cools and the nights lengthen, I’m drawn to books rooted in folklore; books where the monster isn’t all that monstrous; and books where nature’s gifts take centerstage.
October’s children’s book recommendations have not-so-spooky vibes with fall feels that can be read year-round!
– Michelle
Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds & Peter Brown
This book is deserving of its’ Caldecott Honor – an artist’s award for American Children’s Picture Books. Peter Brown somehow makes carrots cute AND creepy as they stalk Jasper Rabbit.
Joanna and Connor love this somewhat suspenseful book. With zombie postures and drawn-out syllables, they now turn every garden veggie into the creepy variety: “Creeeepy Caaarrrooots. Creeeepy Tooomaaatoes. Creeeepy Zuuuchini.”
Check out the Vox book version of this gem!
Little Witch Hazel by Phoebe Wahl
Little Witch Hazel is a beginner’s introduction to longer, chapter-like books. It is broken into four parts, each focusing Little Witch Hazel’s experiences in the different seasons.
With nature as her guide, the author reminds us to slow down, lend a hand, be brave and more. Fans of fairy gardens will love this one!
Knight Owl by Christopher Denise
Another Caldecott book, Knight Owl won the 2023 Caldecott Medal!
Owl is determined to become a knight. Knights will be brave, smart and have many friends.
But, what happens when the dragon shows up? Admittedly, the dragon’s menacing face spooked Joanna at first; her fears quickly subsided at the heartwarming end. The story, message and illustrations of Knight Owl will likely find a place among the classics.
The Wolf, The Duck & The Mouse by Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen
Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen are a picture book powerhouse duo! Their children’s books are unique and quirky with endings that always leave you pondering and wanting more.
The Wolf, The Duck & The Mouse is a story you’d hear gathered round a campfire – a folklore tale on why the wolf howls. The unbelievability of the story makes it that much more enjoyable – a laugh out loud recommendation.
A Spoonful of Frogs By Casey Lyall & Vera Brosgol
What happens when a witch’s favorite ingredient – frogs – refuse to be made into soup? Hilarity! And knowing that sometimes you have to improvise in the kitchen…
This may be the only “true” Halloween book on the list. I added it because I think it needs more recognition. As the publisher writes, “Casey Lyall is a master of comedic timing with her deceptively simple and energetic text”.
A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office Manager at Town Hall Library. She has two young children – Joanna (6) and Connor (4). All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading. Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.
