Why should Christmas in July get all the summer holiday glory? This list of Halloween board books and picture books is perfect for those who want to get into the spooky spirit despite the summer heat.
 

Board Books

BURTON, Jeffrey. One Happy Haunted House. illus. by Neil Clark. 14p. S. & S./Little Simon. Jul. 2025. Board $8.99. ISBN 9781665973465.
Toddler-PreS–One delightfully haunted house is packed with playful ghouls, friendly ghosts, and trick-or-treaters ready for a spooky good time in this holiday board book. The bouncy, rhyming text and the super fun “Trick or Treat” refrain will have kids chanting along in no time. Interactive sliders that are designed to pop out when tilted are a fun, hands-on addition—little hands will enjoy figuring out how to pull them. Bright, bold illustrations with just the right mix of silly and spooky will keep toddlers completely enchanted. VERDICT This book is all treats and no tricks—just the right amount of spooky fun.–Cassie Veselovsky

COX, Hettie. Noisy Halloween: My First Touch and Feel Sound Book. 12p. (My First). Tiger Tales. Jul. 2025. Board $14.99. ISBN 9781664351332.
Toddler-PreS–A feast for any toddler’s or preschooler’s senses. Color photos of Halloween icons like black cats and cauldrons, plus charming photos of babies and young children dressed up for Halloween, immediately draw readers’ attentions. A sound button on each spread lets readers hear a bubbling cauldron, the hoot of an owl, and the cackling of a witch, among other sounds. Touch-and-feel elements on each page encourage readers to enjoy soft black cat fur, Halloween slime, or the feel of a ghostly sheet. Simple, descriptive text tells of fun holiday moments, and thought-provoking questions like “Which costume would you choose?” invite readers to describe their own costumes or the ones in the book. VERDICT A great addition to holiday and board book collections that will be the star at any storytime.–Rosemary Kiladitis

CRISTALDI, Kathryn. I’ll Love You Till the Bats Say Boo. illus. by Kristyna Litten. 24p. (I’ll Love You Till). HarperCollins. Jul. 2025. Board $9.99. ISBN 9780063376625.
PreS-K–A delightful Halloween themed celebration of love and festive fun. Rhythmic text captures the joy of the holiday while reinforcing an affectionate bond between reader and listener. The story follows a playful refrain of “I will love you till” as various animals—bats, goats, skunks, and even worms—participate in whimsical activities. Soft, expressive illustrations bring the gentle spookiness to life. Repetition makes for an engaging read-aloud, perfect for a cozy bedtime or seasonal storytime. Fans of Julia Donaldson’s Room on the Broom and Alice Schertle’s Little Blue Truck’s Halloween will appreciate this sweet and spooky tale. VERDICT This read will charm trick-or-treaters and caregivers, and is a solid addition to holiday collections.–Amanda Chacon

EDWARDS, Nicola. Grumpkin. illus. by Sian Roberts. 24p. Tiger Tales. Jul. 2025. Board $9.99. ISBN 9781664352001.
Toddler-K–He’s grumpy. He’s brutally honest. He has bigger dreams! And Grumpkin “really can’t stand Halloween.” This bitter pumpkin has had enough of the costumes and trick-or-treating, and he can’t help but think of much better places to be. When the desire to have a new life turns to a reality, Grumpkin has to come to terms with how his life as a pumpkin has changed in paradise. Despite his disdain for all things Halloween, Grumpkin is an adorable bright orange pumpkin whose first-person point-of-view and litany of questions like “Why couldn’t I have been a summer squash instead?” and “What’s so great about getting picked?” make him relatable and endearing. The deliberate use of questions and exclamations, such as “Hello, paradise!” and “these trees don’t grow candy corn!” shows readers and emerging writers how word choice and punctuation can impact a story. There are a lot of language choices here that would make this book a great option to use as a text model. For example, words that are in bold font build Grumpkin’s hyperbolically negative tone: “No one ever lets me forget it,” or “literally all they care about is being picked.” The variety of illustration sizes, from highlight illustrations to spreads, offers all the more depth and engagement. VERDICT A winner. This title could easily become a new classic.–Danielle Schwessinger

ELYS, Dori. This Little Monster: A Spooky Nursery Rhyme. illus. by Kathryn Selbert. 22p. S. & S./Little Simon. Jul. 2025. Board $6.99. ISBN 9781665973168.
PreS-K–What are all the little monsters up to? This simple text, a fun twist on the classic “This Little Piggy” nursery rhyme, takes readers along to see, one-by-one, cheerful monster friends gathering to welcome a new friend home. It starts with a witch who goes to the market to get the ingredients needed to make treats for the spooky, sweet housewarming party. Each subsequent line of the rhyme takes readers on an adventure across fields and forest, finally reaching a little ghost, who may have stayed home—but the party came to them! Digital illustrations in a bright seasonal palette feature whimsical, cartoonish characters set against richly detailed backgrounds and provide opportunities for discussion and engagement. For example, can children find the mouse in each illustration? This book is ideal for festive story times or early literacy discussions about friendship and celebration. VERDICT Sweet holiday fun, perfect for the Halloween season.–Jessica Caron

It’s Time for Halloween. illus. by Kathrin Fehrl. 12p. Gibbs Smith. Jul. 2025. Board $17.99. ISBN 9781423668503.
Toddler-PreS–A gentle introduction to Halloween fun, this festive board book invites toddlers to spot treats, costumes, and critters in a costumed parade. Each spread pairs a playful rhyme, like “Grab your hat, vampire bat,” with a prompt to search for themed objects, such as pumpkins, candies, or a mischievous black cat hiding in every scene. The predictable “Can you find…?” structure supports early engagement and helps young children build comprehension and pattern recognition. Digital illustrations feature bold outlines, expressive animals, and highly saturated colors that capture a toddler’s attention. Characters include children in costume with a range of skin tones and hair textures, offering a subtle nod to inclusivity. One child is shown using crutches. Layered, die-cut pages create a satisfying tactile experience as little hands turn through each scene. VERDICT Bright, interactive, and developmentally on target, this seasonal board book is an engaging choice for Halloween displays and lapsits alike.–Rose Garrett

MCLEAN, Danielle. Can You Find the Black Cat? 10p. Tiger Tales. Jul. 2025. Board $8.99. ISBN 9781664351561.
Toddler-PreS–It’s Halloween, but where is Black Cat? A pair of black, fluffy ears and lift-the-flap pages guide readers through the search. Is Black Cat hiding behind a spiderweb, or is she trick-or-treating? Each reveal brings readers closer to Black Cat, while a helpful spider offers cute asides. The playful verse has charming Halloween references to spooky forests, bats, and witches: “In the darkness of the night,/ spooky friends are out of sight.” Adorable illustrations add a touch of fun, and the reveals match up with the plush cat ears, adding delight to each discovery. VERDICT A playful Halloween book offering a sensory treat that will do well in board book collections.–Rosemary Kiladitis

MAGSAMEN, Sandra. Silly Witch. illus. by author. 10p. Scholastic/Cartwheel. Jul. 2025. Board $9.99. ISBN 9781546140108.
Toddler-Gr 1–This Halloween-themed joke book uses the frame that witches like to tell jokes as an introduction: “Did you know that witches like to tell a silly joke or two?” The jokes that follow will delight a young audience. “How do you fix a broken jack-o’-lantern?/ With a pumpkin patch!” But that’s pretty much all that’s here, other than the silly, bright, topsy-turvy art. The artwork reinforces the book’s structure of sharing the setup up top, and then having readers flip the book over for the punchline at the bottom. After going through the trouble of setting up a frame to introduce the book, the book ends quite abruptly, with a single joke about mommy witches and loving their kids. There is no other type of outro. Still, the jokes are fun while they last. VERDICT Fun art, pretty good Halloween jokes, and a straightforward premise. A fine first joke book for youngsters who love the spooky season.–Kate Stadt

NELSON, Natalie. Cat’s First Halloween. illus. by author. 28p. (Dog and Cat’s First: Bk. 4). Quirk. Aug. 2025. Board $9.99. ISBN 9781683694502.
Baby-Toddler–This board book focuses on the bond between a cat narrator and its baby companion. The story presents some general elements of the Halloween season, rather than covering the rituals or folklore, or presenting a substantive plot. Given the sparse, straightforward lines—“We sneak./ We peek./ We prowl…/ and we yowl!”—the vibrant art adds necessary detail to the uncomplicated language. Emphasizing the bond between the cat and its unnamed baby companion, the illustrations help readers understand the urban setting and its relationship to the words better. For example, a page with the simple words “Outside, it’s getting chilly” is accompanied by the baby in a baby carrier picking apples with their parent. Seasonal elements not represented in the words show up in the art, which includes jack-o’-lanterns, costumes, decorations, and more. Overall, the simple words err on the thin side of spare, although the illustrations bring in some detail. This is not a comprehensive overview of what the season entails, although it hits on a few lively notes, and it hits them brightly enough. The baby and parents are Black. VERDICT Not objectionable and also not additive, this book is easy for young readers to look at and quick to read.–Kate Stadt

OTTER, Isabel. Magic Flashlight: Ghost Hunt. illus. by Kathryn Selbert. 16p. Tiger Tales. Jul. 2025. Board $12.99. ISBN 9781664351615.
Toddler-PreS–Turn the lights down low and get ready to find a bevy of playful ghosts in this rhyming Halloween tale! Each turn of the page brings readers closer to a Halloween party as they explore a series of Halloween scenes including a haunted house, a forest, a witch’s cozy home, and a pumpkin patch. Jaunty rhymes on each spread encourage readers to seek out the ghosts: “Look around the forest—/ Can you find each ghostly friend?/ Be careful not to lose your way/ and come to a dead end.” Spirited sound effects, like “Bubble, wail, croak, boo, howl, shriek, HISS!” add to the fun of a read aloud, and the included UV flashlight reveals a series of ghosts and creeps, sure to delight readers. VERDICT A cheery Halloween read and activity that will make toddlers and preschoolers squeal with delight again and again.–Rosemary Kiladitis

SALZANO, Tammi. It's Summerween! ­illus. by Gaby Zermeno. 20p. Tiger Tales. May 2025. Board $8.99. ISBN 9781664351745.
Toddler-PreS–Beachy with a splash of creepy, this lively, rhyming board book counts from one to 10 to celebrate Summerween, a June 22 holiday marking the transition between summer and fall that was inspired by the television show Gravity Falls. A haunted sandcastle opens the scene for a beach bash that is attended by an off-duty cast of the usual ghoulish characters having fun in the sun: two black cats in sun hats sipping lemonade from twisty straws, six pumpkins in sunglasses catching waves, and eight shimmying skeletons throwing a soiree. The I Scream Ice Cream Truck serves no tricks, but an array of frighteningly frozen treats: “4 hungry mummies who want a cold treat chase the ice-cream truck that drives down the street.” Cerulean blue, fuchsia pink, and banana yellow dominate the palette of Zermeno’s bright and color-soaked illustrations. Balancing bold simplicity with attention to detail, these festive scenes invite readers’ eyes to wander and linger on subtle, eerie elements hidden in plain sight, including the silent gaze of numerous tiny eyes. VERDICT Spooky meets sandy in this unique counting board book, sure to enchant Halloween lovers during the summer months.–Emily Brush 

Picture Books

ABBOTT, Zoey. This Year, a Witch! illus. by author. 40p. Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy. Jul. 2025. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9781665956024.
PreS-Gr 3–For kids who are ready to break free from expectations and express themselves, this is an inspiring pick. Every year, the little girl has been something sweet—think strawberries, bunnies, and all things adorable. But not this year. This year, she’s determined to be a spell-casting, fearsome witch, complete with wild hair, fabulous accessories, and a loyal feline sidekick. She sets out to create the perfect costume. But when she goes to admire herself in the mirror, she gives herself quite a fright! Luckily, Dad is there to help her through the scare. Together, they add the finishing touches, don their makeup, and head out to spook the neighborhood. Vibrant colorized art, rich with greens, blues, purples, pinks, oranges, reds, and blacks, brings a nostalgic yet fresh feel to the story, capturing the little witch’s whirlwind of emotions. The simple yet powerful message about independence and self-expression will resonate with kids and parents alike. VERDICT A must-buy. Young readers love exploring their independence, and this delightful story might just inspire a few more to embrace their unique selves—just like this little witch and her dad.–Cassie Veselovsky

BUXTON, Michael. Not-So-Bad Guys Vampire! illus. by author. 32p. Sunbird. Aug. 2025. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9798384600558.
PreS-K–Count Derek is a vampire, but not to worry, because page one tells readers, “He may look like a bad guy, but he’s really not!” In fact, Count Derek doesn’t look scary at all. He has fangs and pointy ears, but he smiles all the time, loves to cook and sing, and generally has good intentions. Soon after he moves into a creepy castle, a mob of villagers decide they don’t like him because he’s different. To change their minds, he throws an enormous party for them, providing plenty of food, music, and games. Readers will find it easy to like Derek. Aside from being a good guy, he’s cuddly, cute, and all too aware of the stigma he faces. No mention of blood or violence of any kind appears in the text. Although such an absence is necessary for young children, it begs the question: given what’s ahead in the vampire canon as readers grow up, is it okay to pose the alternate reality that vampires aren’t scary? That aside, this is an excellent tool for teaching tolerance and empathy. Youngsters might be not so quick to judge others after spending time with Count Derek. VERDICT A fine addition to collections, for those who don’t mind their vampires watered-down.–Benjamin Ludwig

CHUNG, Julien. Chicka Chicka Tricka Treat. illus. by author. 40p. (A Chicka Chicka Book). S. & S./Beach Lane. Jul. 2025. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9781665954785.
Toddler-K–The letters are back for a spooktacular adventure! In this playful Halloween twist on Bill Martin Jr.’s beloved Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, Chung delivers a rhythmic tale that’s sure to engage little readers. With vibrant illustrations and a lively beat, the story follows the letters as they “sneaka sneak” their way up a creaky old tree in search of a “tricka treat.” But when a big “BOO!” sends them tumbling down, they must find the courage to climb back up for a well-earned holiday surprise. This kid-friendly take on the ABC classic is packed with festive fun, featuring playful ghosts, wiggly eyeballs, cute costumes, and just the right amount of spooky charm. The catchy rhythm makes it perfect for reading—or chanting—aloud, keeping young readers enthralled while reinforcing early literacy skills. VERDICT A must-have for little ghouls and goblins who love letters and laughs. Buy it to give holiday collections a boost.–Cassie Veselovsky

COLÓN, Justin. The Zombees. illus. by Kaly Quarles. 32p. S. & S. Jul. 2025. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9781665922500.
PreS-Gr 3–A swarm of zombie bees leaves the cemetery to invade a town on Halloween night, frightening a trick-or-treating girl, her cat, and her town. With the help of a librarian, beekeepers are called in to save the day. Do the zombees actually come in peace, or is this a plan to eat more brains? Jolly details make this picture book shine. Rhyming and alliteration create a sense of playfulness while setting the pace. Illustrations alternate between vignettes, panels, and full-page spreads splashed with teal, gray, purple, and lime green to evoke the feeling of fall. Features of each image are slightly skewed—crooked headstones, slanted architecture—to further suggest the eerie excitement of Halloween night. Children will delight in the tattered, otherworldly zombees and enjoy searching for the silly cat in the background. A surprise ending provides the perfect finishing touch. VERDICT A collection must, this charming read-aloud will be requested on repeat.–Maggie Mason Smith

CUYLER, Margery. Stompie the Zombie. illus. by Binny Talib. 32p. Amazon/Two Lions. Aug. 2025. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781662527654.
PreS-Gr 2–Stompie is so excited for his family’s 500-year reunion. He’s so busy getting everything ready, including going to the “gross-ery store” for “finger food,” that he breaks his shinbone when he’s racing on his bike and goes over a bump. How will he get ready for the reunion now? Itchy Witchy to the rescue—not only does she take Stompie on her broom to “Urgent Scare,” she gets all of his family to come visit him after his operation. Who needs a fancy graveyard for a party when you have your family? This book is full of spooky puns: Stompie rides in a “squeal-chair” to his family’s “shin-dig” where the ghosts “boo-gie-woogie.” Little ones will find the wordplay funny and the art engaging. The illustrations are just as busy as the text: filled with lots of greens and purples, along with tons of Halloween touches, there’s plenty to look at. VERDICT A fun purchase well-suited to reading aloud.–Kerri Williams

FROST, Maddie. Little Boo. illus. by author. 40p. HarperCollins/Clarion. Jul. 2025. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780063267831.
PreS-Gr 2–A charming and humorous take on sibling relationships with a spooky twist, this book follows a child who finds their younger ghostly sibling both exasperating and endearing. As Little Boo learns to crawl—and float—their antics become increasingly annoying, leading the older sibling to wonder if a witch or a vampire might have made a better sibling instead. A temporary trade with a friend reveals that even “perfect” siblings have their own monstrous quirks. Frost’s playful digital illustrations bring warmth and humor to the holiday-inspired story, making it a compelling read for young audiences. With themes of sibling rivalry, acceptance, and unconditional love, this book will resonate with families navigating similar dynamics. Fans of Natasha Wing’s The Night Before the New Baby and Lucy Ruth Cummins’s Vampenguin will enjoy this lighthearted and visually appealing tale. VERDICT An exhilarating seasonal pick that will appeal to little ghouls and their occasionally frustrated older siblings.–Amanda Chacon

GARLAND, Sally Anne. Spooky. illus. by author. 40p. PIP/ Sunbird. Aug. 2025. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781503772557.
K-Gr 3–When a multiracial family moves into an old, creaky house, strange things begin to happen—flickers of movement, clattering spoons, and shadows that are just out of reach. Readers are invited to infer the identity of the “spooky” presence as subtle visual clues lead to a heartwarming reveal: a scared and curious cat has been hiding under the stairs. Told with gentle humor and warmth, this story turns the haunted house trope on its head with a shift in perspective: it’s the family who has been spooking the cat. As they patiently create a safe, cozy space for their new housemate, the story becomes one of mutual trust and belonging. Garland’s illustrations are gorgeous and atmospheric with textured pencil and digital shading that create depth and warmth. Dreamy, soft-focus panels and emotionally expressive characters add nuance, while gentle contrasts in light and shadow build a mysterious, but never frightening, tone. This is a story about empathy, comfort, and adjusting to new beginnings. Educators can use this title to support prediction and inferencing skills, as the text invites close reading of both words and images to uncover the story’s central mystery. VERDICT A beautifully illustrated, tenderly told story for fall reading or any unit on empathy and inference. Highly recommended.–Christina Salazar

KUKLA, Lauren. Ghost Says Meow! A Halloween Story. illus. by author. 32p. Jolly Fish Pr. Sept. 2025. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9781963802047.
PreS-Gr 3–An adorable and unique picture book for anyone looking to add some quirks to their Halloween collection. This story follows a ghost who dares to be different. All the typical spooky friends are there to create the perfect holiday atmosphere on a dark night—a witch, an owl, a skeleton, a cat, a pumpkin, a bat, and a ghost. But unlike her friends, this ghost wants to mix up the midnight mood with playful outfits and new sounds, like “Meow!” and “Ribbit!”At first, the traditional characters balk at the non-ghostly sounds, but the ghost encourages them to try new approaches to their haunts. As they experiment with different noises, they delight in the change. This would be an excellent book for an interactive storytime, particularly for a younger or more fearful audience. Illustrations are friendly and fun but also appropriate for the season—never overly cute. VERDICT A book to celebrate Halloween, while encouraging readers to consider whether they can stay true to their interests rather than simply following expectations.–Amelia Kmiec

LEMAÎTRE, Pascal. Pumpkin Dad. illus. by author. 32p. Viking. Jul. 2025. Tr $10.99. ISBN 9780593695203.
PreS-Gr 2–A sweet and funny story about seasonal high jinks between an adult and a child who believes her father has become a pumpkin. Ellis, dressed as a witch, is practicing magic when Dad decides to pretend that Ellis’s antics have turned him into a pumpkin. Worried for his well-being, Ellis takes “Pumpkin Dad” on a bike to get help—only for him to roll off and into a local pumpkin festival. A fretful Ellis searches for him while Dad, who has bent over backward to show he was joking, ends up falling headfirst into a pile of pumpkins. In a final act of desperation, Ellis attempts to reverse the curse. Illustrations are vibrantly coordinated with the season and engagingly bright for young readers. Details such as the pumpkin faces, the family dog, and the spell book at the front and back add to the charm of the book. Ellis and Dad both have tan skin and red hair. VERDICT This funny and endearing story is a delightful read, perfect for eager and mischievous children who might think twice about tricking their own parents during the holiday season.–Amelia Kmiec

LIVINGSTON, A.A. Grizelda the Green Hates Halloween. illus. by Katya Longhi. 40p. Penguin/Flamingo. Jul. 2025. Tr $14.99. ISBN 9780593692271.
PreS-Gr 1–This book will bring lighthearted cheer to young readers. On Halloween night, costumed children set out trick-or-treating. Unfortunately, “There’s an old witch in town/ Named Grizelda the Green./ She’s sour and grouchy/ And hates Halloween!” Grizelda bursts the jack-o’-lanterns and extinguishes street lights. Kids laugh and pull out their glow sticks. They are delighted instead of frightened when she turns the candy to life. They praise and thank Grizelda for her tricks. She’s startled but enjoys the gratitude and uses her magic for good. Grizelda and the kids have so much fun that she decides to love Halloween. The story is simple and effective. Some rhymes feel forced, but they tell the story in playful and appropriate language. Couplets sit nicely on a page, allowing listeners to anticipate what happens next. Illustrations are basic digital cartoon style; the palette is appealing and fitting for the season, with black and lime green details popping against a pink and purple background. Children with a range of skin tones and colorful costumes are set against a navy blue evening. Faces have the large eyes and cartoonish expressions of anime. VERDICT A good addition for libraries seeking to enhance their young children’s Halloween collections.–Amelia Jenkins

LOWERY, Mike. Scary Shark: A Jaw-some Halloween. illus. by author. 32p. Scholastic/Orchard. Jul. 2025. Tr $15.99. ISBN 9781546110781.
K-Gr 3–It’s Halloween, and Lotta the crab is so excited. Unfortunately, her best friend Edgar the shark is a little nervous about this spooky day. What if there are ghouls, ghosts, or monsters? After some quick thinking, Lotta finds different ways to keep the day easy and light for her shark pal, with “magni-fish-ent” decorating, pumpkin-carving, and some comical dress-up time. But will Edgar be too scared to go trick-or-treating with all of their friends on Halloween night? With eye-catching illustrations full of speech bubbles and dialogue balloons, this is a great introductory graphic novel for young children. Older readers will also have a good time catching the ocean puns dispersed throughout the story. VERDICT A fun tale with appeal across many age groups, and especially for lovers of sea animals.–Kerra Mazzariello

MCQUEEN, G.G. Squash & Pumpkin: #SquashGoals. illus. by Michael Slack. 32p. Doubleday. Aug. 2025. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780593805909.
PreS-Gr 3–Even though Acorn Squash and Pumpkin are besties, Acorn Squash can’t help but feel left out in the fall when Pumpkin becomes the star of everything from pies to lattes. Acorn Squash is determined to change things this fall and starts #SquashGoals, a campaign to become everyone’s newest favorite gourd. When Acorn Squash’s plan flops, Pumpkin inadvertently comes to the rescue, and the two team up to become a really gourd combination. Things get out of hand quickly, and the two gourds make a break for it, realizing they are happier when they are each other’s favorite instead of everyone’s favorite gourd combination. Diverse characters, text speech bubbles, and expressive anthropomorphic vegetables make this a clever fall read. Readers will enjoy Acorn Squash’s ingenuity when she tries to sell people on squash jerky or Squilk, a new squash milk. Children will recognize feelings of jealousy when Pumpkin takes center stage but also appreciate how the two main characters recognize that friendship is more important than fame. VERDICT This fall-themed story of friendship is bursting with puns and adorable, big-eyed vegetables.–Melisa Bailey

OSO, Maisha. It’s Almost Time for . . . Halloween! illus. by Tom Knight. 32p. (It’s Almost Time For . . .). Atheneum/McElderry. Jul. 2025. Tr $10.99. ISBN 9781665980128.
PreS-Gr 3–Get ready for a festive adventure with this lively rhyming story. Oso takes readers through all the best parts of the season—decorating, picking the perfect pumpkin, choosing a costume, and even celebrating at school. Just when everything seems set for a perfect holiday, there’s a little surprise twist before things come together in the end. The rhymes bounce along with a playful rhythm, making it a fantastic read-aloud for sharing with a whole class. Knight brings the story to life with bright, full-spread artwork that captures the cozy, bustling charm of a diverse town celebrating Halloween. With so many details to discover, kids will love pointing out their favorite parts on every page. VERDICT Not a mandatory purchase, but give this one a go to boost Halloween sections. This rhyming romp is sure to get everyone excited for spooky season.–Cassie Veselovsky

PLATT, Cynthia. It’s Halloween, Curious George! illus. by Rea Zhai. 14p. (Curious George). HarperCollins/Clarion. Jul. 2025. pap. $7.99. ISBN 9780063386334.
PreS-K–Curious George delights in the wonders of Halloween in this interactive book with engaging lift-the-flap surprises. As George marvels at costumes and pumpkins—some silly, some spooky—he embarks on a festive trick-or-treating adventure, visiting neighbors and a bustling apartment building. Along the way, he receives an assortment of treats, including a tiny book and novelty glasses that spell out “BOO.” Vibrant illustrations in the style of H.A. Rey capture the excitement of the holiday, while simple text makes this an ideal pick for young listeners. Interactive flaps add an extra layer, encouraging curiosity and participation. Fans of Alyssa Satin Capucilli’s Happy Halloween, Biscuit! and Anna Dewdney’s Llama Llama Trick or Treat will enjoy this story. VERDICT A cheerful holiday addition for Curious George fans and others, this is perfect for little hands eager to explore.–Amanda Chacon

ROSS, Fiona. No More Mr. Mice Guy. illus. by author. 36p. Tiger Tales. Jul. 2025. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781664300743.
K-Gr 3–In a delightful mix of gross-out humor and kid-friendly horror, Ross presents a rodent version of the story of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde . Squeak the mouse lives with violet-haired Grandma in a creepy old house. After entering a variety of contests, the duo receives a mysterious box containing a prize: “a wobbly jelly dessert—but with a whiff of something monstrous.” When Squeak sneaks a bite of this sickly green blob, a bulbous mass stuffed with worms and body parts, he becomes Hyde, a giant green mouse with a never-ending hunger. After stuffing his face with everything in sight, he lets out a belch, which returns him back to his original state. This sequence repeats again with Grandma not discovering the identity of this monster who is eating her out of house and home. Finally, when it happens yet again, the two face off and Grandma defeats Hyde with a pineapple. Zany illustrations are reminiscent of Jared Lee’s in both the “Black Lagoon Adventure” and “There Was an Old Lady” series. When Squeak turns into Hyde, the setting becomes dark and his green body appears almost as if in night vision. Several paneled pages lead to a comic book feel, and the classic onomatopoeia “Bang! Crash! Fizz! Flash!” along with campy alliteration adds a nod to this popular format. VERDICT A rollicking read-aloud for kids who enjoy Creepy Carrots! and other picture books that give readers the shivers while making them laugh out loud.–Clara Hendricks

SEKANINOVA, Stepanka. Let’s Get Spooky. tr. from Czech by Andrew Oakland. illus. by Lukas Figel. 26p. Albatros. Aug. 2025. Tr $16.95. ISBN 9788000074498.
Gr 2-4–In the tradition of “Where’s Waldo?” and similar seek-and-find books, readers are invited to visit six spooky places. Delving briefly into the psychology of why people enjoy being scared and the relief then found in safety, the conversational narrator next introduces each location. For each one, an initial spread notes some related spooky factoids. Following is an intricately detailed, full-bleed spread presenting a wealth of visual fun for exploration. The first three locations, Dracula’s Castle, a graveyard, and a haunted forest, start out less scary because they are filled with mostly fantasy figures, such as skeletons DJing a vampire party or in sombreros for Día de los Muertos. Moving into dark streets, an abandoned house, and a warlock’s tower becomes somewhat more frightening because more humans are in peril. Although there are menacing details, like a burglar with a knife on dark streets or the warlock’s caged captives, there is also humor in the details, such as one or more active raccoons in every large illustration. The narrator checks in before moving on, giving anxious readers the opportunity to choose a different book. There is a short list of items to look for, but no answers are provided. VERDICT Highly detailed spooky scenes will hold readers’ attentions and encourage them to pore over the details.–Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst

SULLIVAN, Annie. Ghouldilocks and the Three Ghosts. illus. by Paula J. Becker. 40p. Random House Studio. Aug. 2025. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780593709603.
PreS-K–Ghouldilocks the little ghoul is an unforgettable sight as she plays hide-and-shriek while sporting a ghastly haircut in the deep, dark woods. One night, Ghouldilocks hears some spooky sounds coming from a nearby abandoned mansion and naturally goes to investigate. Upon entering, she discovers chairs, ghoulash, and beds that fuel her curiosity until, that is, the house’s actual residents return. This interpretation of the traditional story of Goldilocks is well suited to the spooky Halloween season. Featuring multiple puns and jokes, the narrative turns what might otherwise be a frightful tale into one that is enjoyable for all ages. Word bubbles pair well with the overall narrative of the story, providing a dynamic interface for both the characters and for readers, alike. The illustrations are a highlight, using wild lines and amusing details to bring Ghouldilocks’s world clearly into readers’ minds. A select range of colors are used within the book, and the images are large enough to be enjoyed in a group setting. Readers already familiar with the original will enjoy this approach to the tale, especially as they notice similarities and differences between the two stories within the narrative. VERDICT Fun and clever, this book is a unique addition to library collections for preschool readers and is an enjoyable story to read aloud as Halloween approaches.–Mary Lanni

TARPLEY, Todd. Vampire vs. the Beach: A Summer Halloween Story. illus. by Giovanni Abeille. 32p. (Festive Feuds: Bk. 3). Little, Brown. Jun. 2025. Tr $10.99. ISBN 9780316590556.
PreS-Gr 2–Summer and fall meld in this picture book about tolerance and the rewards of trying something new. Drac, a friendly vampire, wants to have a summertime Halloween bash alongside his friends, Fang, Frank, and Boo, but their presence at the beach is not well-received by the adults there. Not ready for tricks and treats, the parents are stuck on the idea that Halloween is a fall holiday only, but their children welcome a hot beachside holiday full of candy and fun. After an uncomfortable day of kite flying and sand burials for Drac and his friends, the sun starts to set and the adults begin to loosen up, setting the scene for a slightly spooky moonlit party. Digitally created images depicting a sunny day at the beach are saturated in bright colors evoking warm memories of summer and bring life to the scenes and interesting cast of characters. The rhyming text of the story gives the book a happy singsong feel, making it easy to enjoy. VERDICT This book is recommended for all collections.–Misty Schattle

WILSON, Rachel Michelle. To Catch a Ghost. illus. by author. 40p. Scholastic/Orchard. Jul. 2025. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9781339031958.
Gr 1-3–Being the new kid is hard, but being the new kid and not bringing the right thing to show-and-tell? Unthinkable! Sam knows exactly what to bring to make the right impression—a ghost—and has it all planned out in three simple steps: find the ghost, observe and get to know it, then catch it. Sam’s plan works, but they quickly realize they’ve caught more than just a ghost; Sam unexpectedly catches a friend. The ghost is set free, but Sam isn’t empty-handed, gaining an unexpected friend and a story perfect for show-and-tell. Written in second-person and illustrated with bold linework and a soft retro palette in a 1970s vibe, this is a tale sure to surprise and delight. VERDICT This story of unexpected friendship is sure to appeal to younger readers.–Jessica Caron

ZUILL, Andrea. Bob the Vampire Snail. illus. by author. 40p. Random House Studio. Aug. 2025. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780593814963.
K-Gr 2–Quirky, cute, and funny, the title says it all: Bob the snail has become a vampire. He’s not sure how, and neither are readers, but it involved a scream, some stomping, a puff of smoke, and then some liquid dripping on his head. Immediately afterward, he was transformed, complete with fangs and tiny bat wings. Fitting in with the other snails is next to impossible now. He tries unsuccessfully to bite another snail, who yells at him, as well as a bear who growls at him, and settles on sucking the juice from tomatoes. After hypnotizing a mouse to bring him more tomatoes, he meets a vampire worm. The two become friends and hang out—literally—in an underground cave, which becomes their new home. Along the way, a tiny beetle provides commentary and great facts about snails and vampires. The palette is superbly Halloween: dark purples, garish oranges, and ghostly green and white highlights. Despite his fangs, Bob appears goofy and wholesome. Although the story does a fine job of explaining that Bob drinks tomato juice instead of blood, the circumstances under which he became a vampire are rushed and will likely raise questions from children. VERDICT Slightly confusing at times, this unlikely vampire tale is excellent Halloween fun.–Benjamin Ludwig