Spooky Books For Scaredy Cats: Halloween Read-Alouds For Kids Who Don’t Like Horror

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Ashley (she) is an educator, librarian, and author. She is committed to diversifying her students’ reading lives and supporting fat acceptance as it intersects with other women’s issues. She also continually strives to learn how she can use her many privileges to support marginalized groups. My interests include learning how to roller skate with the local roller derby team, buying more books than I can read, hiking with my husband and sons, and making lists to avoid doing real work. You can find her on Instagram (@ashlieelizabeth), Twitter (@mygirlsimple), or on her website www.ashlieswicker.com.

How to Make Friends with Ghosts by Rebecca Green

Set like a nonfiction manual, this lovely picture book presents a collection of facts rather than a structured narrative. Short chapters use labeled diagrams to explain how to befriend, feed, and protect your new ghost friend. This format does not reduce readability. In fact, the natural pauses give your audience the perfect break to giggle and ooh and aah at the cute illustrations and ghost puns. This is a gentle and wonderful book with charming monochrome and bright red illustrations.

perfect witch leila cover

The Perfect Witch Layla by Flavia Z. Drago

You don’t have to worry about being cursed by this kind witch. This kind witch was brought to life by the same author who created the shy ghost Gustavo. Leila is perfect in everything she strives for! Her accomplishments have brought her great pride and there is another area she aspires to conquer. It’s the dark art of patisserie. She tries her best, but is faced with the harsh truth that she’s not much of a baker. This fact may bring her down, but luckily Layla’s supportive sisters reach out to her and help her accept everything, warts and all.

leo a ghost story cover

Leo: A Ghost Story by Mac Barnett and Christian Robinson

Leo may be a ghost, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t need company. Despite his charming qualities, all attempts to make friends are thwarted as the people in his home mistake his friendliness for capriciousness. Leo sets out on a journey around the world, unsure if he will find someone who understands him, but he is happy to meet a girl who sees him as he is. It’s impossible to be afraid of a ghost as kind as Leo! This fun book will reassure young readers.


We hope you’ve found some spooky books for scaredy cats that can brighten up story time without causing nightmares. Looking for more Halloween read-alouds? Check out our roundup of new Halloween picture books.

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