Pumpkins, Ghosts, and Giggles: 19 Halloween Picture Books That Charm (Not Scare!)
There’s something magical about Halloween picture books — the ones that trade fright for fun, fear for friendship, and spooky chills for warm giggles. Whether it’s a kind ghost learning empathy, a pumpkin who won’t give up smiling, or a little witch discovering her own colorful kind of magic, these stories remind us that Halloween can be about courage, creativity, and kindness.
In this roundup, I’ve gathered 19 beautifully illustrated Halloween stories that celebrate imagination and heart over horror. You’ll find gentle ghosts, brave crows, silly monsters, and a few pumpkins who simply refuse to leave the porch. Each book has its own kind of magic — from stories that teach empathy and bravery to rhyming tales full of color, rhythm, and laughter.
Perfect for parents planning cozy read-alouds, teachers looking for classroom favorites, or anyone who believes October should be filled with creativity (and maybe just a few friendly “boos”).
Clyde the Crow: A Tale of Halloween Bravery by Patty HevlyMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Finding Courage in the Shadows
Every Halloween story needs a hero — and sometimes, that hero comes with feathers. In Clyde the Crow: A Tale of Halloween Bravery by Patty Hevly, young readers meet an anxious but lovable crow who learns that courage isn’t the absence of fear — it’s doing what’s right, even when you’re scared.
Clyde isn’t like the other crows. He’s nervous about spooky sounds, flashing pumpkins, and everything that goes bump in the night. While the other animals dive into Halloween fun, Clyde watches from afar, wishing he could be as brave as they are. But when something unexpected happens — something that requires quick thinking and heart — Clyde discovers that true bravery comes from caring for others, not pretending to be fearless.
Patty Hevly’s storytelling is warm, rhythmic, and filled with heart. Her writing makes Clyde’s emotions feel real and relatable — perfect for young readers who might also feel timid or uncertain. The story gently guides children to understand that fear is natural, and that kindness and courage often go hand in hand.
The illustrations bring Clyde’s world to life in rich autumn tones — orange leaves, glowing moons, and just the right touch of Halloween whimsy. The crow himself is expressive and endearing, with big curious eyes that draw you in from the first page. Every spread feels like a moment of transformation — from trembling shadows to the bright glow of bravery.
What makes Clyde the Crow special is its balance. It’s festive without being frightening, heartfelt without being heavy. It’s a story that celebrates Halloween fun while quietly teaching children that even small acts of courage can make a big difference.
Perfect for ages 4–8, classroom storytime in October, and families looking for gentle Halloween stories with a message of confidence and kindness.
View all my reviews
Gadrella by Tricia GardellaMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
When a Witch Chooses Pink
Gadrella isn’t your typical witch — and that’s exactly what makes her so charming. In Gadrella, written by Tricia Gardella and illustrated by Bar Fabian, we meet a young witch who’s had enough of dark dresses, gloomy rules, and doing things “the witchy way.” One morning, she decides to try something different — something bright, happy, and uniquely hers.
Out goes the black broomstick, and in rolls a shiny pink bicycle. Her magic spells become cookie recipes, her potions bubble with kindness instead of trouble, and her whole world opens up with color. It’s a transformation told with such lighthearted humor that kids can’t help but cheer her on.
What I love most about this story is how it uses Halloween imagery — witches, wands, cauldrons — not to scare or spook, but to celebrate creativity and individuality. Gadrella isn’t rebelling for attention; she’s discovering joy in being true to herself. That’s a message every child (and grown-up) needs now and then.
Bar Fabian’s illustrations make the story sing. They’re full of warmth and whimsy — from swirling night skies to the sparkle in Gadrella’s eyes as she mixes up her sweet spells. Every page feels cozy, funny, and just a little bit magical.
Gadrella is the perfect story to share in October, but its message shines all year long. It’s about daring to do things differently — even if everyone else thinks witches must wear black.
View all my reviews
The Magic Wands: Manifestation for Little Kids by Diana AleksandrovaMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Big Dreams, Little Wands
What if you could teach children that magic isn’t something that happens to them — it’s something that lives inside them? That’s the heart of The Magic Wands: Manifestation for Little Kids by Diana Aleksandrova, a beautifully empowering picture book that translates big ideas like positivity, gratitude, and visualization into playful, kid-friendly language.
The story follows a curious child who discovers that true magic doesn’t come from spells or potions but from their own thoughts, actions, and imagination. With gentle guidance and vivid examples, Aleksandrova helps young readers understand that what we focus on grows — and that kindness, hope, and creativity are the real wands that shape our world.
Anna Panchuk’s illustrations glow with warmth and joy. Her use of light, color, and motion makes every page feel alive — like the child’s imagination is spilling into the real world. Sparkles swirl, ideas bloom, and you can almost feel the energy of possibility lifting off the page.
What makes The Magic Wands so special is its ability to introduce the concept of manifestation without any heaviness or complexity. It feels like a bedtime story and a confidence lesson all at once — joyful, accessible, and full of heart. It encourages children to dream, to believe, and to take small steps toward making those dreams real.
It’s a wonderful conversation starter for parents and teachers who want to nurture growth mindset, mindfulness, and self-belief in their little ones — all through the language of play and wonder.
View all my reviews
The Flying Brooms: Manifestation for Little Kids by Diana AleksandrovaMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dreams That Take Flight
How do you teach a child that they have the power to create their own magic? Diana Aleksandrova’s The Flying Brooms: Manifestation for Little Kids does it beautifully — through a whimsical story about witches, wishes, and believing in yourself.
In this uplifting companion to The Magic Wands, Aleksandrova continues to explore big ideas like manifestation, imagination, and intention — but this time with a playful, witchy twist. The story follows a young witch-in-training who’s eager to make her broom fly. She watches others soar effortlessly through the sky, but when her own broom refuses to lift off, she learns that true magic doesn’t come from the broom at all — it comes from her heart, her focus, and her belief that she can.
It’s a simple story with a powerful message: the magic we’re looking for often begins within. The text flows gently and rhythmically, perfect for reading aloud and sparking conversation. Aleksandrova has a special gift for making abstract concepts — like positive thinking and perseverance — feel tangible and joyful for little readers.
Anna Panchuk’s illustrations bring the story to life with soft colors, dreamlike textures, and just the right touch of sparkle. The skies glow with possibility, and the characters’ gentle expressions perfectly capture that moment when confidence turns to courage. Every page radiates encouragement and wonder.
The Flying Brooms is both a story and a lesson — a lovely reminder that belief, effort, and self-trust are the real spells that lift us higher.
Perfect for ages 4–8, classrooms teaching growth mindset or SEL, and bedtime readers who love a little magic with their motivation.
View all my reviews
The Pumpkin Who Stayed for Christmas by Kelley M LikesMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Story About Holding On, Letting Go, and Finding Magic in Between
Some stories sparkle with holiday lights. Others glow quietly, like candlelight in a window. The Pumpkin Who Stayed for Christmas by Kelley M Likes belongs in that second group — gentle, heartfelt, and full of wonder that lingers long after you close the book.
It begins in autumn, when a little badger brings home a cheerful, round pumpkin. The pumpkin’s grin is so warm, so inviting, that when Halloween ends, Badger simply can’t part with it. One day turns into many. The leaves fall, snow begins to whisper at the windows, and the pumpkin — soft around the edges now, but still smiling — becomes part of the family.
Likes tells the story with tenderness and humor, never hurrying the seasons. There’s comfort in her rhythm — the slow passing of time, the cozy smallness of home, the bittersweet realization that not everything lasts forever. It’s a lovely, age-appropriate way to talk about change and impermanence with children.
Hannah Staley-Foster’s illustrations complete the mood perfectly. Her soft lines and glowing colors make every page feel like a hug — golden oranges fading into snowy whites, candlelight pooling in the corners, the pumpkin’s grin shining bright through it all. You can almost smell cinnamon and pine needles as you turn the pages.
What I love most about this book is how it bridges two holidays that rarely meet. It’s a story that begins in Halloween laughter and ends in kindness, reminding us that love and gratitude don’t belong to one season — they live in all of them.
View all my reviews
Gilly Ghost Loves Scaring the Most: A Rhyming Adventure in Learning Boundaries Through Friendship by Dr. Heather E. RobynMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Learning When “Boo!” Is Too Much
Gilly Ghost loves to scare — in fact, it’s his favorite thing in the world. He hides behind doors, floats through hallways, and shouts “BOO!” at every chance he gets. But in Gilly Ghost Loves Scaring the Most, written by Dr. Heather E. Robyn and illustrated by Zoe Mellors, we quickly learn that even the best intentions can sometimes go a little too far — and that kindness makes every friendship stronger.
The story follows Gilly as he bounces from one “boo” to the next, delighting in laughter and shrieks, until one day he realizes that not everyone enjoys being scared. Some of his friends are startled, upset, or even a little sad. That’s when Gilly begins to understand what boundaries really mean — and how respecting others’ feelings can make his “boo”s even brighter.
Dr. Robyn, a psychologist who specializes in children’s emotional development, has crafted a rhyming story that balances humor with heart. The verse is playful and bouncy — perfect for reading aloud — yet layered with meaning. It’s a wonderful way to start conversations about empathy, consent, and social awareness in a way that feels light, engaging, and safe for young readers.
Zoe Mellors’ illustrations are lively, colorful, and full of motion. Gilly’s wide-eyed expressions are both mischievous and endearing, and the backgrounds glow with Halloween charm — pumpkins, cobwebs, and softly lit scenes that keep the tone fun, not frightening.
What makes this book shine is how it transforms a familiar childhood habit — playful teasing — into an opportunity to learn about communication and respect. Gilly doesn’t stop being himself; he just learns to listen, care, and make space for others’ comfort. It’s a lesson that feels gentle, empowering, and deeply relevant for today’s kids.
View all my reviews
Halloween: Take the Dog Out by Lynne DempseyMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Trick-or-Treat Tails
Every dog owner knows that owning a dog out can lead to unexpected adventures — but in Lynne Dempsey’s Halloween: Take the Dog Out!, it turns into a parade of costumes, colors, and Halloween chaos!
This lively picture book is part of Dempsey’s popular Take the Dog Out! series, and it brings all the charm and rhythm fans have come to love. On Halloween night, the family’s eager pup dashes out the door, setting off a chain of funny, fast-paced moments that capture the joyful messiness of the holiday. There are pumpkins, costumes, candy spills, and just enough mischief to keep young readers laughing from start to finish.
Mandy Newham-Cobb’s bright, expressive illustrations perfectly match the story’s energy — the dog’s floppy ears, the swirling leaves, and the friendly neighborhood scenes all add up to a Halloween romp that feels both silly and cozy. The rhythmic text makes it easy to follow along, and young children will love shouting the recurring phrase “Take the dog out!” as they turn the pages.
What makes this book stand out is how it combines the excitement of Halloween with the everyday fun of caring for a pet. It’s a reminder that even a simple walk can turn into a big adventure when you see the world through a dog’s eyes.
Perfect for ages 3–7, dog lovers, classroom storytime, and families looking for a fun Halloween read that’s all treats, no tricks.
View all my reviews
Pumpkin Time with Riley and Ollie: A Rhyming Story for Babies & Toddlers | Beginner Book for Ages 0-5 and Early Readers by L. JoergA Fun, Rhyming Celebration of Autumn
L. Joerg’s Pumpkin Time with Riley and Ollie, illustrated by Robby Firmansyah, is a delightful, rhyming story perfect for babies, toddlers, and early readers. The story follows Riley and Ollie as they explore pumpkin patches, harvest activities, and fall festivities, making it a seasonal treat for young children. The rhythmic, easy-to-follow text keeps little listeners engaged while introducing them to the sights, sounds, and excitement of autumn.
This beginner-friendly book is ideal for early learning. The rhyme and repetition support language development, while the colorful, expressive illustrations provide visual cues that help children connect words to actions. It encourages observation, imagination, and curiosity, making it a wonderful read for shared storytime, classroom lessons, or independent exploration for young readers just starting their literary journey.
Pumpkin Time with Riley and Ollie is more than a festive story—it’s a gentle introduction to seasonal traditions and early literacy skills. Its playful tone, engaging illustrations, and easy rhymes make it a charming addition to any home or classroom library. This book captures the joy of autumn while nurturing a love of reading from the very first page.
View all my reviews
A BaKon Wrapped Halloween: A funny Halloween book for children by Janine Masi LandrethMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Squeals, Costumes, and Candy Chaos
Some picture books make you smile from the very first page — and A BaKon Wrapped Halloween absolutely does. BaKon isn’t your average Halloween hero; he’s a piglet with big ideas, an even bigger imagination, and the cutest snout you’ve ever seen.
The story follows BaKon as he prepares for Halloween night, determined to find the perfect costume. Each attempt brings a burst of humor and a gentle lesson about creativity and self-acceptance. It’s one of those stories that invites laughter but leaves a warm little echo afterward — that reminder that it’s okay to be exactly who you are, even in disguise.
Janine Masi Landreth’s writing has a rhythm that makes it perfect for reading aloud — light, playful, and just the right amount of silly. Leigh Ann Thompson’s illustrations make every page pop with energy and color. There’s so much personality in the way BaKon struts, twirls, and tumbles through his costume ideas — you can almost hear him giggling.
What I love most about this book is how it captures the joyful side of Halloween — not the scary part, but the creative, messy, candy-filled adventure that kids adore. It’s a celebration of imagination, friendship, and finding your own sparkle in a sea of costumes.
View all my reviews
Boo by The CaspersMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Ghostly Giggle
Not all ghosts go boo to scare — some do it just for fun. Boo by The Caspers is a charming Halloween picture book that captures the lighter side of spooky season. With only a few words per page, it invites readers into a playful world where a little ghost named Boo drifts through moonlit adventures, discovering the joy of simply being curious.
The book’s real magic lies in its visuals: expressive characters, warm twilight tones, and little background surprises that make every reread feel fresh. The minimal text lets children’s imaginations fill in the story — a perfect choice for young readers who love picture-led storytelling.
There’s nothing frightening here — only the cozy excitement of Halloween night, the laughter of friendly ghosts, and a reminder that “boo” doesn’t always have to mean “boo-hoo.”
Perfect for: bedtime reading in October, preschool storytime, and little ones who love friendly frights.
View all my reviews
Halloween in the Forest:: Halloween Hand-Drawn Children's Picture Book by Kathrine LepikMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Whimsy in the Woods
Halloween in the Forest by Kathrine Lepik feels like opening a handmade treasure — every page glows with the warmth of pencil lines and imagination. This hand-drawn picture book invites children into a cozy woodland world where animals prepare for Halloween night in their own delightful ways.
The story captures the anticipation and excitement of the holiday, but replaces fright with friendship and creativity. Instead of monsters or mayhem, young readers meet endearing forest creatures who decorate, share treats, and celebrate together beneath a silver moon. The illustrations — full of autumn leaves, soft fur textures, and flickering lanterns — give the book a nostalgic charm that feels personal and lovingly crafted.
Kathrine Lepik’s gentle storytelling reminds us that Halloween isn’t only about costumes and candy; it’s about imagination, togetherness, and finding magic in the everyday. With its detailed hand-drawn art and calm tone, Halloween in the Forest is perfect for bedtime reading on a crisp October evening.
Perfect for children ages 3–8, families who enjoy nature-themed stories, and classrooms looking for non-scary Halloween tales.
View all my reviews
The Lazy Old Cat and the HALLOWEEN Rat by Hendrik MaartenMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Purrfectly Spooky Surprise
Not every Halloween story needs ghosts or ghouls to capture the spirit of the season — sometimes, all it takes is a sleepy cat and a mischievous rat! The Lazy Old Cat and the HALLOWEEN Rat by Hendrik Maarten, illustrated by Estella, is a playful, gently spooky tale that blends humor, surprise, and a lesson about friendship in unexpected places.
The story follows an old, rather unmotivated cat whose quiet life is interrupted by a lively Halloween visitor — a cheeky rat with big ideas. What starts as a chase quickly turns into something more clever and kind, teaching readers that even the most unlikely pair can find common ground.
Estella’s illustrations are a treat: warm autumn hues, expressive animal faces, and cozy nighttime scenes bring the story’s humor and heart to life. The details — twinkling pumpkins, whiskers twitching in the moonlight — make every spread a delight for young readers to explore.
With its mix of gentle mischief and cozy Halloween atmosphere, The Lazy Old Cat and the HALLOWEEN Rat is ideal for children who enjoy funny stories with a touch of whimsy rather than fright. It’s a tale about curiosity, cleverness, and the joy of unexpected friendship — perfect for curling up with on a chilly October night.
Perfect for children ages 4–8, pet lovers, and families who prefer cozy Halloween reads over scary ones.
View all my reviews
Hendrix and Rocket: Halloween Hijinks: If your little ones delight in pups in costume and tales with tails, they’ll be charmed by this Halloween treat by Kristin HaynesMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Paws, Costumes, and Candy
If your idea of Halloween fun includes wagging tails, giggles, and a touch of mischief, Hendrix and Rocket: Halloween Hijinks by Kristin Haynes will instantly steal your heart. This sweet, funny picture book celebrates everything kids (and dogs!) love about the season — costumes, friendship, and the joy of adventure.
The story follows two adorable pups, Hendrix and Rocket, as they set out for a night of trick-or-treating and chaos in the most lovable way possible. Whether they’re trying on costumes, getting tangled in decorations, or sniffing out treats, their antics will have young readers laughing and cheering them on. It’s a lighthearted Halloween romp that perfectly captures the excitement of a big night out — from the pets’ perspective!
Kristin Haynes writes with warmth and rhythm, making it an ideal read-aloud for little listeners. The text is lively but comforting, and the humor lands gently — never over the top, but always endearing. The illustrations are colorful and expressive, filled with energy and motion that make each scene pop. You can almost feel the pups’ tails wagging right off the page.
What I especially love about Hendrix and Rocket: Halloween Hijinks is how it manages to feel festive without ever being spooky. It’s full of the fun side of Halloween — the laughter, the dressing up, the joy of exploring something new with your best friend.
View all my reviews
A Halloween Farty Party: The Perfect Halloween Bedtime Story for Kids Ages 3–8 | Spooky, Silly, and Full of Toots by Junia WondersMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Laughs over Scares
Let’s be honest — sometimes the best Halloween stories are the ones that make kids laugh so hard they forget to be scared! A Halloween Farty Party by Junia Wonders, with illustrations by Clarissa Corradin, is one of those gloriously silly picture books that turns spooky season into a full-blown giggle-fest.
In this tale, ghosts, witches, skeletons, and other Halloween favorites gather for a party that’s full of surprises — and toots! The rhyming text bounces along with musical rhythm, making it a joy to read aloud. Each line builds up to a cheeky twist that kids will see coming and still laugh at every single time.
Clarissa Corradin’s illustrations amplify the fun with expressive characters, bright pops of orange and purple, and just enough “spooky” atmosphere to keep things festive, not frightening. Together, the words and pictures create a playful story that celebrates laughter, silliness, and the kind of humor that feels wonderfully universal to children.
Junia Wonders proves again that laughter is the best kind of magic. A Halloween Farty Party is not just a funny read — it’s a reminder that Halloween doesn’t always need to be spooky; sometimes it’s better when it’s just downright stinky and silly!
Perfect for bedtime giggles, classroom storytime, and any kid who finds “toot jokes” endlessly funny (so, basically all of them).
View all my reviews
Cats on Halloween Night by Lindsay DeRolloMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Midnight Mischief: A Review of “Cats on Halloween Night” by Lindsay DeRollo
What happens when the moon is bright, pumpkins glow, and curious cats come out to play? Cats on Halloween Night by Lindsay DeRollo captures that magical, mischievous moment perfectly — turning a spooky night into a celebration of curiosity, friendship, and feline fun.
This delightful rhyming picture book follows a group of adventurous cats who sneak out to explore on Halloween night. There’s mystery in the air — rustling leaves, flickering lanterns, and glowing jack-o’-lantern smiles — but the tone stays cheerful and cozy throughout. DeRollo’s playful rhythm makes it a wonderful read-aloud, especially for young listeners who love repetition and rhyme.
Visually, the story shines with its moonlit atmosphere. The illustrations balance dark night tones with warm oranges and soft fur textures, creating that perfect “Halloween but not too scary” vibe. You can almost hear the cats’ paws padding softly through the leaves.
What makes Cats on Halloween Night so charming is its gentle spirit. It’s not about fright — it’s about discovery, imagination, and the wonder that comes when the world feels a little more magical than usual. It’s the kind of Halloween book that brings smiles, not screams.
View all my reviews
Bubble Head, Boo! Happy Clean Halloween! by Misty BlackMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Suds, Smiles, and Spooky Fun
If you think bath time and Halloween don’t mix, Bubble Head, Boo! Happy Clean Halloween! by Misty Black is here to prove you wrong! This clever, giggle-filled picture book combines the fun of spooky season with the everyday magic of getting clean — and somehow makes both even more delightful.
The story follows a little boy whose imagination runs wild in the tub. Surrounded by bubbles and toys, he transforms bath time into a Halloween adventure full of friendly ghosts, playful monsters, and cheerful chaos. Each page bursts with color and rhythm as the story bounces between spooky sounds (“Boo!”) and bubbly fun.
Misty Black has a wonderful gift for turning small moments into big, imaginative stories. Here, she captures the humor and excitement of childhood while sneaking in a gentle reminder about hygiene — without it ever feeling like a lesson. It’s all fun, energy, and silly charm.
The illustrations (vivid, soft-edged, and full of motion) make this book feel like a mini cartoon come to life. The characters’ expressions are full of joy and surprise, and the mix of Halloween details — pumpkins, bubbles, bats, and giggling ghosts — gives the whole book a friendly, festive feel.
What I love most about Bubble Head, Boo! is how it encourages creativity and play. It’s a reminder that imagination can turn even the simplest routines into moments of magic — especially when it’s Halloween night and there are bubbles everywhere.
View all my reviews
A Little SPOT on Halloween: A Story About Positive Pumpkins by Diane AlberMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Pumpkins, Positivity, and the Power of Kindness
Halloween often brings costumes, candy, and a touch of spookiness — but in Diane Alber’s A Little SPOT on Halloween: A Story About Positive Pumpkins, it also brings something even more special: kindness. This charming addition to Alber’s beloved Little SPOT series reminds children that they can be the “positive pumpkin” in any situation — whether it’s on the playground, at a costume party, or while sharing treats.
The story follows the familiar Little SPOT characters as they prepare for Halloween. Instead of focusing on tricks, they focus on positive actions — helping others, being kind, showing bravery, and spreading joy. Each colorful pumpkin represents a different emotion or virtue, turning Halloween into a playful celebration of empathy and self-awareness.
Diane Alber has a gift for taking big emotional concepts and making them feel simple, friendly, and fun. Her language is clear and rhythmic, making it easy for children to grasp how their choices and words can make a difference. Even very young readers will come away with a sense that positivity isn’t just a feeling — it’s something you create.
The illustrations are bright and expressive, perfectly capturing the cheerful Halloween spirit without ever crossing into “scary.” Every page feels like a burst of energy — pumpkins smiling, kids laughing, and colors that practically glow off the paper.
What makes A Little SPOT on Halloween so valuable is how it connects a festive, kid-favorite holiday with emotional growth. It’s a story about choosing kindness, celebrating uniqueness, and remembering that the best kind of Halloween magic is the kind we share.
View all my reviews
The Trick or Treat Checklist by Brittany PlumeriMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Halloween with Heart
Every child knows the thrill of Halloween night — costumes, candy, excitement, and a little bit of chaos. But The Trick or Treat Checklist by Brittany Plumeri adds something extra to that mix: a gentle reminder that the best treats of all are kindness, gratitude, and community.
This heartwarming picture book follows a pumpkin guide and a group of children preparing for their big night of trick-or-treating. They’re not just checking off the usual boxes — candy bucket, costume, flashlight — but also the important ones: remembering to say thank you, helping younger friends, and spreading smiles along the way. Through fun rhymes and colorful illustrations, the story transforms the holiday routine into a celebration of caring for others.
Plumeri’s writing is bright, rhythmic, and full of personality — perfect for reading aloud. The checklist makes it interactive, encouraging children to participate as they read (and even make their own version afterward). It’s the kind of story that inspires conversation: What would go on your Halloween checklist?
The illustrations are vibrant and inviting, bursting with orange, purple, and candy-colored fun. Each page feels alive with movement — kids dashing from door to door, laughter in the air, glowing pumpkins lighting the way. But beneath all the sparkle, there’s a lovely sense of togetherness — a reminder that kindness and thankfulness never go out of style.
What makes The Trick or Treat Checklist so special is that it takes one of the most exciting nights of the year and grounds it in something timeless: good manners, friendship, and heart. It’s both festive and meaningful — a balance that’s not easy to pull off, and Plumeri does it beautifully.
View all my reviews
Ruby the Rainbow Witch: A Picture-Perfect Rainbow Day: Fun and colorful alliteration story about friendship. by Kim AnnMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Hat for Every Heart
Some picture books just radiate joy — the kind of story that makes children smile before you even start reading. Ruby the Rainbow Witch: A Picture-Perfect Rainbow Day by Kim Ann, illustrated by Nejla Shojaie, is one of those books. It’s cheerful, musical, and bursting with kindness from cover to cover.
Ruby lives in a world that looks like pure candy-colored imagination. She spends her days making new friends, spreading happiness, and — most magically — giving each new friend a colorful rainbow hat that matches who they are inside. A bright hat for a shy creature, a brave one for a hesitant friend — each gift is her way of showing care and understanding.
The story is written in lively rhyme, full of alliteration and musical rhythm that make it a joy to read aloud. It’s the kind of book that naturally gets children repeating lines, giggling at the sounds, and trying to guess what color comes next. Beneath the sparkle, though, is a lovely reminder that small acts of kindness can change someone’s whole day.
Nejla Shojaie’s illustrations glow with warmth. The pages swirl with colors that feel alive — soft purples, golden yellows, and bright pinks that make Ruby’s world feel welcoming and magical. Each page feels like stepping into a celebration of creativity and friendship.
What makes Ruby the Rainbow Witch: A Picture-Perfect Rainbow Day so special is its heart. Ruby’s magic isn’t about spells or tricks — it’s about empathy, generosity, and joy. She shows children that being kind can be just as magical as waving a wand.
View all my reviews
From bubble baths full of ghosts to pumpkins that stay for Christmas, these 19 stories prove that Halloween doesn’t have to be scary to be spellbinding. They invite children to laugh, imagine, and grow — learning about courage, friendship, and self-expression along the way.
As the nights grow darker and the air turns crisp, I hope these books bring light, laughter, and a little bit of magic to your home or classroom. So light a candle, grab a cozy blanket, and get ready to explore a world of friendly frights and colorful delights.
Enjoyed this review? You can support my blog and artistic work here: Buy Me a Coffee.
