Best Children's Halloween Books of 2025

The Monster at the End of This Book is a delightful children's interactive adventure book, written by Jon Stone and illustrated by Michael Smollin. The lovable Grover begs readers not to turn the pages, warning them that there is a monster at the end of the book. However, children cannot resist and turn the pages to find out who the real monster is. This book is a classic and has been entertaining children for generations. The illustrations are colorful and engaging, and the story is full of humor and suspense. Overall, The Monster at the End of This Book is a must-read for children and parents alike.

Peek-a Who? by Nina Laden is a delightful board book that is perfect for babies and toddlers. The book features colorful illustrations and simple rhyming texts that encourage children to guess what is hiding behind the die-cut windows on each page. From a mooing cow to a spooky ghost, the book keeps youngsters guessing until the surprise ending. The book also includes a mirror insert on the final page, which adds a touch of interactivity and helps little ones learn about themselves. Overall, Peek-a Who? is a charming and engaging book that is sure to become a favorite among young readers.

Coraline by Neil Gaiman is a New York Times bestseller and a Newbery Medal-winning book that tells the story of a young girl who discovers a door to another house that is strangely similar to her own, but better. However, things quickly turn dark when she finds another mother and father who want her to stay with them forever. Coraline must use her wit and courage to save herself and return to her ordinary life. This book is a modern ghost story that is both inventive and scary, suitable for readers aged 8 to 12 and adults who enjoy a smart spooky read. Overall, Coraline is a magnificently creepy and original masterpiece that young readers will love and remember for many moons.

Creepy Carrots! (Creepy Tales!) is a Caldecott Honor–winning picture book that tells the story of Jasper Rabbit, who loves Crackenhopper Field carrots until they start following him. The book is illustrated by Peter Brown and perfectly paired with Aaron Reynold’s text. The illustrations are atmospheric, using a black border around the art to add to the moodiness, and the panels in varying sizes and multiple perspectives keep pace with the story. This age-appropriate horror story takes children's fears seriously and offers them an escape through genuine comic relief. Overall, this is a cleverly designed book that delivers a spot-on parody of a paranoid thriller.

The New York Times bestseller I Spy Spooky Night: A Book of Picture Riddles is a fun and spooky exploration of a haunted house with 13 spectacular photographs. Kids of all ages will enjoy solving creepy riddles as they search for mice, spiders, candles, bats, jack-o'-lanterns, bones, and more. The book features rhyming puzzles with eerie objects to find and a brain twister riddle section at the back. The author, Walter Wick, is the photographer of the international bestselling I Spy series. This book is a must-have addition to any Halloween collection and is perfect for children who enjoy a challenge.

Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler is a delightful story of a witch and her cat who make new friends while flying on a broomstick. The wind blows away the witch's hat, bow, and wand, but three helpful animals find them and ask for a ride on the broom in return. The question is, will there be enough room for all of them? This heartwarming tale of friendship, inclusivity, and quick wits is perfect for Halloween celebrations and family read-alouds. The witty illustrations and effective use of brilliant colors make it a surefire hit for children.

Little Blue Truck's Halloween: A Halloween Book for Kids is a large, sturdy board book that celebrates Halloween with Little Blue Truck and his animal friends. The book features lift-the-flaps that reveal each animal's Halloween costume. The illustrations are richly rendered and conjure up a sense of nostalgia that befits Little Blue Truck's vintage looks. The book is a great addition to the beloved Little Blue Truck series, and it takes a bit of the mystery and fear out of Halloween costumes for young readers. Overall, this book is a fun and engaging read for young children.

"Go Away, Big Green Monster!" by Ed Emberley is an interactive children's book that has sold over 1.3 million copies. The book is a fun and silly way to help children overcome their bedtime fears. The book's innovative die-cut pages allow children to watch as the Big Green Monster grows and then disappears as they turn the pages. Emberley's use of color and design is striking, and the simple story is perfect for young children. Overall, "Go Away, Big Green Monster!" is a delightful book that is both entertaining and helpful in teaching children to master their fears through play and imagination.

This children's beginner reader book, "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Chick!", is a hilarious Easter version of the classic song. The story follows an old lady who swallows a chick, some straw, an egg, some candy, a basket, and a bow. The rhyming text and funny illustrations are sure to keep young readers engaged. The book is part of the bestselling "There Was an Old Lady" series illustrated by Jared Lee. Overall, this book is a fun and entertaining read for kids during the Easter season.

The children's book "How to Catch a Monster" by Adam Wallace and illustrated by Andy Elkerton is a fun and inventive read-aloud about conquering fears and making friends with the strangest creatures. The rhyming text flows well, and the bright illustrations are giggle-inducing, especially when the monster does something unexpected. This book is perfect for parents, educators, and children looking for a silly and spooky story that reminds us that things aren't always as scary as they seem. "How to Catch a Monster" is a great addition to the New York Times and USA Today bestselling How to Catch series, and it's a perfect Christmas gift for kids.