As the spooky season approaches, it’s the perfect time to explore some engaging books that capture the spirit of this time. HarperCollins Children’s Books has released a fantastic selection of Halloween must-reads that are sure to entertain and inspire young readers. Here’s a round-up of some must-reads for families these ghostly festivities.
1. Paddington’s Trick or Treat
By Michael Bond, Illustrated by RW Alley
Release Date: 29th August 2024 | Price: £12.99 | Age: 3+
This new adventure features the beloved character Paddington Bear, embarking on a hilarious journey filled with the excitement of trick-or-treating. With charming illustrations and a heart-warming narrative, this book is perfect for younger readers. The audiobook version, narrated by Jim Broadbent, adds another layer of enjoyment. Paddington fans can also look forward to the upcoming film, Paddington in Peru, which is set to hit cinemas in November.
2. The Café at the Edge of the Woods
Written & Illustrated by Mikey Please
Release Date: 26th September 2024 | Price: £7.99 | Age: 4+
This imaginative picture book introduces readers to a whimsical café filled with mythical creatures and monstrous meals. Mikey Please, a BAFTA award-winning and Oscar-nominated animation director, brings his storytelling skills to the world of picture books for the first time. Early reviews highlight its originality, with notable praise from author Jon Klassen, who described it as a story he truly loves.
3. The Green-Fingered Witch
By Helen Docherty, Illustrated by Steven Lenton
Release Date: 29th August 2024 | Price: £7.99 | Age: 3+
In this delightful rhyming tale, young readers will discover the importance of embracing one’s unique strengths, as it shows that there’s a little bit of magic in everyone. The book’s charming illustrations and engaging story are perfect for autumn storytelling sessions. Created by award-winning duo Helen Docherty and Steven Lenton, this story is infused with seasonal themes of pumpkins and potions.
4. The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science
By Kate McKinnon, Illustrated by Alfredo Cáceres
Release Date: 10th October 2024 | Price: £14.99 | Age: 9+
From the talented Kate McKinnon, known for her work on Saturday Night Live and her role as ‘Weird Barbie’ in the recent Barbie film, comes a quirky adventure about three sisters, a ravenous worm, and a mysterious mad scientist. This book promises a mix of humour and creativity, making it an entertaining read for children aged nine and above.
5. Chronicles of Whetherwhy: The Age of Enchantment
By Anna James, Illustrated by David Wyatt
Release Date: 12th September 2024 | Price: £14.99 | Age: 9+
This first book in a new fantasy series is aimed at readers who enjoy stories filled with magic and monsters. Anna James, the acclaimed author of the PAGES & CO series, offers an imaginative narrative that has been praised for its storytelling. This title is expected to resonate with fans of similar fantasy works such as Nevermoor and Greenwild.
6. Skulduggery Pleasant: The Haunted House on Hollow Hill
By Derek Landy
Release Date: 26th September 2024 | Price: £14.99 | Age: 11+
Based on a recently launched narrative podcast, this latest instalment in the Skulduggery Pleasant series promises thrilling adventures. With over six million copies sold, the series has a loyal following, and this new book is expected to captivate both returning fans and new readers alike with its unique blend of humour and horror.
7. Silent Sister
By Megan Davidhizar
Release Date: 15th August 2024 | Price: £8.99 | Age: 14+
For older teens, Silent Sister delivers a gripping YA thriller with unexpected twists. This book is ideal for readers who enjoy suspenseful stories akin to those of Karen McManus and Holly Jackson. Early reviews describe it as “twisted and suspenseful,” making it a compelling choice for Halloween reading.