Witches, ghouls, pumpkins and haunted castles are a-plenty in these 10 Halloween stories for children. Enjoy reading them together with your children to get into the Halloween spirit – ask your nanny or babysitter to read them too!
1. “The Ghost Prison” by Joseph Delaney
With brilliant illustrations from Scott M Fischer, The Ghost Prison will keep children aged 9 and up on the edge of their seats. The story follows Billy, a young prison guard, who encounters some terrifying inmates.
2. “A Dark, Dark Tale” by Ruth Brown
If your little one loves cats, then this is the Halloween story for them. This ‘pur-fect’ bedtime tale follows a black cat’s wanderings through mysterious woods and houses.
3. “Cake Girl” by David Lucas
A story that tells a tale of magic, witches…and cake! Enjoy the colourful illustrations and giggle-worthy moments when a Witch, alone on her birthday, creates a magical Cake Girl to dance and sing and do all her chores.
4. “The Worst Witch” By Jill Murphy
This book is a great Halloween read for primary and young secondary school children. Mildred Hubble, everyone’s favourite Academy for Witches student, heads off into some disastrous adventures. If your children really love the book, then have a look for the TV series too!
5. “Halloween“ By DK Publishing
This board book features all sorts of Halloween treats and creatures sticking out from a pumpkin. As you turn the pages, each item is revealed. Some are scary and others are plain silly. This book is perfect for infants and toddlers.
6. “Funnybones“ By Janet and Allan Ahlberg
These funny skeletons have lots of brilliant stories to tell. From Bump in the Night to Shake Rattle and Roll, there’s lots of classics to be enjoyed. Funnybones is ideal for children just learning to read.
7. “Demon Dentist” By David Walliams
This bestselling children’s story will have you and the children in fits of giggles! With creepy villains and strange happenings, it’s a great Halloween read but you can enjoy it the whole year round.
8. “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” By Charles M. Schulz
This all-age pleaser is an enduring classic featuring the Peanuts characters you and your kids have come to know and love.
9. “The Demon Headmaster” by Gillian Cross
Lloyd, Harvey and Dinah plan to overthrow the creepy demon Headmaster. Their attempts lead to lots of thrilling adventures and plenty of cliff-hanger moments.
10. “Groosham Grange” by Anthony Horowitz
After being expelled from school, David Elliot’s parents send him away to Groosham Grange. Set in Norfolk, this creepy tale follows David as his new school reveals lots of horrible secrets.
