Halloween is the most awesome holiday. I am known for going overboard for a costume (two and a half hours for hair and makeup anyone?) and
scarfing down candy. But I also like the fun books that come out of it. Since this year, things are a little different and if you are not going to be able to (or do not want to) go on a traditional trick-or-treating night, I suggest finding these books and starting a reading treat night.
Goblin Moon by Jacqueline Rogers This book has a bit of a twist to the Halloween story. The characters go out to find the goodies, but the goblins come out too. And they are not into treats; no, they want to do tricks and make mischief! Yet, the only way to get rid of them, our young heroine must make a great sacrifice: her treats come to the rescue. A cute ending (one good deed leads to a another) adorably detailed illustrations, modern sentiments and a bit of old school magic, this is a treat for all.
I like cats. And it seems most cats like me. However, not all cats fit all people and we see that in Wanted: Witch’s Cat: Apply Within by Joy H. Davidson, This is a funny story about finding the right home to fit your needs and the right friend at the right time. Nikki Slade Robinson’s illustrations are quirky, realistic and have a treasure trove of “funness” to look at.
When I started reading The Ghosts Go Marching by Claudia H Boldt I just about peed my pants (yeah sorry about that visual) as I giggled and
even really laughed way too loud out loud. The familiar “Ants go Marching” rhyme now comes with a spooky, Halloween holiday spin. The ghosts, robots and more march along singing and doing funny things. The art is goofy but not childish or unpleasant. It has a mix of classic and modern feeling to it. The colors and details are perfectly complimentary to the text. And it comes in a board book format for those little hands.
Another board book, but one that will grow as your child does, but at the same time keep the adults attention is, Little Poet Edgar Allan Poe: Nevermore! by Kate Coombs with Carme Lemniscates doing illustrations (which are just amazing and need to be seen/experienced as I cannot not do them justice). All I have to say was, where was this in English class? It takes a few lines from the poem and breaks it down to the very basic understanding (I finally get it! He told the bird to fly off… okay my words, but same idea). The original lines are mixed with the “translation” allowing this book to grow with the child and the EAP fan can get in on the action too!
And I will do a plug for my workplace: if you got to websites like the Northshire Bookstore has, they have more titles plus our phone number so you can call us and get even more recommendations!!