The Best Not-So-Spooky Read Alouds

Here’s a list of the best not-so-spooky read-alouds for Halloween. What makes these books different from other book recommendation lists is they are focused on friendship, perseverance, and bravery and are books that are fairly new releases.

At the bottom of the post is a free download to Halloween-themed writing pages.

The Witchling’s Wish by Sarah Massini

Here’s a list of the best not-so-spooky read-alouds for Halloween. What makes these books different from other book recommendation lists is they are focused on friendship, perseverance, and bravery and are books that are fairly new releases.

The Witchling’s Wish by Lu Fraser is a spellbinding tale about a witch that just wants one thing in the world… a friend. She goes on a journey to collect the ingredients to conjure a friend. Since the book is poetic and the language is whimsical, it makes it a fun read-aloud.

Sir Simon: Super Scarer by Cale Atkinson

Sir Simon: Super Scarer is a professional ghost that gets the gig of his dreams: haunting an old house, BUT there’s one problem. He doesn’t like chores. Luckily, he makes a human friend that he tricks into helping him. This funny and clever book is about the unlikely friendship between two unlikely people. Your students will appreciate the book’s humor and the witty dialogue.

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Leo: A Ghost Story by Marc Barnett

I read Leo: A Ghost Story every year because it’s THAT good! It’s about a lonely ghost that wants a friend. So, he sets off on an adventure to find one and gains much more. I love this tale of friendship, bravery, and imagination. As a bonus, it’s illustrated by the incredibly talented Christian Robinson.

Gustavo: A Shy Ghost by Flavia Drago

Most ghosts are scary, brave, or brash, but not Gustavo The Shy Ghost by Flavia Drago. Gustavo has a lot of talents and can do all kinds of ghost things, but he struggles with making friends because he’s shy. This book’s illustrations are stunning, and the story is a delightful and relatable lesson on making friends.

Leila the Perfect Witch by Flavia Drago

No one is great at everything, except for Leila The Perfect Witch. She excels at fast flying, is cunning, and can even shape-shift. But there’s one thing she can’t do: cook. Luckily, she has three sisters that can teach her. This book teaches students how important it is to try your best even when you think you can’t accomplish it. This story is enchanting and entertaining.