With Halloween right around the corner, a fantastic way to get into the spirit is to read a Halloween book with your nieces and nephews.  The best Halloween picture books mix vibrant colors with spooky tales, sparking little imaginations and stirring up big excitement for an exciting night of trick-or-treating.

There are so many wonderful books a Savvy Auntie will appreciate.  Here are just a few suggestions to get you started:



The Witch with a Twitch
By Layn Marlow
Illustrated by Joelle Dreidemy

Willa is not your ordinary scary witch. In fact, she is quite the opposite. She quivers in fright at the sight of every creepy, crawly critter, much to the chagrin of her beloved cat Kitch.  But the endearing witch learns face her fears head-on when she finds Kitch in danger. A happy ending to a not-so-scary story is perfect for little ones who get the Halloween jitters.



Goodnight Goon
By Michael Rex
 
Goodnight Moon may be the quintessential bedtime story, but you may want to read the parody, Goodnight Goon, earlier in the day. A cold gray tomb with a black lagoon replaces the cozy green room and all of its creature comforts. And then enters the Goon who does everything in his power to prevent the werewolf from falling asleep. Savvy Aunties and their little ones who are familiar with the original will especially enjoy this spooky take on a classic tale.



Los Gatos Black on Halloween
By Marisa Montes
Illustrated by Yuyi Morales
 
Spanish words and phrases are interjected throughout this rhyming Halloween story.  Las brujas, los monstrous, and many other creepy Halloween creatures attend a Halloween Ball not meant for the easily frightened. So snuggle up and enjoy this delightful Halloween story and teach your nieces and nephews a new language along the way.



Too Many Pumpkins
By Linda White
Illustrated by Megan Lloyd
 
After a comical mishap, Rebecca Estelle finds it impossible to rid her property of the pumpkins she so despises. Yet not wanting to waste the (albeit annoying) abundance, she finds a creative way to turn the situation into a positive experience for the whole town.  This colorfully illustrated tale has a good moral and offers lots of great recipe ideas for pumpkins.



The Hallo-Weiner
By Dav Pilkey

True to his humorous form, Dav Pilkey tickles the funny bone of young readers with his story about Oscar the dachshund.  The poor dog is subject to incessant teasing due to his short stature, and the situation is further exacerbated with his ridiculous Halloween costume. When Oscar rises to a challenge by performing a heroic deed, children learn that they can overcome any shortfall.

What are YOUR nieces and nephews' favorite Halloween books, Savvy Auntie? Share them with us, please!