September brings cooler days, back-to-school routines and the first hints of spooky season. This month’s picks are filled with ghosts, gardens, pumpkins and plenty of laughs.
Whether your child is looking for a Halloween read or a story about friendship, community and celebrating what makes us unique, these books are perfect for starting fall with a fresh stack of stories.
The Haunted Playground
by R.J. Palacio
After the trick-or-treaters have gone home, ghosts gather at a very special playground to swing, slide and play. But when two human children unexpectedly arrive, the spooky fun takes a surprising turn. With playful rhymes and delightfully eerie illustrations, this Halloween story is more fun than frightening. Ages 4-8.
Growing Together
by Ruth Spiro
A child and a seedling take root in a neighborhood garden, where firefighters, chefs, shopkeepers and other community members work together to help it thrive. As flowers and vegetables grow, so do friendships and a sense of belonging. This warm, colorful celebration of teamwork shows young readers what can happen when a community comes together. Ages 4-8.
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The Pumpkin Thief
By Alice Hemming
Bird’s pumpkins are disappearing, and Squirrel is determined to catch the culprit. With footprints, peck marks and even a feather left behind, all the clues point to a pumpkin thief, but the truth may not be quite what it seems. Filled with fall fun and silly surprises, this seasonal mystery is a perfect pick for pumpkin season. Ages 4-8.
Penelope Rex vs. the New Kid
by Ryan T. Higgins
Penelope Rex is used to being the only seven-foot-tall, scale-covered student in her class. When a new kid arrives who is just as big and unusual as she is, Penelope struggles with no longer being the only one of her kind. This funny and relatable story explores jealousy, friendship and the realization that someone else’s uniqueness doesn’t make your own any less special. Ages 3-5.
This collection of books was curated by freelance writer Lori Orlinsky, an award-winning, bestselling children’s book author and industry expert who lives and breathes children’s books. She is the author of the Being Me series, including her 2025 book, Being Middle.
