Genre

The poems in this classic collection feature vampires, trolls, ghouls, skeletons, and more. Evocative descriptions, such as the “desiccated limbs” of a witch and the “matted hair and jaws that tear” of a werewolf will give readers goosebumps. Chilling illustrations by Arthur Lobel feature the fearsome creatures and often include wandering children unaware of their gruesome fate. While the poems may not be scary enough to give kids actual nightmares, they’re still creepy enough to remind readers that monsters can be deadly. Recommended for ages 9–12.

A brave girl named Otilla runs away and finds an abandoned mansion in the woods. There, she meets a talking skull hiding from something spooky that visits the house each night. Jon Klassen’s illustrations create a somber and eerie atmosphere, and his sparse writing allows the reader to imagine their own explanations for the mysteries within this old folktale. Recommended for ages 6–9.

When she decides to look for her biological father, Addie never expected to be launched into the world of famous luchadores. Recommended for ages 9–12.

Maisie is feeling hopeless when she hurts her leg and can no longer do her ballet training. Over winter break, her family takes a trip along the coast, near the Makah community where her mother grew up, and Maisie's dark feelings continue to grow. Maisie and her family must meet these challenging times with patience and love. Recommended for ages 9–12.