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Halloween Books for Middle School
The Halloween Tree by Ray Bradbury
Age rating: 12+
Scare rating: 5/10
This book follows a group of children who set out on a supernatural journey through time and space to discover the origins of Halloween. They meet various historical figures and learn about different cultural beliefs and practices related to the holiday.
The book is a mix of adventure, fantasy, and horror, with a focus on the power of storytelling and the importance of honoring traditions.
Night Gardener by Johathan Auxier
Age rating: 10+
Scare rating: 7/10
The Night Gardener tells the creepy story of two siblings, Molly and Kip, who start working at a creepy, old house as servants. They soon discover that the family living there is cursed by a malevolent spirit that appears as a frightening tree.
As they investigate, they unravel the dark secrets of the house and its inhabitants. The book is a spooky and suspenseful tale of mystery, magic, and redemption.
Legand of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving
Age rating: 12+
Scare rating: 4/10
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is a classic American tale about a schoolteacher named Ichabod Crane who falls in love with a wealthy farmer's daughter, Katrina Van Tassel. But his rival, the brawny and superstitious Brom Bones, is determined to scare him away by telling him the legend of the Headless Horseman.
The book is a humorous and suspenseful story with a creepy twist ending and a haunting atmosphere.
This book is also a horror movie directed by Tim Burton featuring Johnny Depp.
Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
Age rating: 11+
Scare rating: 3/10
The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a fantasy novel that follows a young girl named Luna, who lives in a world where every year, the people of her village offer a baby to a witch as a sacrifice. However, the witch, Xan, is actually kind and cares for the babies, taking them to a loving family in a distant town.
When Luna accidentally consumes some of Xan's magic, she gains extraordinary magical powers and sets out on a quest to uncover the truth about her past. The book is a charming and thought-provoking tale about love, sacrifice, and the power of stories.
Witches of Willow Cove by Josh Roberts
Age rating: 12+
Scare rating: 5/10
The Witches of Willow Cove is a supernatural mystery novel that centers around a group of teenagers who discover they have inherited magical abilities from their ancestors, who were accused of witchcraft in the town of Willow Cove.
When strange things start happening in the town, they must use their powers to uncover the dark secrets of their past and protect their families and friends. The book is a spooky and fun adventure with themes of friendship, identity, and acceptance.
Monstrous: The Lore, Gore and Science Behind Your Favorite Monsters by Carlyn Beccia
Age rating: 13+
Scare rating: 2/10
Monstrous is a non-fiction book that explores the history, mythology, and science behind some of the world's most iconic monsters, such as Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Mummy.
The book is filled with fascinating facts, illustrations, and even some hands-on experiments that help readers understand the cultural and psychological roots of these creatures.
The book is a great choice for horror fans who enjoy learning about the science and history behind their favorite monsters.
The Forgotten Girl by India Hill Brown
Age rating: 12+
Scare rating: 4/10
The Forgotten Girl is a supernatural mystery novel that follows a young girl named Iris, who discovers a ghost haunting her apartment building. As she investigates the ghost's past, she uncovers a dark secret that threatens to destroy her own family. The book is a spooky and suspenseful tale with themes of friendship, family, and redemption.
The Book of Hallowe'en: The Origin and History of Halloween by Ruth Edna Kelly
Age rating: 13+
Scare rating: 1/10
The Book of Hallowe'en is a non-fiction book that explores the origins and history of the Halloween holiday, from its Celtic roots to its modern-day traditions. The book is filled with fascinating facts, stories, and illustrations that help readers understand the cultural and historical significance of Halloween. The book is a great choice for younger readers who are curious about the history and folklore behind the holiday.
Empty Grave by Jonathan Stroud
Age rating: 12+
Scare rating: 5/10
Middle graders are plunged into a spine-tingling world of ghosts and mystery as Lockwood & Co. continue their ghost-hunting adventures. With an eerie blend of supernatural encounters, ancient secrets, and nail-biting suspense, this installment keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Lockwood and his team through a series of chilling events that lead them to confront the ominous titular Empty Grave.