I grew up on Casper the friendly ghost. I’m all for the friendly ghosts vs scary ghosts when it comes to picture books for kids. Actually, I’ve got a thing for Halloween books in general so this week, I’m bringing you ghost books for kids.
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Ghost Picture Books
We Are Already Haunting Here! by Gideon Sterer is the story of a ghost setting off to find its own place to haunt. But, it seems everywhere the ghost turns is already haunted. Can it find a place of its own?
Home is where the haunt is in Leonard Builds a Haunted House by Mike Ciccotello. Leonard’s family has to load the Boo-Haul and move due to a new development. Can Leonard build the perfect haunted house?
To Catch a Ghost by Rachel Michelle Wilson is the story of the new kid at school trying to find an extraordinary show and tell specimen. There’s a lot that goes into find the elusive ghostly creature. In the end, our new student catches more than a show and tell story.
Have you ever thought the grass is greener on the other side? Our main character thinks that might be the case. Big Boo thinks trading Little Boo for another sibling might be best. But, is it really? The illustrations are so fun in Little Boo by Maddie Frost.
The Grumpy Ghost Upstairs by Mamiko Shiotani is a beautifully illustrated book about new friendships. Though our main character ghost enjoys being alone, it turns out meeting a new friend can be enjoyable too.
When Aggie discovers there is a ghost living in the house, she needs to set some ground rules. But, it turns out the ghost isn’t so good at following rules. After the ghost leaves, Aggie decides to make one more rule that is a win win for them both. Check out Aggie and the Ghost by Matthew Forsythe.
In Gustavo the Shy Ghost by Flavia Z. Drago, a shy ghost struggles with finding the courage to make friends. But, he decides to share his passion with others and in turn, introduces himself to a whole new group of friends.
I even created some book activities to go with this book.—> Gustavo the Shy Ghost Book Activities
Get ready to count some ghosts as you sing along to this story. This one is fun for story time and to use with props. Check out Five Little Ghosts by Lily Murray.
The Little Ghost Who Lost Her Boo! by Elaine Bickell is the story of a little ghost who has lost her boo. As she searches all night and into the day she finally turns to us the readers to help her find her boo. Little ones will love the participation in this book and guessing which animal is making which sound that rhymes with boo.
The Ghosts Go Scaring by Chrissy Bozik is to the tune, “The Ants Go Marching.” The kids will love to sing along and you can also practice counting up to ten.
We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt by Susan Pearson is a take on the popular We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. While searching for a ghost the children go squish-squash-skuooshing through a swamp and rustle-rustle-rat-a-tattling through a cornfield. The book is full of rhythm that begs for children to act out the story parts.
The Ghosts Went Floating by Kim Norman is sung to the tune, “The Ants Go Marching.” Count all the way to ten with this one.
Printable Book List of Ghostly Reads
Grab a printable book list you can download, print, and take to the library with you.
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More Halloween Books to Read Aloud
Halloween Books for Preschoolers