A List Of Halloween Books For Everyone

Here I will be listing a variety of books about Halloween, or other books that may be interesting for those of us that are into the whole subject surrounding Halloween. I will add to this list as other books are brought to my attention. Expect it to be expanding on a continuing basis.

Books About Halloween Collectibles

Vintage Halloween Collectibles BookVintage Halloween Collectibles: Identification & Price Guide, by Mark Ledenbach, Krause Publications, July 2007, 2nd Edition, Paperback:

This is one of those must haves for the Halloween collector. Jam packed with photos! This 256 page gem has approximately 1600 items listed with 1100 color photos. It also has a scarcity index of collectible items. This book focuses on some of the most gorgeous and rare Halloween items ever produced!

My Rating: 

Timeless Halloween CollectiblesTimeless Halloween Collectibles, 1920 To 1949: A Halloween Reference Book From The Beistle Company Archive With Price Guide, by Claire M. Lavin. Schiffer Publications, December 2004, Paperback:

This is one gorgeous book featuring all those sought after vintage decorations produced by the Beistle Company, from 1920-1949. Some of these collectibles are very scarce, so this is a great way to take a look at them. I personally own this book.

My Rating: 

Halloween In America BookHalloween in America by Stuart Schneider, November 2010, Paperback:

This is an excellent book about all thing memorable about Halloween, from the Autumn colors, falling leaves in the crisp October air, as well as all the neat things we associate with Halloween.

The main part of this book  features collectible items like Games and Toys, Decorations, Costumes, Hats and Masks, Noisemakers, Postcards, Invitations, Trick Or Treat Bags, Lanterns, Figurines and Candy Containers.

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Halloween Collectables: A Price GuideHalloween Collectables: A Price Guide, by Dan & Pauline Campanelli, L-W Books, June 1995, Paperback

Great reference book covering a variety of Halloween collectibles.

 

 

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Halloween Favorites In Plastic bookHalloween Favorites in Plastic, by Charlene Pinkerton, Schiffer Books, May 1998, Paperback:

This is a nice book that features all those old plastic Halloween collectibles we all love.  I personally own a copy of this book and recommend it highly!

 

My Rating: 

Collectible Halloween With ValuesCollectible Halloween With Values (A Schiffer Book for Collectors) by Pamela E. Apkarian-Russell, August 1997, Paperback:

This book features a variety of different items from the 1920’s to the 1990’s. It does not have the crisp photography as some of the other books on the subject, but would probably be a welcome addition to your Halloween library. I would call it average as far as quality goes. I do own this book.

My Rating: 

Halloween Collectible Decorations and Games bookHalloween: Collectible Decorations and Games by Pamela E. Apkarian-Russell, October 1999, Paperback:

This wonderful book features arcade machines and mechanical figures, noisemakers, Winsch Publishing postcards, fortune telling games, folk art and table decorations. I have this book in my own personal collection. This is a neat book!

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Other Halloween and Related Non Fiction

Halloween_Fun_BookHalloween Fun-Scary-Spooky Fun For The Entire Family by Dede Dyer, Kindle Edition

I must say I thoroughly enjoyed this little book! Packed full of information from beginning to end. Dede offers us everything from a little Halloween history, pumpkin carving tutorials, safety tips for trick-or-treat, party themes and fun for both children as well as adults, games you can play at your party and so much more! Saving the best for last, there is an excellent resource guide at the end that will blow you away! This book is filled with wonderful illustrations throughout! I can’t say one thing negative about what this book has to offer. Do yourself a favor and get it today. If you love Halloween half as much as I do, pick this one up! A must have for your Kindle reader.

My Rating: 

Halloween-Pictorial-AmericaHalloween (Pictorial America) by James Lantos (editor), Applewood Books, 2009, Paperback:

Presented in full color paperback form, this book features over 60 images that are culled from historical sources. This includes an array of photographs, prints, illustrations and paintings. This book is a visual ride down memory lane for those interested in vintage Halloween. Filled with witches, bats, skeletons, black cats, jack-o-lanterns, and all things that go bump in the night!

 

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Solitary-WitchSolitary Witch: The Ultimate Book Of Shadows For The New Generation, by Silver Ravenwolf, February, 2003

This book is written by a renowned Wiccan elder. Grounded in the magical world of centuries past, this book features writing that is geared toward young adults. It is divided into categories and arranged alphabetically. It is arranged so the reader can skip over parts they already know. If you are interested in becoming a student of Wicca, pick this one up!

 

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Halloween-EncyclopediaThe Halloween Encyclopedia, by Lisa Morton, Apr 27, 2011

This is the first major encyclopedic reference dedicated to Halloween and other related holidays such as Guy Fawkes Day and the Day of the Dead. An excellent reference book, and spooktacular in every way, this is a must-have for the Halloween fanatic! It is available in hardcover as well as paperback.

 

 

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Greatest-MagicianThe Last Greatest Magician in the World: Howard Thurston Versus Houdini & the Battles of the American Wizards, by Jim Steinmeyer, August, 2012, Paperback.

Sure, we all know who Harry Houdini is. If you have never heard of the great magician, Howard Thurston, you are really missing out. If you love the old magicians from past history half as much as I do, you have got to read this great book! I personally own this one, and I love it!

 

 

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Houdini-Secret-LifeThe Secret Life of Houdini: The Making of America’s First Superhero, By William Kalush and Larry Sloman, October, 2007, Atria Books, Paperback

There have been many biographical accounts written about the famous magician and escape artist, Harry Houdini. This happens to be one of the better ones. This books seeks out the man behind the myth. This book presents an intimate and spellbinding narrative of the real man. I own this book and recommend it highly.

 

 

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Magic-Posters-BookMagic 1400’s-1950’s, By Jim Steinmeyer, Mike Caveney, Ricky Jay, Taschen Books, November, 2009, Hardcover

To say this is a fabulous book on the history of magic, would be understating it. This book is a behemoth, a giant of epic proportions. Not only in size, but in the depth of information contained within. Wow! I personally own this book. It is no doubt one of the best books in my personal collection, and I have many. I actually bought a book stand to set this baby on because of its huge size. A thing of wonder to behold, grab it if you can. You won’t regret it! It is lavishly illustrated not only with historic photos, but huge reproductions of the vintage magic posters and billboards of the golden age!

My Rating: 5star

Halloween-Merry-MakingHalloween Merrymaking, An Illustrated Celebration Of Fun, Food, And Frolics From Halloweens Past, By Diane C. Arkins, September, 2004, Hardcover

This is a great book that depicts many of the things we still hold dear about those old, vintage Halloweens of long ago. I don’t know about you, but I am really attracted to vintage Halloween decor as well as traditions. This book covers those things from the 1870’s through the 1930’s. The true golden age of Halloween. A wonderful tribute to the festivities of yesteryear!

 

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Halloween Books For Children

Grandma-vs-ZombiesGrandma vs. Zombies (The Family Avengers) (Volume 1) By J. B. O’Neil, March 25, 2013

This fun book will have you and your kids, or grand kids laughing until you hurt! This book is perfect for tweens in the 9 to 12 age range. I’m a grandma, and I have got to say I enjoyed it immensely.  The title says it all, and it is filled with some of the best illustrations I have ever seen!

 

 

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Room_On_BroomRoom On The Broom, By Julia Donaldson, Illustrate By Axel Scheffler, August, 2003.

Offering a gentle lesson in cooperation, this book is great for Halloween or anytime! It is a lightweight, humorous story about a generous witch and animal friends. Is there room on the broom for one more? This book is rated as great for kids ages 4 and up.

 

 

My Rating: 5star

Night_Before_HalloweenThe Night Before Halloween, By Natasha Wing, August, 1999

A fun and spooky take on Clement Moore’s classic poem. Monster’s come face to face with trick-or-treaters on the night before Halloween. This book will be a hit with ages 4 and up!

 

 

 

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Halloween_NightHalloween Night, By Marjorie Dennis Murray, Illustrated By Brandon Dorman, July 2010

This book is yet another wonderful adaptation of Twas the Night Before Christmas. This features all those Halloween ghoulies that kids will love! Ghosts, witches, black cats, bats, zombies, mummies-you name it! A fun fright fest suited for ages 4 and up.

 

 

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Fancy-NancyFancy Nancy: Halloween… Or Bust!, By Jane O’Connor, Illustrated By Robin Priess Glasser

Nancy demonstrates what Halloween is all about-dressing up! Part of the best selling Fancy Nancy series, your child will fall in love with this book! Best suited for ages 4 and up!

 

 

 

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By-the-Light-of-the-Halloween-MoonBy The Light Of The Halloween Moon, By Caroline Stutson, Illustrated By Kevin Hawkes, August, 2012 

This is a cute tale about a little girl who dangles her feet over a bridge where all kinds of creatures dwell underneath. Filled with ghosts, cats and witches! This book is great for children ages 6 and up.

 

 

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Cliffords_HalloweenClifford’s Halloween, By Norman Bridwell, July, 2011.

Fans of Clifford, the Big Red Dog, are sure to love this delightful Halloween romp. What costume do you think Clifford will choose this year? Pick up this whimsical book and find out! This book is suitable for ages 3 and up.

 

 

 

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Scary-Scary-HalloweenScary, Scary Halloween, By Eve Bunting, Illustrated By Jan Brett, Published September, 1988

This one is an oldie, but certainly a goody! The illustrations are fabulous! Used copies of this book can still be found at reasonable prices. Pick one up while you still can! Suitable for kids ages 4 and up.

 

 

 

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Big_PumpkinBig Pumpkin, By Erica Silverman and S. D. Schindler, September, 1995

Another oldie, and another goody, your kids or grand kids will be sure to enjoy this one! This is about a witch that has a humongous pumpkin growing in her garden. She really wants to make a pumpkin pie out of it. Only one problem, it is to big to get it off the vine. Will any of her spooky friends succeed in making it happen? Great read for children ages 4 and up.

 

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Halloween Books For Tweens and Teens

bernie_blok The Misadventures of Bernie Blok, By S.T. Sinclaire, Spetember, 2016

Self-described klutz, Bernie moves to the country and is eager to make new friends. Despite warnings form his pal, Ricky he can’t resist, even when one initiation prank after another goes awry until Bernie finds himself in not only a dangerous situation but a genuine ghost story! It is both funny and scary as the eleven-year old tries to hold on for dear life as well as hold on to his sanity. While he awaits his fate, he takes the reader on a journey leading up to how he found himself in such a predicament. A real treat!

 

 

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13-On-Halloween

13 On Halloween, By Laura A. H. Elliott, September, 2011, Paperback

Roxie has always desired to be the popular girl. Her wish comes true, and she decides it’s not what it’s cracked up to be. She has her first ever birthday party and invites all her friends. A great book that deals with tween / teen angst. This is a great book for girls in that age range.

 

 

My Rating: 5star

 

Vampire-Diaries-The-AwakeningThe Awakening, (The Vampire Diaries, Vol. 1), By L. J. Smith, August, 2009

First in the series of books based on the popular TV series. The story follows a couple of vampire brothers who are in love with the same girl. I personally love the series, and never miss an episode!

 

 

 

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Twilight_SagaThe Twilight Saga Complete Collection, By Stephenie Meyer, October, 2010, Hardcover Boxed Set

This boxed set contains all four of the Twilight novels as well as a novella, for a total of 5 books:

  • Twilight
  • New Moon
  • Eclipse
  • Breaking Dawn
  • The Short Second Life Of Bree Tanner

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Halloween Craft and Cook Books

Pumpkin_Carving_BookRay Villafane’s Pumpkins, By Ray Villafane, August 2012, Paperback

This excellent book written by the pumpkin carving master himself, features a brief “how-to” on pumpkin sculpture. It is filled with full page photos of some of his best masterpieces. A must-own if you take the art of pumpkin carving seriously.

 

 

 

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Halloween-Sweets-TreatsHalloween Sweets And Treats (Holiday Cooking For Kids), By Ruth Owen, August, 2012, Paperback

This is an excellent cookbook! If you enjoy making fun Halloween treats with the kids or grand kids, you will enjoy this neat little book!

 

 

 

My Rating: 5star

Artful-HalloweenArtful Halloween: 31 Frightfully Elegant Projects, By Susan Wasinger, September, 2012, Paperback

I must say I am really impressed with this book. If you are like me and LOVE decorating for Halloween, you are going to find this book a real delight! If you are looking for Goth with a flair, or some sophisticated, unique Halloween projects, give this one a look. It has beautiful, detailed pictures throughout.

 

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Papier-Mache-MonstersPapier-Mache Monsters: Turn Trinkets And Trash Into Magnificent Monstrosities, By Dan Reeder, September, 2009, Paperback

What can I say? This book is just plain old fun! The kids will love helping you make these whimsical, ugly creatures. A fun way to re-purpose old thing just laying around as well! Pick this one up and have a ball!

 

 

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Glittervilles_Handmade_HalloweenGlitterville’s Handmade Halloween: A Glittered Guide For Whimsical Crafting!, By Stephen Brown, August, 2012, Paperback

Learn how to make 21 different whimsical Halloween crafts. This book is for intermediate to experienced crafters. Step-by-step photos and instructions will guide you every step of the way. I am blown away by this book, and I’m sure you will be too!

 

 

My Rating: 5star

Halloween Fiction

Salems_LotSalem’s Lot, By Stephen King, Paperback

What can I say? Early Stephen King, enough said. This was the first book by King that I ever had the pleasure of reading. I couldn’t put it down. I was hooked! This is one vampire tale that will blow you away. Guaranteed!

 

 

 

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Dead_Until_DarkDead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse / True Blood, Book 1), By Charlaine Harris, March, 2010, Paperback

This is the first installment in the True Blood series, which the popular HBO series is based on. I enjoy that series immensely. These are great vampire stories that center around the character of Sookie Stackhouse, who lives in the fictional town of Bon Temps, Louisiana.

 

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Halloween_JacksonHalloween, By Melanie Jackson, June, 2012, Paperback

This book is a delightful romp that takes place one Halloween in small town America in 1963. I can certainly relate as I was doing my fair share of trick-or-treating that fall. It is a nostalgic story that takes place among some friends around 10 years of age.

 

 

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Halloween_TreeThe Halloween Tree, By Ray Bradbury, Illustrated By Joseph Mugnaini, September, 1999, Paperback

This is a great book for children as well as adults. This book brings back the spookiness surrounding Halloween through the eyes of a child. There are lessons here about childhood innocence as well a dealing with loss. A great book written by a master storyteller.

 

 

 

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Shirley_JacksonThe Haunting Of Hill House, (Shirley Jackson: Novels And Stories), By Shirley Jackson 

This book contains the following titles:

The Haunting of Hill House
We Have Always Lived In The Castle
The Lottery

 

 

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Halloween Poetry

Poems_Bewitched_HauntedPoems Bewitched And Haunted (Everyman’s Library Pocket Poets), By John Hollander, September, 2005, Hardcover

This book draws on 3000 years of several poets jaunts into the realm of the supernatural. Everyone from Homer to Poe, to Emily Dickinson is featured here. A great book to curl up next to the fire with!

 

 

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Monster-Moon-Halloween_PoemsMonster Moon And Other Halloween Poems, By Karen Trout, October, 2011, Large Print, Paperback

This unique and different book was inspired by the author’s own garden. Dedicated to those who love nature, and all those “gruesome” things that grow in the garden!

 

 

 

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Trick-or-Treat-Halloween-HistoryTrick Or Treat: A History Of Halloween, By Lisa Morton, October, 2012, Hardcover

This is not only the best book out there covering the history of Halloween, it also covers Halloween in pop culture, literature, and so much more. This is a very informative book for Halloween addicts like me!

 

 

 

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