10 Scary Books for Children

Here are 10 scary books for children…

1) Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz

This classic collection of folklore and ghost stories, with eerie illustrations by Stephen Gammell, has been thrilling young readers for decades.

2) There’s a Ghost in this House by Oliver Jeffers

Step into a haunted house with a curious young girl in this captivating picture book by Oliver Jeffers. She’s never seen a ghost and needs your help to find one! With interactive transparent pages, readers can explore behind the sofa and up to the attic, encountering friendly ghost surprises along the way. Featuring stunning mixed media illustrations, this playful and unique book promises endless entertainment for young readers.

3) Coraline by Neil Gaiman

Neil Gaiman’s dark fantasy novel tells the story of Coraline, a young girl who discovers a parallel world that seems perfect but hides a sinister secret.

4) The Witches by Roald Dahl

This Roald Dahl classic is a tale of witches who despise children and plot to turn them all into mice. It’s a spooky and whimsical adventure.

5) The Skull by Jon Klassen

In The Skull, Caldecott Medalist Jon Klassen presents a darkly enchanting folktale. Otilla, a brave girl fleeing danger, finds refuge in an eerie, abandoned house where a skull lives. Both are haunted by a nightly terror. With rich, monochromatic illustrations and subtle wit, this mysterious tale explores themes of courage and friendship. Perfect for fans of macabre stories, The Skull offers a beautifully crafted narrative that’s both empowering and hauntingly unforgettable.

6) The Graveyard Book” by Neil Gaiman

This novel follows Nobody “Bod” Owens, a boy raised by ghosts in a graveyard, as he navigates a world filled with supernatural beings and a mysterious assassin.

7) “The Ghost of Blackwood Hall” by Carolyn Keene

Part of the Nancy Drew Mystery Stories series, this book follows the teenage detective as she solves the mystery of a ghostly presence in an old mansion.

8) “Bunnicula” by Deborah and James Howe

This humorous series follows the adventures of the Monroe family and their pets, including a possibly vampire bunny named Bunnicula.

9) “The Wolves in the Walls” by Neil Gaiman

In this picture book, Lucy discovers that the noises she hears in the walls of her home might be something much more sinister than she initially thought.

10) “The Widow’s Broom” by Chris Van Allsburg

In this beautifully illustrated book, a widow befriends a broom that has magical powers, but the townspeople are uneasy about its presence.

9) “The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything” by Linda Williams

This fun and not-too-spooky picture book tells the story of a brave old lady who encounters some Halloween-themed clothing that seems to follow her.

These spooky children’s books provide just the right amount of eerie entertainment for young readers, making them perfect for Halloween or any time of the year when a little thrill is in order.