As kids grow, they learn to tackle their fears, which can start with sleeping solo without the comfort of a nightlight. Eventually, they might even muster the courage to clean out that mysterious space under their beds (we all know there’s some wild stuff lurking down there). As parents, guiding them through these fears is part of the journey.
However, when it comes to picking scary books for children, you might hesitate. Are they ready for a good fright? You definitely want to avoid traumatizing them with a nightmarish tale that leads to late-night sleepovers in your room until they’re 16!
Mildly spooky stories can be beneficial, aiding in their emotional development. As an elementary educator, Sarah Thompson, M.Ed., has always encouraged her students to explore various genres, including light horror. “I’m passionate about introducing children to horror-lite content because experiencing fear in a controlled setting can equip them with coping mechanisms,” explains Thompson, who now works as a Senior Editor at a prominent publishing house. “These stories can articulate their concerns, whether real or imagined, ultimately making them less daunting.”
Now, we’re not suggesting you hand your 8-year-old a copy of Stephen King’s latest novel (let’s take it slow), but there are plenty of age-appropriate spooky tales to fill their bookcases. Starting with some fun, spooky reads around Halloween can pave the way for scarier options throughout the year, potentially igniting a lifelong love for reading through the horror genre.
Each child is unique, so we’ve compiled a diverse list of scary books that range from funny to delightfully eerie. (After all, we don’t want to send anyone running to your bed with a pair of wet pajamas after their first encounter with scary stories!)
Top Scary Reads for Kids
- Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz
- Night of the Living Dummy (Goosebumps #1) by R.L. Stine
- The Last Kids on Earth and the Midnight Blade by Max Brallier
- City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab
- In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories by Alvin Schwartz
- Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins by Eric Kimmel
- The Stonekeeper: Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi
- Sheets by Brenna Thummler
- Small Spaces by Katherine Arden
- Where the Woods End by Charlotte Salter
- Nightmares! by Jason Segel & Kirsten Miller
- Ghost and Bone by Andrew Prentice
- Beneath the Bed and Other Scary Stories by Max Brallier
- Eerie Elementary: Classes Are Canceled by Jack Chabert
- Bunnicula by James & Deborah Howe
- Coraline by Neil Gaiman
- The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
- Out to Get You by Josh Allen
- The Halloween Tree by Ray Bradbury
- Case File 13: Zombie Kid by J. Scott Savage
- Scary Stories for Young Foxes by Christian McKay Heidicker
If you want options that are less spooky, consider checking out our guide to the top books for kindergarteners.
Night of the Living Dummy by R.L. Stine is a must-have on any scary children’s book list. This classic title kicks off one of the most beloved series in kids’ horror literature. It’s all about ventriloquists and their dummies—what could be creepier than that?
The Last Kids on Earth and the Midnight Blade by Max Brallier is a recent favorite among young readers, combining black-and-white illustrations with humor. Kids may even feel inspired to take on monsters themselves (and maybe tidy up their toys afterward).
City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab is perfect for kids who enjoy a high level of spookiness, as it revolves around a character who can actually see ghosts.
Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins by Eric Kimmel brings together themes of the holiday and light fright, making it a gentle introduction for those unsure about diving into scary stories.
The Stonekeeper: Amulet by Kazu Kibuishi might appeal to graphic novel fans, featuring stunning artwork and a storyline that resonates with those who have experienced loss.
Sheets by Brenna Thummler is about more than just haunted laundry; it’s a story of a girl struggling with a family business while facing a mischievous ghost.
For a slightly older audience, Small Spaces by Katherine Arden has been recognized as one of the best kids’ books of 2018, delivering both thrills and empathy through a relatable protagonist’s school field trip.
Where the Woods End by Charlotte Salter offers a twist on classic fairy tales with a mysterious adventure.
In Nightmares! by Jason Segel & Kirsten Miller, the distinction between dreams and reality blurs, making for an engaging read.
Ghost and Bone by Andrew Prentice explores the theme of feeling cursed in a humorous way that kids can relate to.
Lastly, you can’t forget Bunnicula, an endearing tale of a vampire rabbit—perfect for introducing younger readers to the spooky genre without overwhelming them.
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To summarize, encouraging children to explore mildly scary books can help them confront their fears in a safe environment, promoting emotional growth and a love for reading along the way.