23 Halloween Books for Middle Schoolers That Aren't Too Scary

Finding the best Halloween books for middle schoolers has always been a fun challenge in our home.

It’s about striking that perfect balance, something spooky enough to excite their imagination but not so terrifying it keeps them up at night.

This collection includes some of our favorite reads, mixing fiction and non-fiction, so there’s something for every interest.

Whether you’re looking to replace regular school books with a thrilling adventure or just want to encourage reading during the Halloween season, these stories are perfect for bringing a little spooky magic to your middle schooler’s day.

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Spooky Middle Grade Halloween Reads

If you’re looking to make October reading a bit spookier, these middle-grade picks are perfect.

Each of these stories is aimed at kids aged 10 and up, and from my experience, they’re best suited for this age group, I wouldn’t recommend them for younger readers, as some might be a bit intense.

The books here are ideal for older kids, roughly 10 to 14 years old, but honestly, they’re engaging enough that even adults might enjoy them!

To help you decide which ones are the right fit, I’ve added a scare rating for each, some are light and fun, while others lean into the creepy side.

Want to add more fun beyond books? Explore these Halloween ideas for middle schoolers to make the season even more memorable.

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.

The Night Gardener by Jonathan Auxier

Age rating: 10+
Scare rating: 7/10

My son couldn’t put down The Night Gardener—its suspenseful twists kept us reading late into the night! It 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.

Small Spaces (Small Spaces Quartet) by Katherine Arden

Age rating: 11+
Scare rating: 6/10

Small Spaces is the first book in a series about a 12-year-old girl named Ollie who loves scary stories. One day, on a school trip, she discovers a mysterious book that tells the story of a sinister farm and its owner, the Smiling Man.

When Ollie and her friends end up stranded near the farm, they find themselves trapped in a dangerous game of survival. The book is a creepy and atmospheric adventure with elements of folklore and psychological horror.

Mr. Moonbeam and the Halloween Crystal by Ryan Cowan

Age rating: 10-14
Scare rating: 5/10

Elliott, an extraordinary boy with magical abilities, embarks on an incredible adventure in his third-grade class. Little does he know, he is part of an enchanting secret world called Moonstone. However, trouble arises when the malevolent witch Noir snatches The Halloween Crystal, posing a threat to the non-magical world on Halloween night.

With the guidance of his teacher, Mr. Moonbeam, Elliott must swiftly harness his powers to thwart Noir's invasion. Will Elliott unlock his full potential in time to save the day?

The Legend 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.

Roald Dahl’s Book of Ghost Stories

Age rating: 13+
Scare rating: 8/10

Roald Dahl's book of Ghost Stories is a collection of 14 eerie tales handpicked by the famous author himself.

The short stories range from classic horror stories by M.R. James and Edith Wharton to lesser-known gems by A.M. Burrage and L.P. Hartley.

The book is a chilling and diverse assortment of supernatural fiction that will keep readers on edge. Some stories contain mature themes and language.

The 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.

Download our free Halloween bookmarks to color

The 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 Haunting of Elmwood Manor: A Pekin Dewlap Mystery by Pamela McCord

Age rating: 12+
Scare rating: 6/10

The Haunting of Elmwood Manor is a chilling ghost story that follows a teenage girl named Pekin Dewlap who moves to a small town and starts working at a haunted bed and breakfast. As she investigates the spooky happenings in the haunted house, she uncovers a dark history involving murder, betrayal, and revenge.

The book is a creepy and suspenseful mystery with a touch of romance and humor.

The Raven: Tales and Poems (Penguin Horror) by Edgar Allan Poe

Age rating: 14+
Scare rating: 9/10

The Raven is a collection of poems and stories by the master of horror, Edgar Allan Poe. The book includes classic tales such as "The Tell-Tale Heart," "The Pit and the Pendulum," and of course, "The Raven."

These stories are known for their chilling atmospheres, twisted plots, and psychological horror. The book is a must-read for any horror fan who appreciates the power of great writing and storytelling. However, some stories contain mature themes and language.

Who Was Edgar Allan Poe?

Age rating: 9+
Scare rating: 1/10

Who Was Edgar Allan Poe? is a biography of the famous American writer, poet, and critic, known for his dark and haunting stories.

The book provides a fascinating insight into Poe's life, from his difficult childhood to his rise to literary fame and the mysteries surrounding his death. The book is a great choice for young readers who want to learn more about one of the most influential writers in American history.

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 Kelley

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.

Season of the Witch: A Spellbinding History of Witches and Other Magical Folk by Matt Ralphs

Age rating: 14+
Scare rating: 3/10

Season of the Witch is a non-fiction book that explores the history and folklore surrounding witches and other magical beings, from ancient times to the present day.

The book is filled with fascinating stories, illustrations, and even some hands-on activities that help readers understand the myths and legends surrounding these mysterious figures. The book is a great choice for younger students who are interested in the history and culture of magic and witchcraft.

Related: Halloween games for kids

Trick or Treat: A History of Halloween by Lisa Morton

Age rating: 14+
Scare rating: 2/10

Trick or Treat is a non-fiction book that explores the history and cultural significance of Halloween, from its ancient roots to its modern-day celebrations. The book is filled with fascinating stories, illustrations, and even some recipes and craft ideas that help readers understand the traditions and symbolism of the holiday.

The book is a great choice for young readers who are interested in learning more about the history and culture of Halloween.

Thirteens by Kate Alice Marshall

Age rating: 12+
Scare rating: 6/10

Thirteens is a spooky supernatural thriller that follows a girl named Eleanor, who moves to a small town and discovers a group of teens who are all born on the same day of the month: the thirteenth.

As Eleanor befriends the thirteens, she uncovers a dark and dangerous secret that threatens to destroy them all. The book is a fast-paced and suspenseful tale with themes of friendship, loyalty, and betrayal.

The Book of Halloween by Ruth Edna Kelley

Age rating: 13+
Scare rating: 3/10

The Book of Halloween is a classic non-fiction book that explores the history and folklore surrounding Halloween, from its ancient roots to its modern-day celebrations.

The book is filled with fascinating stories, illustrations, and even some recipes and craft ideas that help readers understand the traditions and symbolism of the holiday.

The book is a great choice for young readers who are interested in learning more about the history and culture of Halloween.

Related: Spooky mad libs printable

The Book Of Hallowe`en by Ruth Edna Kelley

Age rating: 13+
Scare rating: 3/10

The Book Of Hallowe'en is another classic non-fiction book that explores the history and folklore surrounding Halloween, 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 young readers who are curious about the history and folklore behind the holiday.

Don’t Read This Book Before Bed: Thrills, Chills, and Hauntingly True Stories

Age rating: 12+
Scare rating: 7/10

Don't Read This Book Before Bed is a collection of scary true stories from around the world, ranging from haunted houses to ghostly encounters. The book is filled with creepy illustrations and photos that add to the spine-tingling atmosphere.

The stories are perfect for middle school students who enjoy being scared and love reading about the supernatural. However, due to the scary content, it may not be suitable for all readers.

The Graveyard Book Graphic Novel: Volume 2 by Neil Gaiman

Age rating: 12+
Scare rating: 5/10

The story follows a young boy named Nobody Owens, who was raised by ghosts in a cemetery after his family was murdered. In this second volume, Nobody continues his adventures in the graveyard, encountering new dangers and mysteries along the way.

The graphic novel features stunning artwork and captures the eerie atmosphere of the original story.

The New Girl (Fear Street, No. 1) by R.L. Stine

Age rating: 12+
Scare rating: 6/10

The New Girl is the first book in the classic Fear Street series. The story takes place in the town of Shadyside and follows a group of teenagers who are haunted by the mysterious new girl in school, who seems to have a deadly secret. As the body count rises, the teens must race to uncover the truth before it's too late.

The 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.

Last Updated on 14 May 2025 by Clare Brown

23 Halloween Books for Middle Schoolers That Aren’t Too Scary

Spooky Middle Grade Halloween Reads

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Spooky Middle Grade Halloween Reads

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