Scary situations are a part of life and as much as we try to protect our children from them, it is inevitable that they will encounter some form of fear at some point in their lives. As parents, it is our natural instinct to shield our children from anything that may cause them harm or discomfort. However, it is important to remember that experiencing fear can actually be beneficial for children. It helps them develop coping mechanisms, build resilience and learn to face their fears head on. One way to introduce fear in a controlled and safe manner is through books. That’s why we have compiled a list of the top 23+ spooky, slightly scary books for kids, recommended by teachers, to help children navigate through their fears.
1. “Goosebumps” series by R.L. Stine
This classic series has been a favorite among children for decades. With over 60 books in the series, each one filled with spine-tingling tales, it’s no wonder that it has stood the test of time. From haunted masks to creepy ventriloquist dummies, these books are sure to give children a good scare.
2. “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark” by Alvin Schwartz
This collection of short stories is perfect for children who enjoy a good scare. With eerie illustrations and tales of ghosts, monsters and other spooky creatures, this book is sure to keep children on the edge of their seats.
3. “Coraline” by Neil Gaiman
This award-winning book tells the story of a young girl who discovers a parallel world that seems perfect at first, but soon turns into a nightmare. With its eerie atmosphere and twisted plot, this book is perfect for older children who enjoy a good scare.
4. “The Witches” by Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl is known for his whimsical and imaginative stories, but “The Witches” is a departure from his usual style. This dark and twisted tale of a young boy who discovers a convention of witches will have children both scared and fascinated.
5. “The Graveyard Book” by Neil Gaiman
Another book by Neil Gaiman, “The Graveyard Book” is a coming-of-age story with a spooky twist. It follows the adventures of a boy who is raised by ghosts in a graveyard. With its mix of humor, adventure and spookiness, this book is perfect for children of all ages.
6. “The Dollhouse Murders” by Betty Ren Wright
This mystery novel is perfect for children who enjoy a good scare and a good puzzle. When Amy discovers a dollhouse that seems to mimic real-life events, she sets out to solve the mystery behind it. With its suspenseful plot and creepy dolls, this book is sure to keep children engaged.
7. “The House with a Clock in Its Walls” by John Bellairs
This book follows the adventures of a young boy who moves in with his eccentric uncle in a creepy old house. With its blend of fantasy, mystery and horror, this book is perfect for children who enjoy a good scare and a touch of magic.
8. “Wait Till Helen Comes” by Mary Downing Hahn
This ghost story is perfect for children who enjoy a good scare. When Molly and Michael move into a new house, they discover that it is haunted by the ghost of a young girl named Helen. With its spooky atmosphere and suspenseful plot, this book is sure to give children goosebumps.
9. “The Jumbies” by Tracey Baptiste
This Caribbean folktale is perfect for children who enjoy a good scare and a touch of magic. When Corinne and her friends encounter a mysterious woman in the forest, they soon realize that she may not be human. With its rich cultural references and spooky creatures, this book is a must-read.
10. “The Night Gardener” by Jonathan Auxier
This historical fiction novel is perfect for children who enjoy a good scare and a bit of mystery. When the orphaned siblings Molly and Kip arrive at a creepy old mansion, they soon discover that the night gardener may not be what he seems. With its eerie atmosphere and suspenseful plot, this book is sure to keep children on the edge of their seats.
11. “The Girl Who Drank the Moon” by Kelly Barnhill
This award-winning fantasy novel is perfect for children who enjoy a good scare and a touch of magic. When