Who doesn’t love a good book list, particularly a seasonal one? We often finding ourselves reaching for the same titles over and over, and reading your child’s favorite book for the 57th time in one week can get… tedious, to say the least. Why not head to the library and choose some fresh titles – we promise your kiddo won’t be disappointed with these fall-themed choices! Most of these books are available to check out at the SF Library.
Toddler (ages 2-3)
Little You by Richard Van Camp
Written by a a celebrated DogribTłı̨chǫ writer of the Dene nation, this warm and poetic book illustrates and celebrates the individual gift of every child. Lines like, “You are life and breath adored” serve as an important reminder of everyone’s inherent value, paired with simple a stunning cut-out illustrations.
Sally’s Great Balloon Adventure by Stephen Hunek
Sally the dog has several books of her adventures. In this one she explores the skies in a hot air balloon! The bold illustrations and simple narrative make for an accessible story that can get your young’uns excited for Balloon Fiesta.
My Big Bear, My Little Bear, and Me by Margarita del Mazo and Rocio Bonilla
A small child goes on a winter adventure with the support of two important “bears” that keep them safe.
Little Blue Truck’s Springtime by Alice Schertle and Jill McElmurry
It’s a classic for a reason! This sweet first book of the Little Blue Truck series takes place on a gray fall day and illustrates the importance of helping one another out. Also full of plenty of opportunities for parents to make animal noises – always a hit!
Primary (ages 3-6)
Red Knit Cap Girl and the Reading Tree by Naoko Stoop
A different take on a super hero, Red Knit Cap Girl and her friends work together to create a cozy place to read and share time together.
The Apple Pie that Papa Baked by Lauren Thompson and Jonathan Bean
Full of beautiful illustrations, fun rhythmic lines, and plenty of inspiration to make some apple pie!
In a Jar by Deborah Marcero
A sweet story about two friends who share a connection through gathering special moments and things. Their connection stays strong even when they are apart, and they have enough love in their hearts for new friends.
Thank You Omu by Oge Mora
A truly heartfelt book about the joy of giving things away and coming together in community.
El Trincalibros/The Snatchbook by Helen & Thomas Docherty
This book safely plays with the idea of suspense and mystery as a little bunny puzzles out who may be behind the disappearance of their community’s beloved books. The Spanish translation is at the SF Public Library.
Lower Elementary (ages 6-9)
All the books! by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts
From Aaron Slater, Illustrator to Iggy Peck, Architect, Andrea Beaty and David Roberts come up with fun, empowering, and engaging stories about the young folks in Ms. Lila Greer’s second grade class.
If You Come to Earth by Sophie Blackall
Contains some references to violence, illness, and mortality
Sophie Blackall is a wonderful writer and illustrator who does her best in this book to explain the world and what we humans are all about. Inspired by children that the author has met and their stories and questions.
Early Readers: Frog and Toad and Owl at Home by Arnold Lobel
Maybe it’s just that Arnold Lobel uses green and brown paint, but these two sets of stories always feel like they should be read under a warm blanket and accompanied by a cool autumn breeze. Great options for any age, these are especially friendly for younger readers still getting their literacy footing.
Upper Elementary (ages 9-12)
Mr. and Mrs. Bunny – Detectives Extraordinaire by Polly Horvath and Illustrations by Sophie Blackall
Worth reading the reviews on: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/mr-and-mrs-bunny-detectives-extraordinaire
While this story does contain some references that are likely to go over students’ heads and does deal with some serious themes, it is also irreverent, silly, and very fun to read. Mr. and Mrs. Bunny team up with a young person to solve the mystery of their parents who have been kidnapped by sneaky foxes.
The Mysterious Benedict Society series by Trenton Lee Stewart
Reviews and more information:
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/the-mysterious-benedict-society
This quartet of books is about some particularly gifted children with a particularly foul plot… the sinister underbelly of this eccentric series feels perfect for the spooky vibes of late fall!
