Halloween Is Coming!

Invited to "look around, you'll see the signs," readers follow three friends--an Asian child, a Black child, and a white child who uses a wheelchair--as they enjoy a full slate of seasonal activities. From hayrides to corn mazes, from jack-o'-lantern carving to a school costume parade, Wen's cheery cast bops all over a quaint town as various monsters appear in each scene--a ghost near a hay-bale castle, a goblin on a rooftop. At last, "it's tricks, and treats, and frights, and fun, / and spooky things for everyone" at a neighborhood celebration. Though Everett's rhymes can be bumpy, Wen's ethnically inclusive suburban neighborhood and the volume's seek-and-find elements make this an enjoyable read. Ages 4-8. (Aug.)

PreS-K--Readers follow three friends one Halloween as they visit a festival, gather pumpkins, trick-or-treat, and more. The trio present as a Black girl, an Asian girl, and a white boy who uses a wheelchair. Their class and community are diverse in appearance and include humans and imaginary creatures. The costumes range from ghosts and pirates to astronauts, strawberries, and artists, with nary a culturally appropriative costume in sight. Notably, one boy sports a blue tutu and lace-up ballet shoes. The simple, rhyming text is ideal for read-alouds. Wen has textured the digitally rendered illustrations with pencil, creating a soft and bright atmosphere, even for scenes set at night. For readers who enjoy the playful, social aspects of the holiday, this is a solid choice. VERDICT Charming illustrations elevate this straightforward Halloween tale is for medium and large holiday collections.--Taylor Worley, Springfield P.L., OR