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

This book is perfect for children between the ages of two and five years old, especially if they are preparing for Halloween for the first time. - Youth Services Book Review, STARRED REVIEW