We are thrilled to announce our new series – Ventura County Mom Collective Overbooked! Each month our amazing contributor and avid reader, Haley, will give book recommendations for kids, the family and just for you MOM! Check out the October book recommendations to make it easy to encourage more reading this October!
Overbooked: October Book Recommendations
What better way to celebrate October than with Halloween books, right? This month’s recommendations come with the spirit of Halloween in mind – enjoy!
FOR THE KIDS:
Vlad The World’s Worst Vampire
Written by Anna Wilson and Illustrated by Kathryn Durst
This is the first book in a series detailing Vlad’s true desire to make friends. He sneaks out of his house to attend the human school down the street from his house, accompanied by his pet bat. Ultimately, it is a humorous story of confidence building, self-worth, and being true to oneself. A great and entertaining chapter book for kiddos 6-9 years old to enjoy on their own or for families to enjoy together as everyone unwinds at the end of the day.
My girls are currently 8 & 11 years old and both still enjoy this series as our family read aloud before bedtime leading up to Halloween.
FOR THE FAMILY:
A Halloween Scare in California
Written by Eric James and Illustrated by Marina Le Ray
This spooky story has a not-so-scary twist after the reader travels throughout California with all the monsters, and goblins, and ghosts – oh my! Additionally, a subtle nod to former Governor Schwarzenegger epitomizes the light-hearted and silly tone of this “Halloween Scare”. This beautifully illustrated picture book is a great way for kids and their grown-ups to enjoy Halloween fun this time of year.
FOR MOM:
Unmissing: A Thriller
Written by Minka Kent
Calling this book “A Thriller” might seem unwarranted at first, but it definitely takes some unexpected twists and turns. With Halloween around the corner, this will definitely leave you spooked. He may not be Frankenstein, but main character Lydia recounts her life confined with a true-life monster while attempting to reclaim the ten years of life she missed out on in captivity.
Trigger warning: there are allusions to and memories of sexual assault mentioned in the story.
Let’s Get Reading This October
We hope you find at least one good book from the above list to enjoy this October. If you have a great book recommendation for October, let us know in the comments.
If you have a reluctant reader at home, check out VCMC contributor Ashlee’s advice right here!
Happy Reading!
