Fall Fun: Book Recommendations for Kids
'Hedgehugs Autumn Hide-and-Squeak,' 'Hello, Fall!' and more
The onset of fall is a welcome respite from the heat and humidity of summer. There are so many great outdoor activities for kids to engage in — be it apple picking, collecting or raking leaves, hiking, or even a jumping on a hayride while visiting one of the Triangle’s corn mazes or pumpkin patches. But autumn also marks the beginning of a busy new school year, and it is often the case that this season, in particular, seems to pass by so quickly that before we know it, the holidays have arrived. Let’s encourage our kids to get outside and enjoy the crisp weather and changing leaves before it’s too late. These books will help get everyone excited for the changing season.
In “Hello, Fall!” (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 32 pages, $16.99), author Deborah Diesen, who is also the woman behind the New York Times best-selling “Pout-Pout Fish” series, brings us a touching story about a grandfather and granddaughter who find beauty and wonder as they usher in another festive fall season. Readers will enjoy a story about colorful leaves, honking geese and pumpkin patches filled with glorious orange treasures. Although this story is geared toward ages 2-6, even grown-ups will be excited for fall after reading it.
“In the Middle of Fall” (Greenwillow Books, 40 pages, $15.98) is author Kevin Henkes’ companion story to “When Spring Comes.” This picture book is a celebration of the season and focuses heavily on the many transformations that take place in nature throughout fall. A little girl and her dog, along with other warmly dressed children and busy forest animals, engage in outdoor activities in an idyllic setting. A big gust of wind washes everything in red, orange and yellow leaves, reminding little readers of just how quickly trees become bare and wintry. This book was written for ages 4-8.
In “Hedgehugs Autumn Hide-and-Squeak” (Henry Holt and Co., 26 pages, $16), author Steve Wilson tells the story of two hedgehogs named Horace and Hattie who are best friends. They enjoy making shadow puppets, following snail trails and scouring for spider webs. One day they are watching leaves fall from the trees when they hear a squeak, which causes them to wonder: Could there be a new friend to play with? This book is geared toward ages 2-6.
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In “Sneeze, Big Bear, Sneeze!” (Two Lions, 32 pages, $13.95)
author Maureen Wright tells the humorous story of Big Bear, who thinks his sneezes are not only causing the leaves and apples to fall from the trees, but are also forcing the geese to fly south. Our lovable main character is corrected, however, when the wind demonstrates to him that she is the source of such events by blowing away the leaves with a “whirling, twirling mighty shout.” Readers will be tickled when Big Bear attempts to tack the foliage back onto the trees. Will Hillenbrand’s rich, mixed-media illustrations will delight readers. This story was written for ages 3-5.
Elizabeth Lincicome is a mother, communications expert and freelance writer based in Raleigh.
