Halloween

K-Gr 3–In this colorful picture book, a young girl named Luna, with tan skin and brown hair, narrates her family’s celebration of Halloween. The tale recounts their family trip to the pumpkin patch, costume building with friends, festive treat-making, and a joyful evening of trick-or-treating together. This cute picture book serves as a love letter to Halloween. Luna’s family and friends delight in the holiday and all its offerings. Readers both young and mature will be enthralled by the author’s attention to the historical elements surrounding beloved festivities. The strongest element is the accessible explanation of where modern holiday traditions come from in the back matter. Dickmann describes, in a way that appeals to young readers, Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival, and All Hallows, the Christian observance. The historical elements are age appropriate and engaging. Adding to the appeal, Borio includes beautifully rendered illustrations of instructions for various activities and kid-friendly recipes. Though appropriate for independent young readers, this book might be best enjoyed by sharing with others.