October is one of my favorite reading months. While I like to encounter new books, there are some I turn back to every year, if only to read a few passages. These books evoke crisp autumn air, crackling leaves, cider and doughnuts, adventures in the unknown, and the comfort of a warm chair safely back indoors. Find your favorite reading corner, grab your favorite warm beverage, and settle in for a dark and stormy night.
The House with a Clock in its Walls, John Bellairs
Not strictly a Halloween book, though some of its most memorable chapters take place in October. This middle-grade novel set in the 1940s tells the story of Lewis Barnavelt, who goes to live with his eccentric Uncle Jonathan, and encounters magic both fun and frightening. The book features eerie illustrations by the distinctive Edward Gorey.
Something Wicked This Way Comes, Ray Bradbury
Possibly my favorite Bradbury novel. Will Holloway’s sleepy Illinois town is visited by a sinister carnival, and he and his friend Jim Nightshade try to unravel its secrets. Indelible characters like Mr. Dark, the carnival’s leader, and Will’s thoughtful but aging father, will make this a fall classic for you.
The Fellowship of the Ring, J.R.R. Tolkien
The long journey of Frodo and his companions begins on a pleasant evening in late September, walking under the stars. Most of the first half of the book is an autumn adventure: yellow lantern light by the misty Brandywine River, the cool rain at the house of Tom Bombadil, the nearly disastrous encounter in the mounds of the Barrow-wights, the memorable stay at the Prancing Pony, and the hobbits’ trek through the wilderness with Strider, pursued by the Ringwraiths. Perfect reading for a fall evening!
All for Fall, Ethel and Leonard Kessler
This is one of my favorite picture books from childhood, and I read it to my children every year. The Kesslers’ simple but evocative art takes us through the colors of fall, from the green early fall to the orange and yellow foliage, to red apples, to the browns and grays of late fall.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Washington Irving
Probably the most famous story by this early American author, recounting the tale of the unfortunate Ichabod Crane and his encounter with the local haunt, the Headless Horseman.
Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, Susanna Clarke
Both a strikingly original fantasy novel and loving pastiche of early 19th century novels. Strange and Norrell both seek to bring magic back to England after it has disappeared, but face unexpected obstacles. The gothic trappings and darkly romantic narrative are a perfect fit for the season.
The Night Circus, Erin Morgenstern
This brilliant book is like no other I’ve read. It tells the story of a magicians’ duel, centered around a magical traveling carnival decked out only in black and white, and the unexpected results when the magicians finally meet. Unlike the carnival in Something Wicked, this is a circus you would like to run away with.
-Joe, Owner of Yellow Dog Bookshop