21 Best Fall Picture Books for Kids: Must-Have Reads for Autumn
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, there’s no better time to curl up with a great picture book that celebrates the magic of autumn. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or librarian, finding the perfect fall-themed book can help bring the beauty of the season indoors. In this guide, I’ve selected 21 of the best fall picture books for kids, featuring gorgeous illustrations, heartwarming stories, and educational themes.
From preschoolers to kindergarteners, these books are sure to inspire a love for the season, making them ideal for classroom reads or cozy bedtime stories.
Whether you’re looking for books about autumn leaves, fall harvests, or seasonal celebrations, this list has something for every young reader.
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1. Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn
Kenard Pak’s Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn is a breathtaking journey through the changing of seasons, narrated by a young child who greets the natural world. Each page is filled with delicate, yet vibrant illustrations that bring the transition from summer’s warmth to autumn’s crispness to life. The text is simple but lyrical, making it ideal for younger readers. The illustrations beautifully capture the changing light, the turning leaves, and the subtle shifts in nature that come with autumn. This is a perfect read for introducing children to the magic of seasonal change while promoting observation and mindfulness.
2. Ox-Cart Man
Ox-Cart Man is a timeless classic, written by former U.S. Poet Laureate Donald Hall and brought to life with Barbara Cooney’s award-winning illustrations. Set in 19th-century New England, the story follows a family as they prepare for and adapt to the changing seasons, with particular focus on autumn. The poetic language conveys the rhythm of rural life, while Cooney’s illustrations, rich with detail, highlight the beauty in everyday moments. Winner of the Caldecott Medal, this book offers young readers a glimpse into a simpler time, where the harvest and hard work are celebrated. A must-read for classrooms and family libraries alike.
3. Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin Soup is a delightful story of friendship, teamwork, and—of course—pumpkin soup! The story follows three animal friends who must navigate disagreements as they try to make their perfect pumpkin soup. Helen Cooper’s illustrations are cozy and whimsical, full of autumn colors and warmth that perfectly capture the spirit of fall. The narrative gently addresses themes of conflict and compromise, making it a fantastic choice for siblings or classroom discussions about working together. With its charming characters and rich visuals, this book is a fall favorite for families and young readers.
4. The Scarecrow
The Scarecrow is a heartwarming tale of friendship and compassion, brought to life by the stunning illustrations of the Fan Brothers. The story centers on a lonely scarecrow who finds unexpected joy in caring for a baby crow that falls into his field. The illustrations are mesmerizing, capturing the changing seasons with meticulous detail, while the narrative subtly explores themes of love, protection, and selflessness. This beautifully crafted book is perfect for fall and encourages children to see the value in kindness and connection. An ideal choice for bedtime or classroom read-alouds.
5. The Stranger
Chris Van Allsburg, known for his captivating, mysterious storytelling, delivers another unforgettable tale in The Stranger. This story of a strange visitor who brings unexplainable changes to a farm is rich with Van Allsburg’s signature detailed and atmospheric illustrations. With an eerie, autumnal mood, it keeps readers guessing about the identity of the mysterious figure. The illustrations are incredibly precise, almost cinematic, drawing readers into the heart of the mystery. The Stranger is an ideal pick for Halloween or any autumn day when a little intrigue and imagination are welcome.
6. Fletcher and the Falling Leaves
Fletcher and the Falling Leaves is a tender, enchanting story about a little fox learning to understand and accept change. As Fletcher watches the leaves fall from his favorite tree, he fears something is wrong, only to discover that autumn brings its own kind of magic. Tiphanie Beeke’s soft, watercolor illustrations beautifully convey the shifting of the seasons, making the transition from summer to fall feel gentle and magical. With its soothing rhythm and comforting message, this book is perfect for helping children cope with changes in their own lives, while also celebrating the beauty of autumn.
7. Room on the Broom
This beloved classic brings humor, adventure, and the magic of friendship to the forefront. A kind witch and her cat make room for various animals on her broom, but the journey takes an unexpected turn when the broom snaps in two. With its charming rhymes and repetitive structure, Room on the Broom is an engaging read-aloud that children love to recite along with. The vibrant illustrations are full of movement and fun, and the story’s message of inclusion and helping others is one that resonates with children and adults alike. It’s a timeless Halloween favorite that celebrates the joy of teamwork.
8. Balloons Over Broadway
- Sweet, Melissa
- Sweet, Melissa
This beautifully illustrated book tells the fascinating true story behind the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and its giant balloons. Readers are introduced to Tony Sarg, the puppeteer who designed the first parade balloons, and the creative process behind this iconic American tradition. The mixed-media illustrations are captivating, bringing the history to life with a sense of whimsy and wonder. Balloons Over Broadway is not only an inspiring story of innovation and creativity but also a fun, educational read that ties into Thanksgiving celebrations perfectly. A must-have for anyone curious about the origins of one of the most beloved holiday traditions.
9. Thank You, Sarah
This engaging picture book introduces young readers to Sarah Hale, the determined woman who convinced President Abraham Lincoln to make Thanksgiving a national holiday. With a mix of humor, history, and heart, Thank You, Sarahbrings an important but lesser-known story to life. The illustrations are lively and full of character, and the narrative is both educational and entertaining, making it a great pick for classrooms or Thanksgiving read-alouds. Sarah Hale’s persistence is an inspiring reminder of how one person can make a difference, and this book beautifully conveys the spirit of gratitude that defines the holiday.
10. The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything
This timeless Halloween tale about a brave old woman who encounters a spooky surprise in the woods is full of fun, suspense, and interactive moments that make it a hit with young readers. The rhythmic, repetitive text invites children to participate as they chant along with the various spooky sounds—making it an ideal read-aloud book. The illustrations are colorful and expressive, enhancing the story’s playful spookiness. The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything is a perfect choice for Halloween, offering just the right amount of excitement and mystery without being too scary for little ones.
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11. The Hundred-Year Barn
This poetic story tells the life of a barn over a century, starting with the day it was built. The barn becomes a central figure in the community, sheltering animals and witnessing generations of life unfold. The soft, atmospheric illustrations complement the quiet beauty of the text, making readers feel the warmth and history that the barn holds. The Hundred-Year Barn is a reflective, heartwarming tale about the passage of time, the importance of tradition, and the connections between people and places. It’s an ideal autumn read, perfect for sparking discussions about family history and heritage.
12. Autumnblings
This delightful collection of fall-themed poems is a celebration of all things autumn—falling leaves, crisp air, and seasonal fun. Each poem is accompanied by playful, vibrant illustrations that reflect the energy and spirit of the season. The witty, clever wordplay in Autumnblings makes it a great choice for reading aloud, and the variety of short poems ensures it will keep children’s attention. It’s the perfect introduction to poetry for young readers, encouraging them to enjoy the rhythm of words and the joy of autumn all at once.
13. The Apple Pie Tree
A lovely book about the life cycle of an apple tree throughout the year, The Apple Pie Tree beautifully captures the magic of watching an apple tree bloom, grow fruit, and eventually contribute to a delicious homemade pie. The gentle illustrations follow the seasons, showing how nature’s process works in harmony with family traditions. This charming story makes a perfect addition to fall reading lists, celebrating not only the joy of harvest but also the importance of patience, growth, and connection to nature. The book concludes with an apple pie recipe, making it an interactive and mouthwatering experience for young readers.
14. Pumpkin Circle: The Story of a Garden
Filled with vibrant photographs and clear, simple text, Pumpkin Circle takes children on a fascinating journey through the life cycle of a pumpkin. From seed to sprout, vine to flower, and finally a fully-grown pumpkin, the book offers a stunning visual representation of nature’s process. It’s an excellent resource for classrooms or for curious young readers who want to learn more about how plants grow. The detailed photography and engaging explanations make this book a captivating read that not only celebrates pumpkins but also nurtures an appreciation for the natural world.
15. Leaves
This simple, yet heartfelt story follows a young bear experiencing his first autumn and becoming puzzled when the leaves start falling from the trees. Leaves beautifully captures the innocence of a child’s perspective as the bear tries to reattach the leaves, only to discover the beauty of nature’s cycles. The soft, watercolor illustrations evoke the crispness of fall and the coziness of preparing for winter. With its gentle message about change and adaptation, this book is perfect for preschoolers and young children as they begin to understand the transitions of the seasons.
16. The Biggest Pumpkin Ever
A childhood favorite for many, The Biggest Pumpkin Ever tells the story of two mice who unknowingly start growing the same pumpkin—each with very different plans for it. The charming illustrations and playful narrative make it a fun and lighthearted read, with themes of cooperation and sharing running throughout. Children will love the idea of growing a pumpkin so huge it needs to be moved with special equipment, and the humorous resolution is a delight for all ages. This book is a perfect pick for both fall and Halloween, combining humor with a sense of wonder about nature’s ability to surprise us.
17. The Little Yellow Leaf
A beautifully illustrated and poignant tale, The Little Yellow Leaf follows a single autumn leaf that clings to its tree, not yet ready to fall. The narrative gently explores themes of fear, change, and finding courage, with a touching resolution as the leaf finally lets go, hand in hand with another. The illustrations capture the quiet beauty of fall, using warm colors and minimalism to evoke a deep sense of reflection. This book is perfect for encouraging children to explore their own feelings about change and new experiences, making it a deeply emotional yet comforting autumn read.
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