Best illustrated books all over the world
Stephen Gammell is one of the most recognized masters of visual horror. His most famous work in this genre remains the series of Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz. These collections were published over the course of a decade, until Schwartz’s death in 1992. Decades later, […]
Halloween ABC (Eve Merriam, illustrations by Lane Smith) is a darkly playful alphabet book of twenty-six short poems, each keyed to a Halloween word. Published in 1987, the volume pairs Merriam’s rhythmic, often macabre verses with Smith’s moody, painterly images; the illustrations (oil on board) use shadow and a restricted […]
In A Halloween Happening, a community of witches invites children to a Halloween party full of magical mischief. The witches build a giant tower of jack-o’-lanterns, complete with a batwing glider platform at the top, while preparing toad tarts, worm waffles, and candy bats. Adams’ dark, muted palette and detailed […]
A Bear, a Bobcat, and Three Ghosts — a slightly surreal Halloween poem written in loose blank verse, follows the wandering trader Timothy Todd on his nocturnal adventure. On the eve of Halloween, Todd sets out to visit old friends — to sell a bit, buy a bit, and share […]
Marsha Winborn has created lively, expressive artwork for numerous children’s books, known for her playful linework, warm color palettes, and a touch of humor that makes her illustrations instantly recognizable. Her work often captures the gentle whimsy of everyday life and the small adventures of childhood. Among her most charming […]
George notices a strange, crumpled brown thing pinned to the wall in his father’s studio. When he asks what it is, his dad warns him — it’s too scary to tell. Of course, that only makes George more curious. What follows is a story about a midnight visit from a […]
The Nine Lives of Aristotle by Dick King-Smith, illustrated by Bob Graham, tells the story of a small, fearless kitten living with a kind witch named Bella Donna. Aristotle rushes headfirst into every possible danger — tumbling down chimneys, spilling milk jugs, falling into rivers, and escaping dogs and trains. […]
A spirited Halloween picture book about a group of children who set out for trick-or-treating and stumble into a spooky surprise. With bold, atmospheric illustrations and playful suspense, Dirk Zimmer captures both the thrills and fun of Halloween night.