20 Best Fall Books to Read (Books for Autumn)
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As the leaves start to turn golden and the air gets a bit crisper, there’s no better time to cozy up with a good fall book that captures the essence of autumn. Whether you’re in the mood for something spooky, magical, or heartwarming, these 20 fall books to read are perfect for the fall season.
From mysterious tales set in eerie small towns to heartwarming stories of love and family, each of these books brings a little bit of autumn magic to life. Grab a warm blanket, a cup of your favorite fall drink, and settle in with one of these autumn-themed reads.
Happy reading!
1. Pumpkin Heads by Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks
Set in the vibrant and festive environment of a pumpkin patch, “Pumpkin Heads” follows Deja and Josiah, two seasonal best friends working their last shift together before parting ways for college. The pumpkin patch, with its warm hues of orange and gold, bustling food stalls, and nostalgic attractions, serves as the perfect backdrop for their adventure. Deja convinces Josiah to break their usual routine and experience all the fun the patch has to offer, from devouring pumpkin-flavored treats to seeking out the elusive Fudge Girl. The story captures the bittersweet feeling of change and the fleeting magic of autumn nights.
As the night progresses, the two friends navigate the maze-like grounds of the patch, their bond deepening with each shared experience. Alongside the playful exploration, there’s an undercurrent of unspoken emotions, particularly as Josiah struggles with his feelings for Deja. The graphic novel’s rich illustrations bring the autumnal setting to life, making readers feel the crisp air and hear the crunch of leaves underfoot. “Pumpkin Heads” is a celebration of friendship, young love, and the enchanting atmosphere that only fall can provide, making it a delightful read for the season.
2. Pumpkin Everything by Beth Labonte
“Pumpkin Everything” is a heartwarming tale that takes readers to a quaint small town during the height of the fall season. The story follows Amy, a successful author who returns to her hometown of Autumnboro to care for her grandfather after he’s been injured. The town, famous for its annual Pumpkin Festival, is ablaze with autumn colors and festive spirit, a stark contrast to Amy’s usual fast-paced city life. As she reacquaints herself with the town and its traditions, she also reconnects with Kit, her childhood friend who now owns the local pumpkin patch.
The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the comfort of familiar places. As Amy and Kit spend time together, old feelings resurface, and Amy finds herself questioning the life she left behind. The pumpkin patch, with its rows of orange gourds, hayrides, and cozy bonfires, becomes a symbol of the warmth and stability Amy craves. “Pumpkin Everything” is a charming story about rediscovering one’s roots, embracing the beauty of small-town life, and finding love in the most unexpected places, all wrapped up in the cozy, comforting atmosphere of autumn.
3. Hocus Pocus & The All-New Sequel by A.W. Jantha
This book is a delightful continuation of the cult-classic Halloween movie “Hocus Pocus,” beloved by many for its whimsical and spooky charm. The story is split into two parts: the first retells the events of the original movie, where three children accidentally resurrect the Sanderson sisters, a trio of wicked witches who wreak havoc on the town of Salem on Halloween night. The retelling is rich in nostalgic detail, making it a perfect read for fans of the movie and newcomers alike.
The second part of the book, “The All-New Sequel,” jumps 25 years into the future, following the adventures of Max and Allison’s daughter, Poppy. Poppy is skeptical of her parents’ wild Halloween stories, but when she and her friends accidentally release the Sanderson sisters once again, they must band together to stop the witches from completing their plan of eternal life. Set against the crisp autumn backdrop of Salem, the sequel brings back the humor, thrills, and autumnal magic of the original, making it a must-read for anyone looking to get into the Halloween spirit.
4. The Witches by Roald Dahl
“The Witches” is a classic children’s novel that combines Dahl’s signature dark humor with a spooky, autumnal setting. The story follows a young boy who, while staying with his grandmother in Norway, learns about the existence of witches—creatures that despise children and use their magical powers to eliminate them. When the boy and his grandmother travel to England, they inadvertently find themselves at the annual witches’ convention, where the Grand High Witch unveils her sinister plan to turn all the children in England into mice.
Despite the frightening premise, Dahl’s storytelling is both engaging and whimsical, making it accessible to children while still maintaining a sense of eerie suspense. The autumnal setting, with its chilly weather and Halloween-like atmosphere, enhances the novel’s spooky charm. The boy’s courageous battle against the witches, aided by his wise and loving grandmother, makes for a thrilling adventure that’s perfect for young readers (and the young at heart) looking to enjoy a Halloween-themed tale.
5. The Bone Clocks by David Mitchell
“The Bone Clocks” is a sprawling, genre-defying novel that weaves together elements of fantasy, science fiction, and literary fiction, all set against a backdrop that often evokes the eerie, reflective atmosphere of autumn. The novel follows the life of Holly Sykes, starting in 1984 when she’s a rebellious teenager in England. After a fight with her mother, Holly runs away from home, unaware that her life is about to be intertwined with a secret war between two immortal factions. The story spans six decades and multiple perspectives, each connected through the enigmatic figure of Holly and the mystical forces that surround her.
Throughout the novel, Mitchell’s vivid descriptions often evoke the feeling of autumn, with its sense of change, decay, and the passage of time. The mystical elements of the story, including psychic powers and otherworldly beings, add a layer of eeriness that complements the autumnal mood. As the narrative unfolds, the reader is drawn into a world where the boundaries between reality and the supernatural blur, making “The Bone Clocks” a haunting and thought-provoking read for the fall season.
6. The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
Set in 1687, “The Witch of Blackbird Pond” is a historical novel that transports readers to the rigid Puritan society of colonial Connecticut. The story follows Kit Tyler, a spirited young woman who moves from the free-spirited Caribbean to live with her strict Puritan relatives. Struggling to fit in with the conformist and superstitious community, Kit befriends an older woman named Hannah, who lives alone by Blackbird Pond and is rumored to be a witch. As Kit becomes more involved with Hannah, she faces suspicion and hostility from the townspeople, leading to a dramatic trial that questions the bounds of friendship, conformity, and courage.
The novel’s setting, with its cool autumn air and the looming onset of winter, mirrors the tension and isolation Kit feels as an outsider. The themes of fear, superstition, and the persecution of those who are different resonate strongly with the autumnal atmosphere, making it an evocative read for the season. “The Witch of Blackbird Pond” is not only a story of personal growth and resilience but also a poignant exploration of how fear and ignorance can lead to unjust persecution, a theme that remains relevant today.
7. Autumn by David Moody
“Autumn” is a chilling post-apocalyptic novel that delves into the horrors of a world where the majority of the population has been wiped out by a mysterious virus. The story follows a group of survivors as they navigate this new, desolate world, where the dead have begun to rise. Unlike typical zombie tales, “Autumn” focuses less on the gore and more on the psychological and emotional toll of living in a world that has suddenly become hostile and unpredictable. The atmosphere is steeped in the decay and desolation of autumn, with the cold, dying season reflecting the bleakness of the survivors’ situation.
As the story progresses, the survivors must confront not only the external threats posed by the undead but also the internal struggles of isolation, fear, and the loss of everything they once knew. The novel’s pace is deliberately slow, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the eerie, autumnal setting and the creeping sense of dread that permeates the narrative. “Autumn” is a gripping and atmospheric read that captures the essence of the season in a way that is both unsettling and thought-provoking, making it a perfect choice for fans of apocalyptic fiction.
8. The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper
“The Dark is Rising” is a classic fantasy novel that is deeply rooted in the myths and legends of Britain, making it a perfect read for the autumn season. The story begins on Midwinter’s Eve, as young Will Stanton discovers that he is the last of the Old Ones, an ancient group of beings dedicated to fighting the forces of the Dark. As Will’s powers awaken, he finds himself caught in a battle between Light and Dark, with the fate of the world hanging in the balance. The novel’s rich descriptions of the cold, dark days of winter and the ancient, mystical landscapes of Britain create a hauntingly beautiful backdrop for the story.
Throughout the novel, the themes of light versus dark, good versus evil, and the cyclical nature of time are explored in a way that resonates with the transitional nature of autumn. As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, the sense of impending darkness mirrors the struggles faced by Will and the Old Ones. “The Dark is Rising” is a timeless tale of courage, destiny, and the power of myth, making it a perfect read for those chilly autumn evenings when the line between the mundane and the magical seems to blur.
9. The Halloween Tree by Ray Bradbury
“The Halloween Tree” is a classic tale by Ray Bradbury that perfectly captures the spirit of Halloween and the mystery of autumn. The story follows a group of boys on Halloween night as they set out to save their friend Pipkin, who has been taken by mysterious forces. Guided by the enigmatic Mr. Moundshroud, the boys embark on a journey through time and spaceto learn about the origins and traditions of Halloween. Their adventure takes them to ancient Egypt, medieval France, and beyond, each stop revealing a new facet of the holiday’s rich history and its connection to the cycle of life and death.
Bradbury’s writing is vivid and atmospheric, painting a picture of a world where the veil between the living and the dead is thin, and where the magic of Halloween is palpable in the crisp autumn air. The novel’s exploration of themes like mortality, tradition, and the passage of time makes it more than just a children’s story; it’s a reflection on the deeper meanings behind our celebrations and the ways in which we confront the unknown. “The Halloween Tree” is a beautifully written, hauntingly nostalgic book that is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the lore and magic of the Halloween season.
10. The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving
“The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” is one of the most enduring American ghost stories, known for its haunting tale of the Headless Horseman and the eerie, autumnal setting of the small village of Sleepy Hollow. The story follows Ichabod Crane, a lanky and superstitious schoolteacher, who competes with local hero Brom Bones for the affection of the beautiful Katrina Van Tassel. As Ichabod attempts to win her heart, he becomes increasingly unsettled by the ghostly legends that haunt the town, particularly the tale of the Headless Horseman, said to be the restless spirit of a Hessian soldier.
The climax of the story, set on a dark, windy night in autumn, sees Ichabod encountering the terrifying apparition of the Headless Horseman, leading to one of the most famous chase scenes in literature. Irving’s rich descriptions of the misty, twilight landscape, the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot, and the sense of looming dread make “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” a perfect read for the fall season. This tale of mystery and suspense has become synonymous with Halloween, and its timeless appeal continues to captivate readers with its blend of folklore, romance, and the supernatural.
11. The Turn of the Screw by Henry James
“The Turn of the Screw” is a classic ghost story that has captivated readers for generations with its psychological complexity and haunting atmosphere. The novella begins with a governess being hired to care for two orphaned children at a remote English estate. As she settles into her role, she begins to experience unsettling visions of apparitions that she believes are the ghosts of the estate’s former employees. The governess becomes convinced that these spirits are intent on corrupting the children, leading her to take increasingly drastic measures to protect them.
Set against the backdrop of a gloomy, autumnal landscape, “The Turn of the Screw” is a masterful exploration of the ambiguity between reality and the supernatural. The novel’s eerie atmosphere is enhanced by the changing seasons, with the encroaching darkness of autumn reflecting the governess’s growing sense of fear and paranoia. As the story unfolds, readers are left to question whether the ghosts are real or merely the product of the governess’s disturbed mind. This ambiguity, combined with James’s elegant prose and chilling setting, makes “The Turn of the Screw” a perfect read for those who enjoy atmospheric, psychological horror.
12. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
“The Night Circus” is a magical tale set in a mysterious, traveling circus that only appears at night. The circus, known as Le Cirque des Rêves, is unlike any other, filled with tents that house incredible feats of illusion, wonder, and enchantment. At the heart of the story are two young illusionists, Celia and Marco, who have been bound by their mentors to compete in a deadly, magical duel. As the circus becomes the stage for their competition, the lines between reality and illusion blur, and the fate of everyone involved becomes intertwined with the outcome of their rivalry.
The novel’s rich descriptions of the circus’s autumnal setting, with its twinkling lights, crisp air, and the scent of caramel and cinnamon, evoke the magic and mystery of fall. The slow-burning romance between Celia and Marco, set against the backdrop of the ever-changing, dreamlike circus, adds depth to the story and draws readers into a world where anything is possible. “The Night Circus” is a beautifully written, atmospheric novel that captures the essence of autumn’s magic and makes it a perfect read for those who love stories filled with wonder, romance, and a touch of the supernatural.
13. The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
“The Haunting of Hill House” is a classic Gothic horror novel that has been widely regarded as one of the best ghost stories of the 20th century. The story follows four characters who are brought together by Dr. John Montague, an investigator of the paranormal, to spend a summer at the ominous Hill House. The house, with its unsettling architecture and dark history, soon begins to exert its influence on the group, particularly on Eleanor Vance, a lonely and fragile woman who becomes increasingly obsessed with the house and its mysterious past.
Set in a secluded location, Hill House exudes an atmosphere of dread and foreboding, enhanced by the changing seasons and the encroaching darkness of autumn. Jackson’s masterful use of psychological horror, combined with her evocative descriptions of the house and its surroundings, creates a sense of unease that permeates the entire novel. As the characters’ grip on reality begins to unravel, readers are left to question whether the house is truly haunted or if the horrors are a product of their own minds. “The Haunting of Hill House” is a chilling and atmospheric read that perfectly captures the eerie mood of autumn.
14. Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury
“Something Wicked This Way Comes” is a dark fantasy novel by Ray Bradbury that captures the eerie, magical atmosphere of autumn in small-town America. The story follows two 13-year-old boys, Jim Nightshade and Will Halloway, whose lives are forever changed when a mysterious carnival arrives in their town. The carnival, run by the sinister Mr. Dark, offers visitors the chance to live out their deepest desires, but at a terrible cost. As the boys uncover the dark secrets behind the carnival, they find themselves caught in a battle between good and evil.
Bradbury’s vivid descriptions of the autumn landscape, with its crisp air, falling leaves, and sense of impending change, create a rich, atmospheric backdrop for the story. The novel explores themes of fear, desire, and the passage of time, all of which are heightened by the carnival’s sinister presence. As the boys confront their own fears and temptations, the novel builds to a thrilling and emotional climax that resonates with the season’s themes of transformation and mortality. “Something Wicked This Way Comes” is a beautifully written, hauntingly nostalgic tale that captures the magic and menace of autumn.
15. The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams
“The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything” is a charming and whimsical children’s book that is perfect for Halloween and the autumn season. The story follows a brave little old lady who, while walking through the woods, encounters a series of mysterious objects—a pair of shoes, a shirt, pants, gloves, a hat, and a pumpkin head—that follow her home. Despite their spooky attempts to scare her, the little old lady remains unafraid and instead finds a clever way to put the pieces together to create a friendly scarecrow for her garden.
The book’s rhythmic, repetitive text and lively illustrations make it an engaging read for young children, who will enjoy the suspenseful buildup and the story’s playful resolution. The autumnal setting, with its colorful leaves and crisp, cool air, adds to the book’s festive atmosphere, making it a great choice for a cozy storytime on a fall evening. “The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything” is a delightful tale that teaches children about bravery and creativity, while also celebrating the fun and excitement of the Halloween season.
16. The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
“The Thirteenth Tale” is a Gothic mystery novel that weaves together themes of family secrets, identity, and the power of storytelling. The story follows Margaret Lea, a young biographer who is invited to write the life story of the reclusive and enigmatic author Vida Winter. As Vida recounts the dark and twisted history of her family, Margaret becomes drawn into a web of secrets, lies, and ghostly apparitions. The novel’s setting, with its crumbling mansions, misty moors, and overgrown gardens, evokes the haunting atmosphere of autumn and adds to the story’s sense of mystery and suspense.
Setterfield’s prose is rich and evocative, creating a vivid picture of a world where the past and present intertwine, and where the line between reality and fiction is blurred. The novel’s structure, with its dual narratives and complex characters, keeps readers guessing until the very end, making it a compelling and immersive read. “The Thirteenth Tale” is a beautifully crafted Gothic novel that captures the essence of autumn’s melancholy and mystery, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy atmospheric and psychologically complex stories.
17. Ghostly: A Collection of Ghost Stories by Audrey Niffenegger
Ghostly” is a carefully curated collection of classic and contemporary ghost stories, selected by the author of “The Time Traveler’s Wife,” Audrey Niffenegger. The anthology features tales from literary greats such as Edgar Allan Poe, M.R. James, and Neil Gaiman, among others. Each story in the collection explores the eerie, the uncanny, and the supernatural, making it a perfect companion for chilly autumn nights. With its rich variety of haunting tales, “Ghostly” invites readers to experience the shivers and thrills that only a good ghost story can provide.
The collection is beautifully illustrated by Niffenegger herself, adding an extra layer of atmosphere to the already chilling narratives. From classic Victorian ghost stories to more modern takes on the genre, “Ghostly” offers something for every fan of the macabre. The stories are imbued with the crisp, haunting qualities of autumn, making them ideal for reading by the light of a flickering candle on a windy fall evening. Whether you’re a longtime fan of ghost stories or new to the genre, “Ghostly” is sure to evoke the perfect balance of fear and fascination that defines the best Halloween reading.
18. The Harvest of Grace by Cindy Woodsmall
“The Harvest of Grace” is a heartfelt romance set in the Amish community of Dry Lake, Pennsylvania, during the autumn harvest season. The story follows Sylvia Fisher, a young Amish woman who flees her family’s farm after a broken engagement and seeks work at another farm in need of help. There, she meets Aaron Blank, the prodigal son of the farm’s owners, who has returned home after a period of rebellion. As Sylvia and Aaron work together to restore the struggling farm, they must confront their own personal demons and find a way to move forward.
The novel’s setting, with its focus on the rhythms of the harvest season, the changing leaves, and the crisp autumn air, creates a rich backdrop for the story’s themes of forgiveness, redemption, and new beginnings. Woodsmall’s portrayal of Amish life is both respectful and detailed, offering readers a glimpse into a world where faith, family, and community are central. “The Harvest of Grace” is a beautifully written romance that captures the essence of autumn’s transformative power, making it a perfect read for those who enjoy stories of love, healing, and hope.
19. A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
“A Discovery of Witches” is the first book in the All Souls Trilogy, a spellbinding tale of magic, history, and romance that is perfect for the autumn season. The story follows Diana Bishop, a scholar and reluctant witch who discovers a long-lost alchemical manuscript in the Bodleian Library at Oxford. This discovery sets off a chain of events that draws Diana into a world of witches, vampires, and daemons, all of whom are seeking the power hidden within the manuscript. As Diana delves deeper into the mysteries of her heritage, she forms a forbidden romance with Matthew Clairmont, a centuries-old vampire.
The novel’s richly detailed settings, from the misty streets of Oxford to the ancient French château where Matthew resides, create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that complements the story’s themes of magic and the supernatural. The autumnal setting, with its falling leaves and lengthening shadows, enhances the sense of mystery and danger that surrounds Diana and Matthew’s journey. “A Discovery of Witches” is a captivating blend of history, science, and fantasy, making it a perfect read for those who love stories that are as intellectually stimulating as they are magical.
20. Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman
“Practical Magic” is a beloved novel that weaves together themes of family, love, and magic, all set against the backdrop of a quaint New England town. The story follows the Owens sisters, Gillian and Sally, who are raised by their aunts after the mysterious deaths of their parents. The Owens family has long been shrouded in mystery, believed to be cursed in matters of love. As the sisters grow older, they each struggle with their own desires and the consequences of the family’s magical heritage. The novel’s setting, with its autumnal New England charm, is perfect for those seeking a cozy yet mystical read.
Hoffman’s prose is lyrical and evocative, bringing to life the golden hues of fall, the crisp air, and the small-town atmosphere that feels both familiar and otherworldly. The themes of magic and sisterhood are intertwined with the changing seasons, reflecting the cycles of life, death, and renewal that are central to the story. “Practical Magic” is a tale of love, loss, and the enduring bonds of family, all wrapped in a spellbinding narrative that’s perfect for reading as the leaves begin to fall. Whether you’re drawn to its magical elements or its exploration of the complexities of love, this novel is an autumn essential.
Conclusion
Autumn is a season that invites us to slow down, reflect, and embrace the beauty around us—and there’s no better way to do that than with a good book.
These 20 stories, each rich with the atmosphere of fall, offer a little something for everyone, whether you’re looking to be scared, enchanted, or simply moved by a great story.
As you read these autumn themed books you’ll find yourself transported to worlds where the air is always crisp, the leaves are always falling, and the stories are just as cozy as they are compelling.
Happy reading!
