As the season changes from summer to autumn, it’s easy to get excited about all the things that blow in alongside the fall weather: colorful leaves, tasty treats, exciting holidays, and time with the ones we love. It’s also a fantastic time to cozy up with a book, especially one that celebrates all the things that autumn has to offer. In that spirit, we’ve gathered seven new picture book releases that are all about getting readers of all ages in the seasonal spirit.
When Autumn Comes by Ekaterina Trukhan
Explore the delights of autumn through the eyes of a child in this simple yet adorable tale, which introduces its young narrator as they ready themselves to head out into a fall forest. With bobble hat on and a trusty canine companion leading the way, the kiddo explores some of the wonders that autumn has to offer: falling leaves and assorted seeds, swirling winds, and ripe veggies ready for harvest. Part of Trukhan’s charming My Favorite Season series, the timeless artwork and carefree tone of this picture book are perfect for getting little readers in the autumn mood.
The Wishing Leaf by Kallie George, Illustrated by Paola Zakimi
Bear is feeling particularly excited today: the giant maple only has one leaf left on its branches, and the cub has heard that if you make a wish on the last falling leaf of the fall season, your wish will come true. Bear and his pals gather and wait for the leaf to fall, but as time ticks by and the weather grows blustery and cold, the others begin to wander off back to their homes. Not Bear, though — he is determined to see his mission out and make his wish, but what will that wish be? A delightful and heartwarming seasonal tale that is all about the rewards of patience and kindness.
In the Autumn Forest by Daniela Kulot, Translated by Elisabeth Lauffer
As the story opens on this title, forest pals Fox, Mouse, Crow, and Squirrel are in the midst of a discussion. Fox and Crow are sure that an autumn storm is on its way, and Mouse is happy to heed their advice, but overconfident Squirrel insists that there is nothing to fear. So, when the storm does arrive, the animals are prepared — or unprepared — as the dark clouds and wicked winds descend. It’s a scary time, but there may be something lovely on the other side of the storm, especially if the friends are kind enough to help one another.
Fall Is for Beginnings by Rajani LaRocca, Illustrated by Abhi Alwar
A follow-up to LaRocca and Alwar’s much-celebrated Summer Is for Cousins, this title reintroduces young Ravi as he starts a new year at school. He’s got plenty to look forward to: new school supplies, new experiences, and… a new friend? The energetic Ellie declares that she and Ravi will be best friends, but he’s not so sure; Ellie means well, but her overtures of friendship can be a little overwhelming for Ravi. Can Ravi and Ellie find the balance in making new pals? A solid look at the occasional awkwardness of forming new friendships that is filled with honesty, empathy, and plenty of fall fun.
Squash & Pumpkin: #Squashgoals by G.G. McQueen, Illustrated by Michael Slack
Every fall, it’s the same thing: Pumpkin this, Pumpkin that, Pumpkin everything! For the other three seasons, Pumpkin and Acorn Squash are inseparable gourd buds; every autumn, Acorn gets left in the dust as Pumpkin becomes the star. This year is going to be different, though, as Acorn Squash starts a campaign to take the fall crown. But will she draw the attention of the Pumpkin-obsessed masses — and does Pumpkin even want to be the center of attention at all? An important lesson on friendship and perspective, and one that may even inspire little readers to broaden their fall cuisine horizons.
A Fall Day for Bear by Bonny Becker, Illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton
The newest title in the author/illustrator duo’s Bear and Mouse series, our tale opens on a role reversal between the two friends. The typically curmudgeonly Bear is surprised to find his tiny friend feeling a bit blue as the seasons change; Mouse explains that he doesn’t like “when things go away,” like the falling leaves and the migrating birds. Bear does his best to cheer his pal with picnic treats and silly games, but to no avail. Can Mouse find his smile again (and can Bear go back to being the taciturn one in their partnership)?
How the Forest Feels: Sensory Play Nature’s Way by Wendi Silvano, Illustrated by Mirka Hokkanen
What’s better than a walk in the autumn woods? Pulling his grandchild away from their video game — much to the kiddo’s consternation — a grandpa encourages the youngster to look up and enjoy the sensory delights that surround them. There are all sorts of things to touch, hear, smell, and feel: crunchy leaves, spunky thistles, cool rain, oozy mud, and much, much more. Better yet, there are adventures to be had and memories to be made when sharing those things with someone special. A great exploration of both sensory play and nature that is educational while being as warm and cozy as a fall sweater.
We hope that you and your young readers enjoy these recommendations and that they help you get into the autumn spirit! Happy reading, and happy fall!
Looking for more spirited new fall reads for kids? Check out our article on New and Upcoming Summerween Books for Spooky Kids.
For all of our recommendations for mini bookworms, check out our Bookshop bookshelf.
