As the sun starts to set earlier, the days become chilly, and the leaves begin to change, we all know that fall has finally arrived! Celebrate the shift in seasons with some of our favorite fall children’s books. All stored away in our Leaves are Falling, Books are Calling collection, these seven titles are warm and inviting tales inspired by this time of transition.
See an icon next to your favorite title? The pencil icon means we have a set of no- to low-prep activities available for you to purchase! (If you’re already a premium Novel Effect member, they’re free). Is there a ebook icon next to your book? That means the ebook is available on our app–no hardcopy required. Happy reading!
Our 7 Favorite Fall Children's Books on Novel Effect
It can be so frustrating when your things go missing–especially when it’s the leaves on your beloved tree! Join Squirrel and Bird in their adventure to find out who has been taking Squirrel’s leaves in The Leaf Thief. We’re sure it won’t be who you think it is! (or maybe it will be). Keep an ear out for the charming voice of Squirrel during this soundscape!
Often times, people that seem the most intimidating are the ones most in need of a friend. This beloved autumn classic, The Scarecrow is perfect for teaching children how having a helping hand and friendly heart can make all the difference. Sounds of woodland creatures, piano, and acoustic guitar swirl from page to page in this soundscape.
Pumpkin Jack is a wholesome classic that tells the story of a young boy named Tim and his jack o’ lantern, Jack. After Jack begins to rot, Tim takes him out to his family’s garden. When spring rolls around he is greeted with a welcome surprise! Through nostalgic seasonal melodies, this soundscape will have you rooting for Tim as he helps his new pumpkin plant grow.
PRO TIP: Use this read-aloud to teach about the life cycle of plants during a post-Halloween science lesson!
As leaves fall from the trees and float through the autumn breeze, they can fall into patterns and collages that create a world all their own. Leaf Man is filled with beautiful collages created by the fall foliage! Through the twang of the banjo and light breezes, you and your budding bookworms will have a great time identifying all of the different shapes in this off-beat read.
PRO TIP: Stop and ask your readers what they see in the collages on each page as your read aloud.
There’s nothing quite like an evening under those Friday night lights, but sometimes you have a little one to tuck in while the big game’s under way. Goodnight Football is the perfect way for any football-loving grown up to introduce their kids to one of America’s favorite pass times. Be transported into the buzzing atmosphere of a football stadium just in time for bedtime with this soundscape.
Rebecca Estelle HATED pumpkins! So much so that she avoided growing them for most of her life. Then one day a rotten pumpkin falls off a truck driving by her house and her yard becomes overtaken with the ghastly gourds. Too Many Pumpkins is a silly story about thankfulness and giving back. The use of minor cords and the accordion in this soundscape add a note of mischief perfect for this time of year.
PRO TIP: Once you’re finished reading aloud, ask your little learners ways they show gratitude and kindness every day.
Taking a leap of faith can be scary! And no one knows that better than Lance Cottonwood. In The Very Last Leaf, Lance can’t seem to find the courage to fall with his fellow leaves. A fantastic title for teaching little learners about growth mindset, this soundscape creates autumnal vibes through the use of acoustic guitar.
Now, go grab a cup of warm apple cider, your favorite blanket, and pick out one of these fall children’s books to read aloud with Novel Effect. There’s nothing like curling up with a good book this time of year and our soundscapes make the perfect cozy companion to every page.