Age Level

These charming graphic novels for middle grade readers feature everything you’d expect from spooky season—haunted hayrides, magic, monster-hunting, and more—yet the stories are cozy, like a mug of hot cider. No matter the time of year, curl up with these titles and enjoy the gentle autumnal vibes.

The five finalists include a picture book, graphic memoir, YA novel, and a couple of middle grade titles.

These two titles center young Indigenous protagonists and integrate coming-of-age tropes with fantasy and folklore.