The Best Fall Read-Alouds for Homeschool Families

Fall is my favorite season to curl up with a blanket, a warm drink, and a good story. Our homeschool days feel extra cozy when we add fall read-alouds that capture the beauty of changing leaves, crisp air, and slower evenings together.

In our homeschool, I love choosing books that fit the season — cozy farm stories, outdoor adventures, and even a spooky classic or two for October. Whether you’re snuggled on the couch or gathered around the table, these fall read-alouds bring warmth, wonder, and connection to your family learning time.

Here are some of our favorite stories for the season, with options for a wide range of ages.

Favorite Fall Picture Books

• Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn by Kenard Pak — a gentle introduction to the changing seasons.

• Fletcher and the Falling Leaves by Julia Rawlinson  — a sweet tale of friendship and letting go.

• In November by Cynthia Rylant — poetic reflections on stillness, nature, and family.

• Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert — a whimsical, art-filled exploration of fall’s beauty.

• Pumpkin Circle by George Levenson — science and wonder wrapped into a harvest story.

Bonus favorites: Miss Maple’s Seeds by Eliza Wheeler and The Scarecrow by Beth Ferry — both pair beautifully with nature walks and art.

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Cozy Fall Read-Alouds

• Thimble Summer by Elizabeth Enright — a perfect bridge between summer and fall adventures.

• Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White — a timeless tale of friendship and endings.

• The Year of Miss Agnes by Kirkpatrick Hill — a simple story that celebrates learning and gratitude.

• The House at Pooh Corner by A.A. Milne — gentle humor and comforting themes for family reading.

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Spooky-but-Wholesome Fall Read-Aloud Books

(Perfect for October! Think mystery, magic, and mild suspense—nothing too dark.)

Picture Books

• The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams — rhythmic and fun for read-alouds

• Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson — clever, funny, and friendship-filled

• Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds — silly and suspenseful (a kid favorite!)

• The Widow’s Broom by Chris Van Allsburg — magical realism and courage

• Pumpkin Moonshine by Tasha Tudor — vintage charm and old-fashioned Halloween feel

• The Hallo-Wiener by Dav Pilkey — humor and kindness

• At the Old Haunted House by Helen Ketteman — gentle Halloween counting story

Chapter Books & Family Fall Read-Alouds

• The Witch Family by Eleanor Estes — whimsical and innocent fun

• The BFG by Roald Dahl — a little spooky, mostly silly and adventurous

• The House with a Clock in Its Walls by John Bellairs — light mystery for older kids (10+)

• The Enchanted Castle by E. Nesbit — magical, old-fashioned fantasy

• Bunnicula by Deborah and James Howe — perfect “spooky” humor and mystery

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart — for families who love puzzles and intrigue

• Wait Till Helen Comes by Mary Downing Hahn — optional (mildly spooky but with redemptive ending; preview for younger kids)

Faith + Family Reflection

• The Pumpkin Patch Parable by Liz Curtis Higgs

• This Is the Feast by Diane Z. Shore — Psalm-inspired harvest celebration

• The Blessing Jar by Colleen Coble — gratitude journaling for little ones

• Psalms for Young Children by Marie-Hélène Delval — daily nature tie-ins

Pair your reading with small moments of gratitude:

• Keep a Thankful Journal each week.

• Go on a leaf walk and talk about change and renewal.

• Read The Little Pilgrim’s Progress for a quiet devotional connection.

• End your week with a family gratitude circle — everyone shares one simple joy from the week.

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As you read through these stories, let them anchor your days in warmth and purpose. Fall is more than a season — it’s an invitation to slow down, notice beauty, and celebrate togetherness.

Save this list for your bookshelf rotation, and PIN it for next year’s fall planning!

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