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Looking for the best scary books for kids in 2025? From ghost stories to spooky chapter books and Halloween favorites, scary books spark imagination, build curiosity, and let kids explore their fears in a safe way.
You might wonder why kids enjoy creepy stories. The truth is, they help children test their bravery, face fears in a safe environment, and stay hooked on reading. Suspenseful, page-turning plots also make scary chapter books perfect for reluctant readers.
As a parent, former educator, and camp counselor, I know how important it is to find scary stories that are thrilling andage-appropriate. That’s why I’ve rounded up the 50 best scary books for kids in 2025, with most picks geared toward ages 8–12 and middle school readers.
From classic ghost stories to new Halloween releases, this list has plenty of spooky fun. Whether you’re after scary books for middle schoolers, spooky stories for elementary kids, or the best Halloween books for kids, you’ll find ideas here.
👉 If you’re planning a whole spooky season lineup, don’t miss our list of the Best Halloween Movies for Kids. And if you want broader recommendations beyond just creepy reads, check out our guide to the best books for kids by age.
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (Alvin Schwartz)
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, written by Alvin Schwartz and illustrated with Stephen Gammell’s haunting artwork, is a classic 1981 collection of creepy tales based on folklore and urban legends.
Goosebumps (R. L. Stine)
Goosebumps, R.L. Stine’s wildly popular horror series for kids ages 8–12, delivers spooky, twist-filled tales with cliffhangers, humor, and supernatural chills.
Coraline (Neil Gaiman)
Coraline by Neil Gaiman follows a brave young girl who discovers a hidden door to an eerie alternate world ruled by her sinister “Other Mother.” Blending suspense, fantasy, and courage, this chilling tale captivates readers ages 8–12.
These spine-tingling tales add excitement to any kids’ book collection.
The Graveyard Book (Neil Gaiman)
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman tells the story of Nobody Owens, a boy raised by ghosts in a graveyard after his family’s murder. Atmospheric and heartfelt, it blends spooky adventure with themes of love, loss, and family for readers ages 8–12.
Bunnicula (James Howe)
Bunnicula is a humorous mystery about a vampire rabbit suspected of draining vegetables dry. Lighthearted and witty, it delights readers ages 8–12 with its quirky characters and playful twists.
The Witches (Roald Dahl)
The Witches follows young Luke as he uncovers a terrifying plot by real witches to turn all England’s children into mice. Both creepy and funny, it’s packed with memorable characters and suspenseful twists.
The Ghost Belonged to Me (Richard Peck)
The Ghost Belonged to Me tells the tale of Alexander and the ghost of a young Confederate soldier on a humorous, heartfelt adventure. With its mix of ghostly mystery and historical charm, it captivates young readers who enjoy spooky tales.
Christmas Dinner of Souls (Ross Montgomery)
Christmas Dinner of Souls by Ross Montgomery tells of Tess, a girl who steals a mysterious key and unlocks a door to a vengeful spirit world. This chilling tale grips readers ages 12 to 14.
Small Spaces (Katherine Arden)
Small Spaces by Katherine Arden centers on Ollie, who uncovers a sinister secret during a school trip to a creepy farm. Award-winning and suspenseful, it delivers a chilling adventure for readers ages 8–12.
The Jumbies (Tracey Baptiste)
The Jumbies is a Caribbean-set fantasy where Corinne must outwit supernatural beings to protect her loved ones. Rich in cultural lore and featuring a brave, clever heroine, it captivates readers ages 8–12.
City of Ghosts (Amanda Schwab)
City of Ghosts tells of Cassidy, a girl who can see ghosts, on a chilling trip to Edinburgh, Scotland. Atmospheric and suspenseful, it weaves paranormal mystery with vivid depictions of the city for readers ages 9–13.
The Bone Houses (Emily Lloyd-Jones)
The Bone Houses features Ryn, a young gravedigger battling the dead that rise as bone houses. With rich world-building and themes of death and grief, this fantasy adventure engages readers ages 12–17.
The Peculiar Incident on Shady Street (Lindsay Currie)
The Peculiar Incident on Shady Street centers on Tessa, who moves into a haunted house and uncovers eerie secrets linked to her family’s past. Blending suspense, mystery, and heart, it’s a captivating read for ages 8–12.
The Night Gardener (Jonathan Auxier)
The Night Gardener tells of two orphaned siblings working for a mysterious family in a haunted house. Dark and atmospheric, it weaves suspense with themes of family and loyalty for readers ages 10–14.
Doll Bones (Holly Black)
Doll Bones by Holly Black follows three friends on a quest to bury a haunted doll and lay its ghost to rest. Imaginative and eerie, it blends adventure with themes of friendship and growing up for readers ages 10–14.
Fearsome Creatures (Hal Johnson and Tom Mead)
Fearsome Creatures of the Lumberwoods by Hal Johnson and Tom Mead shares tall tales of mythical beasts from the American wilderness, like the Snoligoster and the Hodag.
Half-Minute Horrors (Susan Rich)
Half-Minute Horrors, edited by Susan Rich, offers bite-sized scary stories from authors like R.L. Stine and Neil Gaiman. Packed with spooky illustrations and quick frights, it’s perfect for young horror fans.
Creepy Carrots! (Aaron Reynolds and Peter Brown)
Creepy Carrots! tells of a rabbit who suspects the carrots in his garden are stalking him. Darkly funny and cleverly told, it’s a hit with both kids and adults.
In a Dark, Dark, Room (Alvin Schwartz)
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories collects eerie folktales, including the classic “The Green Ribbon.” With spooky illustrations and chilling tales, it’s a favorite for young horror lovers.
The Dark-Thirty: Southern Tales of the Supernatural (Patricia C. McKissack)
The Dark-Thirty: Southern Tales of the Supernatural presents eerie stories rooted in Southern history and folklore. Vivid and haunting, it’s a chilling read for ghost story and supernatural horror fans.
The Monstrous Book of Monsters (Libby Hamilton)
The Monstrous Book of Monsters shares creature legends from around the world, from Japan to Mexico to Scotland. It introduces young readers to global monster lore.
Nightmares! (Jason Segel and Kirsten Miller)
Nightmares! by Jason Segel and Kirsten Miller follows Charlie as he faces his worst fears in a strange dream world with help from his friends. Imaginative and adventurous, it’s perfect for kids who enjoy a good scare.
The Lockwood & Co (Jonathan Stroud)
The Lockwood & Co. series by Jonathan Stroud blends fantasy and horror in a richly built world of ghost hunters. With gripping plots and engaging characters, it keeps readers hooked as they face dangerous supernatural threats.
The Monstrumologist (Rick Yancey)
The Monstrumologist series delivers chilling horror with vivid monster descriptions and gripping suspense. Its evolving mentor-apprentice relationship adds depth to the terrifying adventures.
The Last Kids on Earth (Max Brallier)
The Last Kids on Earth series blends humor and horror in a fast-paced, post-apocalyptic adventure. With hordes of monsters, zombie battles, and dynamic illustrations, it’s an exciting ride for young readers.
The Shadow House (Dan Poblocki)
The Shadow House series delivers a chilling mix of mystery and suspense as characters unravel the secrets of a sinister house. With twists, eerie atmosphere, and themes of friendship and betrayal, it keeps readers hooked until the end.
The Witching Hours (Jack Henseleit)
The Witching Hours offers spooky adventures set in the Midnight family’s funeral home for supernatural creatures. With eerie happenings, imaginative monsters, and engaging characters, it’s perfect for young scare-seekers.
After your child finishes these spooky stories, check out our list of books for kids to find their next great read.
The Unadoptables (Hana Tooke)
The Unadoptables follows a lovable group of orphans as they face challenges and uncover secrets from their past. Heartwarming and immersive, it brings a richly researched historical setting to life.
The Blackthorn Key (Kevin Sands)
The Blackthorn Key combines mystery, adventure, and secret societies in 17th-century London. With a relatable apothecary apprentice hero and rich details on alchemy and herbal medicine, it’s both thrilling and educational.
The House with Chicken Legs (Sophie Anderson)
The House with Chicken Legs tells of Marinka, destined to guide the dead but yearning for a normal life. Her world is upended when she befriends a living boy who may not be ready for her truth.
The Girl Who Drank the Moon (Kelly Barnhill)
The Girl Who Drank the Moon follows Luna, who gains magic after drinking moonlight and seeks to end her town’s cruel baby sacrifice tradition. On her journey, she discovers the truth about herself and her powers.
The Screaming Staircase (Jonathan Stroud)
The Screaming Staircase features Lucy, Anthony, and George investigating a haunted mansion and uncovering a threat to all of London. As they face danger, they must also confront trust issues within their team.
Nightbooks ( J.A. White)
Nightbooks is a story about Alex and Yasmin, who must write scary stories each night to appease the witch who kidnapped them. As they plot their escape, they discover their tales hold unexpected power.
The Jolley-Rogers and the Ghostly Galleon (Jonny Duddle)
The Jolley-Rogers and the Ghostly Galleon sees the pirate family face a haunted house and a vengeful ghost to protect their home. Their adventure is filled with lessons on bravery, family, and storytelling.
The Witch of Blackbird Pond (Elizabeth George Speare)
The Witch of Blackbird Pond follows Kit as she struggles with identity and belonging in strict Puritan New England. Her friendships with a Quaker woman and a young sailor are tested when she faces dangerous accusations of witchcraft.
Wait Till Helen Comes (Mary Downing Hahn)
Wait Till Helen Comes tells of Molly and her family facing the vengeful ghost of a girl who died in a fire. Uncovering Helen’s tragic past leads them to lessons about family and forgiveness.
The Nest (Kenneth Oppel)
The Nest follows Steve as he faces eerie wasp-like creatures offering a cure for his baby brother’s illness. As the cost becomes clear, he must confront his deepest fears and decide what he’s willing to risk.
The Witch Boy (Molly Knox Ostertag)
The Witch Boy tells of Aster, who defies his magical community’s gender rules to embrace his true identity. With help from a non-magical friend, he learns about acceptance and the strength of individuality.
The Wollstonecraft Detective Agency (Jordan Stratford)
The Wollstonecraft Detective Agency pairs Ada Lovelace and Mary Shelley as crime-solving partners in Victorian London.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (Washington Irving)
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow tells of Ichabod Crane, a superstitious schoolteacher vying for Katrina Van Tassel’s hand while facing the eerie Headless Horseman.
The House with a Clock in Its Walls (John Bellairs)
The House with a Clock in Its Walls follows orphan Lewis Barnavelt as he moves in with his wizard uncle and discovers a house full of magic. Together, they race to stop an evil force from ending the world.
Remember Me (Christopher Pike)
Remember Me is a supernatural thriller about teenage Shari Cooper, who returns as a ghost to solve her own murder after dying in a boating accident.
Horror and scary stories can be a thrilling and exciting genre for middle school students to explore. With the variety of books available, there is something for every reader’s taste, from classic tales to contemporary stories.
Through reading these books, students can learn how to face their fears and develop critical thinking skills.
While the genre may not be for everyone, it is definitely worth considering for those who are looking for a thrilling reading experience.
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
