As Halloween approaches, it's the perfect time to introduce your little one to spooky—but not too scary—stories to get them excited about the season. Whether you're cuddled up in bed or setting the mood for a cozy autumn evening, these sweet Halloween tales offer a gentle introduction to the magic of the season. From shy ghosts to friendly witches, here are 13 cute Halloween bedtime stories that you may not have heard of, but your toddler will love!

1. Gustavo, The Shy Ghost by Flavia Z. Drago

Gustavo isn’t your typical ghost. He’s painfully shy and struggles to make friends—until he finds a way to show others his true self. Filled with colorful illustrations and a heartwarming message about overcoming shyness, this story is perfect for teaching little ones about the value of friendship and being brave. Check it out!

2. Gilbert the Ghost by Guido van Genechten

Gilbert isn't like the other ghosts in his school—he's colorful and just wants to be himself. This adorable story is about celebrating individuality, and its gentle humor makes it a favorite for bedtime snuggles. Check it out!

3. B is for Boo: A Halloween Alphabet by Greg Paprocki

This beautifully illustrated alphabet book introduces your toddler to Halloween in a whimsical way. Each page showcases a spooky (but cute!) element of Halloween, like “B is for Boo” and “M is for Monster.” It’s a fun and educational read to help little ones learn their ABCs while enjoying the holiday spirit. Check it out!

4. The Scariest Book Ever by Bob Shea

This hilarious book will have your toddler giggling instead of feeling scared! The narrator, a spooky ghost, is too afraid to go through the story—but your little one gets to watch all the funny things happen along the way. The lively colors and unexpected twists make this a go-to for a not-so-scary Halloween read. Check it out!

5. The Bat (Disgusting Critters) by Elise Gravel

This book is a delightful mix of humor and facts, perfect for young readers who love learning about animals in a fun way! Part of the "Disgusting Critters" series, this quirky book introduces kids to bats with engaging illustrations and amusing commentary, making learning about these fascinating creatures enjoyable and accessible. Elise Gravel’s playful narrative explains why bats are essential to our ecosystem, all while keeping things lighthearted and entertaining. It's an excellent read for curious minds and a fun addition to any child’s bookshelf. Check it out!

6. Pick a Pumpkin by Patricia Toht

"Pick a Pumpkin" is a poetic and beautifully illustrated story about the fun of pumpkin picking and carving. It takes toddlers through the classic traditions of Halloween, from selecting the perfect pumpkin to lighting up the jack-o'-lanterns. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the magic of the season with your little one. Check it out!

7. You Are the Light, Little Pumpkin by Laura Robbins

This sweet and soothing bedtime story uses the metaphor of a glowing pumpkin to tell your child just how special they are. It’s a perfect bedtime read that will leave your little one feeling loved and cherished as they drift off to sleep. Check it out!

8. The Witchling’s Wish by Lu Fraser

In this enchanting tale, a young witchling’s only wish is to have a friend. Along the way, she learns the true meaning of kindness and the importance of helping others. This book is filled with heartwarming moments, making it a perfect read for toddlers who enjoy stories about friendship and magic. Check it out!

9. M is for Monsters by Tasha Burgoyne

A playful alphabet book with a Halloween twist, "M is for Monsters" introduces all sorts of adorable creatures in a way that’s fun, educational, and toddler-friendly. Each letter showcases a different monster or Halloween theme, making it a great way to learn and celebrate spooky season at the same time. Check it out!

10. That Witch by Courtney Hanks

This charming story features a little witch who is learning how to cast spells but just can’t seem to get it right. Filled with playful mishaps and magical fun, That Witch is a perfect read for toddlers who love light-hearted stories about witches learning to believe in themselves. The sweet and colorful illustrations make it a delight for young readers. Check it out!

11. My Monster and Me by Hussain Nadiya 

A touching story about a little boy whose worry monster follows him everywhere he goes. It's there when he gets dressed, when he wants to play with his toys, and even when his friends come over to visit. How can he escape his worries? This engaging story will help children and parents talk about anxiety and worries and how to overcome them. Check it out!

12. Countdown To Halloween by Greg Paprocki

These 13 cute Halloween bedtime stories bring all the magic and wonder of the season without the fright. Whether it’s meeting friendly ghosts, learning their ABCs, or counting down to the big day, these tales will leave your little one feeling cozy and ready to drift into sweet, spooky dreams. Check it out!

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These 13 cute Halloween bedtime stories bring all the magic and wonder of the season without the fright. Whether it’s meeting friendly ghosts, learning their ABCs, or counting down to the big day, these tales will leave your little one feeling cozy and ready to drift into sweet, spooky dreams.