[Fun] A Collection of Picture Books Featuring Ghosts [Scary]
Why is it that ghosts are scary, yet we still catch ourselves thinking, “I kind of want to see one”? In this article, we’ll introduce picture books featuring ghosts that even little kids will find fascinating! Since they’re picture books, the lineup naturally leans toward cute illustrations.
You’re sure to find titles that are perfect even for kids who scare easily.
Some works might even make adults think, “How nostalgic!” That’s how beloved this genre is.
Be sure to read to the end!
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[Fun] A roundup of picture books featuring “ghosts” [Scary] (1–10)
Bakebake Bakebake, Baketa-kun
“Bakebake Bakebake Baketakun” has been a popular series since its first publication in 2009, with sequels continuing to be produced.
Its appeal lies in the character of the protagonist, Baketakun.
He repeatedly plays tricks on humans, and the exhilarating way he does it really captures children’s hearts.
Among the series, the one I especially recommend is “Bakebake Bakebake Baketakun: Festival Edition.” In this installment, Baketakun runs wild at a festival.
Combined with the lively festival atmosphere, it makes for a delightfully fun read.
Wanpakudan and the Haunted House
Do you know the Wanpakudan series? It’s a long-loved and popular series, so many parents may have read it when they were children.
In fact, there’s a volume in the Wanpakudan series that features ghosts.
It’s called “Wanpakudan’s Haunted House.” In this story, the three members of Wanpakudan dress up as ghosts in a vacant house.
There are plenty of costume variations, so you can enjoy it right to the end.
Another appeal is its twist ending, which has a different flavor from the other books in the series.
A Day with a Ghost
Ghosts are scary for many people, right? But the idea behind “A Day as a Ghost” came from the thought that if you became a ghost yourself, maybe ghosts wouldn’t be scary anymore.
In this story, the young boy protagonist spends a day becoming various kinds of ghosts.
He turns into a kappa and swims in a pool, among other things, and the way he spends each day makes clever use of each creature’s traits, bringing a smile to your face.
It’s perfect for reassuring children who have trouble sleeping at night.
If you like this book, be sure to check out “A Day in Hell” as well.
[Fun] A Collection of Picture Books Featuring “Ghosts” [Scary] (11–20)
Miffy Becomes a Ghost
You know Miffy, right? She’s a world-famous character loved by people of all ages, from adults to children.
The book “Miffy the Ghost” (original title often rendered as “Miffy Becomes a Ghost”) depicts Miffy dressing up as a ghost.
Incidentally, this is also famous as the first appearance of the character commonly known as “Ghost Miffy.” The content is lighthearted and soothing.
Even those who aren’t familiar with Miffy can enjoy it, so I hope you’ll pick it up and give it a try.
The Old Man and the Ten Little Ghosts
The “Ten Little Ghosts” series features adorable ghosts in the spotlight.
Among them, a fan favorite is “Ten Little Ghosts and the Big Ship,” which depicts their grand adventure.
In this story, the ten little ghosts set off on a voyage by ship together with a grandfather and a dog.
Overall, it has a gentle, heartwarming atmosphere, making it perfect for bedtime.
At the same time, the scale of the story is larger than usual, so it also leaves you with a satisfying, movie-like feeling.
If you read “The Puppy and the Ten Little Ghosts” in advance, you’ll be able to connect even more deeply with the characters.
How to Make Friends with a Ghost
Rebecca Green is a Canadian picture book author.
In How to Make Friends with a Ghost, she portrays the friendship between a human and a ghost.
What do ghosts eat? What games do they play? The book is crafted like a guide that answers questions children are likely to have.
There are also moments that will make adults chuckle, so you can enjoy it together.
It may also help children who are afraid of ghosts overcome their fears.
By the way, you can download coloring pages for this picture book from the official website, so try enjoying those as well.
I’m not afraid of ghosts.
“I’m Not Afraid of Ghosts” is the perfect picture book for children getting ready for a test of courage or a sleepover.
The story is set at a campsite, where a group of children and their head teacher are staying overnight and plan to do a test of courage.
In the first half, the head teacher tries to scare the children; in the second half, the children turn the tables and try to scare the head teacher.
Reading it will surely make kids think that having a sleepover or doing a test of courage like this would be so much fun.
The warm, cozy illustrations also help readers relax and enjoy the story.