Cosy Books for Curious Minds and Crisp Evenings

At Spoon & Sky, I believe books are one of the simplest ways to connect as a family — no prep, no screens, just a soft voice, a shared blanket, and an open imagination.

There’s something magical about autumn. The air smells like apples and leaves, the light turns golden, and the world seems to whisper, “Slow down.”

For children, autumn is full of discovery — crunchy walks, cozy crafts, and stories that match the season’s wonder.

Here are ten autumn-themed picture books that celebrate nature, change, gratitude, and the small joys that make this season so special.

This post contains affiliate links through the Amazon Associates program. That means if you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend books and products we genuinely enjoy and use in our own home. Thank you for supporting Spoon & Sky — it helps us keep creating simple tools for joyful structure. 🍂

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🍂 1. Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn — Kenard Pak

A gentle, poetic story that follows a child’s walk through nature as summer fades and autumn arrives.
🌿 Why it’s perfect: Teaches observation, rhythm, and seasonal awareness through gorgeous watercolor art.

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🍎 2. Fletcher and the Falling Leaves — Julia Rawlinson & Tiphanie Beeke

Fletcher the fox tries to save his beloved tree when its leaves start falling. Tender, warm, and full of heart.
🌿 Why it’s perfect: A beautiful introduction to change, letting go, and trusting the natural cycle of seasons.

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🌰 3. The Scarecrow — Beth Ferry & Eric Fan

A lonely scarecrow finds friendship in an unexpected guest.
🌿 Why it’s perfect: Quiet storytelling meets stunning illustration — a tale of empathy, kindness, and new beginnings.

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🍂 4. The Leaf Thief – Alice Hemming, illustrated by Nicola Slater

A playful autumn adventure about a squirrel who thinks someone is stealing his leaves — only to discover the magic of seasonal change.
🌿 Why it’s perfect: Gentle humor, vivid colors, and a light introduction to nature’s rhythms. Perfect for curious preschoolers and early readers.

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🦔 5. Leaf Man — Lois Ehlert

A celebration of leaves in motion — shaped into animals, faces, and landscapes that shift with the wind.
🌿 Why it’s perfect: Encourages imagination, art, and nature play (a brilliant springboard for autumn crafts).

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🍁 6. We’re Going on a Leaf Hunt — Steve Metzger

A playful reimagining of “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt,” but with crunchy leaves, windy hills, and mountain fun.
🌿 Why it’s perfect: Builds rhythm, repetition, and participation — ideal for group reading or classroom fun.

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🦉 7. Owl Moon — Jane Yolen

A quiet night walk through the woods in search of an owl — filled with wonder and stillness.
🌿 Why it’s perfect: Captures the magic of nature and the sacred simplicity of parent-child connection.

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🍂 8. The Very Last Leaf — Stef Wade

Lance the leaf is the last one clinging to his tree — brave, funny, and learning how to let go.
🌿 Why it’s perfect: A relatable, encouraging story about courage, growth, and transition.

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🧺 9. Apples and Pumpkins — Anne Rockwell

A classic picture book celebrating the joy of apple picking, pumpkin choosing, and family rituals.
🌿 Why it’s perfect: Sweet simplicity for preschoolers — full of warmth and familiarity.

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🦊 10. In November — Cynthia Rylant

Soft prose and painterly illustrations capture the cosy stillness of November days.
🌿 Why it’s perfect: Slows down the pace, inviting children to reflect and appreciate quiet beauty.

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📖 How to Create Your Own Autumn Reading Ritual

You don’t need fancy setups — just intention. Try this simple rhythm:

1. Pick a cozy spot. A blanket fort, sofa corner, or under the kitchen table.
2. Light a candle or dim the lights. Instant calm.
3. Add a snack or warm drink. Apple slices, cinnamon toast, or cocoa.
4. Let your child choose the book. Autonomy fuels joy.
5. End with a moment of gratitude. “What part did you like best?”

Small rituals create emotional anchors — moments of warmth your child will remember for years.

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🖨️ Free Printable: Autumn Reading Tracker

To help families keep the magic going, I’ve created a Printable Reading Tracker — a cute chart where kids can tick off autumn stories as they read.
(It pairs beautifully with our Seasonal Book List Series.)

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🌿 Final Thoughts

Stories are more than entertainment — they’re a way of helping children make sense of the changing world around them.

So as the leaves fall and the nights draw in, gather your books, make a nest, and let the season’s stories work their quiet, golden magic.

With a mug of cocoa and a child snuggled close,
Lily Luz — Spoon & Sky