September Kids’ Book List: Back-to-School, Fall, & Spooky Reads

September is nearly here. Already I am grabbing my sweatshirt in the mornings as we head out the door for school drop offs. Before you know it, the days will be getting cooler, backpacks will get heavier, and the first whispers of spooky season will sneak in.

To settle into the season, we’ve pulled together some great reading recommendations for every age group: early readers, middle grade adventurers, and YA teens ready for big feelings and fall chills.

The best part? You can shop these lists in-store at two our pop-ups this month (Sept. 6 and Sept, 20 or browse online through our Bookshop.org shop. Every purchase supports our mission to bring great children’s literature to Philadelphia families.

For Early Readers (Ages 5–8)

A Back-to-School Book list full of giggles & adventures

Ease into the school year with silly stories, cozy classics, and adventurous animal friends. From the laugh-out-loud antics of Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! to the reassuring friendship in Frog and Toad Are Friends, these books will help little ones ease back into routines.

Highlights from our September book list for early readers

• Nate the Great — Pancakes + mysteries = kid-approved fun.

• Amelia Bedelia Means Business — Wordplay and mix-ups galore.

• Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea — Undersea friendship with plenty of giggles.

• Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes — A groovy way to start the year.

• We Don’t Eat Our Classmates — A silly way to talk about making friends.

For Middle Grade Readers (Ages 8–12)

Mysteries, New Schools, and Spooky Whispers

September is perfect for middle grade readers: the excitement of new classrooms, the thrill of big adventures, and a little taste of spooky season. From brainy puzzles to magical survival stories, these books are the kind you’ll find kids sneaking under the covers with a flashlight.

Highlights from our September book list for middle graders

• Spy School — James Bond meets middle school chaos.

• Alvin Ho — A hilarious and heartfelt take on school anxieties.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society — Puzzles, codes, and gifted kids saving the day.

• A Tale Dark & Grimm — Twisted fairy tales perfect for fall.

• Glitch Girl! (New Release, 2025) — A fresh story about friendship and finding your power.

Young Adult (Ages 12–18)

Theme: Big Feelings & Early Autumn Chills

For teens, September is about more than just school supplies—it’s a chance to dive into stories that echo their own lives while offering an escape into fantasy, romance, or supernatural thrills.

Highlights from our September book list of YA picks

• A Monster Calls — Haunting and heartbreaking.

• Along for the Ride — A late-summer romance full of change.

• Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children — Creepy, atmospheric, and unforgettable.

• You’ve Found Oliver (New Release, Sept 2025) — A moving follow-up to You’ve Reached Sam.

• Witchkiller (New Release, Oct 2025) — A dark fairy tale reimagining, perfect for spooky season.

Shop & Support Local

Even if you don't get a book from one of our lists, every purchase from our Bookshop.org store directly supports Midsummer Books and our dream of creating a youth-centered bookstore in Fishtown. Just make sure you select Midsummer Books as your favorite store whenever you check out.

You can also stop by our pop-ups (every other Saturday!) or sign up for our October book and writing clubs to be part of our growing community. We are so excited to share that our book clubs and writing club will take place inside our future home at 1219 Frankford Ave.

Sign up for book and writing clubs

Let’s make this fall a season of stories. 💛