Trick or treat! For October’s read, we’re looking for global books that match a Halloween theme. The book doesn’t have to be scary or spooky though we’ll gladly accept those, but it does need to include a strong element that’s traditionally associated with Halloween.
So bring on books that spooky or scary, or books with a ghost, witch, haunted house, black cat, bat, or anything else associated with Halloween. Just make sure the book focuses on the theme as a major part of the story (e.g., the witch is a main character or the story takes place in a haunted house). +Don’t forget to ensure that the book is a global one following our usual requirements & is available as both a paperback & ebook.
Side note: While the US often comes to mind when thinking of this holiday since it’s widely celebrated across the country, the Library of Congress notes that Halloween has its roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (a Gaelic word pronounced “SAH-win”).
If you’re as curious about Samhain as I am, here’s the 5-star book with Samhain rituals, recipes, & lore which I just picked up.
“Samhain—also known as Halloween—is the final spoke in the Wheel of the Year. At this time, the harvest has finished and the veil between the worlds is at its thinnest. This guide explores the old and new ways of Samhain along with the more lighthearted activities of Halloween.”
The review which piqued my interest was one which notes that Samhain “is a time to clear out what (or whom) isn't needed in your life focusing on endings, remembrance, and tribute to those who came before us [while also] tying up loose ends before the introspective time of winter. This book covers ways to celebrate however you choose, provides crafts and recipes for festivities, activities to celebrate the holiday in modern ways while honoring tradition, chants and prayers, and Samhain symbolic correspondences. I recommend it for pagans both beginning and experienced, and for anybody not of the faith who has an open mind and wants to learn of these histories and traditions.“
Skimming through the book, I’m already hooked by the interesting history included & the sweet sketches. Here’s a taste of what’s included:
HAVE ANY BOOK SUGGESTIONS?
Just let us know your Halloween-themed suggestions by Wed., Sept. 27 11PM ET. (That’s NYC time. See it converted to your time below.)
You can comment with your suggestion below or in our online book club in Facebook.
We'll use your suggestions & suggestions from the book club management team to compile a list of 6 books. The book judged as best will then be read.