Mrs Williams Recommends - Autumnal Comforting Tales
As the nights draw in and the leaves start to fall, there’s nothing better than curling up with a fantastic book. This week, my reading recommendations celebrate all things autumn from crisp woodland mysteries to warm, comforting tales of friendship.
Reception:
The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming & Nicola Slate
Squirrel is very proud of his tree, but when the colourful leaves start disappearing one by one, he is convinced someone is stealing them! A hilarious picture book that gently introduces young children to the seasonal changes of autumn.
Years 1 and 2:
Pumpkin Soup by Helen Cooper
Deep in the woods, Duck, Cat, and Squirrel make the best pumpkin soup you ever tasted. But when Duck decides he wants to swap roles and slice the pumpkin, a cosy autumn day turns into a lesson in sharing and friendship. Richly illustrated in warm golden hues.
Owl Babies by Martin Waddell & Patrick Benson
Three baby owls, Sarah, Percy, and Bill, wake up in their woodland tree hole to find their mother gone. Set against a dark, breezy autumn night, this tender classic captures the comfort of family and the changing woods.
Years 3 and 4:
The Dark, Dark Tale by Ruth Brown
A dark, dark cat walks through a dark, dark wood, up a dark, dark path, and into a dark, dark house. Perfect for October, this beautifully atmospheric picture book builds subtle suspense and is fantastic for practicing expressive reading aloud.
Wildspark by Emily Bearn
For readers stepping into longer chapter books, this charming woodland adventure follows Fox and Badger as they prepare for the long winter ahead. Filled with crisp autumn landscapes, cozy burrow scenes, and gentle mystery.
Years 5 and 6:
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
Specifically the opening chapters as Mole, Ratty, and Badger navigate the River Bank and the encroaching Wild Wood as autumn settles over the landscape. A classic masterclass in rich descriptive language and atmospheric setting.
The Wild Way Home by Caroline O'Donoghue
When Charlie runs away into the local woods, he stumbles into an ancient, mystical world. Set against a damp, misty, turn-of-the-season backdrop, this fast-paced adventure explores grief, resilience, and survival - ideal for confident Year 5 and 6 readers.