And Then Comes Halloween

Brenner's debut picture book delicately evokes the arrival of Halloween, explaining the right time to engage in seasonal activities, such as carving pumpkins and picking costumes (“When Papa stacks firewood under the eaves, and a V of geese squawks its way south, and chilly morning air turns noses pink... Then cut out paper witches on brooms and dangle skeletons in doorways”). In Meade's watercolor collages, leaves swirl and paper bats fly as boys and girls prepare for the big event. A comforting, atmospheric take on Halloween night, as “the air rings with laughter and shrieks.” Ages 4–7. (July)