J Is for Jack-O'-Lantern: A Halloween Alphabet

A seasonal addition to the long-running series, this alphabet book provides copious background information for each entry, as well as simple rhymes. “C is for Costume” traces that Halloween tradition back to the Celts and the Samhain festival. Other entries contain activity ideas, recipes and practical advice. For “L is for Light,” trick-or-treaters walk past a dark house on a city street, while the text explains: “Not everyone enjoys Halloween.... So if you come upon a dark house, keep walking!” The rhymed verse should satisfy younger readers, while the extra information will engage older siblings. Ages 4–10. (Aug.)