31 Fall Books for Kids: Best Autumn Stories for Young Children

Here’s a fall book list perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners. Reading autumn books is a fun way to teach young children about fall and share the beauty of this colorful season.

Best Fall Books for Kids! Here’s a list of popular fall-themed children’s books for toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners to help kids learn about fall. Describe the seasonal changes and delights that make autumn unique, and promote a love of reading with this fall book list for kids. Even elementary-aged children will enjoy several engaging reads on this fall book list.

Share the magic of autumn and the many secrets of nature with little learners at home or in the classroom with this list of classic and new fall-themed books for kids. You might also enjoy this free bucket list of fun fall arts, crafts, and nature activities for kids from toddlers to teens.

Reading fall-themed books to toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners, and young elementary school-aged kids is also a great way to educate them about the fall and explain the changing seasons. It’s also a great way to nurture a growing child’s intelligence and sense of self. Even after children begin reading independently, it’s a good idea to share seasonal stories, such as these autumn nature stories, and read aloud to children as a simple way to share meaning and connection through the passing seasons of our lives.

First published on August 8, 2018, this book list for kids is regularly updated to improve the content, remain current, and include my family’s favorite fall picture books. The most recent update increased the list of autumn stories for kids from twenty-eight to thirty-one magical fall books. Choose your favorite books to read with kids from the list below. You might also enjoy children’s growth mindset books with essential life lessons for today’s youth and tomorrow’s leaders.

Best Fall Picture Books for Toddlers, Preschoolers, and Kindergarteners:

As the leaves turn from green to shades of crimson and gold and the crisp autumn air sweeps in, there’s no better time to cozy up with a warm blanket and a good book for kids. Fall is a season of wonder for little ones such as toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners. Reading fall books to young children is a fantastic way to introduce and explain the fall season to this age group.

With its enchanting blend of falling leaves, harvest festivals, autumn arts and crafts, and days spent at the pumpkin patch, there is much to be curious about and thankful for. To celebrate this vibrant time of year, my daughter and I curated a delightful list of fall-themed picture books perfect for young children to read independently or listen to aloud at home or in the classroom. 

Reading fall-themed books aloud to a child (or group of children) and sharing oral stories is an easy way to spark young imaginations and help children learn about autumn. Share this magical season’s beautiful colors, sights, and sounds with this collection of autumn stories. You might also enjoy this list of fun ways to celebrate the Fall Autumnal Equinox (and learn more about it!)

Benefits of Reading Autumn Stories Aloud to Young Children:

Reading fall books and sharing autumn stories is a simple way to help young children notice and understand the changing season and so much more. Stories about colorful leaves, apples, pumpkins, migrating birds, woodland animals, cooler weather, and shifting daylight give toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners words for what they see around them. When children recognize something from a story on a walk or in their own backyard, the ideas on the page become part of their real-world experience.

Inspires Wonder:

Reading seasonal books also inspires wonder. A story about falling leaves might prompt a child to collect leaves to preserve or make leaf crafts, compare their colors and shapes, or ask why they fall from trees. A book about squirrels gathering food can prompt questions about how animals prepare for winter. These connections between stories and everyday experiences foster curiosity and help children develop a deeper connection with the natural world.

Supports Early Literacy and Language Development:

Reading aloud also supports early literacy and language development. Young children often hear new words, sentence patterns, rhymes, and storytelling rhythms read or told by their grandmother, mom, or dad long before they can read independently. Autumn books introduce seasonal vocabulary, such as harvest, acorn, migrate, crisp, frost, and hibernate, in a meaningful context. Repeated readings help children remember these new words, predict what comes next, retell parts of the story, and begin to understand story structure.

Introduce Basic Science and Math Concepts:

Fall stories can also introduce early science and math concepts in a playful way. Children can count pumpkins, sort leaves by color, compare the sizes of apples or acorns, and notice patterns in nature. Books about changing leaves, shorter days, animal behavior, weather, and harvest time can spark conversations about seasonal cycles and how plants, animals, and people respond to change.

Explores Feelings and Emotions:

Stories are especially helpful for exploring feelings. Autumn is often a season of transition. Children may be starting preschool or kindergarten, adjusting to new routines, or spending more time indoors as the weather changes. Stories about change, letting go, gathering together, preparing for winter, and finding comfort can offer children a gentle way to talk about their own experiences. Sometimes, a character’s feelings can be easier to discuss than their own. Reading books that help children understand their emotions is also very useful during this time of year. 

Fosters Connection and Belonging:

Reading seasonal stories together also fosters connection and belonging. Curling up with a favorite fall book can become part of a family’s bedtime rhythm, a preschool circle-time routine, or a quiet moment after an outdoor adventure. Children often want to hear beloved stories again and again. That repetition supports learning and creates something equally important: a familiar ritual that feels safe, warm, and shared. Reading seasonal stories also helps kids understand their place in the world and feel a sense of belonging.

Encourages Real-Life Learning Experiences and Builds the Imagination:

Perhaps best of all, fall books can inspire children to step beyond the story or imagine themselves within it. Read about leaves, then go outside to find some. Share a story about apples before visiting an orchard or making applesauce or an apple crisp.

Read about woodland animals, such as squirrels, and look for tracks, nests, nuts, and other signs of animal activity. Pair a pumpkin story with carving, painting, counting seeds, or exploring the parts of a pumpkin after a trip to the pumpkin patch with toddlers and preschoolers, or as a complement to a homeschooling science or pumpkin-themed lesson.

Or encourage children to imagine or create their own fall story to share, write, or enjoy through pretend play. When books, nature, play, and everyday life come together, children do more than learn about autumn. They live it and experience it directly. And that’s the best way to learn. Fall stories offer another way to notice the season, ask questions, use their imaginations, and build meaningful connections with the world around them. Enjoy!

Fall Book List: 31 Awesome Autumn Books for Kids:

Here’s a list filled with the best books to read in the fall. Autumn is the perfect time to introduce toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergartners to simple fall stories. This collection of fall-themed books will surely delight young readers with engaging stories and vivid illustrations that capture the season’s warmth and whimsy.

The children’s autumn books for preschoolers below are ideal for helping young children experience the magic of fall. With simple narratives and captivating artwork, this fall book list for kids will entertain and foster early literacy skills as little ones learn to appreciate the changing seasons.

Gather your little ones and dive into these autumnal stories for a cozy, educational experience that celebrates the spirit of fall. Our favorite fall books for kids are listed below. You may also enjoy Gratitude books that inspire thankfulness, as many of them include fall themes. Click on the title or image for any autumn books for kids on this list to learn more about each fall story for kids.

1. Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn by Kenard Pak (Author, Illustrator)

Take a walk with a young girl as she greets all the signs of the coming season. Then, conversing with every flower, creature, and gust of wind, she says goodbye to summer and welcomes autumn. This fall book for kids is fun when paired with our signs of fall scavenger hunt. Use it to search for signs of the changing seasons with a scavenger hunt for each season! Learn more about this autumn board book for kids here–> Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn.

2. Autumn by Gerda Muller (Author): 

This fall book for preschoolers is part of a four-book series, one for each season. It is a magically illustrated collection of picture books without text that recreates each season’s spirit, so even toddlers can read them independently. Gerda Muller’s “Autumn” does not disappoint. It’s a beautiful fall-themed book for kids full of fun, active illustrations, including the joys of playing in leaves, flying kites, making jam, and more! Learn more about this fall book for children here–> Autumn.

3. We Gather Together: Celebrating the Harvest Season by Windy Pfeffer (Author), Linda Bleck (Illustrator):

For many cultures worldwide, the fall equinox has been a time to celebrate the harvest and begin collecting and storing crops. Reading this fall book about the autumnal equinox with your children can help inspire a new understanding of autumn and the harvest season. Learn more about this autumn story of gratitude and abundance here–> We Gather Together: Celebrating the Harvest Season.

4. Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert (Author, Illustrator):

This autumn book for preschoolers has been a great source of artistic inspiration for my daughter and me. We created this fall leaf baby and several other mixed-media nature crafts after seeing the fantastic nature art found in this gorgeous book. The rich pictures and evocative autumn imagery make this fall book the perfect read for children. Learn more about this autumn board book for children of all ages here–> Leaf Man.

5. Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf by Lois Ehlert (Author, Illustrator):

Lois Ehlert is a storyteller who uses watercolor collages and pieces of actual seeds, fabric, wire, and roots in this beautiful fall book about a tree’s life. This lovely autumn book for kids, Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf, includes a glossary explaining how roots absorb nutrients, photosynthesis, how sap circulates, and other fun and exciting educational facts about trees. Learn more about this informative autumn book for kids here–> Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf. You might also enjoy learning how to preserve autumn leaves.

6. Apples and Pumpkins by Anne Rockwell (Author), Lizzy Rockwell (Illustrator):

Apples and Pumpkins is a refreshing autumn book for preschoolers about the fall season. This excellent autumn story is about a girl who spends the day picking apples and searching for the perfect pumpkin. Learn more about this popular fall board book for children here–> Apples and Pumpkins. Extend learning opportunities with these apple and pumpkin-themed fall activities: visit an apple orchard or a pumpkin patch, or make this apple tree craft.

7. Fall Mixed Up by Bob Raczka (author), Chad Cameron (Illustrator):

In this silly little fall book for preschoolers, Bob Raczka mixes up the sights and sounds of autumn! Can you find his mistakes in the words and pictures? Learn more about this fun fall activity book for kids here–> Fall Mixed Up.

8. Too Many Pumpkins by Linda White (Author), Megan Lloyd (Illustrator):

This Autumn story shows what happens when one thrifty gardener figures out how to make others happy with the squash she can’t stomach. Too Many Pumpkins is filled with colorful illustrations and a remarkable lesson about helping others for children of all ages in the classroom or at home. Learn more about this classic autumn story for kids here–> Too Many Pumpkins. You might also enjoy learning how to make homemade pumpkin puree to make delicious pumpkin pie or bread.

9. Why do Leaves Change Color? by Betsy Maestro (Author), Loretta Krupinski (Illustrator):

It’s fall, and the leaves are changing color. This classic autumn picture book features graceful text and simple, fun diagrams to explain concepts like photosynthesis and the different types of leaves. It also includes simple ideas and activities for using leaves during the fall. Learn more about this educational fall board book for children here–> Why Do Leaves Change Color?

10. We’re Going on a Leaf Hunt by Steve Metzger (Author), Miki Sakamoto (Illustrator):

Three friends go on a big adventure over a mountain and through a forest to collect fallen leaves of all kinds and colors. Can you guess what they will do with all the gorgeous fall leaves they have collected? Learn more about this fun autumn adventure for kids here–> We’re Going on a Leaf Hunt. You might also enjoy this list of fall leaf activity ideas: 10 Ways to Have Fun Outside with Fall Leaves.

11. It’s Fall by Linda Glaser (Author), Susan Swan (Illustrator):

This beautiful autumn book uses paper sculpture to illustrate animal life, plant life, weather, colors, clothing, and feelings associated with the fall season. Learn more about this entertaining autumn book for toddlers and preschoolers here–> It’s Fall. You might also enjoy this list of Fall Activities with a printable fall bucket list to help you and your children (or students) have the best autumn ever!

12. The Little Yellow Leaf by Carin Berger (Author, Illustrator):

This sweet autumn tale is for anyone who has ever been afraid of facing the unknown—and a celebration of the friends who help us leap into it. Learn more about this magical autumn story for toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners here: The Little Yellow Leaf.

13. Because of an Acorn Autumn Nature Book by Adam & Lola M. Adam Schaefer (Authors), Frann Preston-Gannon (Illustrator):

Enchantingly beautiful illustrations enhance the vital connections between the layers of an ecosystem in this magical autumn nature book for kids. Because of an Acorn, a tree grows, a bird nests, and a seed becomes a flower. This autumn book takes toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners, and children of all ages for a wander down a forest path.

While reading this book (or listening to this autumn story aloud), children will learn how every tree, flower, plant, and animal connects in life’s spiraling circles. An acorn is only the beginning. Learn more about this educational autumn book for children here–> Because of an Acorn. You might also enjoy crafting acorn necklaces and acorn ornaments with our step-by-step tutorial.

14. Fletcher and the Falling Leaves Autumn Book by Julia Rawlinson (Author), Tiphanie Beeke (illustrator):

In this lovely fall story, as the leaves fall from his favorite tree, Fletcher begins to worry that something is wrong. But when winter comes with a wonderful surprise, he realizes that everything is not only okay–it’s beautiful! Celebrate fall with this endearing autumn story for children of all ages here–> Fletcher and the Falling Leaves.

15. In the Middle of Fall by Kevin Henkes (Author), Laura Dronzek (Illustrator):

This book about fall for preschoolers captures the unique, changing beauty that defines the season of Autumn in most parts of the world. In the middle of fall, it takes only one gust of wind to turn the world yellow, red, and orange. Learn more about this exquisite fall picture book about the wonder of seasonal transformation for children here–> In the Middle of Fall.

16. Count Down to Fall by Fran Hawk (Author), Sherry Neidigh (Illustrator):

Count backward from 10 to one with the author of this book about autumn. First, learn about the bright, colorful leaves and the trees they fall from. Then, watch the animals frolicking in the crisp autumn air as they prepare for the approaching cold winter in this autumn story for preschoolers, kindergarteners, and young elementary school-age children. Learn more about this sweet little book about autumn here–> Count Down to Fall.

17. Leaf Jumpers Fall Book by Carole Gerber (Author) Leslie Evans (Illustrator):

In this fall book, the author introduces the science of seasons for leaf jumpers everywhere. The simple poetic text shares facts about different types of fall leaves. Reading this autumn book for preschoolers makes it easy for children to learn about leaves and identify them. Learn more about this sweet book about fall for preschoolers, kindergarteners, and young elementary-aged kids here–> Leaf Jumpers. Children can also enjoy these fun outdoor Leaf Activities.

18. The Busy Little Squirrel: An Autumn Story by Nancy Tafuri (Author):

What is the busy little squirrel doing? Why doesn’t he have time, and why does he look so busy? Find out about a busy little squirrel in this sweet fall story for preschoolers. Learn more about this autumn adventure favored by toddlers and preschoolers here–> The Busy Little Squirrel. Teach children more about these adorable little rodents with these fun squirrel activities for kids.

19. Fall Leaves by Loretta Holland (Author), Elly MacKay (Illustrator):

This gorgeously illustrated fall storybook captures the colorful autumn season and the spirit of change that stays with us long after the leaves fall. Unlock the secrets of this busy and beautiful time of year as the natural world makes way for winter in this magical fall book for preschoolers and children of all ages. Learn more about this luminous autumn picture book for children here–> Fall Leaves.

20. Autumn is Here: A Fall Picture Book by Heidi Pross Gray (Author):

Discover the signs of autumn in this fall-themed book for preschoolers, featuring gorgeous watercolor illustrations. This sweet fall story explores the incredible changes that happen during the autumn season. Celebrate the arrival of autumn with this book for toddlers and preschoolers. Learn more about this captivating autumn-themed book here–> Autumn is Here! You might also enjoy this list of the signs of fall and going on an outdoor scavenger hunt to find them with one of the included printables.

21. Hello, Harvest Moon by Ralph Fletcher (Author), Kate Kiesler (Illustrator):

As weary farmers and their families rest in their beds, the harvest moon rises quietly into the night sky, weaving its enchantment. For some, it is the nightly signal to rise, shine, and embrace the moonlight magic. It is time to hunt, work, or play in the shadows. For a young girl and her cat, the harvest moon serves as a magical invitation to revel in the night’s marvels, a final burst of light before the short winter days set in. Hello, Harvest Moon.

22. The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming (Author), Nicola Slater (Illustrator):

This sweet autumn story is the perfect fall book for children and toddlers. When an adventurous squirrel and his bird friend team up to hunt down a leaf thief, they discover something surprising. A magically hilarious tale of mystery unfolds. Is a leaf thief afoot, or could something else be happening in Squirrel’s forest? This autumn mystery story for kids explores seasonal change and the anxiety it can cause. Bonus material explaining the changing seasons is also included. Learn more about this fun fall book for kids here–> The Leaf Thief.

23. When Fall Comes: Connecting with Nature as the Days Grow Shorter by Aimée M. Bissonette (Author) Erin Hourigan (Illustrator):

This beautifully illustrated, poetic children’s picture book celebrates the joy of spending time in nature in the fall and discovering the magic unfolding as autumn changes to winter. Discover wildlife busily preparing in its many shapes and forms for the winter months ahead in this magical autumn story about a family’s adventures in their neck of the woods. This beautifully illustrated fall book with informative text will inspire kids and adults of all ages to get out and explore during the autumnal season, much like searching for the signs of fall. Learn more about this autumn story here–> When Fall Comes.

24. Pete the Cat Falling for Autumn by James Dean (Author, Illustrator), Kimberly Dean (Author):

Join Pete, a favorite modern-day character and friend to children of all ages, in this fall story about the changing seasons from summer to autumn. Pete’s not so sure about the changes at first, but soon learns there is much to enjoy and be thankful for about autumn. Learn more about this new best-selling fall book for kids of all ages here–> Pete the Cat Falling for Autumn.

25. Sophie’s Squash: An Autumn Story by Pat Zietlow Miller (Author), Anne Wilsdorf (Illustrator):

Here’s a fall book for kids that tells a story that feels different yet familiar to young and old fans of Charlotte’s Web. When Sophie chooses a name for a squash, she picks it up at the Farmers Market with her mother one fall morning; instead of cooking it for dinner, a fun autumn tale ensues. What’s a little girl to do when the autumn squash she loves is in trouble? Learn more about this autumn-themed story here–>Sophie’s Squash.

26. The Scarecrow: A Fall Book by Beth Ferry (Author), Eric & Terry Fan (Illustrators):

Here’s a gorgeous fall picture book about two unexpected friends and their special connection. This tender and affectionate autumn story reminds us of the comforting power of friendship and the joy of helping others. This autumn tale will inspire and delight children for future generations. Learn more about this new fall book for kids here–> The Scarecrow.

27. It’s Fall! by Renée Kurilla (Author):

Celebrate the seasons with this autumn story for young children, which shares the season’s joys. From jumping into piles of leaves to trick-or-treating on Halloween to baking tasty harvest meals, the fall is a magical time of year for all. Children love the catchy rhyme within its text, “Colors bursting, shadows tall. There’s lots to celebrate—it’s fall!” Learn more about this beautiful new autumn story for children here–> It’s Fall!

28. Leaves by David Ezra Stein (Author, Illustrator):

During a young bear’s first autumn, the falling leaves are so surprising that he tries to put them back on the trees. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work. Eventually, he gets sleepy and burrows into the fallen leaves for a long nap. But when Bear wakes up, it’s spring, and an abundance of brand-new leaves surrounds and welcomes him. Learn more about this book about the wonder of the changing seasons here–>Leaves.

29. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed Some Leaves! by Lucille Colandro (Author), Jared Lee (Illustrator):

Here’s an autumn twist on the classic song from the bestselling “There Was an Old Lady” series for kids. This time she’s swallowing some leaves, clothes, a pumpkin, and a rope. You’ll never guess what she’ll swallow next! Celebrate the fall season with funny illustrations and a new take on a classic rhyme with: There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed Some Leaves. 

30. Oak: The Littlest Leaf Girl: A Heartwarming Autumn Picture Book About Handling Change and New Beginnings by Lucy Fleming (Author, Illustrator)

This thoughtfully written book, with beautiful illustrations by New York Times bestselling illustrator Lucy Fleming, explores the theme of change, covering both seasonal changes and changes in life. It is perfect for reading aloud to young children, from preschool age and up, during the fall or whenever a life change occurs, such as moving, starting, or ending school, etc. Oak loves nothing more than playing with her animal friends, but as winter approaches and her family plans their annual move from the tree to an acorn on the forest floor, she isn’t sure she’s ready to leave. Explore seasons of change with Oak: The Littlest Leaf Girl.

31. Mouse’s First Fall by Lauren Thompson (Author), Buket Erdogan (Illustrator):

This adorable classic fall board book features vibrant colors and simple text with descriptive and action words that build vocabulary. It’s a charming story about a mouse’s learning adventure in the fall, serving as a basic introduction to leaf colors and shapes for young children. Inspire young learners with this educational autumn adventure: Mouse’s First Fall.

Fall-Themed Children’s Books for Preschoolers:

This autumn book list includes our favorite fall books for toddlers and preschoolers, offering a delightful way to engage young children with the season’s magic. These charming stories captivate imaginations with vibrant illustrations and simple, rhythmic text.

Reading autumn-themed books to preschoolers and children of all ages is a fun, easy way to teach them about fall, the changes in nature, and the seasonal traditions and holidays associated with it, such as harvest, Halloween, and Thanksgiving. Through playful tales of pumpkin patches, apple picking, and woodland creatures preparing for winter, preschoolers can explore autumn’s sights and sounds. 

Whether it’s a story about a friendly scarecrow, an autumn animal, pumpkins, or a whimsical adventure through a forest of falling leaves, these books help nurture a love for reading while celebrating the beauty and wonder of fall. Perfect for storytime, these seasonal reads create memorable moments and help young children connect with their changing world.

Best Autumn Books for Children:

I hope you enjoyed this autumn book list for toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners, and young elementary-aged kids, filled with the best fall books for kids. It is perfect for teaching children about the fall and the magic of the changing seasons from autumn to winter, as well as the traditions and holidays associated with autumn.

You might also enjoy these autumn-themed books that focus on giving thanks during the harvest season for Thanksgiving: Gratitude books that Inspire Thankfulness. You might also enjoy these fun fall activities, with a printable bucket list to help you have the best autumn ever!

Other Popular Book Lists for Kids:

• Thankful Books that Teach Children about Gratitude
• Winter Solstice Books for Kids
• Books that Teach Important Life Lessons
• Children’s Books About Feelings and Emotions
• Kids’ Books About Anger Management
• Books for Kids About Love Between Parent and Child
• Books That Help Kids Develop Healthy Body Boundaries
• Fairy Tales for Children

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