The Skull : A Spooky Illustrated Adventure Story about Friendship and Courage for Kids Ages 6–9 – A Stylish Gothic Gift from the Bestselling Creator of This Is Not My Hat

From Jon Klassen, Caldecott Medalist and bestselling creator of This Is Not My Hat , comes a wonderfully eerie yet gentle Halloween story perfect for ages 6–9.

On a dark night, a girl named Otilla stumbles across a lonely, abandoned house deep in the forest. Inside waits a skull – who has a secret of its own. Together, they face the shadows that arrive each night… and discover the strength that comes from courage and kindness.

With Klassen’s signature dry humour, hauntingly beautiful illustrations and a touch of deliciously spooky fun, The Skull is ideal for kids who like their stories mysterious but not too scary. Parents can feel reassured: while this gothic folktale has a shiver of creepiness, it ends with strength, empowerment and a reminder that even the strangest friendships can be the most comforting.

Perfect for:

- Independent readers ages 6–9

- Families looking for a suspenseful but not-too-scary read-aloud

- Fans of spooky folktales with a twist of wit and charm

Author: Jon Klassen

Hallowe’en, Thrillers (Children's / Teenage), Horror & ghost stories, chillers (Children's / Teenage), Romance & relationships stories (Children's / Teenage), Mysteries, the supernatural, monsters & mythological beings (Children’s/Teenage), Personal & social issues (Children's / Teenage), Personal & social issues: self-awareness & self-esteem (Children's / Teenage)

Published on 10 Sep 2026 by Walker Books Ltd.