From silly witches and adventurous robots to a Bakersfield community read, here are seven books to curl up with this fall.
Fall is a wonderful excuse to slow down, grab a favorite drink, and spend a little more time with a good book. Whether you're reading aloud with little ones, looking for something an older child can get lost in, or finally finding a book for yourself, I've gathered seven picks for different ages and stages.
From silly witches and adventurous robots to a suspenseful teen mystery and a thought-provoking story about the meaning of life, there's a little something here for everyone. You'll also find a book by a Bakersfield author, a story headed to the big screen, and a community read bringing Bakersfield readers together.
So find a cozy spot and see if one of these belongs on your family's fall reading list.
1. CubeTangular by Dewey Compton
For younger readers | Grades K-3
Let's start close to home! Written by Bakersfield author Dewey Compton, CubeTangular introduces young readers to a school filled with shapes -- and a new student who doesn't quite fit in. When her differences lead to unkind treatment from her classmates, the story opens the door for young readers to think about belonging, differences and how we treat one another.
With its school setting and approachable message, this local pick could be a sweet addition to a fall reading night with younger children.
2. Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Ages 4-8 | Family read-aloud
A witch, a cat and a broom that becomes increasingly crowded make this modern children's classic a fun October read. As the witch travels along, she welcomes a growing cast of characters onto her broom -- with some wonderfully chaotic results.
Julia Donaldson's rhyming storytelling, Axel Scheffler's colorful illustrations and plenty of humor make this an especially fun choice to read aloud. I loved the warm and silliness of this story and underneath all the Halloween fun is a lovely little message about friendship and helping one another.
3. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
Elementary/Middle Grades | Family pick
What happens when a robot wakes up along in the wilderness? In Peter Brown's The Wild Robot, Roz must learn to survive among the animals on an island -- and gradually discovers something about friendship, family and belonging along the way.
For families looking to move from picture books into a longer read-aloud or independent chapter book, this is an inviting choice. And kids who have seen the movie may enjoy discovering the book that started Roz's story.
4. Wildwood by Colin Meloy, illustrated by Carson Ellis
Older elementary/Middle Grades | Book-to-movie pick
For kids who love getting lost in a fantasy world, Wildwood takes readers into an enchanted wilderness filled with strange creatures, danger and adventure after Prue McKeel sets out to rescue her baby brother.
There's an extra reason to put this one on your fall list: Wildwood is coning to the big screen this October. Make it a family challenge -- read the book together first, then head to the theater and compare the two.
To see the movie, check out Regal Edwards Theater in Bakersfield beginning October 22, 2026.
5. One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus
Teen/YA Novel
Five students walk into detention, but only four walk out. When one student unexpectedly dies, the others become suspects--and each has something to hide. Told through multiple perspectives, this fast-paced mystery explores secrets, stereotypes, friendship, and the pressure of being a teenager. A suspenseful fall pick for older teens who enjoy a story that keeps them guessing.
6. If Cats Disappeared from the World by Genki Kawamura
For the grown-ups
After you've finished reading to everyone else, here's one for the grown-ups. What would you give up for one more day of life? This short novel by Japanese author Genki Kawamura begins with an unusual bargain and unfolds into a thoughtful contemplation on life, loss, relationships, and the everyday things we often take for granted. I found this book captivating and surprisingly thought-provoking--a quiet read that stays with you long after you've finished it.
7. We Need to Talk: How to Have Conversations That Matter by Celeste Headlee
Adult nonfiction | Bakersfield's 2026 One Book Project
Our final selection isn't particularly spooky -- but it might be the most timely book on this list.
We Need to Talk: How to Have Conversations That Matter by journalist and radio host Celeste Headlee is the featured book for Bakersfield and Kern County's 2026 One Book Project. Headlee explores something that sounds simple but can be surprisingly difficult: how to have meaningful conversations, listen well and connect with people -- including those with whom we disagree.
The One Book Project invites our entire community to explore the themes of one book together through discussions, education and community programming. This year's theme feels especially relevant for families and communities: listening, empathy, openness and learning from one another.
Bakersfield readers can take the experience beyond the book, too. An Evening with Celeste Headlee will be held at CSUB's Icardo Center at 7 p.m. Thursday, October 29, with a book discussion, Q&A and signing. The even and parking are free.
Want a preview? Headlee's popular TED Talk, 10 Ways to Have a Better Conversation, offers an 11-minute introduction to many of the ideas behind her work -- including listening, honesty, brevity and clarity.
What Will You Put on Your Fall Family Reading List?
Whichever books you choose to read this fall, I hope you find a story that gives you an excuse to slow down, get cozy and spend a little more time together.
