Moonlight, Pumpkins and Masks

Every Halloween tradition has a story. Why do we carve pumpkins, wear costumes, and travel from door to door asking for treats? The answers reach back hundreds of years through ancient harvest gatherings, old folklore, religious observances, immigrant traditions, and neighborhood celebrations. *Moonlight, Pumpkins, and Masks: The Kid-Friendly History of Halloween* takes young readers on a fascinating journey through the origins and evolution of one of the year’s most imaginative holidays. Children will discover the history of Samhain and All Hallows’ Eve, learn why the earliest jack-o’-lanterns were carved from turnips, explore how costumes and trick-or-treating developed, and see how Halloween traditions traveled to America and changed over time. Written in clear, reassuring language for children ages 6 to 12, this engaging nonfiction book presents Halloween history without frightening or overly dark explanations. Reflection questions throughout the book encourage curiosity, thoughtful discussion, and a deeper appreciation of history, culture, courage, creativity, and community. Perfect for families, classrooms, homeschool lessons, libraries, and seasonal gift-giving, this warmly illustrated book helps children discover that Halloween is about much more than costumes and candy—it is a story of traditions passed from generation to generation and the little lights people have always used to brighten the dark.