The Skull

A #1 New York Times bestseller!
“A mysterious, exquisitely presented gothic tale.”Sunday Times
"Haunting and charming. A dark, delectable adventure."Daily Telegraph
"Strange and deliciously creepy, this is the perfect Halloween read for children who like something a bit different." Irish independent ‘The Best Spooky and Sweet Autumn Reads for Children’
“Children and adults alike will be captivated and uplifted by this book that is particularly perfect for spooky season – and ideal for newly-independent readers.” The Scotsman

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 Halloween reads mysterious but not too scary. Parents can feel reassured: while this gothic folktale has a shiver of creepiness, it ends with warmth, 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 not-too-scary Halloween read-aloud
- Fans of spooky folktales with a twist of wit and charm