Spooky stories and freaky facts

October 31 is Halloween or All Hallows Eve.  It's an American tradition that isn't celebrated much here in New Zealand but it's a great time of the year to read some spooky books.  We've got some great spooky books that you can borrow from the library and these are just a few:

• The Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine - we've just got a whole new set of these in the library.
• The Scream series by Jack Heath - a new spooky series that is perfect for anyone who loves Goosebumps
• The Giant's Necklace - a ghost story by Michael Morpurgo.
• The Prankster and the Ghost by R.L. Stedman - a funny ghost story.
• Shadow House: The Gathering by Dan Poblocki - a creepy new ghost story series that has a bonus app with extra ghost stories.
• The Ghosts of Tarawera by Sue Copsey - a spooky adventure story set in New Zealand.
• Monkey Boy by Donovan Bixley - a pirate ghost story.

Here are 5 interesting facts about Halloween:

1. The first Jack O'Lanterns were actually made from turnips.
2. Original trick-or-treaters received mostly fruits and nuts not candy. 
3. It is believed that if you see a spider on Halloween it is the spirit of a loved one watching over you.
4. In Mexico they celebrate Dias de los muertos or Day of the Dead on November 1st. It is a big celebration that honors family and friends who have passed away.
5. In Hong Kong Halloween celebrations are known as Yue Lan meaning Festival of the Hungry Ghosts. During Yue Lan celebrations fires are lit and food and gifts are offered to angry ghosts looking for revenge. 

For more information about Halloween, including games to play, costume ideas, party food to make, more books to read and tips for safe trick-or-treating go to the Christchurch City Libraries Halloween page.