Little Reads & Autumn Leaves: Books to Fall For This Season

Ahh, who doesn’t feel a spark of joy and nostalgia when autumn rolls in? This magical season ushers in new scents, flavors (as fruits and veggies change with the calendar), a shift in colors, a cozy wardrobe swap, and a different mood. And while nostalgia sometimes gets painted as bittersweet, fall reminds us that change can be refreshing, an invitation to see things through different lenses.

After all, every transformation can lead to new beginnings, vibrant adventures, and pleasant surprises. Each of our senses celebrates something unique in every season… Every country, every place has its own special way of enjoying autumn. Definitely my favorite time of year no matter where I am!

That’s why today I want to share a handful of books where autumn isn’t just a backdrop, it’s practically a character. These stories either unfold in the heart of fall or catch its spirit vividly. So, treat yourself, grab your favorite drink, and settle into a comfortable spot to explore these stories, whether you’re reading with kids, family, friends, or enjoying them on your own.

A quick note before we start: remember the books I mention here can be found in Finland’s public libraries, unless I say otherwise. And if you’re not sure where to start, your friendly local librarian will be more than happy to help.

Children’s books to enjoy in Autumn

“Winnie the Pooh” by A. A. Milne:

Let’s begin with a timeless treasure. A. A. Milne’s Winnie the Pooh stories are classics for a reason. Many of Pooh’s adventures are wrapped in the whimsical feeling of autumn, full of woodland charm and gentle humor. His books have been translated into countless languages, so no matter what library you wander into, chances are you’ll spot one for sure.

💡 A tip: before exploring the Disney adaptations, start with the original tales, they have their own unique warmth.

Find this book in Helmet system here.

“What Do You See When You Look At A Tree?” by Emma Carlisle:

Another incredible book, with just the right number of verses paired with tender, thoughtful questions, is “What Do You See When You Look At A Tree?” by Emma Carlisle. This title, available in English, comes with illustrations that invite us to pause, observe, and engage all our senses in noticing the passage of time through different trees.

The verses feel contemplative: What do you see when you look at a tree? Leaves and twigs and branches? Or do you see a living thing that moves and breathes and dances? Oh, those extraordinary beings! Trees are shelter, shade, music, fragrance, food, mystery, and always, always life itself. The luminous artwork seems to shine right off the page, making this edition a true gratification for both children and adults.

Find this book in Helmet system here.

“It’s Fall!” by Renée Kurilla:

Fall has treasures to be found in colors, textures, smells, and sounds. It’s so much fun—we love it all! These verses are part of Renee Kurilla’s book “It’s Fall!”, another book you’re sure to love. It will fill the moment with shades of brown and orange, enveloping readers in a totally warm and golden atmosphere.

This book captures all of it in playful rhymes and irresistibly vibrant illustrations that couldn’t be more adorable, a true ode to Fall! The main character stole my heart, I related so much to her joy in experiencing every autumnal detail. Honestly, I could smell the crisp leaves as I read. And fun fact: she wears yellow glasses nearly the same shade as the sun… just like mine.

💡 Tip: after reading, converse with children or adults how they experience fall. What traditions, activities, or even memories make the season special for them?

Find this book in Helmet system here.

“Frederick” and “Mouse Seasons”, two books by Leo Lionni

Let’s close with a brilliant voice in poetic storytelling: Leo Lionni. His tales are profound yet playful, imaginative yet grounded. They’re wonderful for shared reading with little ones, and older children who read already on their own will also appreciate their depth.

In “Frederick“, we meet a little mouse who seems to be doing nothing while the others prepare for winter. But quietly, he’s collecting something far less obvious, something his friends will appreciate later. This story is available in Finnish, Romanian, and Russian.

Find this book in Helmet system here.

To make the experience richer, pair it with “Mouse Seasons” and see how the two stories connect. “Mouse Seasons” is available in English. You can also find other books by Leo Lionni in Finnish libraries, in Romanian, Finnish, Russian, Italian, Persian, Sorani, Chinese, and English.

Find this book in Helmet system here.

I hope these stories keep you company on cloudy days with their golden glow. Let’s take advantage of the season, bring a book to a café, curl up in the library, or better yet, read outside in the park while the weather still allows it. And hey, one last friendly reminder: don’t forget your vitamin D!

Discover more children's books suggestions in #NinhoLibrary!