2026 Halloween Reading Challenge

If you love ghosts, witches, and spooky vibes, you’re in the right place. Our 2026 Halloween reading challenge is a quick three-book challenge, so it’s easy to finish before October 31st, even if you’re already deep in one of our annual challenges.

We’ve included a book list with recommendations for each of the three prompts below, plus a free printable coloring-page tracker you can grab further down the page.

Halloween Reading Challenge Prompts

To complete our Halloween challenge, read one book from each of the three topics below in any order. If these prompts don’t fit your ideal autumn reading, be sure to check out our separate Fall Mini-Challenge!

Flatlay image of old books, a skull, candles, and black leaves overlayed with three Dark Academia book covers

Prompt #1: Dark Academia

From secret societies to murder on campus, these atmospheric reads are perfect for Halloween.

See Our Recommendations

An ipad with three Halloween romance covers on the screen surrounded by pumpkins all laying on a blue wood background

Prompt #2: A Halloween Romance

Whether you look forward to romance or it’s not your preferred genre, we think you’ll find something to enjoy on our list of Halloween romance books.

Pick a Ghost, Witchy, or Other Halloween Rom Com

black chalkboard with orange halloween decorations and three halloween books

Prompt #3: A Halloween Cozy Mystery or Thriller

Of all the prompts in this challenge, the cozy mysteries tend to have the most Halloween vibes. These quick reads are a fun way to up your holiday spirit. If you prefer a more intense read, you can choose any thriller.

Pick a Halloween Cozy

2026 Thrillers

Get the Free Printable Tracker

Now that you know the prompts, just sign up in the box below to get your Halloween Reading Challenge coloring page tracker!

If you aren’t a member of our Facebook group yet, we recommend joining so you’ll be able to share what books you’re reading for the challenge each Sunday in our What Are You Reading thread.

Social Sharing & Canva Templates

Social sharing template for halloween reading challenge

We’ve created two social sharing templates for this challenge. Each is available as a Canva Template or as an image file that you can use in any editing program!

SQUARE: Canva Template | Download JPG

9:16 FOR STORIES: Canva Template | Download JPG