Halloween Costumes Inspired By Middle-Grade Books
Halloween Costumes From Books
Whether you’re the type of person who likes to plan their Halloween costumes in advance, or you’re more prone to throw something together last minute, we’ve got the perfect theme for you: Books! We’ve compiled a list of Halloween costumes from books to suit any style.
Arguably the best part of the Halloween holiday is the fun of dressing up. I was never the kind of kid who went for a DIY costume but now I love to explore that side. In this list of ideas I wanted to offer up a few that could easily be DIY. Of course if you have the time and funds to spare these are typically characters you can find pre-made ensembles for too!
Looking for an easy Halloween costume? Think of a few literary characters who have recognizable everyday style, and of course you can always carry the book with you as an extra nod. This makes it a bit easier to put something together, especially for those last-minute folks out there.
Miss Frizzle
From The Magic School Bus books, she’s everyone’s favorite science teacher! This can be as easy as getting a dress and adding some stars or planet shapes to it.
The Big Bad Wolf.
This one is easy enough to pull off with a mask! Dress yourself in everyday clothes, and carry around some materials that the wolf blows down in the Three Little Pigs story. You could even be the wolf who ate grandma in Little Red Riding Hood and wear a comfortable nightgown!
The Wicked Witch of the West
Throw on some green face paint and transform into the baddest witch in town. Tap into The Wizard of Oz tale with all black attire, and a witch hat if you happen to have one handy.
Oracle in Training
This one has plenty of room for creativity! You could channel your inner Oracle and go as yourself, or you can dress up as one of the other Oracles! Mary, Teeny, even Van Clare for those with an all black closet.
Sherlock Holmes
Grab a magnifying glass and lovely wool overcoat for this one. Complete with a hat and pipe, and you’re on the case.
If your family is a fan of Young Adult books, there are many to draw inspiration from for the spooky season. Take your favorite book or series and start getting into character! These can be great for those with a group to dress up too. For a little inspiration here are a few great YA book character costumes:
Harry Potter. This book series is beloved and there are a whole cast of characters. You could be The Boy Who Lived himself, or celebrate the holiday with a take on Bellatrix Lestrange, Hagrid, or even Dobby!
The Hunger Games. Katniss Everdeen is a heroic character many of us hold dear after reading this series. You can make this one happen pretty easily if you’re able to get a plastic bow and arrow set.
Peter Pan. Another amazing tale that features characters you can embody for Halloween! Wendy, Tinkerbell, Captain Hook and the Lost Boys. There’s something in this idea for everyone.
Twilight. I’ve always wanted to go as a Cullen for Halloween. This fun idea offers sparkly skin, or something a bit more warm on the werewolf side. If you’re not feeling ready for Bell and Edward, there’s always Charlie!
If you have the time to spare and want to get a little more elaborate with your costume, think outside the box! We’ve all seen some really great costumes come to life with a little creative brainstorming. Think along the lines of a cardboard box crafted into a transformer suit. Try some of these ideas to tap even more into the DIY:
Thunderbird. An amazing creature from the Far From Home series that you can turn into a costume with cardboard, or even foam! Find a way to make it look like you’re riding one if you’re extra crafty.
Where The Wild Things Are. The Max illustrations are works of art that you can recreate at home! A crown, some fur, and a tail can work wonders here!
Pippi Longstocking. Even if you were blessed with red hair, we recommend a wig for this one. Some hairspray and a few pipe cleaners can help shape the red pigtails. Add freckles with an eyeliner pencil, and pick your favorite Pippi story to dress the rest accordingly!
Alice in Wonderland. There are so many ways to make a costume from this book! You could put together something for The Mad Hatter or the Queen of Hearts. If you’re feeling even more creative, try fashioning a costume for one of the flowers, a playing card, or even a Drink Me bottle.
Matilda. Dressing as this darling character may be easy enough but things can get even more magical than that: Glue floss to a toy or can and make it look as if you’re making objects float! Alternatively, you can bring a friend as Ms. Honey or Trunchbull.
Truthfully, there are as many costumes out there as there are wonderful books to read. This is your chance to show off what you love and honor your favorite characters. From simple to intricate, from popular to the more obscure, a book-themed costume will turn heads at any party.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a book Halloween costume?
It can be as simple as taking your favorite character and replicating their look! The best Halloween costumes from books are the ones where you get to release your creativity. Don’t be afraid to get crafty for any accessories you may need! Cardboard hooks for a hand are way less dangerous than the real thing.
What are the easiest book characters to dress up as?
Think about the characters that let you create Halloween costumes from regular clothes. Waldo of Where’s Waldo fame, Katniss Everdeen if you’ve got a bow handy, Captain Underpants, even Mary Jingo! If you love doing makeup, try out the Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland, or The Cat in the Hat!
