5 Must-Read Books For Autumn & Free Activity Guide

As the crisp air of autumn begins to fill our days, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a good book that not only entertains but also nurtures our children’s faith. I thought that I would share 5 must-read books for Autumn in your homeschool. These are books that we have enjoyed in our own home over the years.

For Christian homeschooling moms, finding books that align with the season while reinforcing biblical values can enrich both your homeschool curriculum and family time. Whether you’re gathering around the fireplace or enjoying the crisp air outdoors, these are my 5 must-read Christian-themed stories to read with your children.

With a mix of fiction and non-fiction, each book in this list reflects the beauty of autumn while offering valuable lessons rooted in biblical principles. Along with the books, I’ve included discussion questions and faith-based activities to help you engage your children in meaningful ways as you enjoy these stories together. I hope that this post offers you inspiration as you plan out your autumn homeschooling days.

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1. The Pumpkin Patch Parable by Liz Curtis Higgs

Summary:
The Pumpkin Patch Parable is a delightful story that uses the imagery of a pumpkin patch to illustrate God’s transformative love. The farmer carefully selects a pumpkin, cleans it out, and places a light inside, symbolizing how God cleanses our hearts and fills us with His light.

Discussion Questions:

• How does the farmer’s care for the pumpkin remind you of God’s care for us?
• What does the light inside the pumpkin represent in our lives?
• How can we let God’s light shine through us?

Faith-Based Activity:
Create your own pumpkin lanterns as a family, carving out the pumpkins and placing a candle inside. As you work, talk about how God removes the “yuck” from our hearts and fills us with His love. End with a prayer, asking God to help each family member shine His light in the world.

2. Thanksgiving: A Harvest Celebration by Julie Stiegemeyer

Summary:
This beautifully illustrated non-fiction book tells the story of the first Thanksgiving, focusing on the Pilgrims’ faith and their reliance on God through difficult times. It’s a wonderful way to teach children about gratitude and the importance of thanking God for His provision.

Discussion Questions:

• Why were the Pilgrims thankful despite the hardships they faced?
• How can we show gratitude to God in our daily lives?
• What are some things we can thank God for this autumn?

Faith-Based Activity:
Create a “Thankfulness Tree” by cutting out paper leaves. Each day, write down something you’re thankful for and attach it to the tree. By the end of the season, you’ll have a beautiful reminder of God’s blessings.

3. God Gave Us Thankful Hearts by Lisa Tawn Bergren

Summary:
In this heartwarming fiction story, Little Pup is feeling a bit down as autumn arrives, but his mama helps him see all the reasons they have to be thankful. The book gently teaches children about gratitude, even when things aren’t perfect.

Discussion Questions:

• Why was Little Pup feeling sad at the beginning of the story?
• How did his mama help him find reasons to be thankful?
• What are some things in your life that you can be thankful for, even if they don’t seem perfect?

Faith-Based Activity:
Go on a nature walk and collect autumn leaves, acorns, and other treasures. As you walk, talk about the things you’re thankful for. When you return home, create a collage or centerpiece with your finds, reminding your family to give thanks in all circumstances.

4. The Berenstain Bears Harvest Festival by Mike Berenstain

Summary:
The Bear family enjoys the annual harvest festival, celebrating the beauty of autumn and the fruits of their labor. This story highlights the joy of community and the importance of celebrating God’s gifts together.

Discussion Questions:

• What did the Bear family enjoy most about the harvest festival?
• How do we celebrate the harvest season and thank God for His blessings?
• Why is it important to celebrate with others?

Faith-Based Activity:
Host your own mini “harvest festival” at home. Prepare a simple meal using seasonal produce, like apples or pumpkins. Before eating, take time to thank God for the food and the farmers who grew it. You could also invite friends or neighbors to join in the celebration, making it a special time of fellowship.

5. The Scarecrow and the Spider by Todd Aaron Smith

Summary:
The Scarecrow and the Spider is a charming fiction story that tells the tale of an unlikely friendship between a scarecrow and a little spider. Through their friendship, the book illustrates how God often works through the small and seemingly insignificant to accomplish His great purposes, reminding children that every part of God’s creation has value and purpose.

Discussion Questions:

• How did the scarecrow and the spider help each other in the story?
• What does this story teach us about the value of every living thing?
• How can we see God’s hand at work in small, everyday things?

Faith-Based Activity:
Create a “Friendship Web” by drawing a large spider web on a piece of paper. In each section of the web, write down or draw someone who has been a blessing in your life or someone you can be a friend to. As a family, pray for these people, thanking God for them and asking for His guidance in being a good friend to others.

As you and your children journey through these Christian-themed stories this autumn, may you find both inspiration and comfort in the messages they bring. These books offer more than just entertainment—they provide opportunities to deepen your children’s faith and connect as a family.

The discussion questions and activities are designed to help you engage with the content in meaningful ways, encouraging conversations that can lead to spiritual growth. Remember, the time spent reading together is not just about learning but also about building memories and nurturing a love for God’s Word. May this autumn be a season of abundant blessings, filled with the warmth of shared stories and the joy of growing closer to God as a family.

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