Eager to put the “utterly adorable” costumes of Halloweens past behind her, the young, white narrator of this picture book has her sights set on a scary getup. “This year, a witch!” Yes, gone are the days of pink bunny onesies and oversized mouse ears. This year, she’s been growing out her “witchy locks,” “whipping up spells,” and teaching herself to speak to animals. She knows a lot about witches, who are generally independent and self-sufficient. They “don’t need their lovies. Or daddies. Or naps.” Excitement builds as she dons her dress and hat. “Get ready to run! Get ready to hide! Here comes … a witch??? A witch!! Ahhhhhhhhh!” One glimpse of her pointed hat and colorfully made-up face in the mirror is enough to scare the narrator right out of her costume. Fortunately, Daddy is there to support her as she recuperates from the fright. When she’s ready, the two of them get ready together (Daddy goes as a cat) and head out to trick-or-treat. “Look out, world!” Risograph printing adds pops of neon to the mostly black-and-white illustrations of a bold girl who craves independence but still needs the comfort of a loving parent now and then. Highly Commended, 2026 Charlotte Zolotow Award