The Headless Horseman has returned, and what happens in Sleepy Hollow doesn't always stay in Sleepy Hollow. Hammy Nash grew up reading stories about the Headless Horseman, but he never expected to confront the diabolical beast in real life. When a pair of school bullies steal Hammy’s valuable antique copy of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, Hammy has no choice but to accept their fiendish challenge: spend Halloween night in an eerie cemetery with his two best friends. The evening soon becomes a nightmare when a headless horseman appears out of the darkness and into their lives. The galloping beast chases the young trio through the graveyard and onto the streets of Sleepy Hollow, all the way to the Tarrytown Train Station where they find themselves trapped. Hammy and his friends have no choice but to board a train that spirits them into the dark heart of New York City. Their plight only gets worse when they discover their nemesis is still hunting them. Hammy and his friends must find a way to stop the headless horseman before it’s too late… if they can survive, that is!
It wasn't until I read this excellent book that I realized that there aren't many fun Halloween books set in New York City. Of course, one of the greatest Halloween classics, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" is set just up the Hudson a little ways, but has nothing to do with NYC. So I loved how this book started in Sleepy Hollow/Tarrytown, but then moved to Manhattan and ultimately Central Park. The book is marketed for middle grade readers, but I believe spooky book fans of all ages would like it. Granted it is not scary, but it is quite thrilling and hilarious in places. The characters are wonderful also.
I spent many years in and around New York City. This book brought back so many fond memories of places in Manhattan and up the Hudson River. One of my favorite side trips was to take the express train up to Tarrytown and spend the day in Sleepy Hollow. The cemetery there is gorgeous and the headstones are like reading a Who's Who of American history. Thanks to the author of Escape from Sleepy Hollow for this nostalgic jaunt down memory lane.
I have always wanted to visit Sleepy Hollow to see the famous cemetery there. This book inspired me to make the trip, via Amtrak. I basically followed the same route as Hammy and the twins from Tarrytown into New York City including Grand Central Station, 5th Avenue and Central Park. Every New Yorker from the Hudson Valley down to Manhattan should read this book. It's like a fun Halloween jaunt through the lower Empire State.
This is one of my favorite Halloween books for tweens. It might be good for even younger readers since I found it in a search for Spooky books for preteens. But I would classify this as one of the best Halloween books for teens. It is more funny than scary, but it is a little spooky. If you're looking for the best spooky middle grade novels, this is probably it.
When I was a kid, we went on a field trip to Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow while we were studying about Washington Irving. This book brought back all those fun memories from the cemetery to the train trip to Grand Central Station. This was a fun romp down memory lane.
Finding Halloween books that are spooky but not too scary for my preteen can be a challenge, but Escape from Sleepy Hollow: Headless in New York hit the sweet spot! This book is a funny, fast-paced adventure with just the right mix of comedy-humor, mystery, and ghostly excitement to keep young readers entertained.
The story takes the legend of Sleepy Hollow and gives it a fresh, modern twist. It’s clever, engaging, and full of laugh-out-loud moments that had my kid cracking up. I love that it’s not just a spooky read but also has a fun, adventurous feel—making it perfect for kids who love a little thrill without the nightmares.
It’s so refreshing to find YA young adult and teen books that balance spooky themes with humor. My child devoured this book in just a couple of days, and I found myself sneaking a few chapters too! If you’re looking for a great young reads option for Halloween—or any time of year—this one is a must-read. Highly recommend for kids, teens, and even parents who love a fun, ghostly adventure! 🎃👻📖