Do you have a passion for historical fiction novels? Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in an unfamiliar world of the past, or simply craving some much-needed escapism from reality, exploring the wealth of stories found within this genre is always a great option. Need some inspiration on which novel to choose next? Here are some handpicked historical fiction titles that are sure to transport you through centuries and cultures.

The Dance Tree: A Novel by Kiran Millwood Hargrave

Strasbourg, 1518. In the midst of a blisteringly hot summer, a lone woman begins to dance in the city square. She dances for days without pause or rest, and when hundreds of other women join her, the men running the city declare a state of emergency and hire musicians to play the Devil out of the mob. Outside the city, pregnant Lisbet lives with her husband and mother-in-law, tending the bees that are the family’s livelihood. Though Lisbet is removed from the frenzy of the dancing plague afflicting the city’s women, her own quiet life is upended by the arrival of her sister-in-law. Nethe has been away for seven years, serving a penance in the mountains for a crime no one will name.

It is a secret Lisbet is determined to uncover. As the city buckles under the beat of a thousand feet, Lisbet becomes caught in a dangerous web of deceit and clandestine passion. Like the women of Strasbourg, she too, is dancing to a dangerous tune. . . .

Set in an era of superstition, hysteria, and extraordinary change, and inspired by true events, The Dance Tree is an impassioned story of family secrets, forbidden love, and women pushed to the edge.

The Book of Lost Name by Kristin Harmel

Eva Traube Abrams, a semi-retired librarian in Florida, is shelving books when her eyes lock on a photograph in the New York Times. She freezes; it’s an image of a book she hasn’t seen in more than sixty years—a book she recognizes as The Book of Lost Names.

The accompanying article discusses the looting of libraries by the Nazis across Europe during World War II—an experience Eva remembers well—and the search to reunite people with the texts taken from them so long ago. The book in the photograph, an eighteenth-century religious text thought to have been taken from France in the waning days of the war, is one of the most fascinating cases. Now housed in Berlin’s Zentral- und Landesbibliothek library, it appears to contain some sort of code, but researchers don’t know where it came from—or what the code means. Only Eva holds the answer, but does she have the strength to revisit old memories?

As a graduate student in 1942, Eva was forced to flee Paris and find refuge in a small mountain town in the Free Zone, where she began forging identity documents for Jewish children fleeing to neutral Switzerland. But erasing people comes with a price, and along with a mysterious, handsome forger named Rémy, Eva decides she must find a way to preserve the real names of the children who are too young to remember who they really are. The records they keep in The Book of Lost Names will become even more vital when the resistance cell they work for is betrayed and Rémy disappears.

The Sweetness of Water: A Novel by Nathan Harris

In the waning days of the Civil War, brothers Prentiss and Landry—freed by the Emancipation Proclamation—seek refuge on the homestead of George Walker and his wife, Isabelle. The Walkers, wracked by the loss of their only son to the war, hire the brothers to work their farm, hoping through an unexpected friendship to stanch their grief. Prentiss and Landry, meanwhile, plan to save money for the journey north and a chance to reunite with their mother, who was sold away when they were boys.

Parallel to their story runs a forbidden romance between two Confederate soldiers. The young men, recently returned from the war to the town of Old Ox, hold their trysts in the woods. But when their secret is discovered, the resulting chaos, including a murder, unleashes convulsive repercussions on the entire community. In the aftermath of so much turmoil, it is Isabelle who emerges as an unlikely leader, proffering a healing vision for the land and for the newly free citizens of Old Ox.

The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis

Eight months since losing her mother in the Spanish flu outbreak of 1919, twenty-one-year-old Lillian Carter’s life has completely fallen apart. For the past six years, under the moniker Angelica, Lillian was one of the most sought-after artists’ models in New York City, with statues based on her figure gracing landmarks from the Plaza Hotel to the Brooklyn Bridge. But with her mother gone, a grieving Lillian is rudderless and desperate—the work has dried up and a looming scandal has left her entirely without a safe haven. So when she stumbles upon an employment opportunity at the Frick mansion—a building that, ironically, bears her own visage—Lillian jumps at the chance. But the longer she works as a private secretary to the imperious and demanding Helen Frick, the daughter and heiress of industrialist and art patron Henry Clay Frick, the more deeply her life gets intertwined with that of the family—pulling her into a tangled web of romantic trysts, stolen jewels, and family drama that runs so deep, the stakes just may be life or death.

Nearly fifty years later, mod English model Veronica Weber has her own chance to make her career—and with it, earn the money she needs to support her family back home—within the walls of the former Frick residence, now converted into one of New York City’s most impressive museums. But when she—along with a charming intern/budding art curator named Joshua—is dismissed from the Vogue shoot taking place at the Frick Collection, she chances upon a series of hidden messages in the museum: messages that will lead her and Joshua on a hunt that could not only solve Veronica’s financial woes, but could finally reveal the truth behind a decades-old murder in the infamous Frick family.

If you’re looking for your next historical fiction read, why not start with one of these? All four are well-researched and provide interesting insight into different time periods – and will definitely have you turning the page to see what happens next.

***All book descriptions courtesy of Amazon

Indian food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world. It is known for its rich and spicy flavors. But many people are afraid to cook Indian food at home because they think it is too difficult. This is not true! There are many easy Indian dishes that you can make at home. Want to make a few of your faves at home? Here are 15 of our favorite recipes. So get ready to spice up your dinner menu with some delicious Indian cuisine!

1. Dal Tadka: This is a classic Indian dish made with yellow lentils cooked in a spicy tomato-onion gravy. Serve it hot with rice or roti for an easy and delicious meal. 
2. Vegetable Korma: This is a creamy curry dish cooked with vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and peas. It has a mild flavor and can be served with chapatis or naan breads.
3. Palak Paneer: Spinach and paneer (Indian cheese) come together to make this popular North Indian dish. Enjoy it with steamed basmati rice or some warm naan!
4. Aloo Gobi: Potatoes and cauliflower are cooked in a spicy tomato gravy to make this simple yet flavorful Indian dish. Enjoy it with roti or paratha breads.
5. Chana Masala: This is a popular North Indian dish made by cooking chickpeas in an aromatic masala sauce. Serve it hot with some steamed basmati rice for a delicious and hearty meal.
6. Chicken Tikka Masala: Boneless chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a creamy tomato sauce – what could be more delicious than that? Enjoy it hot with some naan or chapati breads.
7. Malai Kofta: Vegetable dumplings cooked in a rich and creamy cashew nut gravy – this dish is sure to please! This dish is often served with some steamed rice or roti.
8. Bhindi Masala: This is a delicious curry made with okra, onions, and spices. It has a mild flavor and goes great with chapati or naan breads.
9. Paneer Butter Masala: This is an all-time favorite dish made with cubed paneer cooked in a creamy tomato sauce. Enjoy it hot with some chapatis or parathas for a delicious Indian meal.
10. Aloo Matar: Potatoes and green peas come together to make this tasty North Indian dish. Serve it hot with jeera (cumin) rice or chapatis for a yummy meal.
11. Vada Pav: This is a popular street food from Mumbai, India. It consists of a spicy potato mixture sandwiched between two buns and served with chutney. Enjoy it as an appetizer or snack.
12. Vegetable Pakora: This is a classic Indian snack made with vegetables such as potatoes, onions, and spinach. Serve it hot with some chutney or ketchup for an easy and tasty snack.
13. Samosa: Samosas are fried pastry pockets filled with a spiced potato mixture. They make great party appetizers or snacks.
14. Chicken Biryani: Biryani is one of the most popular Indian dishes. It is made by layering basmati rice with chicken (or vegetables) and spices, then cooking it in the oven. Enjoy it hot with some raita (a yogurt-based accompaniment).
15. Rasmalai: This delicious dessert consists of cheese balls cooked in a sweet cream sauce. Enjoy it cold as a delicious ending to your Indian meal.

These are just some of the many easy and delicious Indian dishes you can make at home. With these recipes, you can easily recreate the flavors of India in the comfort of your own kitchen!

Housewarming gifts are a great way to show your friends and family that you care about them. When they move into their new home, it’s always nice to give them a little something to help make the transition a bit easier. But what should you buy for someone who has everything? Or what if you don’t know them very well? Fear not! This list has the best housewarming gifts for every budget.

Plants

Houseplants are a classic and beloved housewarming gift. They come in endless varieties, from succulents to flowers and even full-on trees! This is a great way to give someone something to help make their new space feel more like home.

Housewares

Another timeless housewarming gift idea is kitchenware or other small household items. If you know the person well, it’s easy to find the right small appliances or stoneware pieces for them. Just be sure not to buy anything too big if they don’t have much room in their new place!

Something Personalized

If you’re looking for something more sentimental, try getting a gift that’s personalized. This could be as simple as a cutting board with their name on it or choosing one of their favorite photos to have printed out and framed. There are so many gifts that can be personalized nowadays!

Money Tree

Sometimes, the best housewarming gift is the one that someone doesn’t expect: money! Whether it’s in the form of a check, or even just a nice note with some cash tucked inside, this can be an ideal gift if you don’t know what else to give.

Gift Cards

An excellent option for those who just moved is a gift card. It’s nice to treat them to a dinner at their favorite restaurant or to a home decor store for some new decorations.

New Towels

For a practical yet thoughtful gift, new towels are always a winner. This is especially true if you know that the person is moving into their first apartment and only has a few home goods to bring with them. They’ll be super grateful for the chance to have fluffy bath towels!

Essential Oil Diffuser

A housewarming gift for the health-conscious is a nice essential oil diffuser. Not only will this help them unwind after a long day, but it can actually help purify and cleanse the air in their new home!

Return Address Stamp

A return address stamp is a great way to take the hassle out of writing and addressing envelopes. Plus, it’s super cute and will help any new home feel more like their own!

Welcome Sign

If you want to go the extra mile, a welcome sign is a beautiful housewarming gift. There are tons of different styles, and you are sure to find one that matches the decor of their new home.

Marble Coasters

Marble coasters are a great housewarming gift. They’re beautiful and practical and come in so many different styles that you’ll have no problem finding the perfect set for your friend or loved one!

A New Wreath

Finally, a new wreath for the front door is a perfect housewarming gift. A beautiful wreath is a welcoming sight for guests, and it’s easy to find one that matches any home’s decor.

When you’re searching for the best housewarming gifts for every budget, remember that simplicity and thoughtfulness are key! Whether you opt for plants or kitchenware, don’t be afraid to give something small and simple that will show your loved ones how much they mean to you. Happy gifting!

The new year is a time of reflection and growth. It’s a time when many people set resolutions in an effort to better themselves. However, research shows that only 8% of people actually achieve their resolutions. Why is it that so few people are successful? The answer lies in the fact that most people set goals rather than intentions.

What is the difference between intentions and goals?

When you set goals, you are usually looking at the end result and what you want to achieve. This can be very motivating, but it also sets you up for disappointment if you don’t reach your goal.

Intentions, on the other hand, are defined as “a determination to do something” and are all about the process. They are about how you want to show up in the world and how you want to feel every day. When you set intentions, you are focusing your energy on what’s important and on what matters most to you. And by doing so, you are more likely to stay motivated and committed over the long term rather than falling short by trying to achieve overly ambitious goals.

Why should you set intentions?

Setting intentions has many benefits, including increased focus and clarity, improved mental well-being, more motivation and energy, better relationships, and more success in achieving your goals.

What kind of intentions should you set?

The possibilities are endless when it comes to intentions, but some good starting points include improving your health and well-being, deepening your relationships and connections with others, developing new skills or talents, exploring new interests or hobbies, living more mindfully and intentionally in each moment, and pursuing your passions. Ultimately, the intentions you choose should be ones that resonate with you on a deep, personal level and that help you achieve the vision of your ideal life. So take some time to reflect on what’s most important to you and then set some meaningful intentions for yourself.

Should you share your intentions with others?

While there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to sharing your intentions with others, some people find that doing so can help them stay accountable and on track. By letting friends, family members, or a supportive community know what you’re working towards, you will have built-in support and encouragement along the way. However, others may prefer to keep their intentions private, as doing so can help them stay focused and motivated without feeling pressured or judged. Ultimately, the choice is yours – there are benefits to both sharing and not sharing your intentions with others, so you should do what feels right for you.

When should you set your intentions?

Some people prefer to set intentions at the start of each new year, while others choose to set their intentions on a day-to-day or week-to-week basis. Whether you decide to begin setting intentions at the start of the new year or whenever the timing feels right for you, what matters most is that you do so in a way that aligns with your values and helps you achieve the life you want to live. 

By understanding that intentions are all about the process, you can set yourself up for great success as you see all of the progress you make along the way. This year, why not skip the resolutions and set some intentions? You can set them on a daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly basis and use them to help you achieve great things!

Rustic style is all about creating a cozy, homey feel. It’s perfect for apartment renters who want to add personality to their space without making any permanent changes. Plus, decorating in a rustic style can be surprisingly affordable. Here are some tips and tricks for bringing rustic style to your home on a budget.

1. Start with the basics. 

If you’re starting from scratch, the first thing you’ll need is some furniture. You don’t have to buy all new pieces – in fact, secondhand furniture can often work better for a rustic look. Look for pieces that are solid and well-made, with a simple design. Once you have your furniture sorted, you can move on to the fun part – decorating!

2. Get creative with your wall décor. 

One of the easiest ways to add rustic flair to your home is with some well-chosen wall décor. Again, you don’t have to spend a lot of money – think DIY projects or items that you can find at secondhand stores or garage sales. Look for things like old signs, antique plates, or even just some pretty fabric that you can frame.

3. Incorporate natural materials. 

One of the hallmarks of rustic style is the use of natural materials like wood, stone, and metal. You can incorporate these materials into your decor by using items like wooden crates for storage, stone coasters for your coffee table, or metal lanterns as accent pieces. 

4. Bring the outdoors inside. 

Another way to create a rustic feel in your home is to bring the outdoors inside. This can be as simple as adding a few potted plants or hanging some greenery from the ceiling. You can also try incorporating nature-inspired elements like river rocks, seashells, or driftwood into your decor. 

5. Add some cozy touches. 

Cozy touches are essential for creating a rustic vibe in your home. Some ideas include adding throw blankets and pillows to your couch or bed, placing candles throughout your space, or hanging fairy lights around your windows. 

6. Display family photos and personal mementos. 

One of the best ways to make your space feel like home is to display family photos and personal mementos throughout the room. You can put them in frames and prop them up on shelves or dressers, or get creative and make your own photo collage or wall art display. 

7. Think about warm colors and neutrals. 

More often than not, a rustic color palette is full of warm, neutral colors. Think of beiges, creams, browns, blacks, grays, and deep reds and oranges. These colors all work well together and make mixing and matching extremely easy as you incorporate new items into your space.

8. Mix textures.

Rustic style lends itself to mixing textures – whether it be leather, faux fur, or big thick cotton blankets. You can use it all when it comes to bringing that rustic vibe to a space.

9. Keep it simple. When it comes to rustic style, less is definitely more. Don’t try to cram too much furniture or decor into a small space – it will only make the room feel cluttered and cramped. Instead, focus on choosing a few key pieces that you really love and building your design around them.

If you want to create a cozy oasis at home, decorating in a rustic style is a great option. And it doesn’t have to break the bank! By incorporating natural materials, bringing the outdoors inside, adding some cozy touches, and displaying family photos and personal mementos, you can easily achieve that rustic look without spending a lot of money.

Do you need a roommate? Are you looking for someone to share your living space with? If the answer is “yes,” – you probably already know what the benefits of having a roommate are – help with the rent, someone to talk to, and the opportunity to make a new friend. But how do you go about finding a new roommate? And once you have a roommate, how can you be the best roommate ever – so that conflicts are minimal and you can live together harmoniously? Whether you’re just starting your search or you’ve been living with roommates for years, read on for some helpful tips!

Tips for Finding a Roommate

There are a few different ways to go about finding a roommate. You can ask friends or family if they know anyone looking for a place to live. You can post an ad on Craigslist or another online classifieds site, or you can use a professional roommate matching service.

If you decide to go the online route, be sure to include as much information about yourself and what you’re looking for in a roommate in your ad. Be honest – if you’re messy, say so! It’s better to find someone who is compatible with you from the start than it is to try to change your habits once you’ve already moved in together.

You should also include information about the apartment that you’re living in, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, whether there is parking or how well-equipped your kitchen is, and what the monthly rent is. It’s also a good idea to mention your deal-breakers – for example, if you’re not willing to live with smokers or pets.

Once you’ve found a few potential roommates, set up interviews with them. You can meet in person or talk on the phone – whichever makes you more comfortable. During the interview, be sure to ask about their job, sleeping habits, cleaning habits, and anything else that you think might be important.

If everything goes well and you decide to move in together – congratulations! You’ve taken the first step towards finding a great roommate.

Tips for Being a Great Roommate

Now that you’ve found a roommate, it’s time to focus on being the best roommate. Here are a few tips to get you started:

– Be respectful of your roommate’s privacy. Just because you’re living together doesn’t mean that you need to be best friends – everyone needs their own space. But be sure to communicate when you need some space – it will make living together much easier when you are clear on what you need.

– Keep the noise level down. This means no blasting music late at night, no having loud arguments, and no slamming doors.

– Don’t be a slob. Clean up after yourself and try to keep common areas tidy. Nobody wants to live in a pigsty!

– Be considerate of your roommate’s schedule. If they have early morning classes or work shifts, try not to make too much noise in the mornings. 

– Pay your share of the rent and bills on time. Nothing is more frustrating than having to chase down a roommate for money that is owed.

– Be honest with your roommate. If you’re not happy with something, talk to them about it instead of bottling it up until you explode.

By following these simple tips, you can be sure that you’ll have a great experience living with a roommate – and who knows, maybe even make a lifelong friend in the process! Do you have any other tips for finding or being a good roommate?

The holiday season is a time for joy, family, friends, and good food. But for many people, it can also be a time of stress and anxiety. The pressure to have the perfect holiday can be overwhelming. If you’re looking for ways to make the season more joyful and less stressful, then take a look at these tips.

Get organized

One of the best ways to reduce stress during the holidays is to get organized. Make a list of everything you need to do, and then prioritize your tasks. Break down big projects into smaller, more manageable steps. And don’t forget to delegate! Ask family and friends for help with cooking, cleaning, shopping, and wrapping gifts.

Set a budget

Another way to reduce stress during the holidays is to set a budget. Determine how much money you can realistically spend on gifts, food, and other holiday expenses. Then stick to your budget! This will help you avoid overspending and going into debt this holiday season.

Take a break

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a break! Step away from your to-do list and take some time for yourself. Go for a walk, read your favorite book, or take a nap. You’ll feel refreshed and ready to tackle your holiday tasks when you return.

Don’t procrastinate

Procrastinating will only make your stress levels worse. So start crossing items off your to-do list as soon as possible. The sooner you get started, the easier it will be to get everything done.

Say no

You don’t have to say yes to every holiday party or event invitation. If you’re already feeling overwhelmed, then it’s okay to say no. You can always celebrate with friends and family another time.

Do what you love

The holidays are a great time to do the things you love. Whether it’s watching your favorite holiday movie, baking cookies, or going for a walk in the snow, make time for activities that make you happy.

Give back

One of the best ways to feel joy during the holidays is to give back. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen or food bank. Donate toys to a children’s hospital. Help out a neighbor or friend in need. There are so many ways to give back this time of year!

Spend time with loved ones

No matter how busy you are, be sure to spend some quality time with your loved ones. This is what the holidays are all about! Plan fun outings and festive activities that you can enjoy together.

Focus on the positive

It’s easy to focus on the negative during the holidays. But try to focus on the positive instead! Think about all the things you’re grateful for and savor all the special moments. This will help you stay calm and stress-free throughout the season.

Start a new tradition

One of the best ways to make holiday memories is to start a new tradition. Whether it’s watching a holiday movie together, going caroling, or taking a trip to see Santa, find something that your family will love and do it every year! These traditions will bring joy for years to come.

Focus on what’s important

Remember what the holidays are really about: spending time with loved ones, expressing gratitude, and giving back to those in need. Keep your focus on these things and let go of the rest. This will help you enjoy the season and reduce stress.

Take it one day at a time

Another way to reduce stress is to take each day as it comes. Don’t try to do everything at once. Just focus on getting through today. Tomorrow will take care of itself.

The holiday season only comes around once a year, so make sure you enjoy it! Slow down and savor the moments with your loved ones. Cherish this time of year and create lasting memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.

Looking for a delicious way to spice up your dinner routine? Why not try some Indian dishes? Indian food is flavorful and diverse, and there are plenty of recipes that you can prepare at home. Not sure which Indian dish to try first? Then take a look at these! They’re delicious and easy to prepare. So get ready to enjoy some amazing cuisine!

Chicken Tikka Masala

One of the most popular Indian recipes has to be chicken tikka masala. This dish is made with yogurt-marinated chicken that is cooked in a spiced tomato cream sauce. It is flavorful and rich, and it pairs well with rice or naan bread. If you are looking for a vegetarian option, try making paneer tikka masala. This dish features cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) that are cooked in a spiced tomato cream sauce. Both of these dishes are sure to please your taste buds!

Lamb Vindaloo

Another great option is lamb vindaloo. This dish is made with lamb that is cooked in a vinegar and spice-based sauce. It is hearty and flavorful, and it pairs well with rice or naan bread. Want a vegetarian version? Try making vegetable vindaloo. This dish features potato, cauliflower, and mushrooms that are cooked in a delicious sauce and you can always add tofu,too!.

Murgh Makhani (Butter Chicken)

Do you love Butter Chicken? Is it your go-to order at your favorite Indian restaurant? Then try making it at home! This dish is made with chicken that is cooked in a spiced tomato cream sauce. It is rich and creamy, and it pairs well with rice or naan bread.

Goan Fish Curry

Goan fish curry is a popular dish from the Indian state of Goa. The curry is made with a variety of different fish, including tilapia, snapper, or halibut. The fish is cooked in a spice-infused coconut milk gravy, and the dish is often served with rice or naan bread. While there are many different ways to make Goan fish curry, this recipe offers the classic flavors that you know and love.

Homemade Naan

Of course, you’re going to want some naan to sop up all of the delicious sauces that are a part of so many Indian recipes – and it’s definitely something you can make at home. This Indian flatbread is traditionally made in a tandoor oven, but you can also make it in a regular oven. It is soft and fluffy, and everyone will want multiple pieces – so make a big batch.

Aloo Chaat

Aloo chaat is a delicious Indian dish that is perfect for a quick snack or a light meal. The main ingredient is boiled potatoes, which are then spiced with a variety of chili peppers, cumin, and other spices. Once the potatoes are cooked, they are fried in oil until they are crispy. While it may seem like a lot of work to make aloo chaat, it is actually quite simple and only takes a few minutes to prepare. Plus, the end result is well worth the effort!

Easy Raita

Raita is a yogurt-based Indian condiment that is often used to cool the palate after eating a spicy dish. It can also be enjoyed as a refreshing salad or dip. To make raita, simply combine yogurt, cucumber, and mint in a bowl and season with a few spices. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger. Raita is best served chilled, so be sure to refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving. You can enjoy your raita with any of the recipes shared here.

So what are you waiting for? Put away the takeout menu and get cooking! These recipes will not disappoint. 

Winter is coming, and that means it’s time to start preparing your apartment for the cold weather! Not sure how to go about that? Don’t worry. Here are some tips and tricks to prepare for the changing season! Get ready to make your apartment warm and cozy!

Clear away your vents  

One of the first things you should do is clear away any debris or obstructions from your vents. This will ensure that your heating system can work properly and efficiently.

Check your windows and doors

Another important step is to check your windows and doors for drafts. If you find any, seal them up with caulk or weather stripping. This will help keep the warm air in and the cold air out!

Check any filters  

Another thing to keep in mind is your filters. If they’re dirty, they won’t be as effective at trapping allergens and other particles. So make sure to check them and replace them if necessary.

Invest in a humidifier 

Dry air can cause all sorts of problems, from static electricity to cracked skin. One way to combat that is to invest in a humidifier. This will help add moisture back into the air, making it more comfortable for you to breathe and it will help keep your skin from drying out in the winter months. Consider one for your living room and another for your bedroom.

Reverse your fans 

You might not know this, but you can actually use your ceiling fans to help circulate warm air throughout your home. Just make sure to switch them to the “reverse” setting so they rotate clockwise instead of counterclockwise.

Bring in some plants  

Not only do plants add life and color to your space, but they can also help purify the air. So if you’re looking for a way to improve your indoor air quality, consider adding some plants to your home.

Change to your winter bedding 

Don’t forget to change out your summer bedding for warmer, cozier options. This will help you stay comfortable and warm all winter long.

Put a boot tray by the front door   

One of the best ways to keep your home clean and tidy is to put a boot tray by the front door. This way, you can avoid tracking in snow and mud from outside.

Place some extra blankets on your couch

Make sure to have some extra blankets on hand for those chilly nights. This way, you can cozy up on the couch while you’re enjoying a movie or binge-watching your favorite television show.

Change your decor  

Winter is the perfect time to change up your decor. Bring in some winter-themed items, like plaid pillows or candles to help you enjoy the colder months.

Consider insulated curtains  

Another way to help keep your home warm is to invest in some insulated curtains. These can make a big difference in how much heat is lost through your windows.

Prepare an emergency kit   

While you’re at it, why not prepare an emergency kit in case of power outages or other unforeseen events? This way, you’ll be prepared for anything that comes your way.

Keep an eye on your thermostat  

Last but not least, don’t forget to keep an eye on your thermostat. This is one of the most important ways to stay comfortable and save money during the winter months. Make sure you’re not setting it too high or too low.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to preparing your apartment for winter! Before you know it, your home will be ready for the colder weather ahead.

It’s that time of year again! The leaves are falling, the air is crisp, and Halloween is just around the corner. If you’re looking for some great Halloween books for kids, look no further. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites to get you and your little ones in the spooky spirit. So grab the flashlight, get under the covers, and get ready to enjoy these books that are perfect for Halloween!

Pumpkin Jack by Will Hubbell

The first pumpkin Tim ever carved was fierce and funny, and he named it Jack. When Halloween was over and the pumpkin was beginning to rot, Tim set it out in the garden and throughout the weeks he watched it change. By spring, a plant began to grow! Will Hubbell’s gentle story and beautifully detailed illustrations give an intimate look at the cycle of life.

Reading Age: 3-6 years

Hoot Howl Halloween by Becky Wilson

On Halloween, the moon shines bright, and SPOOKY noises fill the night…Hoot Howl Halloween is a fun sound book with 10 scary sounds! Explore the haunted house and press the buttons to hear ghosts wailing, witches cackling, bats flapping and bones jangling. This spooky book is written by Becky Wilson and illustrated by Samantha Meredith…Enter if you dare!

Check out the entire Halloween book collection from Cottage Door Press! We have a wide variety of Halloween books for kids, including sound, song, finger puppets, lift-a-flaps, and more!

Reading Age: 1-3 years

Corduroy’s Best Halloween Ever! by Don Freeman

Halloween is almost here, and Corduroy can’t wait! He is going to have a party. He and his friends will carve a jack-o’-lantern, bob for apples, and go trick-or-treating! But there is one problem-Corduroy needs to choose a costume. What will he wear?

Reading Age: 2-4 years

Hardly Haunted by Jessie Sima

House has a problem.

She’s a little spooky. She’s a little cobwebby. Oh, no! What if she’s haunted?

She’s not sure, but…her hinges creak. Her pipes bang. And on windy days, the branches scritch-scratch at her windows. She tries to hold her breath and be as still as possible. If she’s on her best behavior, maybe a family will move in.

How will House ever find a family that doesn’t mind being haunted?

Reading Age: 4-8 years

Halloween Is Coming! by Cal Everett

Marching in the school parade

in frightening costumes that we’ve made;

Look around, the signs are clear,

Halloween is getting near!

Halloween is Coming is a lyrical celebration of the building excitement that children―and adults!―feel as the magical and mysterious night of Halloween approaches.

Reading Age: 4-8 years

Goodnight, Little Monster by Helen Ketteman

Little Monster needs to get ready for bed. That means howling at the moon, scrubbing his scales, getting into his creepy PJs, and enjoying a nice snack before bed: worm juice and baked beetle bread. And, of course, Little Monster’s mother is nearby to tuck Little Monster into bed and turn on his night-light―because even little monsters can be afraid of the dark. Bonnie Leick’s soft, child-friendly illustrations rendered in watercolor bring a new and quiet twist to the evening’s bedtime ritual. Sweet dreams, Little Monster!

Reading Age: 2-5 years

How to Catch a Witch by Alice Walstead

It’s Halloween night and something doesn’t seem quite right… When the Catch Club Kids head out to trick-or-treat, there are ghosts, goblins, and ghouls everywhere! Our heroes discover a witch on a broom has opened a magical portal that lets out spooky creatures all over the neighborhood. Follow along in this frightfully fun story as they set zany traps for the witch to close the portal and save Halloween before all the candy is gone!

How to Catch a Witch is a treat sure to delight young readers and educators alike with STEAM concepts and classic hilarity and chaos. The perfect Halloween gift or basket stuffer that kids ages 3-7 will love!

You’ve been waiting all year long to trick-or-treat with friends.

But wait―a witch is on the loose! We’ll catch her before night’s end!

Reading Age: 4-10 years

This Halloween, let your children enjoy a few pieces of candy and read a few Halloween books to get them ready for the holiday! These books are sure to have them ready to carve pumpkins and put on their costumes!

***All book descriptions courtesy of Amazon