We fell down the rabbit hole of mummy books for kids after my youngest wrapped herself in a blanket and declared she was “Queen of the Mummies.”
It was one of those afternoons when the couch cushions were stacked into pyramids, snack crumbs were the “buried treasure,” and I figured the only way out was to lean in.
A few storytimes later, we were hooked…silly mummies, friendly pharaohs, and just enough spooky to keep things interesting. These are the ones that earned a permanent spot on our shelf (and yes, still get quoted mid–snack time).
The Best Mummy Books for Kids
Here are a few of our favorites that’ll have your little archaeologists giggling, gasping, and maybe even brushing the crumbs off their own ancient ruins.
Meg’s Mummy by Helen Nicoll
Meg and Mog head to Egypt, and of course everything goes delightfully wrong. Between the flying cauldron, lost spells, and a pyramid full of surprises, this one’s classic Meg-and-Mog mayhem. The bright illustrations and simple text make it perfect for classroom read-alouds or early readers who love a little magical chaos.
I’m All Wrapped Up! by Shannon Knudsen
Ami the mummy is having one of those days...walls to crash through, adventures to chase, and plenty of bandages to keep track of. It’s funny, fast, and just the right mix of chaos and charm for Halloween storytime. Great for early readers who like their monsters more mischievous than scary.
The Very Hungry Mummy by José Carlos Andrés
This quirky picture book introduces young readers to Andages, a mummy who wakes up from her pyramid because she’s very hungry. She ventures out, meets a brave little girl named Nessa, and they embark on a food-and-friendship adventure that’s light on spook and heavy on smiles. Perfect for October storytime with early elementary ages.
A Child’s Introduction to Egyptology: The Mummies, Pyramids, Pharaohs, Gods, and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt by Heather Alexander
If your class is deep in an Egypt phase, this book is everything. Packed with full-color illustrations, kid-friendly timelines, and wild facts about mummies, pharaohs, and ancient gods, it reads like a guided tour through history. It’s big, bold, and totally classroom-display-worthy. This is the kind of book kids crowd around to point out the coolest parts.
Making a Mummy (Smithsonian Informational Text) by Harriet Griffey
This Smithsonian read is perfect for curious kids who want to know how mummies were actually made. It’s straightforward, full of fascinating photos, and keeps things classroom-clean while still totally satisfying those “how did they do that?!” questions. Great pick for small-group nonfiction reading or a quick history add-on.
National Geographic Kids Readers: Mummies by Elizabeth Carney
Real mummies, real photos, zero nightmares. This Level 2 nonfiction reader from National Geographic Kids gives curious little archaeologists a peek into the science behind mummification, from Egyptian tombs to ice mummies found in glaciers. It’s packed with bright visuals, bite-sized facts, and enough “wow” moments to keep kids turning pages (and asking for more).
You Wouldn’t Want to Be an Egyptian Mummy! by David Stewart
This one wins every time. It’s funny, factual, and just the right amount of “eww” to keep kids hooked. With cartoon-style illustrations and hilarious captions, it walks students through how mummification really worked — from brain hooks to burial chambers — without crossing the line into nightmare fuel. Teachers will love it for the history tie-ins, and kids love it because… well, brains in jars.
Mummies Made in Egypt by Aliki
If you’re teaching ancient Egypt, this one’s gold. Aliki breaks down the mummification process in a way kids actually understand - clear, fascinating, and never gross. The artwork is classic ‘80s picture-book perfection, and it’s one of those rare nonfiction reads that feels like storytime instead of a lesson.
Skippyjon Jones in Mummy Trouble by Judy Schachner
Everyone’s favorite Siamese kitten with an overactive imagination is back...and this time, he’s off to ancient Egypt. Between the wordplay, the wild adventure, and all the “holy guacamole!” moments, this one’s guaranteed giggles for classroom read-alouds.
There Was an Old Mummy Who Swallowed a Spider by Jennifer Ward
If your students love There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly, this Halloween twist will have them giggling through the whole read-aloud. The rhythm and rhyme make it perfect for group storytime, and the illustrations are more silly than spooky.
The Runaway Mummy by Michael Rex
This playful parody of The Runaway Bunny gets big laughs while celebrating unconditional love...with just the right monster twist. A solid October read-aloud that pairs well with creative writing prompts about “monster families.”
Mummy Cat by Marcus Ewert
A gorgeous picture book blending history, poetry, and imagination. Kids follow a mummy cat as he awakens in ancient Egypt to find his lost friend. Excellent for art or social studies extensions on Egyptian life and symbolism.
Where’s My Mummy? by Carolyn Crimi
A funny, reassuring story that’s spooky-cute, not scary. Baby Mummy plays hide-and-go-shriek with his mom in the dark and learns there’s nothing to fear when you’re loved. Great for circle time and SEL tie-ins about bravery and comfort.
Please Share These Mummy Books for Kids
Your shares are what keep this little corner of the internet wrapped up in fun (see what I did there?)…and I’m so thankful for them!
Know a teacher, librarian, or parent who’d love these mummy books for kids? Share this post on Facebook or save it to your favorite classroom or Halloween board on Pinterest. Every share helps more little readers fall in love with spooky stories that make learning an adventure.