While this may not exactly be the "ultimate" Halloween book, it probably can lay claim to the title of "The Ultimate Halloween Books for Moms."

What I mean by this is, if you're looking for truly scary, gruesome, spooky ideas, look elsewhere. But if you have young children, or if your Halloween decorating taste runs more toward cute country charm than early "Munsters" or "Addams Family," you will be delighted with this reference.

Especially helpful is the extensive section on costumes, complete with patterns and easy to follow instructions. There are nine to choose from: Jack O' Lantern, Fairy Princess, Scarecrow, Angel, Dalmatian, Fly, Wizard, Bee and Ballerina. However, a clever person could take these patterns and come up with countless other costumes using the same designs but different fabrics or trims.

The chapter on decorating with pumpkins, squashes and gourds has some nice ideas, simple to accomplish, but very effective. I particularly liked the "ghosts" made from butternut squash and the "cats" made from acorn squash. Other decorating projects include flags and banners, lawn decorations, wreaths and table and home accessories.

Additional chapters include favorite Halloween treat recipes, crafts and even festively decorated clothing items for adults. Easy sewing instructions and tips help you accomplish the projects at home with the same success as the author.