The Little Ghost Quilt's Winter Surprise

A Little Ghost Quilt Book

by Riel Nason, Byron Eggenschwiler (Illustrator)

When you're a quilt instead of a sheet, being a ghost is hard! But it does mean you can float around in cold weather . . . an adorable picture book about a ghost who wants to share the magic of the season with his chilly sheet friends.

The little ghost quilt loves being out in the cold. For once, he doesn't overheat, and he likes how the snowflakes make his patches look polka-dotted. His friends, who are sheets, get too cold in the winter weather and have to stay inside, but the little ghost quilt doesn't mind. He enjoys slowly drifting along on his own. 

On one of his frosty flights, he sees something happening in the town. People are putting up warm, twinkling lights, and there's a fun festive feeling everywhere — like Halloween, his favorite season, but with snowmen and wreaths and candles in windows instead of pumpkins. He is filled with excitement and happiness looking at all the beautiful decorations and joyous people, yet he can't help but feel sad that his friends can't be there. 

But then, after almost getting caught in a blizzard, the little ghost quilt is struck by inspiration . . .

Genres: Picture Books, Christmas, Childrens, Ghosts, Holiday, Friendship

48 pages, Hardcover

First published August 26, 2025

About the author

Riel Nason writes for both children and adults. She lives in NB, Canada with her family.

Reviews

[Francisca · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sequel to The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt, the Little Ghost Quilt Winter Surprise is a charming picture book.

The story has both moments of tension, like when the Little Ghost must face the elements despite his quilting nature putting him at a disadvantage, and moments of happy relief, as when the same quilting nature allows this little ghost to go where no other ghost has gone before.

The illustrations, by Byron Eggenschwiler, are charming and evocative. I particularly liked the landscapes, crafted with care to immerse us in the silence and cold of midwinter days.

All that said, I found this book a lesser read to its predecessor. They’re both really sweet and funny books, but this one was not as surprising as the first.

[Dona's (in the hospital) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I requested this book from Netgalley because I like children's books with excellent artwork and a unique take on an idea. I love the concept of the winter time ghost, who flies about and stays warm even in the snow. A little fish-out-of-water who discovers a new way to celebrate being with his other ghostie friends. The story teaches empathy and creativity, as Ghost Quilt strives to understand his friends' limitations while also pursuing their company. The story also teaches how adopting and expressing culture that isn't yours can be a respectful and beautiful practice.

I recommend this beautiful kids book (48 pages) to parents of 5 to 8 years olds and anyone who enjoys great illustration and well-written kids lit.

Thank you to the authors Riel Nason and Byron Eggenschwiler, Tundra Books, and NetGalley for a digital arc of THE LITTLE GHOST QUILT'S WINTER SURPRISE. All views are mine.

[Preslee Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Tundra Books for this ARC!! Sometimes you gotta add a children’s book into the mix and appreciate the artwork!

This was the CUTEST little story about a ghost who is made out of quilt instead of a sheet and his journey through snowy land and Christmas towns! The ghost gets to experience Christmas spirits at their full since he is able to go outside, his other ghostly family members are unable to since they are made out of sheets :( he feels left out but in the end realizes that he can contribute more to his family and provide them with Christmas cheer as they stay indoors to avoid the heavy snow.

Such as cute children’s book and idea!! I absolutely loved it!!! 10/10

[Julia Summers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was just the CUTEST little illustrated ghost story…a perfect & cozy read once the fall weather starts to arrive!💫🔮💫

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

My almost 4 year old, my 6 year old and I LOVE the Ghost who was a Quilt! When I saw this on Net Galley I knew I had to ask for it! When we read this tonight, my children immediately asked for me to read it again!

We will be buying this book!! The writing is amazing for expanding children’s vocabulary. As a preschool educator this book is wonderfully written. The illustrations are exceptional! I loved the Christmas theme but from a Halloween perspective. It was wonderful and I will suggest this to everyone I know!

Thank you Net Galley for the ARC. It was worth every page! My children were so excited! They already want the book at our house!

[☆ Mya ☆ · Rating 5 out of 5]

SOOOO CUTE!!!

[Gabrielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt became one of my favourite children's books when I read it a few years ago. The art style and story have always been so sweet and if you know me in real life you know I adore all things cute and creepy, so a cute story about a ghost is always right up my alley! When I found out there was a sequel coming out in the new year I just had to request an arc of it and I am so happy that I did! I had a smile on my face the entire time reading it. I love the illustrations so much, there were so many times I would turn the page and instantly go "Awwwe!!" Introducing the concept of Christmas to the little ghosts was a genius idea and made it a perfect Boxing day read! The story was heartwarming, I will never get over what a big heart such a little ghost has! I can't recommend this book enough and I cannot wait to purchase a copy for myself and one for my nephew when it comes out in 2025!

*Thank you so much to Netgalley, Riel Nason and Penguin Random House for providing this arc to me in exchange for an honest review*

[Nic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another simply adorable story about the little ghost who was a quilt. It has the same charming illustration style with so many details in the artwork. It’s such a sweet story about making others happy and bringing some beauty to the world.

I love the crossover of spooky-cute ghosts and wintery holiday fun, Christmas trees, and decor. The little ghost is such a lovable character, I hope there will be more in this series, it will be a wonderful addition to my little free library!

Thank you again, Riel Nason, Penguin Random House, and Net Galley for this sweet story.

[Katie G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a cute book! I loved the first Ghost Quilt book, so when I found out there was going to be a winter themed one, I NEEDED it. It's like a whimsical amalgamation of spooky season and yuletide 💙

[Bookaholic__Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this series is so cute. I would love to see more "adventures" with this sweet little quilt ghost. In the first book we saw the quilt and watched him embrace his differences from the other sheet ghosts. In this book it does sort of reinforce the fact that he is different but still wants to find and do things with his fellow ghosts.

He is a little lonely because it's winter and since he is a heavier material being outside doesn't impact him in the same way as his friends. His friends are all hanging out inside and he's still out playing and adventuring in the snow.

The little quilt ghost stumbles upon some humans and he is really inspired by how the are decorating the trees. He decides that he wants to bring this joy inside to his friends. This aspect of the story kind of gave off nightmare before Christmas vibes but not as creepy, more cutesy.

The illustrations in this are beautiful. The story is sweet. I can't think of any reason it shouldn't have a spot on your shelves and be a winter tale staple for your kids!

[Sirah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The little ghost who was a quilt loves going outside in winter, but his friends, who are thin sheets, prefer to stay indoors. And that's why they have never seen the world decorated with festive evergreens and twinkling lights. The ghost quilt really wants to share this holiday magic with his friends, but he can't think of a way to make it fun for his friends to go out. So instead, he finds a way to bring the holidays to them.

I loved the first ghost quilt book, and I wasn't sure anything could top it, but this book is at least as adorable and just as cozy. The illustrations are a lovely blend of soft and spooky, and the text is easy to read with a lot of lovely details. I smiled as I read the ending, and I'm feeling inspired about my own holiday decorating for next year.

A Huge thank you to Tundra Books and NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Reading_seas0n · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Tundra Book Group | Tundra Books and NetGalley, for the early access. Here is my honest review!

As I get older and I watch my friends' kids and my nieces get older, I find a more genuine appreciation for the small & simple tales.
This story shows that uniqueness is not a hindrance but a blessing waiting to happen.
We all have things that make us special. Sometimes, it's being a quilt with many layers and colors, and having someone show you in a moment, you least expect how splendid you are.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read The Little Ghost that was a Quilt last year and absolutely loved it! So when I saw that this was up for review, I just had to read it! This book is so charming, and we get to see more of Little Ghost Quilt and his friends. The art is so beautiful, and the story is simple, without feeling like it might be talking down to children. Seeing all the ghosts celebrate Christmas was both creepy and cute! I recommend this for if you're looking for a good fun read or if you have littles!

Thank you to Netgalley and Tundra Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Tundra Book Group for the e-arc of this gorgeous picture book!

Judging by the title and cover art alone I knew I needed to request this little book and I’m so glad I did! It’s a beautiful, kind story of friendship and inclusion that would make anyone smile. The illustrations were impeccably done and I love the Christmas setting along with the ghosts that makes it perfect for fans of The Nightmare Before Christmas

Go out and buy this book when it comes out, read it and display it around your home. The compliments will be never ending

[Patricia Q · Rating 4 out of 5]

Little ghost is so dang cute, I love the illustrations, so much detail.

[Jeremy · Rating 5 out of 5]

An instant holiday classic. The story is suspenseful and cute, and the illustrations are so damn good.

[Carol Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

SO ADORABLE!!!

[Sue Slade · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review is coming soon to https://miramichireader.ca/author/sue...

[The Benevolent Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this eARC in exchange for my honest review. This follow up to The Little Ghost who was a Quilt is a worthy holiday addition to any collection. and a delight to read. This gentle story follows our quilted friend as they discover Halloween and brave a snowstorm. Five stars!

[Rebecca Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Little Ghost Quilt's Winter Surprise by Riel Nason and illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler continues the story of our favorite ghost quilt from The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt. This time the Little Ghost finds strength in his differences by being able to fly around in the winter because his quilt keeps him warm. While he does this, he stumbles across new decorations in the human town and all he can think about is sharing them with his friends.

This book shares a beautiful story of finding strength in your differences, making joy out of what you have even if it is a little different, and most of all, sharing that joy with your people. While Nason brings the reader on a journey that builds off of the first book in the series, it is absolutely not necessary to read or remember the details of the first story to still find value in this one. Nason paces the story in a way that is entertaining for both children and adults and provides plenty of pausing points to discuss the aspects of the book with the kiddo.

Aside from the adorably perfect story, the illustrations are absolutely gorgeous. Eggenschwiler's work is cozy and beautiful while still adding some haunting touches. The pops of color, scattered throughout in all the right places, helped highlight the haunting and slightly spooky setting which the little ghost fills with joy. I particularly loved the illustration on the last page. I will not spoil it, but I hope you go see it for yourself!

I highly recommend both books in this series to any parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle, big sister or brother, teacher, and librarian who will listen. If you have a little one in your personal or professional life, read this book!

A huge thank you to Netgalley and Tundra Books for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Adri Holt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Little Ghost Quilt’s sheet is different than his friends, it’s made from a quilt. The quilted sheet allows Little Ghost to enjoy his favorite pastime of flying outside during winter. The only thing that would make this pastime better for him is if his friends could participate. However, his friends have just sheets to cover them, not a quilt, and it is just too cold. As Little Ghost flits about in the snow, he flies over to the human neighborhood and discovers the humans participating in cheery holiday celebrations. He makes the decision to create an atmosphere patterned after the humans for his friends in their home.
As someone who is a little merry, a little scary herself, this was such a fun read. It reminded me of A Nightmare Before Christmas, which is one of my favorite Disney movies. The Little Ghost Quilt’s Winter Surprise is such a cute little book. I can’t wait for it to be published so I can purchase one for my niece. I think she’ll also enjoy the cute little “boo” puns and the blend of Christmas and Halloween in this sweet little holiday book.

#ThxNetGalley #RielNason

Merged review:

Little Ghost Quilt’s sheet is different than his friends, it’s made from a quilt. The quilted sheet allows Little Ghost to enjoy his favorite pastime of flying outside during winter. The only thing that would make this pastime better for him is if his friends could participate. However, his friends have just sheets to cover them, not a quilt, and it is just too cold. As Little Ghost flits about in the snow, he flies over to the human neighborhood and discovers the humans participating in cheery holiday celebrations. He makes the decision to create an atmosphere patterned after the humans for his friends in their home.
As someone who is a little merry, a little scary herself, this was such a fun read. It reminded me of A Nightmare Before Christmas, which is one of my favorite Disney movies. The Little Ghost Quilt’s Winter Surprise is such a cute little book. I can’t wait for it to be published so I can purchase one for my niece. I think she’ll also enjoy the cute little “boo” puns and the blend of Christmas and Halloween in this sweet little holiday book.

#ThxNetGalley #RielNason #TheLittleGhostQuiltsWinterSurprise

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed The Little Ghost Quilt's Winter Surprise even more than the first one. This follows the ghost guilt's journey during the winter, being the only ghost who can go out in the cold and snow since his quilt is heavier than the sheets of the over ghosts. The quilted ghost comes across a human town decorated for Christmas and wants to bring this human tradition back to the other ghosts since they can't see it for themselves, reminding me of the Nightmare Before Christmas when Jack wants Halloweentown to become Christmas-themed. I love the combination of Halloween and Christmas vibes, as it creates a cozy and comforting read that is further made enjoyable by the beautiful illustrations and calming colour palette. I love how this can be read for both Halloween and Christmas, making it one of those holiday books that can be read more than once a year! Overall, great book and I would love to have a physical copy of this when it comes out!! if you love Halloween, this book is for you! If you love Halloween AND Christmas....well then you are really going to love this like I did!

I also love, love, love that this is by a Canadian author and depicts an accurate Canadian winter with winter storms and poor weather!!!

BRB, I'm RUNNING to go get this ASAP from the store as soon as it comes out!! I already know this is going to be a staple holiday read for my classroom, as well as for my future kids.

Thank you to the publishing company Tundra Books and NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Alisha (booksmellz) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Little ghost quilt loves being out in the cold, with the thickness of his patches, he doesn’t overheat - especially when it starts snowing. But his friends, who are sheets, get too cold and freeze in the winter weather and have to stay inside. Little ghost quilt doesn’t mind drifting around on his own, but sometimes he does miss his friends.

One day, little ghost quilt sees something bright and sparkling in town. Upon further investigation, he sees people are putting up twinkling lights and warm festivities are in the air - it’s almost like Halloween, but with snowmen instead of pumpkins, and presents instead of buckets of candy. He is filled with excitement, but he really wants his friends to see.

On his way home, little ghost quilt gets caught in a blizzard and after getting snagged in a tree, he is struck by inspiration.

I went into this children’s book, not having read the first book but was immediately caught by the illustration on the cover.

It’s such a cute book about something that’s typically meant for Halloween, finding out about Christmas. As someone who tends to keep Halloween decorations up year around anyway, this just makes me smile even more. What’s more is that little ghost quilt shows a lot of empathy for his friends and thinking creatively on how to share something new for them.

Overall, this is an adorable book for children about the joys of winter festivities that I think adults would also enjoy for the cute illustrations.

*Thank you Tundra Books and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

The Little Ghost Quilt's Winter Surprise is an engaging and sweetly written picture book for young readers by Riel Nason. Due out 26th Aug 2025 from Penguin Random House on their Nonstop ReaderTundra imprint, it's 48 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.

Instead of being a sheet like his friends and family, Little Ghost is a patchwork quilt. He feels left out and just -different-. Through his adventures, he finally figures out that just maybe, being different isn't always a bad thing. He's sad and missing his friends when he's having adventures in the cold snowy weather while his thin "sheet" ghost friends have to stay inside because of the cold and snow.

The text is simple, spare, and direct. The softly rendered illustrations by Byron Eggenschwiler enhance the story very well and are full of atmosphere and expressive details (see Little Ghost's "facial" expressions, for example).

Five stars. This is a wonderful book for kids with good takeaways for all-ages. It would be an excellent choice for public or classroom library, home use, and gift giving, as well as a library story-time or reading circle.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

[Dr CG · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished The Little Ghost Quilt’s Winter Surprise, and it was such a delightful read. The illustrations were absolutely beautiful—they really brought the magical, snowy world to life. The idea of a ghost made from a quilt instead of a typical sheet was so creative and gave the story a fresh, unique twist.

What really stood out to me, though, was how relatable the little ghost’s story felt. I couldn’t help but connect with him—haven’t we all felt a little different at times? The fact that he was made from a quilt made his journey so special, showing kids (and adults) how our differences can actually be our strengths. I loved how the story highlighted that message in such a gentle way.

The only thing that kept me from giving this book five stars was the ending. It felt too brief and left me with so many questions. Did the ghost stay with the little girl? Did he go back home? If he left, wouldn’t she be sad? It felt like the story stopped just a little too soon, and I wanted more closure.

Still, this book was such a sweet and meaningful read. Its message about embracing what makes us unique really stuck with me, and I think it will resonate with kids and grown-ups alike. If you’re looking for a story with heart and stunning artwork, this one is worth picking up!

Thank you, #NetGalley and #TundraBookGroup, for a chance to read this early in exchange for an honest review.

[Shaina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Riel Nason for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for The Little Ghost Quilt's Winter Surprise coming out August 26, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

The little ghost quilt loves being out in the cold. For once, he doesn't overheat, and he likes how the snowflakes make his patches look polka-dotted. His friends, who are sheets, get too cold in the winter weather and have to stay inside, but the little ghost quilt doesn't mind. He enjoys slowly drifting along on his own.

On one of his frosty flights, he sees something happening in the town. People are putting up warm, twinkling lights, and there's a fun festive feeling everywhere — like Halloween, his favorite season, but with snowmen and wreaths and candles in windows instead of pumpkins. He is filled with excitement and happiness looking at all the beautiful decorations and joyous people, yet he can't help but feel sad that his friends can't be there.

I’ve read the first book, so I was excited to check this book out. It was so adorable! I loved it. It’s perfect for Christmastime. The illustrations were spooky and fun. It felt like a magical adventure with the little ghost quilt. It was so cozy. I loved the storyline.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys quilting and illustrated stories!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was drawn in for the illustrations because they're just perfect, but I fell in love with the OOPS-de-loop.

This is a gentle story about a little ghost who is a quilt instead of a sheet, and how awesome that is during the wintertime. This little ghost can go outside and play in the snow while his sheet ghost friends get too cold, because they're just sheets. When he discovers that it's Christmas time, he decides to bring the pretty Christmas lights to his sheet ghost friends who are stuck inside. It's such a sweet little story about a ghost who cares about his friends and will do anything to bring them cheer.

The illustrations in this book are remarkable. It feels cold, yet cozy. This takes place at Christmas time, so the Christmas decorations and lights stand out in a stark difference from the cold, monotone background of the environment.

The story is very sweet, and my own little girl got a bit emotional about the sticky situation the quilt ghost finds himself in at one point. However, when we pushed through the story, she was very happy with the ending.

It's a great story for adults to read to children, and it is also a great story for emerging readers to work their way through. There isn't a rhyming scheme, but the story holds up and is easy to follow along with.

[Jessie (Saffity) · Rating 5 out of 5]

We really liked this book. There was a delay in getting it as the Galley copy was incorrectly linked, but I'm actually glad that we read this right after Christmas, rather than back in November. My daughter (5) loved this book even more than the first! She was super invested, asking about the poor tired Ghost Quilt after his struggle with the tree branch. We chatted about how he wasn't able to fly with his friends because the wind was too strong for them, and how he was bringing them winter cheer to include them this time. The illustrations are perfectly adorable, and the story was engaging and sweet with a good message. When I asked my daughter if this was a 4 or 5 star she said it was 1 million stars. I then asked her if she would like me to get her a real paper book version we could read, rather than on my phone and she got very excited and agreed. As someone who does fibre crafts, I love that inclusion with the quilt. I also love that this is a Canadian author, and that the message of the story is clearly presented without being heavy handed. We read this digital book through NetGalley.

[Kat Harnisch · Rating 5 out of 5]

The little ghost who was a quilt goes on another adventure! I love this one almost as much as I loved the first one (if only because I have only read this two times and I’ve read the first book approximately 15 times lol).

I just love the illustration that Byron Eggenschwiler does—they bring the story to life in such an immersive way. Who would have ever imagined ghosts dancing around a Christmas tree (in the dark of course, since they are in an abandoned haunted house)? Eggenschwiler illustrates this in a way that is true to the story and also incredibly memorable. A pair of old boots hanging on the mantle, a ballerina toy as a tree topper, it's all so charming.

I also love the story Nason spins. The little ghost loves winter, as he is a quilt and stays warm in the snow. He wants to bring the beauty and joy of winter holidays indoors so that his friends can also have fun—what’s not to love? I cannot wait to purchase this book when it publishes so my daughter can enjoy it as much as she enjoys the Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt.

Thank you NetGalley and Tundra for the ARC!

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a nice wintry story highlighting the joys of friendship, working together on a project, and doing nice things for each other. Beautiful story!
The illustrations Byron Eggenschwiler are simple, imaginative, FUN, and show just what is happening using brilliant colors against a more bland background. Well suited for reading alone or WITH someone of any age, including ESL, and great for gifting to everyone, but especially to a school, waiting room, or your local public library!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital Galley on Thorium PDF from Tundra Book Group | Tundra Books via NetGalley. Pub Date Aug 26, 2025 *****review
#TheLittleGhostQuiltsWinterSurprise by @rielnason and @byronegg @ivykidsbooks @tundrabooks
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