As the holiday season draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the people, stories, and traditions that make Christmas so special. For me, it’s not just about the gifts or decorations – it’s about immersing myself in the magic of the season. Classics like A Christmas Carol and Hercule Poirot’s Christmas are staples of my holiday reading list, but I’m not alone in my enthusiasm for these tales. Readers around the world have made them an integral part of their Christmas celebrations.
In fact, there’s a wealth of wonderful Christmas books out there that evoke the spirit of the season. This year, I’ve curated a list of 25 must-read Christmas books that explore the holiday from all angles – from its religious and cultural traditions to its more fantastical and whimsical side. You’ll find timeless classics alongside newer releases that are quickly becoming beloved holiday reads.
To make it easy for you to find the perfect fit, I’ve categorized the list by children’s books and adult literature. Whether you’re a fan of Ebenezer Scrooge or the mysterious conductor of the Polar Express, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy, and join me in celebrating the joy and wonder of the holiday season.
The Best Children’s Christmas Books of All Time
Holy Night and Little Star: A Story for Christmas by Mitali Perkins and Khoa Le
As Little Star anticipates Holy Night, an air of anticipation builds within her celestial being. Initially overwhelmed by the sheer scope and grandeur of the celestial roles unfolding before her, she finds herself feeling insignificant and uncertain about her place among the galaxy’s vast expanse. However, Maker intervenes, gently guiding her towards a role that resonates with her humble nature: welcoming the Child to Earth, a noble task imbued with profound significance.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! By Dr. Seuss
In Whoville, the festive season is met with unbridled enthusiasm – everyone’s excitement is palpable, except for one notable exception: the Grinch. His disdain for the town’s joyful celebrations knows no bounds, prompting him to take drastic measures to extinguish the holiday spirit altogether. By pilfering presents and dismantling decorations, he attempts to stifle the cheer that permeates the air.
Yet, amidst his efforts to squash the season, a glimmer of doubt begins to emerge – could there be more to Christmas than initially meets the eye?
Letters from Father Christmas by J.R.R. Tolkien
In a heartwarming tradition that has been cherished for generations, J.R.R. Tolkien penned annual letters to his children from none other than Father Christmas himself. As families continue this legacy, they can share in the whimsical adventures of Father Christmas, his trusty Polar Bear companion, and the delightfully eccentric inhabitants of the North Pole, making these tales a treasured part of their own holiday customs.
Lullaby for the King by Nikki Grimes and Michelle Carlos
Nikki Grimes’ latest masterpiece weaves together a heartwarming tale of global proportions. In this enchanting rhyming picture book, animals from far-flung corners of the world converge at the Nativity scene alongside angelic companions to pay homage to the arrival of the newborn King. As a New York Times bestselling author and poet, Grimes’ words effortlessly flow into a soothing holiday-themed bedtime story that’s sure to become a treasured family tradition.
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
As the magic of Christmas Eve unfolds, a young boy’s wonder is piqued by the ticket to the enigmatic Polar Express. The thrill of the journey culminates in a face-to-face encounter with the jolly old elf himself, Santa Claus, at the North Pole. Yet, the timeless wisdom of this beloved tale echoes through its pages: only experience can truly spark our sense of awe and understanding.
May Your Life Be Deliciosa by Michael Genhart and Loris Lora
Among all the festive traditions associated with Christmas, Rosie’s most cherished activity is a unique blend of culinary creativity and nostalgic storytelling shared with her loving family – Abuela, Mamà, Tía, sisters, and cousins.
This heartwarming picture book, inspired by the author’s own childhood experiences, beautifully captures the essence of Christmas joy, emphasizing that it’s not the gifts or decorations that make the holiday special, but rather the time spent with those closest to our hearts.
Santa in the City by Tiffany D. Jackson and Reggie Brown
Rosie’s concerns about Santa’s ability to visit her apartment on Christmas Eve stemmed from the lack of a chimney and no space for a traditional sleigh. Her doubts were fueled by the thought that perhaps he didn’t care about her urban community at all. However, as she inquired about the true meaning of Christmas with her family, Rosie began to understand that it’s not just about the physical aspects of Santa’s visitation process.
Instead, Christmas is a time for people to come together and celebrate with their communities.
Merry Christmas, Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola
As the holiday season approaches, the anticipation builds up in the quaint Italian village where Strega Nona resides. The aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces wafts through the air, signaling the arrival of Christmas Feast, an occasion that brings together the entire community. With her trusted companions Big Anthony, Bambolona, and a medley of colorful characters, Strega Nona is eager to share in the joy and warmth of this festive celebration.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
The Herdman siblings are notorious for their mischievous antics, leaving a trail of chaos in their wake. So when they suddenly express enthusiasm for the annual Christmas pageant, eyebrows are raised and suspicions arise. Are they concocting another elaborate prank, or has something deeper stirred within them? As we delve into their motivations, it becomes clear that these rowdy kids may be harboring intentions that run far more complex than mere mischief.
Dreams of Green: A Three Kings’ Day Story by Mariel Jungkunz and Monica Paola Rodriguez
As Lucía transitioned from Puerto Rico to Ohio, she fretted that observing Three Kings Day would lose its special essence. However, with the support of her loved ones, she discovered creative methods to commemorate this cherished holiday in a way that retained the warmth and familiarity of being home.
Santa’s Gotta Go! By Derrick Barnes and Courtney Lovett
Monte and Mabel’s winter wonderland was suddenly transformed into a flurry of festive chaos when a legendary sleigh came to a halt in their yard. The siblings’ excitement to celebrate the holiday with Santa Claus himself was palpable, but little did they know that the jolly old elf had a mischievous streak a mile wide. As it turned out, getting Santa’s sleigh back on track before he wreaked havoc on their family’s home proved to be no easy feat.
Christmas Comes to Moominvalley, adapted from Tove Jansson by Alex Haridi, Cecelia Davidsson, and Flippa Widlund
As the Moomins emerge from their prolonged winter slumber, they find themselves in unfamiliar territory – a Christmas celebration. Without prior experience or cultural context, they’re left to forge their own path, creating new traditions and memories with each other’s company.
The Christmas Carrolls by Mel Taylor-Bessent and Selom Sunu
Holly’s world was turned upside down when her parents decided to switch up their usual Christmas routine. As a homeschooler, she was accustomed to being surrounded by festive cheer all year round. But now, as she navigates the unfamiliar halls of a traditional school, she can’t help but feel like a part of her has been left behind. The once-enthusiastic elf is struggling to muster up the same level of excitement for the holiday season.
With her family’s support and the kindness of new friends, will Holly be able to rekindle the magic of Christmas or will this year’s celebrations mark the end of an era?
Christmas is Coming: Traditions from Around the World by Monika Utnik and Ewa Poklewska-Koziello, translated by Antonia Lloyd-Jones
As people around the world come together to celebrate Christmas, it’s a time to appreciate the rich cultural diversity of traditions and folktales that make this holiday season so unique. From wondering why Christmas is celebrated on December 25th to understanding the origins of decorating Christmas trees, there’s no shortage of fascinating facts and stories to uncover.
Discover how different cultures have shaped their own special ways of commemorating the holiday, and gain insight into the history and symbolism behind some of its most enduring traditions.
Juniper’s Christmas by Eoin Colfer
As the winter wonderland comes alive with twinkling lights and festive cheer, Juniper Lane stumbles upon a peculiar encounter that sets her on a thrilling adventure. The woodsman’s uncanny resemblance to a jolly old fellow in red sparks an epiphany: the magic of Christmas is indeed real! However, Juniper soon realizes she’s not alone in this knowledge, and some individuals harbor sinister plans to pilfer the holiday’s essence for their own gain.
With Santa’s very existence at stake, Juniper must summon her courage and wit to safeguard the spirit of Christmas against those who seek to exploit it.
The Nutcracker, illustrated by Valeria Docampo
The latest picture book is a creative reimagining of the iconic ballet, ‘Swan Lake’, as staged by the New York City Ballet. Each meticulously crafted illustration draws inspiration from the ballet’s captivating choreography, elaborate sets, and stunning costumes, perfectly capturing the essence of this enduring masterpiece.
The Best Adult Christmas Books of All Time
A Treasury of African American Christmas Stories, edited by Bettye Collier-Thomas
This anthology, expertly curated by esteemed historian Dr. Bettye Collier-Thomas, is a treasure trove of classic Christmas tales and poems penned by prominent Black American authors across the 19th century to the 1950s. The collection boasts an impressive roster of renowned writers, including Langston Hughes, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Pauline Hopkins, alongside lesser-known gems that Dr. Collier-Thomas unearthed from obscure sources such as Black newspapers, periodicals, and journals.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
A Christmas Carol, a timeless tale of transformation, has become an integral part of our collective holiday heritage. Within the Victorian era’s rich tradition of ghost stories, this beloved narrative is deeply rooted. Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly and unyielding individual, becomes the focal point of the story as he receives visits from three ethereal entities on Christmas Eve.
These spectral apparitions fundamentally alter his outlook on life, prompting him to reevaluate his relationships with others and the consequences that await if he fails to change his ways.
Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory
As Vivian Forest accompanies her daughter on a work trip that involves the British royal family, she finds herself growing unexpectedly close to the Queen’s private secretary, Malcolm Hudson. The experience is a far cry from what she expected, but the connection she feels with Malcolm leaves her wanting more. As her vacation in England draws to a close, Vivian struggles with the thought of leaving behind the spark they’ve shared and the possibility of a long-distance romance.
Hercule Poirot’s Christmas by Agatha Christie
As the holiday season approaches, renowned Belgian detective Hercule Poirot is summoned to a luxurious estate where a wealthy family has gathered for what they thought would be a festive celebration. However, their joy is short-lived as millionaire Simeon Lee’s unexpected revelation that he has altered his will sparks controversy and ultimately leads to his untimely demise.
With the investigation underway, Poirot must skillfully navigate the complex web of family dynamics to uncover the truth behind Lee’s death and determine which among them resorted to such drastic measures.
It’s a Fabulous Life by Kelly Farmer
In this reimagined take on It’s a Wonderful Life, Bailey George finds herself stuck in her hometown of Lanford Falls, where she’s always yearned for adventure beyond its familiar borders. Despite her best efforts to break free from the constraints of family and work commitments, Bailey’s life has unfolded differently than she ever could have imagined.
Yet, following a pivotal moment that sets her on a new path, she meets an extraordinary individual who helps her realize that the value of her existence lies not in its differences, but in the profound impact it has had on Lanford Falls.
Three Holidays and a Wedding by Uzma Jalaluddin and Marissa Stapley
In this heartwarming novel, the convergence of Christmas, Ramadan, and Hanukkah in the year 2000 sets the stage for a poignant tale. Three individuals from different walks of life find themselves brought together by circumstance when their plane makes an unexpected emergency landing.
With their original holiday plans now impossible to fulfill, they form an unlikely bond as they come together to celebrate these special days, forging meaningful connections that transcend cultural and religious differences.
You Make It Feel Like Christmas by Toni Shiloh
Starr Lewis’s holiday plans are marred by an unsettling reality: her sister is set to marry none other than her ex-boyfriend. But as the big day approaches and winter festivities get underway, Starr discovers a spark of attraction with Waylon Emmerson, her brother’s trusted friend. The unlikely connection blooms amidst the chaos of wedding preparations and seasonal celebrations.
Hogfather by Terry Pratchett
As the festive season of Hogswatch approaches on the Discworld, a crisis unfolds when its mythical figure, the Hogfather, goes missing. Without the jolly old man’s presence, children lose faith in the magic of the holiday. Desperate to fill the void, Death takes on an unlikely role – attempting to deliver gifts and spread cheer. However, he soon discovers that there’s more to Hogswatch than just presents and festivities.
A sinister plot unfolds as assassins target the Hogfather, leaving it up to Death and his resourceful granddaughter Susan to track down the missing deity and save him before it’s too late.
This is Christmas, Song By Song: The Stories Behind 100 Holiday Hits by Annie Zaleski
Step into a winter wonderland and uncover the fascinating stories behind some of your favorite Christmas songs. From timeless classics to modern hits, each song’s history is brought to life through charming illustrations, making for a delightful holiday read. And if you’re in the mood for mystery and intrigue, why not explore this curated list of 8 Christmas-themed Cozy Mysteries instead?