The holidays are approaching, and spirits are mighty high. The air is filled with that oh-so-special cinnamon-peppermint-nutmeggy-cocoa flavored holiday cheer, and the kiddos are getting more and more excited for Santa’s annual trip south. Thanksgiving pie is in the rearview, and all attention is now turned to that next calorie-ingesting, stimulation-inducing holiday on the calendar.
As the decorations go up, the holiday tunes play, those wonderfully cheesy Christmas movies run round the clock, and the devices are charged up (and providing added holiday stimulation), your little ones may need a wholesome alternative to games and apps. So why not pick out a great holiday book? And for that, we’ve got you covered. From early readers to middle grade to great books parents can read to their sugar plums all nestled in their beds at bed time, here are some of the best Christmas books for kids.
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Naughty Week
A delightful Christmas book for kids — and written by yours truly so I just had to include it here — “Naughty Week” follows the mischievous adventures of brothers Harrison and Max during the period between Christmas and New Year’s when Santa is on vacation and kids are allowed to be naughty… Allegedly. Discovering Santa’s travel itinerary, the boys embark on a spree of naughty escapades, fueled by the arrival of a misfit elf collecting evidence. However, Harrison takes things too far with a risky plot involving a literal cat burglar and a fake bank robbery. As the situation spirals out of control, Harrison realizes the need to rectify his actions and seeks help from the one person who can fix the mess – Santa Claus. The story touches on themes of family, change, choices, and consequences, offering a fun-filled Christmastime adventure that captures the earnest spirit of a 10-year-old boy.
This is a great book for parents to read to kids and is also a fun read for middle grade readers. It’s also the perfect Christmas book gift for kids because the adventure takes place the week after Christmas, so if you are looking to tear the little ones away from the devices a few afternoons during their holiday break, Naughty Week might just be the answer.
How The Grinch Stole Christmas
What more can we say about this book? The Grinch is one of the all time best Christmas books for kids by the master, Dr. Seuss. Experience the holiday classic in a whole new light with the full color edition of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Perfect for Dr. Seuss fans and collectors, this vibrant gift is bound to dazzle both eyes and hearts. Originally published in 1957 with just two colored inks, this jacketed edition showcases Dr. Seuss’s original illustrations in full color for the first time, offering readers a fresh perspective on the timeless tale. While not a replacement for the original, this edition makes a cheerful addition to the Dr. Seuss canon, appealing to fans of all ages. Witness the transformation of the Grinch’s drab cave life in contrast to the vibrant, joyous existence of the Whos in Who-ville, highlighting the magic of the season in a way that’s never been seen before. A perfect gift for under the tree and a delightful surprise any time of the year!
How To Catch An Elf
Embark on a festive adventure this Christmas Eve as a mischievous elf creates chaos in your house! How To Catch An Elf challenges young readers to catch him amidst zany traps and delightful illustrations. This engaging holiday story not only features the whimsical antics of the elf but also incorporates STEAM concepts and the appearance of Santa Claus. A perfect addition to the holiday season, this Christmas picture book for kids promises to be a cherished tradition with its humor, vibrant storytelling, and appeal to children aged 4-8. Ideal as a funny stocking stuffer or a thoughtful Christmas gift, this read-aloud captivates children, parents, and educators alike.
Dasher: How a Brave Little Doe Changed Christmas Forever
Become enchanted by the captivating tale of “Dasher,” a New York Times bestseller from the renowned creator of Red and Lulu. The story unfolds with the spirited young reindeer, Dasher, yearning for a life beyond the hot sun of her circus days, dreaming of snow-covered landscapes and the North Star above. When the chance arises, Dasher seizes her destiny and embarks on a journey that leads her to a man in a red suit with a horse-drawn sleigh—Santa Claus. In this heartwarming narrative, the power of a Christmas wish transforms not only Dasher’s life but also the essence of Christmas itself, ensuring that nothing will ever be the same again.
Olivia Helps with Christmas
I admit, this is one that I read frequently with my little ones. Step into the festive hustle and bustle of Christmas Eve with Olivia and her family, as they dive into a flurry of holiday preparations. From adorning the tree to crafting a delectable dinner, and ensuring stockings are hung with care, there’s no shortage of tasks keeping them occupied while eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival. Join Olivia in this heartwarming tale, “Olivia Helps With Christmas,” as she navigates through cherished traditions with the expected whimsy and imagination that characterize everyone’s favorite pig.
The Nutcracker in Harlem
In this reimagined version of the classic Nutcracker tale, The Nutcracker in Harlem is set in 1920s Harlem, Marie, an African American child, receives a drummer nutcracker figure from her Uncle Cab for Christmas. As she dreams, the toy soldiers come to life, engaging in a spirited battle with an army of mice. Departing from the traditional Tchaikovsky soundtrack, the narrative is infused with jazz music. Ransome’s watercolor illustrations complement the story beautifully, capturing the essence of the Harlem Renaissance. This culturally rich adaptation offers a unique perspective on the beloved holiday ballet, making it a valuable addition to the retellings of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s timeless tale.—Virginia Walter, UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies.
Letters from Father Christmas
Delight in the magic of Christmas with “Letters from Father Christmas,” a captivating gift for both J.R.R. Tolkien enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike. This gorgeous, full-color edition showcases a collection of letters and illustrations crafted by Tolkien for his children, now presented in a more reader-friendly trim size for the first time. Featuring an introduction by daughter-in-law Baillie Tolkien, reflecting on the centenary anniversary of the letters, and a personal note from Tolkien himself, this edition transports readers into the enchanting world of the North Pole. Each December, the Tolkien children received an envelope with a North Pole stamp containing letters penned in spidery handwriting, accompanied by beautiful colored drawings or sketches from Father Christmas. These letters unfold delightful tales of North Pole escapades, from mischievous reindeer scattering presents to the accident-prone Polar Bear’s antics. The stories, sometimes scribed by the Polar Bear or the elegant Ilbereth the Elf, add humor and life to this charming collection, ensuring that readers, young and old, will be charmed by Tolkien’s inventive and authentic “Letters from Father Christmas.”
A Boy Called Christmas
In “A Boy Called Christmas,” the origins of Father Christmas are revealed through the story of an eleven-year-old boy named Nikolas. Familiarly known as “Christmas,” Nikolas has only ever received one toy—a turnip-carved doll—for Christmas, a gift from his loving parents. However, when his father is abducted, Nikolas embarks on a daring rescue mission to the North Pole. Throughout his journey, he encounters a delightful array of marvelous and magical creatures who both aid and challenge him. This heartwarming tale is perfect for young readers curious about the origins of Santa Claus, offering a charming adventure filled with love, courage, and the magic of Christmas.
The Giving Snowman
Amidst a snowy night, the Giving Snowman extends his assistance to Bird, Rabbit, Farmer, and Traveler in their times of need. However, with the arrival of the sun the next day, Snowman melts away. Undeterred, Bird, Rabbit, Farmer, and Traveler join forces, showcasing teamwork and resilience as they collaborate to rebuild the benevolent Snowman. “The Giving Snowman” serves as a heartwarming tale that imparts lessons of kindness and gratitude to children. The narrative emphasizes the virtue of giving to others, highlighting how this act connects individuals and contributes to the beauty of our lives. Through this charming story, children can discover the joy and significance of fostering connections through acts of kindness.
Little Red Sleigh
The Little Red Sleigh harbors a grand aspiration – to transform into Santa’s iconic big red sleigh. Despite a lifetime of being told she’s too small, too young, unable to fly, and certainly prohibited from meeting Santa, this Christmas, she’s resolute to defy the odds. With the support of some devoted friends, Little Red Sleigh embarks on a mission to achieve the seemingly impossible. “Little Red Sleigh” is a heartwarming Christmas book for children that captivates readers with its enchanting narrative. Overflowing with winter joy and holiday magic, this delightful Christmas story serves as a timeless reminder to readers of all ages that no dream is beyond reach when fueled by unwavering belief.
The Best Christmas Books for Kids to Try this Holiday Season
As the holidays draw near and the festive spirit fills the air, consider gifting your little ones a break from the digital buzz and screens aplenty. After all, there lies a timeless alternative – the magic of a good holiday book. Instead of succumbing to the constant stimulation of electronic devices, guide those little ones down the enchanting path of storytelling. From early readers to middle-grade wonders, these Christmas books for kids offer a wholesome escape into the wonders of imagination.
As the pages turn, let the holiday tales unfold, creating lasting memories and traditions that extend beyond the glow of screens. Let the magic of Christmas storytelling light up your home. It’s a gift that keeps on giving!
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