Christmas novels are the ideal teaching resource for your kids. These books do the legwork for you by skillfully weaving in those crucial themes while poetically recounting holiday tales as you cuddle up with your loved ones in your Christmas pajamas.
There are many different kinds of Christmas novels available for readers of all ages.
For the youngest readers, there are board books that are primarily illustrated, short picture books for babies and young readers, and chapter volumes for more independent children and adolescents.
The best Christmas stories for kids of all ages can be found in our list of the top 20 festive books.
The 20 Best Children’s Christmas Books
We all like the holidays, but occasionally the flurry of shopping and bake sales at schools during the break might leave you feeling more worn out than joyous.
During these busy times, spending some peaceful time with your children while reading a book might be the ideal way to relax.
You can stay in the holiday mood and refuel for the upcoming batch of cupcakes you’ll need to prepare with the help of these Christmas novels, which range from traditional favorites to some more contemporary interpretations of the holiday.
Despite being relatively new, this book shouldn’t be overlooked. The plastic elf that goes with the book will surely capture the attention of children, who will enjoy searching for him in new locations each morning.
However, the story is also a charming one. A scout Elf visits your home and then visits Santa every night over the Christmas season, according to the beautifully illustrated children’s book. The set is a wonderful present!
Pros
Encourages creativity and imagination in children.
Adds a fun and interactive element to the Christmas season.
Cons
Some parents may find the tradition stressful or feel pressure to constantly come up with new ideas for the elf.
Four of the most popular Little House stories by Laura Ingalls Wilder are retold in this chapter book.
All of the stories impart valuable lessons that are ideal for the Christmas period, such as the value of giving and receiving as well as the value of friends and family.
The stories will captivate children, but they’ll also like the games, activities, and other extras that are included.
Pros
Provides a variety of stories to choose from, allowing families to pick and choose which ones they want to read.
Can help children develop their literacy skills and love of reading.
Cons
Some stories may not be appropriate for all ages or may not align with a family’s beliefs.
This holiday tale is a bestseller for a valid reason and will make the entire family giggle.
You’ll learn what transpires when a group of rambunctious siblings take over the yearly church Christmas pageant throughout the duration of the chapter book.
Reading it will undoubtedly become a family ritual because it is both hilarious and heartwarming.
Pros
A heartwarming and humorous story that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
Teaches valuable lessons about the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of acceptance and empathy.
Cons
May not appeal to all readers, particularly those who prefer more serious or religious stories.
Fans of Olivia are aware of her feistiness. She is assisting her parents in getting ready for the holidays by cooking, decorating, and gift-wrapping in this tale, which is presented in the medium of an approachable board book.
Will she execute it flawlessly? To learn more, turn the pages of the book.
Pros
Features a popular and beloved character that many children will be familiar with.
Teaches important lessons about generosity, kindness, and the joy of giving.
Cons
May not appeal to all readers, particularly those who are not fans of the Olivia series.
This light-up edition with a Christmas touch will delight fans of this best-selling book series.
It has the same fantastic graphics and rhyming patterns that had you from the first page, however, this time Little Blue Truck will be bringing holiday pleasure to his animal pals by delivering Christmas trees.
Pros
Features a popular and beloved character that many children will be familiar with.
Teaches important lessons about generosity, friendship, and the value of community.
Cons
May not have as much depth or nuance as some other Christmas stories.
Ever since it was released in 1957, this well-known tale has been a staple of Christmas.
However, the story—which relates the story of a grumpy Grinch seeking to spoil the holidays for the inhabitants of Who-ville—remains as timely as ever.
And don’t worry, everything works out well in the end. It’s also wonderful that there are several entertaining TV and movie adaptations.
Pros
A classic and timeless story that has been enjoyed by generations.
Teaches important lessons about the true meaning of Christmas and the power of love and compassion.
Cons
Some may find the story to be too dark or scary for young children.
An elf is currently on the loose in your home in this exciting holiday novel. Are you able to catch him? You’ll read the enjoyable prose quickly to find out. Your children will delight in plotting along the route.
Pros
Encourages creativity and imagination in children.
Offers a humorous and engaging read-aloud experience.
Cons
May not have as much depth or substance as other Christmas stories.
Looking for the ideal Christmas book to give as a gift?
Attempt this set. Five Little Golden Books are included in the festive package to give you lots of alternatives over the festive season: The Christmas Story, The Night Before Christmas, The Poky Little Puppy’s First Christmas, and The Little Christmas Elf.
Pros
Features a collection of classic Christmas stories that many families will be familiar with.
Offers colorful illustrations that capture the festive spirit of the season.
Cons
Some stories may not be appropriate for all ages or may not align with a family’s beliefs.
New York Times bestseller Pete the Cat tackles Christmas in this holiday story. Pete the Cat teaches young children what it is to enter into the holiday spirit.
An extra sheet of stickers in full color and access to a free music download are both welcome extras.
Pros
Features a popular and beloved character that many children will be familiar with.
Teaches important lessons about generosity, kindness, and the true meaning of Christmas.
Cons
Some may find the story to be overly simplistic or predictable.
The narrative of a magic train that appears around Christmas Eve to bring children to visit Santa so they may be certain to inform him exactly what they’d like for Christmas is told in this beloved picture book, which was originally released in 1985 and eventually turned into an animated film.
It’s intriguing, thrilling, and certain to pique your kids’ interest in the approaching holiday.
Pros
A classic and timeless story that has been enjoyed by generations.
Offers a magical and memorable experience that captures the wonder and excitement of Christmas.
Cons
Some may find the story to be too long or slow-paced for younger readers.
Children will receive more than just the enjoyable holiday rhyme in this adaptation of Clement C. Moore’s well-known Christmas poem, which was released by Highlights Hidden Pictures.
Children and adults alike will enjoy the words’ kid-friendly, cartoon-like images.
The book also functions as a game; there are more than 120 hidden objects with seasonal themes on the pages that you must locate as you read.
Pros
A classic and beloved poem that has become a staple of the Christmas season.
Offers a festive and joyful depiction of Santa Claus and the magic of Christmas.
Cons
Some may find the language or style to be outdated or difficult to understand.
Red and Lulu, two cardinals, become separated in this incredibly charming Christmas tale. However, they have a quest to locate one another.
As you discover a tale filled with miracles and great love, your heart will undoubtedly enlarge a bit. Just as wonderful as the story itself are the illustrations.
Pros
Offers a unique and heartwarming story about the true meaning of Christmas.
Teaches important lessons about love, family, and the power of resilience.
Cons
May be too emotionally heavy or intense for some readers.
If you are unfamiliar with the plot of this well-known Christmas story, Charlie Brown is the only member of the Peanuts gang who is not celebrating the holiday.
Will things improve? The tradition is a fantastic method to teach your children the genuine significance of the holiday.
Pros
A classic and beloved TV special that has become a staple of the Christmas season.
Teaches important lessons about the true meaning of Christmas and the power of friendship.
Cons
Some may find the story to be too simplistic or preachy.
Another of the most well-known Christmas carols is reimagined in a breathtaking new way in this book.
And there’s more to adore than just the lovely illustrations and the well-liked rhyme: You can have fun while reading by looking for turtle doves, golden rings, and all the other items that are mentioned in the song because they are all concealed in the drawings.
Pros
A classic Christmas song that is fun and familiar to sing along with.
Offers colorful illustrations and a playful storyline.
Cons
Some may find the song to be repetitive or tedious after a while.
The relatively new book is sure to be a classic with images and rhymes as unique as those in this one.
Readers accompany the plot’s characters as they select the ideal tree and bring it back home to decorate it. It’s a look back at a cherished family custom with nostalgia.
Pros
Offers a unique and engaging story about the tradition of picking and decorating a Christmas tree.
Teaches important lessons about family, tradition, and the spirit of the season.
Cons
Maybe too focused on the secular aspects of Christmas for some readers.
With the help of a fun and engaging board book, you may introduce your little ones to a few of the most well-known Christmas songs.
The inbuilt speaker will play excerpts of well-known songs including Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Deck the Halls, Up on the Housetop, Away in a Manger, and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing with each push of the button.
The Christmas greetings are “The Herald Angels Sing,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” and “Joy to the World.” The lyrics are included on each beautifully illustrated page to facilitate family sing-alongs.
Pros
Features high-quality sound recordings and colorful illustrations.
Can help children develop their musical and language skills.
Cons
May not be suitable for all ages, as some younger children may have difficulty with the interactive features.
For families who place a high priority on the meaning of the season, this well-known board book is ideal. Your child will get familiar with the tale of the very first Christmas as you turn the pages.
The visuals are definitely endearing, and the rhyme is straightforward but pleasant, making it simple enough for the smallest audience to comprehend.
Pros
Offers a traditional and religious perspective on the Christmas story.
Teaches important lessons about love, kindness, and the spirit of giving.
Cons
May not have the same timeless appeal as classic Christmas stories.
Young and old readers alike will enjoy scouring the wonderfully photographed pages of this installment of the popular I Spy collection for anything and everything related to Christmas.
A sleigh, snowman, silver bells, and sleigh bells can all be found, as well as Santa and his elf. Make use of this interactive book to put your knowledge to the test.
Pros
Offers a fun and engaging way for children to develop their observational skills.
Can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
Cons
May not offer as much depth or substance as other Christmas stories.
Strega Nona prepares her home for her enormous Christmas feast with Big Anthony, Bambolona, and the butcher’s daughter, but she won’t use her magic to help.
Can a Christmas miracle intervene when the planning goes wrong, or will this year’s feast be postponed?
Pros
Offers a unique and engaging story that blends elements of Italian folklore with the Christmas season.
Teaches important lessons about family, generosity, and the power of magic.
Cons
May not be familiar or relatable to all readers, particularly those who are not familiar with Strega Nona and her world.
Themes: Christmas, Family and Friends, Togetherness
How To Choose Festive Books For Kids At Christmas
Choosing Christmas books for kids can be a fun and exciting experience. Here are some tips to help you select the best Christmas books for kids:
Age-appropriate
Make sure the book is appropriate for the child’s age. Younger children will enjoy books with bright colors and simple words, while older children may prefer longer stories and more complex plots.
Interest
Choose a book that matches the child’s interests. Some children may enjoy books about Santa Claus or reindeer, while others may prefer stories about Christmas traditions or religious stories.
Quality
Look for high-quality books with engaging illustrations and well-written stories. Check reviews online or ask for recommendations from librarians or bookstore staff.
Final Thoughts
Although Christmas comes around at the exact same time each year, something about the holiday seems different to a child.
There are many ways to spend Christmas with children, such as making Christmas crafts and watching the top Christmas movies on Netflix, but there are also wonderful Christmas books for children that may help everyone get in the holiday spirit.
Even while reading together is a gift in and of itself, books make for some of the greatest Christmas presents available.
Check out this list of classic Christmas books if you’re seeking for a nice Christmas book to share with kids.
Several of the books are actual classics (and the inspiration for numerous Christmas phrases), whereas others are more up-to-date tales about the winter season, Christmas, and other holidays that young readers will adore.
Although they’ll undoubtedly love one of the delightful Christmas books on this list, even adults might like receiving one of these books as a present, especially if it’s one of the beautifully illustrated or anniversary editions.
Get set for all the Christmas joy a book can give by shopping around for the ideal book for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should Kids Read Christmas Books?
Christmas books can help cultivate a love for reading in children. Reading books can be a fun and exciting way for children to learn about the holiday season and develop a love for literature.
Many Christmas books have themes of generosity, kindness, and empathy. Reading these stories can help children develop these important qualities.
Hi, my name is Anna Davis and I have been working with books for five years now. I got a job at my local library, so I could be closer to all of the books! I created this website in the hopes of inspiring others to start reading again. Who knows, maybe you’ll find your new favorite book from my site!
