Are you ready to stock your bookshelves with the best Christmas books for kids? If so, you’ve come to the right place!
The holiday season is the perfect time to snuggle up with your little ones and share the magic of Christmas through the pages of a good book.
Whether you’re a teacher looking for the perfect read-aloud or a parent seeking a heartwarming story to read by the Christmas tree on Christmas Eve, we’ve got you covered with a list of the best Christmas books for kids of all ages.
The Best Christmas Books for Kids
These books offer a wide range of Christmas tales and are sure to make the holiday season even more magical for children of all ages.
Whether you’re looking for a classic story or a modern twist on the holiday spirit, these books are perfect additions to your Christmas book collection.
Happy reading, enjoy these best Christmas books for kids, and have a Merry Christmas!
1. “How to Catch an Elf” by Adam Wallace
Summary: In this fun and imaginative book, children learn about the various clever and creative strategies elves use to outwit anyone trying to catch them.
Recommended Ages: Ideal for young readers, ages 4 and up, who will enjoy the playful storytelling and vibrant illustrations.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to encourage creativity, problem-solving, and the joy of imaginative play, making it a great addition to the list of Christmas picture books.
2. “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg
Summary: A timeless classic, “The Polar Express” takes readers on a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Follow a little boy as he embarks on an enchanting journey to discover the true spirit of Christmas.
Recommended Ages: This beautifully illustrated book is great for young readers and makes an excellent read-aloud for children aged 4 and up.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to explore themes of belief, wonder, and the magic of Christmas. It’s also an excellent opportunity to discuss the concept of giving and receiving.
3. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” by Dr. Seuss
Summary: Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” tells the story of the Grinch, a green, furry character who tries to steal Christmas but learns the true meaning of the holiday.
Recommended Ages: This classic Christmas story is suitable for children of all ages, from toddlers to older kids who can read it as a chapter book.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to teach empathy, kindness, and the importance of community and togetherness during the holiday season.
4. “The Polar Bear Who Saved Christmas” by Fiona Boon
Summary: In this heartwarming tale, a little polar bear named Henry sets out on an adventure to save Christmas. Join him as he discovers the true spirit of the holiday.
Recommended Ages: This picture book is perfect for younger kids, aged 2 to 6, and makes for a great bedtime story.
Skills Focus: Teachers can focus on teaching young children about the importance of friendship, generosity, and problem-solving.
5. “The Christmas Pig” by J.K. Rowling
Summary: “The Christmas Pig” is a new Christmas book that tells the tale of a little boy named Jack who goes on an extraordinary adventure with his beloved toy pig, Dur Pig. This heartwarming story explores the magic of the holiday season.
Recommended Ages: This book is great for children of all ages, from young kids to older readers who can enjoy the whimsical illustrations and happy ending.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to inspire children’s imaginations, explore the idea of never giving up, and celebrate the holiday spirit.
6. “Little Blue Truck’s Christmas” by Alice Schertle
Summary: Join Little Blue Truck and his friends as they spread Christmas cheer by delivering Christmas presents to their animal friends. This charming story captures the joy and spirit of the holiday season.
Recommended Ages: Young children, ages 2 to 6, will adore this board book, making it a great choice for a read-aloud.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to teach kids about the joy of giving, friendship, and the value of helping others.
7. “Llama Llama Holiday Drama” by Anna Dewdney
Summary: Follow the little llama as he experiences the excitement and impatience of the holiday season. “Llama Llama Holiday Drama” beautifully captures the anticipation and chaos that can sometimes accompany Christmas.
Recommended Ages: This book is suitable for younger kids, ages 2 to 6, and is a wonderful way to introduce them to Christmas traditions.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to explore emotions and patience, as well as the importance of cherishing the little things during the holiday season.
8. “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” by Barbara Robinson
Summary: This humorous tale follows the Herdman siblings, who take over the annual Christmas pageant and surprise everyone with their unique interpretation of the Nativity story.
Recommended Ages: Older kids, ages 8 and up, will appreciate the humor and charm of this story, which can be read as a chapter book.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to discuss the true meaning of Christmas, the importance of understanding and accepting differences, and the value of giving others a chance.
9. “Bear Stays Up for Christmas” by Karma Wilson
Summary: Join Bear and his friends as they celebrate the holiday season together. Bear usually hibernates during winter, but this year, he decides to stay up and enjoy Christmas with his friends.
Recommended Ages: Young children, aged 2 to 6, will enjoy the delightful rhymes and whimsical illustrations in this picture book.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to emphasize the importance of friendship, togetherness, and making special holiday memories with loved ones.
10. “The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs
Summary: This wordless picture book tells the heartwarming story of a boy who builds a snowman that comes to life, taking him on a magical adventure to the North Pole.
Recommended Ages: Ideal for young children, ages 3 and up, who can use their imagination to tell the story as they flip through the pages.
Skills Focus: Teachers can encourage creativity and storytelling in children as they explore the wintery wonderland and friendship depicted in the book.
11. “Olive, the Other Reindeer” by Vivian Walsh
Summary: Olive, a little dog, believes she’s meant to be a reindeer and embarks on a journey to the North Pole to help Santa Claus when she hears her name in a Christmas song.
Recommended Ages: Young readers, ages 4 to 8, will enjoy this whimsical tale with playful language.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to discuss individuality, perseverance, and the power of believing in oneself.
12. “The Nutcracker” by Susan Jeffers
Summary: A beautifully illustrated version of the classic holiday tale of Clara, the Nutcracker, and their magical journey through the Land of Sweets.
Recommended Ages: This picture book is perfect for children aged 4 and up who can appreciate the rich illustrations and the beloved Nutcracker story.
Skills Focus: Teachers can introduce children to the world of ballet and foster their imagination by exploring the magical scenes of the story.
13. “A Bad Kitty Christmas” by Nick Bruel
Summary: Kitty is not pleased with her Christmas presents, and her antics cause chaos. But as she discovers the true meaning of Christmas, she has a change of heart.
Recommended Ages: Great for young kids, ages 3 to 7, who will enjoy the humor and antics of Kitty.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to teach empathy, gratitude, and the idea that Christmas is not just about gifts.
14. “The Littlest Elf” by Brandi Dougherty
Summary: Meet Eddie, the littlest elf at the North Pole, who finds the perfect way to contribute and make the holiday season special.
Recommended Ages: Young children, ages 3 to 6, will enjoy this sweet story about the littlest elf with a big heart.
Skills Focus: Teachers can emphasize the importance of perseverance and the joy of contributing to others during the holiday season.
15. “The Twelve Days of Christmas” by Jan Brett
Summary: In this classic song-turned-book, explore the whimsical illustrations and charming adaptation of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”
Recommended Ages: This picture book is suitable for children of all ages, making it a great choice for family reading.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to explore counting, introduce traditional holiday songs, and spark discussions about gift-giving.
16. “The Night Before Christmas” by Clement C. Moore
Summary: A timeless classic, this beloved poem captures the anticipation and magic of Christmas Eve as a family awaits the arrival of Santa Claus.
Recommended Ages: Perfect for children of all ages, this book is a must-read for the holiday season.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to explore the tradition of reading “The Night Before Christmas” and the excitement of Christmas Eve.
17. “Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree” by Robert Barry
Summary: Mr. Willowby’s tree is too tall for his living room, so he trims the top and shares it with various friends, creating a heartwarming chain of gift-giving.
Recommended Ages: Suitable for young kids, ages 3 to 7, who will appreciate the message of generosity.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to discuss sharing, kindness, and the joy of giving during the holiday season.
18. “The Christmas Story” by Jane Werner
Summary: This Little Golden Book retells the Nativity story, capturing the true meaning of Christmas with beautiful illustrations.
Recommended Ages: Young children, ages 3 and up, will enjoy this classic Christmas tale.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to introduce children to the story of the birth of Jesus and the importance of the Nativity.
19. “Pout-Pout Fish: Christmas Spirit” by Deborah Diesen
Summary: Join the Pout-Pout Fish as he learns about the true spirit of Christmas through the kindness of his friends.
Recommended Ages: This board book is perfect for young children, ages 2 to 6.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to teach kids about the importance of giving and sharing to spread Christmas cheer.
20. “Pete the Cat Saves Christmas”
Summary: Join Pete the Cat in this groovy Christmas adventure as he steps in to save the day when Santa Claus gets stuck. Pete’s positivity and cool vibes make for a heartwarming holiday story.
Recommended Ages: Perfect for young children, ages 2 to 6, who will love Pete’s catchy rhymes and colorful illustrations.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to discuss the importance of helping others, spreading cheer, and maintaining a positive attitude during the holiday season.
21. “The Gingerbread Man”
Summary: The classic tale of the Gingerbread Man who comes to life and embarks on a whimsical adventure as he tries to outrun various characters, including a fox.
Recommended Ages: Suitable for young children, ages 3 to 7, who will enjoy the thrill of the Gingerbread Man’s escape and the playful storytelling.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to discuss themes of adventure, cleverness, and the consequences of being too clever for one’s own good.
Christmas Picture Books
These Christmas picture books offer enchanting tales and captivating illustrations that will help create special holiday memories with your children or students.
1. “Room for a Little One: A Christmas Tale” by Martin Waddell
Summary: In this heartwarming story, animals in a stable make room for one another as they welcome a series of visitors, ultimately making room for a little one – baby Jesus.
Recommended Ages: Ideal for young children, ages 2 to 6, who will appreciate the beautiful illustrations and simple narrative.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to introduce the Nativity story and discuss themes of kindness, hospitality, and the Christmas spirit.
2. “The Snow Globe Family” by Jane O’Connor
Summary: The Snow Globe Family, a charming book about a snow globe that comes to life, takes readers on an enchanting journey inside a Christmas decoration.
Recommended Ages: Perfect for younger kids, ages 3 to 7, who will adore the magical concept.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to spark creativity and imagination, as well as to explore the idea of seeing the world from a different perspective.
3. “Christmas in the Manger” by Nola Buck
Summary: This sweet, simple book tells the story of the animals in the stable where baby Jesus was born, highlighting the importance of love and giving.
Recommended Ages: Designed for very young children, this board book is suitable for ages 0 to 3.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to introduce the Nativity story and discuss the concept of love and togetherness during the holiday season.
4. “Merry Christmas, Big Hungry Bear!” by Audrey Wood
Summary: Join Little Mouse and Big Hungry Bear as they prepare for Christmas and discover the joy of sharing and giving.
Recommended Ages: Young children, ages 2 to 6, will enjoy the charming characters and heartwarming message of this picture book.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to explore the themes of sharing, friendship, and the joy of giving during the holidays.
5. “The Christmas Wish” by Lori Evert
Summary: Follow the journey of a young girl named Anja as she sets out on an adventure to become one of Santa’s elves in the North Pole.
Recommended Ages: This beautifully illustrated book is perfect for children aged 4 and up.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to encourage children’s dreams and aspirations and to discuss the magic of Christmas.
6. “The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey” by Susan Wojciechowski
Summary: A tale of redemption and the power of love, this story follows a woodcarver named Jonathan Toomey who finds hope and healing during the holiday season.
Recommended Ages: Ideal for older readers, ages 8 and up, who can appreciate the depth and emotional richness of the story.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to explore themes of forgiveness, empathy, and the magic of Christmas as a time of healing.
7. “Christmas in the Country” by Cynthia Rylant
Summary: Experience the magic of a snowy Christmas in the countryside, as animals prepare for the holiday season in their own special way.
Recommended Ages: Young children, ages 3 to 7, will appreciate the gentle narrative and lovely illustrations.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to teach about the joy of the simple pleasures of Christmas and the beauty of nature during the holiday season.
8. “The Little Reindeer” by Nicola Killen
Summary: In this enchanting book, a little girl befriends a lost reindeer and embarks on an adventure to help him find his way home.
Recommended Ages: Suitable for young children, ages 2 to 6, who will enjoy the wintry scenes and festive spirit.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to discuss the themes of friendship, kindness, and the magic of helping others.
9. “The Animals’ Santa” by Jan Brett
Summary: Join the forest animals as they discover their own special Christmas traditions and learn the true identity of the mysterious Animals’ Santa.
Recommended Ages: This beautifully illustrated picture book is suitable for children of all ages.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to introduce the concept of holiday traditions and the joy of sharing unique celebrations with loved ones.
10. “The Christmas Extravaganza Hotel” by Tracey Corderoy
Summary: Join froggy friends as they put on a grand holiday show at the Christmas Extravaganza Hotel, filled with excitement, friendship, and joy.
Recommended Ages: Young children, ages 3 to 7, will enjoy the colorful illustrations and the spirit of holiday festivities.
Skills Focus: Teachers can use this book to explore themes of teamwork, creativity, and the joy of putting on a show during the holiday season.
Conclusion
These books are some of our favorite children’s Christmas books. They capture the holiday spirit in a way that will warm your heart and create lasting memories.
Reading these stories together with your children or students is a wonderful holiday tradition that will surely put you in the Christmas cheer.
Grab a hot cocoa, snuggle up, and let the magic of these books of Christmas transport you to a world filled with joy, laughter, and the true spirit of Christmas.
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