There are few things that can capture a child’s imagination like the magic of Christmas. The excitement of presents and the mystery of Santa all make for a memorable experience. We even have two Christmas books of our own: Beware the Elves and The Elf-E-phant.
In the spirit of Christmas we put together this list of 15 can’t miss Christmas books. It includes both timeless classics that will be familiar to you as well as newer books that have become popular recently.
- The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
Source: Polarexpress.com
The Polar Express is a Caldecott Medal winner that has delighted children for decades. It’s the story of a boy who rides a magical train destined for the North Pole. In 2004, it was turned into a full length motion picture featuring Tom Hanks and directed by Robert Zemeckis.
The story revolves around a boy lying quietly in his bed on Christmas Eve. He suddenly hears the sounds of a train stopping directly in front of his home. The train’s Conductor steps outside the train prompting the boy to come outside. The Conductor tells the boy that the train is called the Polar Express and it’s going to the North Pole. This begins the boy’s fantastic Christmas journey.
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss
Source:Seussville.com
How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a children’s story by Dr. Seuss written in his traditional rhymed verse style. It follows the villainous Grinch character who attempts to put an end to Christmas. His plan is to steal Christmas gifts from the homes from the unsuspecting Whoville inhabitants. This story is really about the change of heart the Grinch experiences as he realizes that Christmas may be more than just gifts and presents.
This is a Christmas classic that has led to cartoons and even live action movies. Dr. Suess’ style of writing keeps kids and adults engaged in this heartwarming tale for the ages. If you’ve only seen the movies, then you have to check out the book.
- How to Catch an Elf by Adam Wallace
Source:adam-wallace-books.com
How to Catch an Elf is the next installment in the series by Wallace and Elkerton. This is part of a series all about catching elusive mythical creatures. The elf telling this story is traveling with Santa on Christmas Eve. Every house they visit features a trap specifically for elves. The clever elf avoids an “elf snatcher,” hidden within a plate of cookies. Other traps include tinsel, double-sided tape, and a cardboard box hiding a mean cat.
The last trap is located in a grocery store that’s trapped with a cannon that shouts out food. The book is written in a singsong rhyming text that is full of Christmas spirit.
- Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree by Robert Barry
Source: penguinerandomhouse.com
What do you do when your Christmas tree is too tall? This is the nature of Mr. Willowby’s problems. He has a Christmas tree that can’t stand up straight in his parlor. He asks his butler to cut off the top of the tree. What will happen to the part that gets cut off? Check out this story and follow along as a host of creatures get to share in the Christmas Spirit.
- Santa Claus the World’s Number One Toy Expert by Marla Frazee
Source: MarlaFrazee.com
How does Santa know exactly what toy to give to each kid every year? It’s easy when you’re the world’s number one toy expert. No one works longer or harder than Santa. He works all year taking notes, conducting tests, researching, and complaining lists in anticipation of Christmas.
Then finally he gets it all worked out to make Christmas magic happen. The illustrations by Marla Frazee are fun and lively. This book is a fantastic Christmas treat that’s sure to get anyone into the Christmas spirit.
- Christmas Eve at the Mellops by Tomi Ungerer
Source: Amazon.com
This story first published in England over 50 years ago takes place on Christmas Eve. It features four brother pigs in the Mellops family who each attempt to surprise their father with a Christmas tree. Due to the new surplus in trees, their father sends the brothers out into the night to give the trees away to those not as fortunate. After several failed attempts, the brothers discover a house of needy pigs who gladly accept the trees and other gifts provided by the Mellops.
The brothers return home victorious to enjoy Christmas Eve with their parents. They celebrate with their family and their own presents. The mood for the entire celebration is set by their charitable deeds. This is an excellent story about the rewards of giving.
- The Story of Holly and Ivy By Rumer Godden
Source: Penguin Random House
This list is full of Christmas classics including this one by Rumer Godden with illustrations by Christian Birmingham. The Story of Holly & Ivy is a book about a fated destiny between an orphan girl and a toy doll.
On Christmas Eve the toys in Mr Blossom’s shop have one final chance to get sold. A small doll named Holly is especially dressed for Christmas. Her biggest wish is to belong to a special child of her own. Her last chance to get bought passes without her being sold.
On Christmas morning a small orphan girl named Ivy finds herself in front of the Mr. Blossom’s toy shop. The orphan has never had a doll before, but sees Holly and knows at once that this doll is meant for her. But how can Ivy with no money and the shop being closed get the doll?
- The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving by Jan Berenstain
Source: Amazon.com
A few days before Christmas, the Berenstain bear children are each given $10 to spend on presents. They each buy one gift and have money left over that they keep for themselves.
On Christmas Eve, the bear siblings participate in their church’s Christmas play. During the play, they realize the real reason for giving presents on Christmas. The presents we give to others on Christmas represent the gifts the Wise Men gave to Jesus. This moment changes their heart in relation to gifts and prompts them to want to give away their remaining money they kept for themselves.
- The Christmas Eve Tree by Delia Huddy
Source: Penguin Random House
The Christmas Eve Tree is a book that carries a really sweet message. There was once a Christmas Tree that was planted carelessly. This resulted in the tree not growing as big as the others.
When he was finally taken to the Christmas tree shop to be sold, no one wanted to buy him. One day a small homeless child asked if he could have it. The little boy gave hope to the tiny tree. The boy lovingly decorated the tree and took care of it. The tree felt beautiful and was happy again.
This enduring message makes this book a perfect addition to other christmas stories in your home library.
- When Santa was a Baby by Linda Bailey
Source: Penguin Random House
Can you imagine what kind of child Santa was? We get a fun look at When Santa was a baby in this book by Linda Bailey. His parents think their little baby is completely wonderful even if he has a few quirks. He has a booming voice which is highly unusual for a baby. He enjoys giving his birthday presents away and even trains his pet hamsters to pull a matchbox sleigh. We won’t even mention his bizarre interest in chimneys. This is an incredibly fun portrayal of an odd kid who fulfills his purpose and pleases two very proud parents.
- The Night Before Christmas by Jan Brett
Source: JanBrett.com
This is the poem that has been retold countless times. This version matches the legendary poem with the timeless images provided by Jan Brett. You already know the words, “Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house….” Now add it to your existing Christmas library to share with your family and little ones.
- The Little Reindeer by Nicola Killen
Source: Simonandschuster.com
The Little Reindeer is the tale of a little girl named Ollie who meets one of Santa’s legendary reindeer.Ollie is a big fan of reindeer indicated by the reindeer costume she wears to bed each night.
She hears the jingle of bells late one Christmas Eve and goes outside to find the source. She discovers a red collar with silver jingle bells. This leads her to meeting a reindeer who happens to be looking for their lost collar.
Ollie’s new reindeer friend takes her for a fantastic ride through the sky before taking her back home. She also gets to rejoin the reindeer team for some Christmas Eve deliveries.
- 5 More Sleeps ‘til Christmas by Jimmy Fallon
Source: us.mcmillian.org
Do you remember the excitement you experienced as a child waiting for Christmas day? Jimmy Fallon makes the last week leading up to Christmas more fun by counting how many sleeps remain until the arrival of Santa?
This fun book includes beautiful and lively artwork from Rich Deas. Anyone who enjoys the humor of Jimmy Fallon will love sharing this book as part of your new holiday tradition with your family.
- Dasher by Matt Tavares
Source: Matttavares.com
Dasher by Matt Tavares is the story of a courageous little doe who has a wish in her heart. She comes from a family that belongs in a traveling circus, but her dream is for a different life. Her wish is to enjoy the cold snow under her feet and to enjoy the bright light of the North Star.
Finally, the opportunity arises for Dasher to pursue the life of her dreams. On her journey, she meets a sweet man in a red suit who owns a horse-drawn sleigh. Christmas becomes changed forever.
- Little Blue Truck’s Christmas by Alice Schertle
Source: Hmhbooks.com
Little Blue Truck’s Christmas is a tale about a little blue truck that is spreading holiday cheer . He is delivering Christmas trees to all of his friends. This is another book in the Little Blue Truck series by Alice Schertle.
This series is marked by simple rhythm and signature illustrations. Blue’s holiday adventure is full of Christmas warmth and cheer. This book comes together in a novelty way that’s sure to be a treat especially for younger audiences.
Conclusion
Every holiday season is an excuse to grow closer as a family and show how much you care for others. This is the perfect time to encourage your young ones to read while sharing messages of hope and charity. We hope you can share several of these wonderful stories with your loved ones.