10 New Christmas Classics to Read This Holiday Season
by Dena McMurdie
Each December, my kids and I pull out our favorite holiday books. We make a big stack and work our way through it again and again. Just like our Christmas tree and the gifts under it, these stories play a special part in our holiday celebration. We add new books to our collection every year, whether they’re heartwarming, religious, or just for fun. They become cherished classics in our home as we read them frequently throughout the holiday season. Here are some of our favorites.
-
The Twelve Days of Christmas: A Peek-Through Picture Book
Available from:All three of my kids are obsessed with this book and the peek-through pages. Each page is die cut to reveal gifts corresponding to the twelve days of Christmas. My kids love watching the new gifts appear as we turn each page.
Also available from: -
The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey
Available from:Don't read this without a box of tissues handy. This new edition of the beloved story is a gentle reminder of the true meaning of Christmas and has themes of love, friendship, redemption, and kindness.
Also available from: -
The Lost Gift
When Santa accidentally drops a present from his sleigh, four animal friends decide to deliver it themselves. This adorably illustrated book is about sacrifice, generosity, and the joy of selfless giving.
Preorder from: -
An Invisible Thread Christmas Story
Based on the bestselling memoir by the same name, An Invisible Thread Christmas Story tells the true story of a woman named Laura befriending Maurice, a homeless boy. This touching story depicts their first Christmas together and how they change each other's lives.
Preorder from: -
The Christmas Fox
Available from:A baby is coming and all the animals are getting ready, but the little fox feels like he doesn't have anything to give. This sweet nativity story is a treasured addition to my children's shelf that we'll be reading for many years to come.
Also available from: -
How to Catch Santa
Available from:Learn why you should catch the jolly old guy and get tips on the best way to do it (and how not to do it). Full of humor and charm, this book has my kids plotting cookie-baited traps for Christmas Eve.
Also available from: -
Dear Santa, Love, Rachel Rosenstein
Available from:Rachel wants to celebrate Christmas even though she's Jewish. When Santa doesn't visit her house, she's disappointed. This funny and touching book shows what Christmas can feel like for those who don’t celebrate the holiday and reminds us that there are many different traditions that are celebrated in America.
Also available from: -
A Night of Great Joy
The traditional Christmas story is retold through a children's Sunday School pageant. Funny and sweet, this book helps us remember the reason for the season.
Preorder from: -
The Polar Express
The Polar Express recently celebrated its 30th birthday with a special anniversary edition of the magical tale. This modern classic has become a Christmastime staple in our house and makes me tear up every time I read it with my kids.
Preorder from: -
The Nutcracker
Introduce your kids to the classic ballet with this stunning picture book. With exquisite artwork inspired by the actual ballet production, this book is worth having on your shelf.
Preorder from:
Share your favorite holiday reads with us in the comments below!