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A Merry Reading List For Kids: 5 Children’s Books to Read This Christmas

Posted on 19 Dec 2022 | Posted in StevensBooks Blogs

Christmas is a magical time of year for children, and with the holiday just around the corner, parents are on the lookout for fun and engaging books to get their little ones into the holiday spirit.

Books are the gifts that keep on giving. Enchanting picture books full of illustrations and stories can keep kids busy on those long days leading up to Christmas Day. Even toddlers can find something to enjoy from the many wonderful Christmas-themed titles out there.

If you’re on the hunt for a few of your own, you’ve come to the right place. From classic tales to modern-day adventure stories, here are some of our favorite Christmas books for children that will make this festive season even more special.

 

 

A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles M. Schulz

For those who love Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, you should read this fun holiday story to your kids. The book begins with Charlie Brown in search of something that will make him feel happy during the holidays. After his friends offer various suggestions, he decides on what he believes is a unique solution: finding a perfect Christmas tree! With Linus’ help, Charlie discovers that “perfection” isn't what makes Christmas wonderful and learns an important lesson about friendship and love in the process. Filled with memorable moments and characters, this book is sure to get your family in the holiday spirit! Plus, it's perfect for teaching children about themes such as kindness and compassion, values that are especially important during the holidays.

 

 

Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition by Carol Aebersold and Chanda Bell

The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition has become an iconic yuletide tale in many households. This beloved children’s book tells the story of a Scout Elf sent from the North Pole to watch over children during the holiday season. Each night, this elf finds a new place to hide and keeps an eye out for naughty or nice behavior. He then reports back to Santa Claus which kids have been good enough to deserve a gift. Written by mother-and-daughter tandem Carol Aebersold and Chanda Bell, The Elf on the Shelf has been helping families around the world make lasting memories since 2005. Most books even have an accompanying elf figure that parents can hide during Christmas Eve, so their children can find it in the morning. It’s an enjoyable game with a good story that teaches kids to be good if they want to be on Santa’s “nice list”.

 

 

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

The Polar Express written by Chris Van Allsburg is a perfect pick to delight young readers who are looking forward to Santa Claus’ visit. The book is about a young boy who goes on a magical train ride to the North Pole where he receives an extraordinary gift from Santa Claus himself. This classic Christmas book will surely bring joy and fun to any child. It captures the excitement of exploring new places, meeting new people, and discovering unexpected wonders along the way. With delightful illustrations and a heartwarming message about believing in the spirit of Christmas, this timeless tale will become an annual family favorite for years to come.

 

 

The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore

Published in 1823, Moore's work has been reprinted countless times and is one of the most popular Christmas books for children today. The iconic poem narrates the travels of jolly old St. Nick as he descends from the sky on a magical sleigh pulled by eight reindeer. On his journey, he visits children around the world who anxiously await his arrival every December 25th. With vivid imagery and whimsical rhyme schemes, Moore captures the innocence and joy of childhood during one of the happiest times of year. His words are simple enough for young minds to easily understand yet also powerful enough to leave an everlasting impression.

 

 

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss

Engaging prose and charming illustrations make How the Grinch Stole Christmas an ideal holiday read for kids. This silly and sweet story has been a popular Christmas tale since it was first published in 1957. It follows the titular character Grinch, a mean-spirited, grumpy creature who lives alone atop Mount Crumpit, as he attempts to ruin Christmas for the nearby town of Whoville. Through his witty writing style and lighthearted humor, Dr. Seuss introduces children to a story about how kindness can override selfishness and greed— no matter how big or small it may appear at first view. This book is a great way to teach good values to your little ones, while also having fun with words like "snozzberries" and "who-pudding. 

 

 

The Nutcracker by E.T.A Hoffmann

Originally written in 1816 as a part of The Tales of Hoffmann, this story revolves around young Marie Stahlbaum who receives a nutcracker doll during a Christmas party at her home. Little does she know that this seemingly ordinary gift is actually a prince of a magical kingdom under an evil spell by his nemesis, the Mouse King. Marie then embarks on an epic quest to save him. Along the adventure, she learns valuable lessons about courage, loyalty, and friendship— all while having her fair share of fun.

 


Christmas is a wondrous event for kids and families, so it's only natural to want to share in the joy, excitement, and celebration with some amazing reads. When you're looking for something educational or just outright fun, there are plenty of wonderful Christmas books for children that will make your family smile. Visit Stevens Books for your little one’s next holiday title.

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