I have gathered a wonderful collection of books that celebrate this special holiday. The first four titles are board books, perfect for babies and toddlers. The remaining selections are picture books suitable for all ages unless otherwise noted, except for the final book, which is a collection of stories meant to be read aloud for all ages.
My First Read and Learn Cozy Christmas Prayers, brightly illustrated by Virginia Allyn and Valentina Jaskina, tells a simple and gentle Nativity story beginning with Mary’s visit from an angel. The story includes the stable, the shepherds, and the kings welcoming baby Jesus. The final pages feature lyrics from well-known Christmas songs such as Away in a Manger and Silent Night.
Could That Be an Elf?, by Hannah Eliot and colorfully illustrated by Saoirse Lou, reads like a playful peek-a-boo book with clever cutout windows hiding a possible elf. But when the page is turned, children are delightfully tricked—revealing a puppy wearing an elf hat or a basket full of candy canes. Will the sneaky elf ever be found? Smiles and laughter are sure to follow.
It’s Christmas, David!, by David Shannon, is a popular picture book now available as a board book. Young readers will giggle as they follow David’s mischievous behavior while he waits for Santa to arrive. This title is part of a beloved series featuring David, with the first book earning a Caldecott Honor Award.
Tiny Bear’s Christmas Prayer, by Lorie Ann Grover, is a sweet, rhyming story in which Tiny Bear gives thanks to God during the Christmas season. As he wraps gifts, Tiny Bear is filled with excitement and gratitude for the birth of baby Jesus. This gentle story encourages young readers to reflect on thankfulness and the true meaning of Christmas.
Jingle Bells, by James Lord Pierpont and gorgeously painted by Antonio Javier Caparo, brings one of the world’s most recognizable Christmas songs to life. Originally titled The One Horse Open Sleigh when composed in 1857, the song is beautifully reimagined with illustrations of playful elves, snowy scenes, and expressive animals helping Santa prepare for Christmas. You can almost hear the bells jingling on every page.
The Gift of Words, by Peter H. Reynolds, is an inspiring story about the power of positive language. A young boy becomes overwhelmed by the negative and commercial messages surrounding Christmas. When he decides to decorate a park tree with uplifting and meaningful words, others are inspired to contribute as well. Be sure to notice the clever and thoughtful endpages.
Candy Corn Christmas, by Jonathan Fenske, is quickly becoming a holiday favorite. The story stars adorable animated candy corn characters who are hilariously determined to crash Christmas, even though their own holiday, Halloween, has already passed. Bright illustrations, playful rhyming text, and fun endpapers make this book a joyful read.
Hap-Pea Holidays, by Keith Baker, is another delightful entry in this popular series. The tiny pea characters are busy decorating and preparing for Christmas. With rhythmic, rhyming text and bright digital illustrations, this book makes a perfect read-aloud. One cheerful refrain proclaims, “Peas on Earth!” (Simon)
Holly Jolly Kitty Corn, by Shannon Hale and digitally illustrated by LeUyen Pham, is another charming installment in the Kitty Corn series. This story follows a unicorn kitten and her unicorn best friend as they decorate for Christmas. Their well-meaning attempts to please one another lead to conflict, which is ultimately resolved through love, understanding, and compassion.
The Mutcracker, by Anna Kemp and expressively illustrated by Sara Ogilvie, is a sweet story centered on handling disappointment. A young girl and her lovable dog, Biff, anxiously await news about their roles in the Nutcracker ballet. This thoughtful book offers a valuable lesson in managing expectations and responding positively when things don’t go as planned.
Twelve Classics of Christmas, by various authors, is a collection of twelve beloved Christmas stories, some familiar and others lesser known. All are especially enjoyable when read aloud. Selections include A Kidnapped Santa Claus by L. Frank Baum, The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry, The Elves and the Shoemaker by the Brothers Grimm, and Tilly’s Christmas by Louisa May Alcott.
