Holiday Books for Kids
I received copies of these holiday books in partnership with Candlewick Press.
Holiday books for children play a pivotal role in shaping their understanding and appreciation of cultural and familial traditions. These books often act as windows into diverse celebrations, rituals, and stories from around the world, allowing children to embark on imaginative journeys without leaving their homes. They not only foster a sense of wonder and anticipation for the festivities but also educate young readers about the historical and cultural significance of holidays. Through vibrant illustrations and compelling narratives, holiday books can help children visualize and relate to customs that might be different from their own, cultivating a sense of respect, curiosity, and inclusivity from an early age.
Additionally, books for kids such as these Disney Twisted Tales Series serve as catalysts for creating and cementing family traditions. Reading together during the holiday season can become a cherished ritual, offering families an opportunity to bond and share in the joy of storytelling. These stories often instill important values such as kindness, gratitude, hope, and the essence of giving, which can shape a child’s character and worldview. The recurring themes in holiday books—of love, togetherness, and the magic of belief—can provide comfort and consistency in a rapidly changing world, grounding children in the warmth of familiar tales year after year. They are not just stories; they are a part of the tapestry of childhood memories, forever associated with the joy and wonder of the season.
Seasonal Reads
Maggie O’Farrell
Illustrated by Daniuela Jaglenka Terrazzini
First chapter book – Ages 7-10
In a modern fairy tale told with humor and warmth, paired with Daniela Jaglenka Terrazzini’s enchanting artwork, New York Times bestselling novelist Maggie O’Farrell weaves the story of a spirited girl who finds a way to bring magic into her own house—and enlist it to bring a sense of wonder to those she loves.
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
Illustrated by P.J. Lynch
Picture book – Ages 3-7
P.J. Lynch brings his rich and atmospheric art to the well-loved holiday poem. Children will pore over every cozy detail in these warm, sweeping watercolor illustrations—from snug mice to stockings hung by the chimney with care to toys in the bundle flung over merry St. Nicholas’s back. A glowing interpretation of a favorite read-aloud, this is a keepsake volume to cherish and return to year after year.
Matt Tavares
Don’t miss this New York Times holiday bestseller!
Picture book – Ages 4-8
Dasher is an adventurous young reindeer with a wish in her heart. She spends her days with her family under the hot sun in a traveling circus, but she longs for a different life — one where there is snow beneath her hooves and the North Star above her head. One day, when the opportunity arises, Dasher seizes her destiny and takes off in pursuit of the life she wants to live. It’s not long before she meets a nice man in a red suit with a horse-drawn sleigh — a man named Santa. And soon, with the help of a powerful Christmas wish, nothing will be the same.
Patricia Toht
Illustrated by Jarvis
Picture book – Ages 3-7
Part of the magic of the Christmas season stems from the traditions that families and friends take part in every year: hanging up stockings; putting lights in the windows; and, one of the most important of all, picking out and taking home the Christmas tree. Joyously drawn and rhythmically written, this celebration of family, friends, and the holiday season is as merry as the tradition it depicts.
Susan Cooper
Illustrated by Carson Ellis
Don’t miss this New York Times holiday bestseller!
Picture book – Ages 4-8
As the sun set on the shortest day of the year, early people would gather to prepare for the long night ahead. They built fires and lit candles. They played music, bringing their own light to the darkness, while wondering if the sun would ever rise again. The Shortest Day captures the magic behind the returning of the light, the yearning for traditions that connect us with generations that have gone before — and the hope for peace that we carry into the future.
Where’s Waldo? Santa Spotlight Search
Martin Handford
Novelty – Ages 5-9
These night-time scenes are bustling with Santas getting ready for Christmas Eve. Featuring super-challenging searches as well as puzzles and games, with the help of a magic slider to light up one spot at a time, Santa’s Spotlight Search promises many hours of merriment for seasoned Waldo fans and new followers alike.
Gift Books to Inspire and Entertain
Encyclopedia Prehistorica Dinosaurs Pop-Up
Robert Sabuda & Matthew Reinhart
Request this Candlewick classic for dinosaur lovers!
Novelty – Ages 5-9
From renowned pop-up masters Robert Sabuda and Matthew Reinhart comes an awe-inspiring tribute to the world’s most beloved extinct animals and their 180-million-year reign on our planet. Open this book and a massive T. Rex springs out, flashing a startling jawful of jagged teeth. Turn the next spread and a ravishing raptor unfurls and appears to fly off the edge of the page. With each of six spreads featuring one spectacular, large pop-up as well as booklets of smaller pop-ups and text, Encyclopedia Prehistorica: Dinosaurs is a magnificent display of paper engineering and creativity — an astonishing book that will be read, admired, and treasured forever.
What is your favorite holiday or inspirational title?
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