These 9 Christmas books to read as a family include classics and recent favs, with a little something for all ages and Christmas cheer levels. Browse our favorite family Christmas books and tell us which belongs to your family tradition.
Christmas is a different experience once you become a parent. It's up to you to spread the festive cheer instead of moping around like Scrooge. If you're urged to say Bah humbug this holiday season, read one or all of these Christmas books with your kids. Check out books to read to get you in the spirit while your kids are home for the holiday.
Don't have a tradition of reading Christmas books together? There's never a better time to start! And best of all, it's a tradition you can continue to do, no matter how old your littles get.
The Christmas Story by Jane Werner Watson
The Christmas Story is a kid-approved account of the birth of Christ, as told through a Christian perspective. Full of peaceful illustrations and crisp colors, this religious book is a staple for many families looking to remember the reason for their season since 1952. And because it's a children's story, it's the perfect book to let younger children practice their out-loud reading skills.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Robert L. May
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer might be the most popular Christmas song of all time, made more famous by the successful film adaptation that many of us watch every year as part of our holiday tradition. Rudolph isn't just a movie star. He's also the hit of his own book, which people of all ages seem to enjoy reading year after year. That's one story that will never get old.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
If you want to enjoy a classic with the family, you can't pass up reading the OG Christmas classic, A Christmas Carol. While Charles Dickens is an author of yesteryear, the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his visit from three Christmas ghosts is one that we all know and enjoy. This moving book is perfect for teaching young ones about greed, generosity, being thankful for what you have, and the true meaning of the Christmas spirit.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss
How the Grinch Stole Christmas is another popular book for anti-festive, who have more grump than Christmas cheer. Dr. Seuss is always a delight; his fun rhymes and easy-to-read words delight young audiences. And who doesn't love a story about a monster who hates Christmas but has a change of heart? It's the perfect story to read before (or after) watching the film adaptations - cartoon and the Jim Carrey live-action flick.
The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore
There are various versions of The Night Before Christmas. However, the original story is a delightful poem written in 1822 by Clement Clarke Moore. Full of lyrical dialogue and crisp imagery, readers and listeners can easily picture a house settled down for the night as they await the arrival of the big guy in the red suit. It's the perfect read for the special occasion of Christmas Eve to prepare children for Santa.
Christmas at Hogwarts by J. K. Rowling
Christmas at Hogwarts isn't your traditional holiday read, but it's a fabulous story for Potterheads who can't get enough of the mythical universe and its school of magic. Written by J. K. Rowling, the story has charming illustrations by Ziyi Gao and picks up at the beginning of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Chapter 12, where Harry experiences his first Hogwarts Christmas celebration.
Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Older mystery lovers should love quality time spent reading Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle. This short book is the perfect Christmas mystery novella to enjoy over a cup of hot cocoa and a roaring fire. The family can take turns reading to enjoy the short story together and unravel the Christmas case.
Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E. T. A. Hoffman
Another book character made popular on TV is The Nutcracker, a Christmas staple. You can find various versions of this Christmas story, both in print and on film. And if you're a purist and love the arts, we recommend reading the original story, The Nutcracker and Mouse King, which originated in 1816.
The Berenstain Bears and The Joy of Giving by Jan and Mike Berenstain
Introduce your children to a true classic kid's story with The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving. This cheerful illustrated children's story teaches children about the joy of giving instead of getting. It's a great way to introduce your children to simple gifts like homemade treats and artwork and spend quality time with special people.