Reading together as a family is one of the most cherished traditions that can create lasting memories, especially during the holiday season. The act of sharing stories—whether they are treasured classics or new adventures—provides valuable opportunities for bonding and meaningful conversations, particularly concerning holiday customs. With the excitement that the holiday season brings, there’s no better time than now to dive into the enchanting world of festive children’s literature. Besides serving as entertainment, these books foster a sense of wonder and delight that kids will reminisce about for years to come.
During the holidays, whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah, or simply celebrating winter, stories can help ignite the spirit of the season. These narratives are not only delightful but also meaningful, connecting children with important traditions while creating wonderful memories. Amidst the hustle and bustle of gift shopping and festivities, here are ten holiday-themed books that can help you pause and soak in the magic of this wonderful time of year alongside your children.
One beloved tale is “The Polar Express,” a magical Christmas story about a boy who embarks on a train ride to the North Pole. Celebrating its 30th anniversary, this beautifully illustrated hardcover edition encapsulates themes such as belief, wonder, and the joy of giving. Accompanying the book is a classic film adaptation, making it an ideal read for families looking to ignite their holiday spirit. Parents can grab this enchanting book for under $10 at Walmart, making it both accessible and precious.
Moving on to another timeless classic, Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” unveils the journey of the Grinch as he attempts to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville. This whimsical tale not only entertains but imparts a vital lesson on the true meaning of the holiday season. For those who adore the green grouch, an exciting sequel called “The Grinch Takes a Vacation” is available, bringing humor and charm to the holiday story.
Another wonderful winter-themed pick is “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats, which follows young Peter as he explores the wonders of a snowy neighborhood. This award-winning story, filled with poetic text and vibrant illustrations, encourages children to celebrate the beauty of winter and embrace outdoor play—an essential message in today’s digital-centric world. Scholastic offers a special edition that combines this cherished book with an accompanying CD to enhance the reading experience.
For those celebrating Hanukkah, “Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins” is an enchanting story about a clever man who outsmarts goblins to save the holiday for a village. This captivating story, which combines humor with rich illustrations, offers insight into Hanukkah celebrations, making it perfect for festive gatherings. Additionally, a humorous and heartening book entitled “Latke, the Lucky Dog” captures the joy of cooking latkes, infusing tradition with family fun.
As the cold winter nights draw in, “Owl Moon,” a poetic tale exploring a father-daughter owling excursion, creates a calming atmosphere for readers. The stunning watercolor illustrations and lyrical prose showcase the serene beauty of the winter landscape. For further inspiration to spend time outdoors, consider picking up a book with winter activities specially designed for children.
In a humorous blend of Hanukkah and Christmas traditions, “The Latke Who Couldn’t Stop Screaming” captures the spirit of the holiday through the adventures of a talking latke. With its distinctive Lemony Snicket humor, this quirky tale offers an innovative perspective on seasonal celebrations.
Furthermore, Eric Carle’s “Dream Snow” brings a farmer’s wish for snow to life through his classic collage illustrations. This simple yet engaging story about the warmth of the season will enchant younger readers, and it’s a perfect addition to an Eric Carle-themed holiday reading list.
For a unique twist to the winter season, explore “Snowmen at Night,” a delightful tale that reveals what snowmen do while no one is watching. The playful rhymes combined with hidden illustrations bring magic to the pages, making it a delightful choice for family reading sessions during these snowy days.
As the gift-giving season approaches, consider these enchanting holiday books as perfect additions to your collection, helping to spread joy and deepen connections through shared stories. Whether nestled under the tree or gifted to friends, these books provide an exceptional way to bring families together and celebrate the magic of the holidays.
Jené Luciani Sena contributes to the festive spirit as a lifestyle reporter for Fox News Digital, ensuring families find the best ways to celebrate and connect during this special time.