-
A Christmas Carol
Charles Dickens
You’ve probably watched the Muppet movie version, or perhaps the 1984 film with George C. Scott, but have you ever actually plunked yourself down and read the original tale of Ebenezer Scrooge? Now’s your moment.
-
How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Dr. Seuss
For all of the Stink Stank Stunk people on your Christmas list, Dr. Seuss’ beloved story of Whoville’s resident Grinch is a must. It’ll delight even the most miserly souls—and perhaps make their heart grow three sizes bigger.
-
Amazing Peace
Maya Angelou
Angelou’s moving Christmas poem, originally read at the 2005 White House tree-lighting ceremony, takes on new dimension in this richly illustrated book about finding community, whomever you are and whatever you believe in.
-
The Twelve Days of Christmas
Laurel Long
Count down each day toward Christmas in full color with Long’s highly detailed, enchanting pastoral scenes. The book offers extra layers of interest with a short history of the song, and a game of hidden drawings waiting to be found.
-
The Snowman
Raymond Briggs
Sometimes you don’t need words to send a powerful message. Briggs’ enduring story of a boy and the snowman he creates—and their ensuing adventures together—is a treasured wintertime tale worth re-reading each year.
-
The Legend of the Poinsettia
Tomie dePaola
The poinsettia flower holds special meaning in Mexico, where it’s called flor de la Nochebuenao, the flower of Holy Night. In this retelling, young Lucinda discovers firsthand the power of prayer through the brilliant holiday flower.
-
The Snowy Day
Ezra Jack Keats
While it’s not technically about Christmas, this is a fitting book about the wonder of winter. Join a little boy in New York City as he delights in the first snow of the season, as told through a vivid series of collage images.
If you’ve had Bing Crosby and Mariah Carey on repeat since Thanksgiving, welcome! You’re among friends here. For those of us who can’t get enough of the jingle-jangle spirit, Christmas isn’t about a single day of gifts and binge-eating sugar cookies. Rather, it’s a festive mindset that’s celebrated all month long with decking the halls, giving back, and acts of kindness. Whether you want to further stoke that holiday fire—or perhaps you’re feeling a bit Grinchy and need a little page-turning pick-me-up—these classic Christmas books (new and old) should do the trick.
Featured Image: Caleb Woods