There’s something especially festive about slowing down with a good book during the holiday season. Whether it’s a cozy Christmas story or a joyful Hanukkah tale, these books are perfect for sharing by the tree, around the menorah or curled up together on a chilly winter day.
Ages 3-5
“Bluey’s Night Before Christmas” By Lauren Holowaty
Bluey and Bingo are trying to sleep on Christmas Eve when a mysterious noise outside sends their imaginations racing. Determined to catch a glimpse of Santa, the Heeler family sets off on a playful adventure through the house. Told in a fun, rhyming style, “Bluey’s Night Before Christmas” is a sweet and festive read for little Bluey fans.
“Pippa’s Hanukkah Hunt” By Vivian Kirkfield
Pippa cannot wait to make and share her favorite Hanukkah treat: latkes. But when the ingredients disappear, her friends and neighbors jump in to help search for them. With its cheerful rhymes, wintry setting, and message about sharing traditions with the people around you, “Pippa’s Hanukkah Hunt” is a warm and joyful Hanukkah read-aloud.
Ages 6-8
“How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?” By Mac Barnett
Have you ever wondered how Santa gets into houses without a chimney? This hilarious book imagines all the possible, and very silly, ways he might make it inside, from squeezing under a door to flowing through a faucet. With deadpan humor and clever illustrations by Jon Klassen, “How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?” is a laugh-out-loud Christmas pick for curious kids.
“The Great Santa Stakeout” By Betsy Bird
Freddy is Santa’s biggest fan, and he has one very big Christmas wish: to snap a photo of Santa coming down the chimney. He comes up with a clever plan to stay awake and catch him in action, but outsmarting Santa may be harder than he thinks. “The Great Santa Stakeout” is a funny, fast-paced Christmas story filled with mischief, surprises, and festive fun.
Ages 9-12
“The Christmasaurus” By Tom Fletcher
Meet the Christmasaurus, a dinosaur who lives at the North Pole and dreams of flying alongside Santa’s reindeer. When he meets a young boy with a big imagination, he learns that a little friendship, and a lot of belief, can make amazing things happen. “The Christmasaurus” is a magical, heartwarming Christmas story full of wonder, adventure and holiday cheer.
“The Festival of Lights: 16 Hanukkah Stories” By Henry Herz
“The Festival of Lights” brings together 16 writers’ poems and stories that celebrate Hanukkah in many different ways. From baking sufganiyot and sharing family traditions to historical adventures and heartfelt moments of connection, each story offers something new to discover. This thoughtful collection is a great choice for readers who enjoy a mix of humor, history, and meaningful holiday tales.
