The festive nostalgia is getting the best of me, so I’ve curated a list of Christmas books for kids that bring joy to all ages (even, ahem, kids of 34). These familiar titles are perfect for reading sessions by the fireplace or snuggled up with a cozy blanket and cup of cocoa.
Whether you’re looking to add to your holiday collection or find the perfect gift for a loved one, these timeless tales are sure to inspire laughter and warmth this festive season.
Here’s a list of Christmas books for kids that adults love just as much:
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I’ve included Amazon links to each recommended book, but you can also see my post on where to get e-books and audiobooks for free. (Check out how to gift Kindle books and how to gift Audible for digital versions.)
- 1. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” by Dr. Seuss
- 2. “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg
- 3. “The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs
- 4. “The Nutcracker” by E.T.A. Hoffmann
- 5. “Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Clement C. Moore
- Honorable Mention: “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” by Charlie Mackesy
- More Christmas Books for Kids & Big Kids
Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links. This means I earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase using this link, but at no cost to you.
1. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” by Dr. Seuss
Why Kids Love It: With its memorable rhymes and delightful illustrations, Dr. Seuss’ story about the Grinch who tries to steal Christmas is both entertaining and engaging. Young readers love the funny character designs and the colorful world of Whoville.
Why Adults Love It: This classic tale offers a timeless message about kindness, community, and the true spirit of Christmas. Adults appreciate the Grinch’s transformation and the deeper commentary on materialism, making it a thought-provoking read in addition to a holiday favourite.
I also love re-watching The Grinch movie adaptations at Christmas, but my favourite version has to be with Jim Carrey as The Grinch.
“Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.”
2. “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg
Why Kids Love It: The magic of a train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve is an enchanting idea for kids, filled with wonder and excitement. The beautiful, dreamy illustrations capture the imagination and make this a truly immersive read. There’s also a movie version.
Why Adults Love It: Beyond the story of Santa and the North Pole, The Polar Express is also a nostalgic look at the power of belief and the magic of childhood. During the holidays, adults often find themselves reflecting on the innocence of youth and the enduring wonder that Christmas brings.
“Seeing is believing, but sometimes the most real things in the world are the things we can’t see.”
3. “The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs
Why Kids Love It: With its wordless storytelling, The Snowman lets kids create their own narrative with each page, making it an engaging and interactive read. The beautifully illustrated pages are magical and filled with warmth; I had a copy when I was young and the illustrations are so iconic.
Why Adults Love It: This story of friendship and impermanence speaks deeply to adults, touching on themes of love, loss, and the fleeting nature of joy. I still love watching The Snowman animated film, and this was actually a movie I shared when I taught English in Hong Kong because the story is set to music.
“The snowman stood very still, and the boy looked at him, wondering what he was thinking.”
4. “The Nutcracker” by E.T.A. Hoffmann
Why Kids Love It: Full of magic and adventure, The Nutcracker takes young readers on an exciting journey through whimsical lands. The characters, from Clara to the Sugar Plum Fairy, really create a sense of holiday wonder. I remember going to see The Nutcracker ballet as a child and being blown away by the magic!
Why Adults Love It: For grown-ups, The Nutcracker is more than a story—it’s a piece of cherished holiday tradition. Adults enjoy the nostalgia of revisiting a story they may have experienced through ballet or film (there are so many different Nutcracker movies), appreciating the intricate plot and the beauty of its classic setting.
“In the end, it is not just a dream, but a new reality full of love and joy.”
5. “Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Clement C. Moore
Why Kids Love It: Twas the Night Before Christmas is a classic poem that captures the magic of Christmas Eve with its rhythmic, engaging storytelling and vivid imagery. I had an illustrated book of this poem and I loved reading it over the holidays.
Why Adults Love It: Its historical significance and nostalgic value make it a favorite, and whenever I hear it, it takes me back to holidays when I was young.
“The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads.”
Honorable Mention: “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” by Charlie Mackesy
Thought not strictly a Christmas book, this illustrations are in a snowy, winter environment and the animated film came out at Christmas, so this is a book I associate with the festive season. You can also watch the animated film of the book on Prime video. I watched this when it premiered at Christmas 2022 and cried like a baby!
Why Kids Love It: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse is a beautifully illustrated story of friendship and adventure that resonates with kids through its gentle themes and relatable characters. There’s also a version with illustrations take from the animated version.
Why Adults Love It: The profound insights about love, kindness, and the importance of connection offer wisdom that speaks to adults as well, making it a favorite for readers of all ages.
“What is the bravest thing you’ve ever said?” asked the boy. “Help,” said the horse.”
More Christmas Books for Kids & Big Kids
Do you have any nostalgic Christmas books for kids that you still enjoy today? Let me know your suggestions in the comments below.
For more festive reads, check out my post on the best Christmas books for adults:
And for more festive bookish ideas, check out these posts on stocking stuffers for book lovers and how to make a book advent calendar: