There’s nothing quite like the magic of Christmas bedtime stories.
As a parent who loves cosy, connected moments with my little ones, I can’t think of a better way to build memories than by reading festive books together.
But Christmas stories aren’t just about entertainment, they teach kindness, generosity and the joy of giving.
Read on for our pick of the best Christmas books for children.
To help you find the perfect books for your family, I’ve compiled a list of the best Christmas books for children, featuring bestselling titles from the past 10 years, classics that keep selling, and modern favourites.
Why Christmas Books Are So Important for Kids
Reading Christmas stories with your children does more than entertain, it:
- Fosters emotional connection: Sitting together with a book creates warmth and closeness, key for secure attachment.
- Builds festive traditions: Reading the same story each year creates lasting family rituals.
- Encourages empathy and kindness: Many Christmas stories focus on giving, sharing, and caring.
- Supports literacy and imagination: Exposure to stories, rhymes, and illustrations helps develop reading skills and creative thinking.
Top Bestselling Christmas Books for Children
Here are some of the most popular and enduring Christmas books for kids, perfect for building your holiday library.
Why it’s great: A timeless classic about the Grinch’s journey from grumpiness and anti-Christmas feeling to love and actually enjoying himself, showing that Christmas is about people, not presents.
Why it’s great: A magical journey to the North Pole that celebrates belief and wonder. Perfect for a Christmas Eve read. Pair it with the beautiful movie for an annual family treat to treasure.
Why it’s great: Hilarious and heartwarming, this story about the Herdman kids teaches that even messy, chaotic families have love to share. Such a fun book, perfect for your family or homeschool read aloud.
Why it’s great: A modern classic that reimagines Father Christmas’s origins, filled with adventure, hope, and magic. A great chapter book, you can argue over the good and bad bits of the movie after!
Why it’s great: A newer bestseller that combines fantasy, love, and loss. Kids are captivated by the story of a boy searching for his lost toy. Reminiscent of Shirley Hughes' Dogger, but for older kids.
Why it’s great: A rhythmic, gentle board book perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, teaching friendship and sharing. Great for fans of vegicles, animals and, of course, the Little Blue Truck.
Why it’s great: An interactive story where children open letters sent to and from fairy-tale characters. Perfect for engaging toddlers and preschoolers. Beautiful!
Why it’s great: A fun, whimsical story about a dinosaur’s Christmas adventure, appealing to kids who love quirky fantasy.
Why it’s great: Stunning silhouette artwork and traditional King James text make this a beautiful, reverent introduction to the Nativity story. A keepsake-quality book families return to year after year.
Why it’s great: Jan Brett’s detailed, cosy illustrations bring classic Christmas tales to life with warmth and wonder. A perfect collection for long winter storytimes, with illustrations kids will love.
Why it’s great: A touching tale about finding beauty in unlikely places, this gentle story celebrates kindness, hope, and simple Christmas magic. Perfect for quiet bedtime reading.
Why it’s great: Julia Donaldson’s lyrical storytelling and soft illustrations share the heartwarming journey of a very special Christmas tree. A lovely book about generosity and festive traditions.
Why it’s great: Hilarious, interactive fun as the cheeky Pigeon tries to take over Santa’s job - guaranteed giggles for preschoolers. A brilliant festive twist in the beloved Mo Willems' Pigeon series.
14. The Snowman
Why it’s great: This wordless classic uses beautiful, atmospheric artwork to tell a magical winter story children never forget. A perfect companion to the beloved animated film.
Why it’s great: Gorgeous illustrations and a heartfelt story follow brave little Dasher as she discovers her destiny with Santa. A warm, magical origin tale kids love.
Why it’s great: With sturdy flaps and simple repetition, this toddler favourite delivers festive surprises on every page. Ideal for little hands and early language development.
Why it’s great: A silly, rhythmic, counting-filled story that has young children laughing out loud. Fun, cheeky, and perfect for early numeracy practice.
Why it’s great: The quintessential Christmas Eve read, this classic poem captures the magic and anticipation of the season like nothing else. Timeless, cosy and enchanting for all ages, with beautiful illustrations.
Why it’s great: A heartwarming tale of generosity as Little Robin gives away his cosy vests to animals in need, only to be rewarded with Christmas magic. Sweet, gentle, and the perfect example of kindness during the festive season.
20. The Snowy Day
Why it’s great: A beautifully simple, timeless story that captures the quiet wonder of a child exploring fresh snow. Perfect for toddlers, with gentle illustrations and a cosy winter feeling. Add the captivating animation for evern more fun and memories.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Christmas Book
Consider age and attention span: Board books for toddlers, picture books for preschoolers, chapter books for older kids.
Mix classics and modern hits: Timeless stories teach tradition, while modern bestsellers bring fresh perspectives.
Look for interactivity: Lift-the-flap books or advent sets create memorable, hands-on experiences.
Prioritize emotional connection: Choose books that spark conversations about kindness, empathy and generosity.
Create a tradition: Pick one or two books to read each Christmas Eve or morning to establish a long-lasting family ritual.
Building a Christmas book collection isn’t just about having stories on a shelf, it’s about creating those special seasonal moments of joy and connection.
From timeless tales like How the Grinch Stole Christmas! to modern favourites like The Christmas Pig, each book offers a chance to slow down, snuggle up close, and celebrate the season together.
Start your holiday reading tradition this year and watch your child’s eyes light up as you turn each festive page.
Holiday or Christmas shopping?
You can find lots more ideas in our gift guides.
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