The holiday season isn’t complete without curling up with a warm blanket, a cup of hot chocolate, and a great Christmas book.
From timeless classics to contemporary favorites, we’ve rounded up 25 must-read Christmas books that will fill you with joy, wonder, and a little bit of holiday magic.
Whether you’re looking for something heartwarming, funny, or a little bit magical, this list has something for everyone.
1. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
The quintessential Christmas classic. Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is a timeless story of redemption, kindness, and the true spirit of Christmas. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge as he encounters the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, learning lessons that transform his life and heart.
2. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
A magical children’s classic that warms the hearts of all ages. The Polar Express tells the enchanting story of a boy who takes an unforgettable train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.
3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss’ beloved tale of the Grinch, a grouchy character who learns that Christmas spirit isn’t about presents or decorations. It’s a fun and meaningful story with rhymes that will entertain both kids and adults.
4. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Though not strictly a Christmas story, Little Women beautifully captures holiday moments with the March sisters. Their love, struggles, and joy bring a heartfelt warmth to the Christmas season.
5. The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry
A poignant short story that captures the essence of love and sacrifice, The Gift of the Magi follows a young couple who give up their most prized possessions to buy gifts for each other.
6. Letters from Father Christmas by J.R.R. Tolkien
In this delightful book, Tolkien shares the letters he wrote as “Father Christmas” to his children. These letters are filled with stories of the North Pole, mischief, and magic.
7. The Snowman by Raymond Briggs
A wordless picture book that speaks volumes. The Snowman tells the enchanting story of a boy whose snowman comes to life, taking him on a magical journey through a snowy Christmas night.
8. Skipping Christmas by John Grisham
A humorous take on the holiday season, Skipping Christmas follows a couple who decide to skip Christmas altogether. Of course, things don’t go as planned in this funny and lighthearted holiday read.
9. The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore
This classic Christmas poem has been a holiday favorite for centuries. With its rhythmic verses and cozy imagery, The Night Before Christmas is the perfect book to read aloud by the fireplace.
10. One Day in December by Josie Silver
A romantic, modern Christmas novel. One Day in December follows two people whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways over ten years, beginning with a chance encounter during the holiday season.
Heartwarming Family Christmas Books
11. The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser
In this modern classic, the Vanderbeeker kids try to save their family’s beloved Harlem brownstone before Christmas. It’s a heartwarming and charming story about community, kindness, and the power of family.
12. Christmas Jars by Jason F. Wright
This uplifting novel tells the story of a journalist who receives an anonymous Christmas jar full of coins, leading her to discover the tradition of Christmas jars that bring hope to those in need.
13. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
A hilarious, family-friendly book about a chaotic Christmas pageant. When the Herdmans, a family of misfits, take over the church pageant, the results are both funny and unexpectedly touching.
14. The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski
This beautiful picture book shares the story of a grumpy woodcarver and a young boy who change each other’s lives. The illustrations and touching message make it a perfect Christmas read.
15. A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig
In this magical tale, Matt Haig imagines the origin story of Santa Claus himself. With whimsy, humor, and heart, A Boy Called Christmas is sure to be loved by readers of all ages.
Contemporary Christmas Novels
16. The Christmas Sisters by Sarah Morgan
A story of three sisters reuniting for the holidays in the snowy Scottish Highlands. The Christmas Sisters is a feel-good novel about family, love, and holiday healing.
17. Christmas Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella
Becky Bloomwood is back in this hilarious, festive installment of the Shopaholic series. Follow her attempts at organizing the perfect Christmas celebration, with all the chaos and laughs that ensue.
18. Winter Street by Elin Hilderbrand
Set on Nantucket, this cozy novel follows the Quinn family as they navigate drama, romance, and holiday surprises during one unforgettable Christmas at their family inn.
19. Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory
A delightful romance that takes place during a Christmas trip to the English countryside. Royal Holiday follows Vivian, who finds herself unexpectedly falling for a member of the royal staff.
20. Christmas at the Island Hotel by Jenny Colgan
Set on a remote Scottish island, this novel combines romance, charm, and holiday magic as the characters come together to celebrate a memorable Christmas.
Historical and Classic Holiday Reads
21. The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann
The original story that inspired the beloved ballet, The Nutcracker tells the tale of a magical Christmas toy who comes to life to battle the Mouse King.
22. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Though not purely a Christmas story, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe has an iconic winter setting and a visit from Father Christmas, making it a magical holiday read.
23. Christmas in Noisy Village by Astrid Lindgren
This charming book captures Christmas in a small Swedish village, complete with baking, sledding, and holiday festivities. It’s a nostalgic read for families and children.
24. Hercule Poirot’s Christmas by Agatha Christie
For mystery lovers, Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot’s Christmas adds a thrilling twist to the holiday season with a murder mystery set in a family manor.
25. The Little Match Girl by Hans Christian Andersen
A classic story with a poignant, unforgettable message about compassion, The Little Match Girl is a bittersweet tale that reminds us of the importance of kindness and love.
These 25 Christmas books offer something for everyone, whether you’re seeking laughter, nostalgia, romance, or a little Christmas magic.
Each story is perfect for cozying up by the fire and enjoying the holiday season, one page at a time. Which of these books will you be reading this Christmas?
These titles capture the spirit of Christmas through timeless tales and modern adventures. Happy reading and Merry Christmas! 🎅📚
Vincent Salera
Founder @ World's Best Story™ amplifier of creativity & fun!
