There are plenty of Christmas classics that have made repeat performances for decades (‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, anyone?!), but sometimes a new release is the perfect way to give old traditions a fresh take. These six Christmas books for kids are excellent additions to your family’s holiday reading list.
Peace on Earth
By Mary Engelbreit
Ages 4-8; $17.99
Whether you’re an Engelbreit fan or not, her new Christmas book is a keeper! A collection of stories, song lyrics, impression-making quotes and, of course, signature Engelbreit illustrations, Peace on Earth instills a true feeling of just that: peace! Captivating pictures coupled with awe-inspiring Bible stories about the true meaning of Christmas make this book a true Christmas treasure.
Santa!
By Rufus Butler Seder
Ages 1 and older; $14.95
While light on text, Santa! is heavy on intrigue and fascination and will most definitely wow young readers! With rhyming text that is just as lively as the scanimations on each page, Santa! excites little ones with fun glimpses into how jolly old Saint Nick spends his time during the Christmas season — hula-hooping, unicycling, juggling candy canes… he’s one active guy! And in the end he delivers a final message that will warm hearts young and old. A fabulous addition to your holiday reading library!
Christmas Farm
By Mary Lyn Ray; Illustrated by Barry Root
Ages 4-6; $6.99
When Wilma, an older woman with a green thumb, orders 62 dozen starter trees to plant in her spacious back yard, her young neighbor friend, Parker, jumps on board to help get them planted. The two nurture the trees over several years, losing some along the way to mice, deer, the elements and such, until they’re finally ready to sell. This sweet story is abundant with heart-warming—and educational—lessons about friendship, patience, commitment and how truly amazing all living things are … Christmas trees included!
The Christmas Tale of Peter Rabbit
By Emma Thompson; Illustrated by Eleanor Taylor
Ages 5-6; $20
Actress Emma Thompson breathes new life into Beatrix Potter’s classic storybook characters in this beautifully illustration Christmas story. Cousins Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny, out on errands for their mothers, run into William the Turkey, a beautiful-yet-boastful turkey. William, told by the Mr. and Mrs. McGregor that they would be having him for Christmas dinner, misunderstood their intentions, thinking they meant he would be the guest of honor, not the main course. Peter and Benjamin break the news to William that his days are numbered, and then they devise a plan to try to save the bird from his Christmas dinner fate. Can the bunnies keep William off the chopping block? Little ones will enjoy the whimsical illustrations and the tender tale of friendship. A CD version is included, featuring the narrated version read by the author.
Bugs at Christmas
By Beatrice Alemagna
Ages 4-9; $12.95
The community of bugs who reside in a blanket are all getting into the Christmas spirit. Each shares how their respective bug families celebrate the season: some celebrate with a feast of food, others by dancing, and still others by lighting candles and lots of them! Tension rises when each bug claims that they’re way of celebrating is the best way, but when they discover the beauty of the fresh snow outside, they discover that there are more ways than one to enjoy the spirit of the season. Beautiful felt illustrations are accented with everyday items and make this title a keeper!
Our Little Deer
By Sandra Magsamen
Ages 3 and older; $7.99
This sturdy board book is filled with love and affection from a parent to her little deer. The story gushes in rhyming text about what a gift the deer is to its family, but it’s clear when reading that the gift is truly the child to whom you’re reading the book. A sweet tale filled with holiday cheer. And the pop-up antlers will surely make it a favorite!
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