The holiday season is a time for joy, reflection, and spreading warmth and cheer. While many traditional Christmas stories focus on religious themes, there are plenty of wonderful non-religious holiday books that capture the magic of the season in their own unique way. We have compiled our 16 favorite holiday books that will bring smiles and laughter to your little ones.
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
This beautifully illustrated classic tells the story of a young boy who embarks on a magical journey to the North Pole on a mysterious train. It’s a tale of belief and the enchantment of Christmas.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss’s timeless tale of the Grinch and his heartwarming transformation from a holiday hater to a Christmas enthusiast. It’s a rhyming delight that teaches the true meaning of the season.
Toofer & The Giblet The Season of Light by Paulette LeBlanc
Available for Pre-Sale just in time for the holidays!
Season of Light is Nimblewood’s holiday celebration. Peppered with the main character’s typical banter, with an added layer of amusement and concern, Season of Light is the first segment in the series that offers the residents of Nimblewood the chance to gain a fresh perspective of their surrounding and what it might mean if everything were to change.
The Snowman by Raymond Briggs
A wordless picture book that tells the story of a young boy who builds a snowman that comes to life and takes him on a magical journey to the North Pole. The stunning illustrations speak volumes.
Olive, the Other Reindeer by Vivian Walsh and J. Otto Seibold
Olive is a little dog who mishears a Christmas song and believes she’s meant to be a reindeer. She sets off on an adventure to help Santa, making this a fun heartwarming holiday tale.
The Mitten by Jan Brett
In this beautifully illustrated book, a young boy loses a mitten in the snow, and it becomes a cozy refuge for various forest animals. It’s a delightful story of sharing and kindness.
Dream Snow by Eric Carle
A lift-the-flap book that follows a farmer as he prepares for a snowy Christmas. Children will enjoy revealing the surprises hidden beneath the flaps in this charming story.
The Gingerbread Man by Jim Aylesworth
This retelling of the classic tale follows a freshly baked gingerbread man who runs away from everyone he meets. It’s a fun and lively holiday story with a tasty twist.
Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Beuhner
Ever wonder what snowmen do when no one’s looking? This imaginative book takes children on a whimsical journey to discover the secret lives of snowmen after dark.
The Christmas Wish by Lori Evert
This enchanting book follows Anja, a young girl who embarks on a magical adventure to find Santa Claus. With stunning photography and an engaging story, it’s perfect for the holiday season.
Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson
Bear is usually hibernating during the holidays, but his friends have other plans for him. This heartwarming story of friendship and celebration will warm your child’s heart.
Llama Llama Holiday Drama by Anna Dewdney
Little Llama is excited about the holidays, but he soon becomes overwhelmed by all the preparations. This charming story teaches kids about patience and the joy of togetherness.
If You Take a Mouse to the Movies by Laura Numeroff
In this delightful tale, a young mouse’s holiday adventure takes unexpected twists as he goes from watching a movie to decorating a tree. Kids will enjoy the whimsical chain of events.
The Not Very Merry Pout-Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen
The Pout-Pout fish is in a grumpy mood during the holidays, but with the help of his friends, he discovers the true spirit of the season. This rhyming story is both fun and heartwarming.
The Christmas Magic by Lauren Thompson
Follow the journey of a small tree as it grows and prepares to be the centerpiece of a family’s Christmas celebration. A touching story about the magic of the holiday season.
The Little Reindeer by Nicola Killen
In this beautifully illustrated book, a little girl discovers a magical reindeer in the woods and embarks on a wondrous adventure through a winter wonderland. It’s a story of friendship and imagination.
These beautiful holiday books for children offer a delightful mix of stories, from enchanting adventures to heartwarming lessons. Whether you’re looking for a book to share with your children or for young readers to enjoy on their own, these titles will surely add a touch of holiday magic to your season. Share the joy of reading and the spirit of the holidays with these wonderful stories and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
Tell us what you’re reading this holiday season at @tooferandthegiblet on Instagram!