Best Christmas Books for Kids

The best Christmas books for kids capture the magic of the holiday while telling an engaging story and containing beautiful or whimsical illustrations. These timeless Christmas books can be enjoyed by anyone that embraces the holiday and are appropriate for ages two through 102. Some have been shared by multiple generations while others are newer Christmas favorites. All share the spirit of Christmas with charm, laughter and rich storytelling.

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
Chris Van Allsburg's Caldecott award winning book, "The Polar Express" tops the list of children's Christmas books. Although the book was made into a hit movie in 2004, the classic storybook should be on any children's Christmas book must-read list. The magic of a Christmas Eve train ride to the North Pole is a vision that any child can imagine with ease but it is brought to life vividly by the books lush illustrations. A simple, but poignant tale about the magic of belief, "The Polar Express" is a Christmas book that can be shared and cherished by all ages.

The Legend of the Poinsettia by Tomie dePaola
Tomie dePaola is a Caldecott and Newbery Honor Award winning author and illustrator. Known for his Strega Nona books, he has been publishing works for more than 30 years. His book, "The Legend of the Poinsettia" is a Christmas book that should be added to all children's collections. This retelling of the legend of the little Mexican girl who did not have a gift to offer the baby Jesus on Christmas Eve is exquisite. Readers will be drawn to Lucinda as she offers the Christ child what she can, an armful of weeds. Every child will delight as her sincere offering is transformed into beautiful a red plant, the first poinsettia. This book is also available in a Spanish language edition.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
A different take on the Christmas story that will simultaneously bring a tear to your eye and a giggle to your lips, is Barbara Robinson's 1972 classic tale, "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever." This is not a picture book but a story for independent readers, although it is easily read aloud to even the youngest of story lovers. However, there are enough chapter sketches to fuel the imaginations of every reader. The story of the horrible Herdman family and how they take over the Christmas pageant in their small town; it illustrates the true spirit of Christmas. This book is funny, thought provoking and moving.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss
A children's Christmas book collection would not be complete without a copy of Dr. Seuss's "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." Beloved since 1957, this holiday classic recounts the story of how the mean Grinch steals Christmas from Whoville and his ultimate redemption. Paperback and hardcover versions are available as well as adaptations from the 2000 Ron Howard film of the same name.

The Night Before Christmas Eve, The Christmas Trolls and Who's That Knocking on Christmas Eve by Jan Brett
Author and illustrator, Jan Brett has more than 34 million books in print. She has five creations that are perfect for any Christmas book collection. These include her book based on Clement Moore's holiday poem, "The Night Before Christmas." Even if you own a copy of Moore's book/poem, consider adding Brett's illustrated version to your collection. "The Christmas Trolls" book features the tale of Treva and her courageous efforts to stop the trolls from destroying Christmas. "Who's That Knocking on Christmas Eve?" also features those troublesome trolls. It is a delightful tale of the Kyri, the boy from Finnmark, his ice bear and how they attempt to save the Christmas feast from the trolls.

The Twelve Days of Christmas by Jan Brett
To celebrate the traditional Christmas song, "The Twelve Days of Christmas", share a copy of Jan Brett's illustrated book. It is visually stunning and everyone will be amazed at how she brings each verse of the song to life. Remember to look closely throughout the book for eleven different ways to say Merry Christmas. A whimsical Christmas book choice is Brett's "Gingerbread Baby." It is a beautifully illustrated retelling of the classic gingerbread boy tale. It is also available as a board book for smaller children.

Santa's Favorite Story by Hisako Aoki
A book that may not be as well known as other children's Christmas tales is "Santa's Favorite Story" by Hisako Aoki. A heartwarming story that was illustrated by Ivan Gantschev is a perfect read for Christmas Eve night. Aoki's story tells how Santa has fallen asleep in the woods and is discovered by the woodland creatures. When Santa says he might be too tired to deliver all the presents the animals are concerned that Christmas won't come this year. Santa reassures the animals that Christmas will always come, regardless if there are presents or not and he shares with them the reason why; the story of the birth of the Christ child. The animals are wonderstruck with his words and the love that can be shared during the magical season. This book is great to read to younger children to help with the distinction between the myth of Santa and the reality of celebrating the Christ child's birthday.

Choosing the best Christmas books for children does not have to difficult. There are many that are good choices but the above selection are among the best. They will provide children and adults alike with hours of holiday reading enjoyment.