Christmas Books for Preschoolers Make The Perfect Gift

Books are a great Christmas gift for preschoolers. Books don't make a lot of noise, they are easy to store, and it's always fun to read with a child. For easy and fun holiday shopping, pick up one or two of these children's books and thrill your preschooler. If you're a grandparent shopping from afar, record yourself reading the book and send the DVD to your grandchild for a double Christmas gift. Here are some time tested family favorites.

My Penguin Osbert by Elizabeth Kimmel

The story of a boy who finally gets exactly what he wants for a Christmas gift - a penguin - and must learn to live with the consequences. A great gift for those preschoolers who long for exotic pets, or who are penguin lovers. $18.99 at Chinaberry for a book and plush penguin gift set.

Great Joy by Kate DiCamillo

Kate DiCamillo is better known for her chapter books, Because of Winn-Dixie and The Tale of Despereux, but here offers a lovely picture book for Christmas, for you and your preschooler to enjoy. A short sweet story about Frances, a young girl who is preparing for her role as an angel in the Christmas pageant. She becomes worried about the plight of a homeless organ grinder and monkey. Will she find the right words to say? All the world waits for the gift of Great Joy. $11.55 at Amazon.

Cookie Count by Robert Sabuda

Robert Sabuda is a master of the pop-up. Here, a colorful counting book with spinning, shining Christmas cookies will give preschoolers and parents a case of the munchies. Older preschoolers will enjoy trying to find the tiny mice hidden on each page. A great gift to read with the children before a baking spree. Cookie Count is $17.15 at Amazon.

The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore and Robert Sabuda

In stark contrast to the rainbow merry-go-round of Cookie Count, Sabuda's Night Before Christmas is a minimalist masterpiece. Stark white snow and rich primary colors illustrate Moore's classic poem. Note that both this book and Cookie Count are fragile and your preschooler should enjoy these books with a grownup. This version of Night Before Christmas makes a terrific gift, and is $20.51 at Amazon.

Who Was Born this Special Day? by Eve Bunting and Leonid Gore

A warm fuzzy book reminiscent of the Christmas carols "The Friendly Beasts" and "Away in a Manger." Softly washed illustrations of the animals gathered in the stable celebrating the birth of a special baby. A lovely Christmas eve gift, and toddlers and preschoolers who love animals will enjoy this story. $6.99 at Amazon.

Stranger in the Woods: A Photographic Fantasyby Carl R. Sams and Jean Stoick

Not strictly a Christmas book, but a wonderful story of giving and sharing. Gorgeous nature photography of a special snowman bearing gifts and the wild guests who come to visit him. A board book version, Winter Friends, board ($7.95) is available for younger preschoolers and toddlers. $13.57 at Amazon.

Jingle Bells by Nick Butterworth

A hilarious story of two mice bullied by the local cat, and their unique revenge with the help of a little Christmas present from Santa. Grownups will appreciate the wry Britwit illustrations, and preschoolers will enjoy ringing the attached bell. Out of print, but still available for $14.95 or less through Amazon.

Give your favorite preschooler the gift of a good book this Christmas!

All books available at Chinaberry.com or Amazon.com