18 Holiday Books for Kids and Teens (Broken Down by Age!)
If your kids are anything like mine, they’re a little book obsessed (in the best way). We’re always on the look for good reads, and this time of year, they’re all about Christmas stories.
Whether you’re building family reading traditions, choosing bedtime stories, or gift-shopping for young readers, this curated list of holiday books offers warmth, wonder, and winter charm for every age.
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Babies & Toddlers (0–3 Years)
Where Is Baby’s Christmas Present? by Karen Katz
This playful lift-the-flap board book follows Baby as she hunts for her Christmas gift around the house. With bright illustrations and simple text, it’s irresistible for toddlers who love surprises and interactive pages.
Little Blue Truck’s Christmas by Alice Schertle
Little Blue delivers Christmas trees to his friends in this gentle story with counting elements and a warm holiday message. The final pages light up, making it extra special for tiny readers who love visual magic.
Dream Snow by Eric Carle
A farmer dreams of snow falling softly at Christmas, then wakes to discover a winter wonderland waiting outside. Eric Carle’s signature collage art and a gentle, quiet narrative make this a soothing holiday favorite.
That's Not My Snowman… by Fiona Watt
Part of the beloved sensory series, this touch-and-feel book invites little ones to explore textures as they search for the right snowman. Simple phrases and repetition help build language skills while keeping babies engaged.
Preschool (3–5 Years)
How to Catch Santa by Jean Reagan
This funny, imaginative story offers kids playful ideas for trying to catch Santa and learn his secrets. With lively illustrations and curiosity-filled narration, it encourages creativity and festive excitement.
Olive, the Other Reindeer by Vivian Walsh
Olive the dog mishears a lyric and decides she must actually be a reindeer — so she heads to the North Pole to help Santa. It’s a whimsical, pun-filled tale celebrating enthusiasm, courage, and believing in yourself.
Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson
Bear’s friends work hard to keep him awake so he doesn’t miss Christmas, leading to a heartfelt celebration of giving. Cozy, lyrical, and beautifully illustrated, this story highlights friendship and holiday joy.
Construction Site: Merry and Bright by Sherri Duskey Rinker
Beloved construction characters return with a festive lift-the-flap adventure as they help prepare for Christmas. With familiar rhymes and exciting surprises, it’s perfect for young truck and vehicle lovers.
Emerging Readers (5–8 Years)
The Legend of the Christmas Cookie by Dandi Daley Mackall
A mother shares the history behind Christmas cookies, revealing themes of kindness, faith, and generosity. This meaningful picture book connects baking traditions to deeper values and encourages children to give thoughtfully.
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
A boy boards a magical train to the North Pole, experiencing wonder, doubt, and the power of belief. With lush illustrations and a timeless message, it remains one of the most treasured holiday classics.
The Night Before Christmas
This traditional poem captures the anticipation and wonder of Christmas Eve as St. Nicholas visits. Available in countless illustrated editions, it’s a keepsake piece that makes for a perfect yearly read-aloud.
Snowmen at Christmas by Caralyn Buehner
This imaginative tale reveals what snowmen do to celebrate Christmas when people aren’t watching. With detailed, humorous illustrations, it adds a touch of magic and mystery to the winter season.
Middle Grade (8–12 Years)
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser
Set in New York City during the holidays, this story follows five siblings determined to save their home and win over their reclusive landlord. Full of warmth, community, and charm, it’s a cozy and heartfelt seasonal read.
A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig
This magical origin story of Santa Claus blends humor, snow-filled adventure, and emotional depth. With themes of hope and bravery, it's perfect for imaginative readers who love whimsical holiday worlds.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
When the troublemaking Herdman kids join the Christmas play, chaos — and unexpected compassion — follow. This hilarious yet touching classic shows how unlikely people can bring fresh meaning to tradition.
The Christmas Pig by J.K. Rowling
When a boy loses his beloved stuffed pig, he embarks on a fantastical journey on Christmas Eve to rescue it. This emotional adventure explores love, grief, and loyalty in a magical, richly imagined world.
Teens (13+ Years)
Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan
Set in New York City during the holiday season, this witty romance follows two teens exchanging challenges and secrets through a notebook. It’s festive, clever, and adventurous — perfect for readers who love contemporary stories with heart.
Let It Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle
This anthology features three interconnected holiday romances set during a winter storm in a small town. With humor, warmth, and teenage charm, it's an uplifting seasonal pick for YA readers.
What Light by Jay Asher
Sierra’s family runs a Christmas tree farm, meaning she spends each holiday season in California — where she meets a boy with a complicated past. This is a tender, emotional romance about forgiveness, starting over, and holding onto hope.
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