12 must-have kids Christmas books

Looking for the best Christmas books for your kids? We've made it easier for you with our list of 12 must-have kids Christmas books.

The night before Christmas by Clement Clark Moore.

"T’was the night before Christmas, when all thro' the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;" My daughter owns this book and LOVES it! Needless to say it’s on top of my list. This is based on the poem ‘twas the night before Christmas’ by the same author. It was first published in 1823 anonymously and then attributed to Clement Clark Moor. This is such an enchanting and addictive story it will sure keep the little ones wanting to hear it over and over again.

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

This is the perfect book to read to your kids while cuddling up with a cup of hot chocolate! This is one of the best children’s books of all time, and is a Christmas must-have for little readers. The story follows a young boy through a magical adventure on a train – the polar express. He also gets to meet Santa; and Santa has a special surprise in store for him.

Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree by Robert E. Barry

This wonderful story is about a Christmas tree that is too large for Mr. Willowby’s mansion. Within Mr. Willowby’s house lives a family of mice and father mouse is looking for a tree for his own family. Follow the story of what happens when Mr. Willowby cuts off the top of the tree and wants to throw it out.

God gave us Christmas by Lisa Tawn Bergren

You can use this book to answer all the important questions your little ones will have about Christmas. The story follows a polar bear cub and her family getting ready to celebrate Christmas. But curious little polar bear has an important question – who invented Christmas? You can use this book to teach your kids the broader meaning of Christmas

How the Grinch stole Christmas by Dr Seuss

The Grinch is one of the most beloved Christmas villains. If you are concerned about the commercialisation of Christmas and you want to communicate this message to your kids, then this is the book for you. Written in true Dr Seuss style with rhymed verses and whimsical illustrations this book follows the scroogy, grumpy Grinch out to crush the spirit of Christmas.

Dream Snow by Eric Carle

If your kid loves Eric Carle’s books ‘the very hungry caterpillar’ or ‘the very busy spider’ they are sure to love this tale as well. With illustrations by Carle in his trademark style, this book tells the story of an old farmer who worries why snow hasn’t come on the 24th of December.

The nutcracker by E.T.A Hoffman

If your little one loves collecting books, this is a book worth collecting. In this all-times favourite a nutcracker comes to life and finds true love in Marie, the girl who tended to his wounds after a battle with the evil mouse king.

Sofia the first: Holiday in Enchancia by Cathy Hapka

This book will be a hit this Christmas! If you have a daughter, I have no doubt she’s into Sofia the First that is currently showing on Disney junior. The story follows Sofia as she leads her family on a brave expedition to find her father, King Roland after a snowstorm stops him from returning home for the holidays. You little girl will absolutely love this book – I know mine will!

Bear Stays Up For Christmas by Karma Wilson

Help an adorable cast of animals help their friend, Bear, stay awake for Christmas! Your child will accompany Bear and his friends through Christmas Eve partaking in various Christmas activities in a bid to keeping Bear awake!

The Snowman by Raymond Briggs

It is a delightful tale involving a young boy and his snowman that, much to his surprise, comes to life at the stroke of midnight on Christmas. The two then spend the exploring and playing in the lights before flying off into the night. A slightly sad ending, the snowman melts in the end – the book teaches children to appreciate and enjoy the magic of a moment.

The Berenstain Bears and The Joy of Giving by Jan and Mike Berenstain

Follow your favourite bears through this Christmas-themed story and how they discover the happiness that comes from sharing and giving. Have your children recognise important values together with the bear cubs this Christmas season.

Elf on the Shelf by Carol V. Aebersold

What better way to get your child excited for Christmas than with an Elf on the Shelf. Elves report back to Santa on who has been naughty or nice – they’re Santa’s little helpers! So tell Junior that he better be on his best behaviour when the Elf comes to visit this year!