The Must-Read Christmas Books for a Cozy Holiday Season (For Kids & Adults)
One of the most famous and beloved Christmas books is A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. This timeless story follows the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly and cold-hearted businessman, who is visited by four ghosts on Christmas Eve. They show him the past, present, and future consequences of his actions, and teach him the true meaning of Christmas. A Christmas Carol is a powerful and moving book that captures the essence of the holiday season.
If you are looking for a more modern and humorous Christmas book, you might enjoy Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh! by Mo Willems. This is a hilarious and interactive book for kids, where the reader has to stop the pigeon from driving Santa’s sleigh. The pigeon is very persistent and tries to persuade the reader with various arguments and tricks, but the reader has to say no. This book is a great way to have fun with your children and make them laugh.
Another Christmas book that I recommend is The Usual Santas by various authors. This is a collection of short stories that feature crime and mystery with a Christmas twist. You will find stories by some of the best writers in the genre, such as Helene Tursten, Martin Limón, and Peter Lovesey. The stories range from dark and suspenseful to light and humorous, but they all have one thing in common: Santa Claus. Whether he is a suspect, a victim, a witness, or a sleuth, Santa is always involved in some way.
The Top 20 Christmas Books of All Time
1. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
This iconic tale follows miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve, showing him his past, present, and grim future, leading to a profound change of heart and redemption. Reading it always fills me with hope and reminds me how generosity can transform lives—it brings tears to my eyes every time. Generations of readers consider it the ultimate Christmas story, with its powerful message of kindness and second chances making it a beloved classic worldwide.
2. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
The grumpy Grinch, hating the noisy Whos down in Who-ville, disguises himself as Santa and steals all their Christmas gifts and decorations, only to discover that Christmas means much more than things when the Whos still celebrate joyfully—causing his heart to grow three sizes. I love giggling at his schemes while feeling the warm glow of its lesson; it's pure fun that melts my heart. This rhyming masterpiece is adored by kids and adults alike as a hilarious yet touching reminder that Christmas comes from the heart, not presents.
3. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
On Christmas Eve, a doubting boy boards a mysterious train headed to the North Pole, where he meets Santa, receives the first gift of Christmas—a silver bell—and learns the magic of belief. The stunning illustrations and dreamy adventure always make me feel like a wide-eyed child again, hearing that bell ring in my imagination. It's a cherished modern classic, beloved by families for its enchanting message that the bell still rings for all who truly believe.
4. A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote
In this autobiographical story, young Buddy and his elderly cousin Sook share simple holiday joys in rural Alabama, like baking fruitcakes, gathering pecans, and flying homemade kites, amid poverty but rich in love and tradition. Capote's tender words always leave me nostalgic and a bit teary, evoking the bittersweet beauty of childhood bonds. Readers treasure it as a poignant, evocative portrait of innocent friendship and the quiet magic of Christmas past.
5. Skipping Christmas by John Grisham
Luther and Nora Krank, tired of holiday hassle, decide to skip Christmas and take a cruise, but chaos ensues with neighbor outrage and unexpected events forcing them back into the spirit. It had me laughing out loud at the relatable absurdity while appreciating the nudge toward tradition—such a witty escape. Fans love its satirical take on commercial frenzy, making it a fun, lighthearted holiday read that became a popular movie.
6. The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry
Young couple Della and Jim, poor but deeply in love, each sell their most treasured possession to buy a Christmas gift for the other, resulting in a beautifully ironic twist of selfless sacrifice. This short gem always makes me smile through happy tears—it's the perfect reminder that love is the greatest gift. It's an enduring classic, cherished globally for its clever ending and heartfelt lesson on true giving.
7. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
The wild Herdman kids, known as the worst in town, hijack the church Christmas pageant, bringing unexpected chaos and a fresh, genuine perspective to the Nativity story. Their antics cracked me up, but the deeper innocence touched my soul—hilarious and profoundly moving. This uplifting tale is a favorite across generations for its humor and sweet revelation of Christmas's real meaning.
8. The Christmas Box by Richard Paul Evans
A family living with elderly widow Mary discovers letters in an old Christmas box revealing her tragic past and lessons on love, loss, and what truly matters during the holidays. It tugged at my heartstrings hard, making me cherish my family more and reflect on priorities. Millions call it a modern tearjerker classic, inspiring with its emotional message of healing and family bonds.
9. The Father Christmas Letters by J.R.R. Tolkien
Over two decades, Tolkien wrote whimsical letters from Father Christmas to his children, filled with adventures involving the clumsy North Polar Bear, elves, goblins, and festive mishaps at the North Pole. The charming illustrations and playful tales always delight me like discovering hidden magic—such heartfelt creativity from a literary giant. Fans adore this sweet collection for its imaginative joy and glimpse into Tolkien's tender fatherly side.
10. The Snowman by Raymond Briggs
In this wordless picture book, a boy builds a snowman that magically comes to life one night; they explore the house together before flying on a wondrous adventure over snowy landscapes. The gentle, dreamy illustrations fill me with quiet wonder and a touch of melancholy—pure childhood magic. It's a beloved holiday staple, enchanting readers with its atmospheric beauty and timeless sense of fleeting joy.
11. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
The four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—navigate poverty, family bonds, and growth during the Civil War, starting with a poignant Christmas where they sacrifice for others despite their hardships. The opening holiday chapters always warm my heart with their spirit of love and resilience. This enduring novel is treasured as a comforting classic, often reread at Christmas for its themes of family and generosity.
12. The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann
Young Marie receives a nutcracker doll for Christmas; it comes to life, battles the seven-headed Mouse King, and takes her to a magical kingdom in this dark fairy tale of wonder and bravery. The whimsical yet eerie fantasy captivated me with its imagination and depth. It's the original behind the beloved ballet, admired for its enchanting, layered storytelling that sparks holiday magic.
13. Hercule Poirot's Christmas by Agatha Christie
On Christmas Eve, tyrannical Simeon Lee summons his estranged family, only to be murdered in a locked room; detective Hercule Poirot untangles secrets and grudges amid festive tension. The clever twists and snowy suspense thrilled me while adding a chilling holiday edge. Mystery lovers praise it as a cozy-yet-dark tradition, perfect for suspense with seasonal spirit.
14. The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore
This classic poem describes a father's magical encounter with St. Nicholas, who arrives with reindeer to fill stockings, shaping our modern image of Santa Claus. Reciting it always sparks joyful nostalgia and excitement in me. It's an iconic holiday treasure, beloved worldwide for defining Christmas traditions and delighting generations.
15. The Christmas Wedding by James Patterson and Richard DiLallo
Widow Gaby announces she's remarrying at Christmas but keeps the groom secret among three suitors, reuniting her grown children amid family drama and surprises. The mystery and warmth kept me guessing happily—heartfelt and fun. Readers enjoy its light romance and family focus, calling it a cozy, uplifting holiday escape.
16. The Christmas Train by David Baldacci
Journalist Tom Langdon rides a cross-country train for Christmas, encountering quirky passengers, rekindling romance, and finding unexpected holiday magic. The journey felt cozy and hopeful to me, full of surprises. Fans love its blend of adventure, romance, and redemption—ideal for seasonal second chances.
17. The Christmas Hope by Donna VanLiere
Social worker Patricia, grieving personal loss, fosters a young girl whose story intertwines with hope, healing, and renewed faith during the holidays. It touched me deeply with its themes of light in darkness. Part of a heartfelt series, it's praised for inspiring joy and compassion amid sorrow.
18. The Christmas Shoes by Donna VanLiere
A busy lawyer encounters a boy desperately buying shoes for his dying mother to "look beautiful if she meets Jesus tonight," prompting reflection on life's priorities. This tearjerker moved me profoundly, inspired by the song—pure emotional holiday magic. It's a modern classic, beloved for its touching reminder of simple, divine moments.
19. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Four siblings enter Narnia, where it's always winter but never Christmas under the White Witch; Father Christmas appears as hope returns, leading to epic battles and redemption. The allegory and wonder always inspire me with faith and bravery. Often enjoyed at holidays for its magical winter themes, it's a timeless favorite symbolizing good triumphing over evil.
20. The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen
Little Gerda embarks on a brave journey to rescue friend Kay, kidnapped by the icy Snow Queen whose splintered mirror distorts his heart, facing trials of love and perseverance. The fairy tale's beauty and resilience warmed my spirit despite the chill. This classic is cherished for its enchanting adventure and themes of innocent love conquering coldness, often tied to winter holidays.
These Christmas books can be both for kids and for adults and can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
See also: 20 Most Loved Christmas Movies to Watch This Holiday Season
The Best Christmas Books for Kids
Are are looking for Christmas books just for kids? Here is a list of some of the best Christmas books just for kids, based on the results of my search:
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
- The Snowman by Raymond Briggs
- The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
- Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh! by Mo Willems
- The Christmas Chronicles by Tim Slover
- The Christmas Shoes by Donna VanLiere
- The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
- The Christmas Box by Richard Paul Evans
- The Twelve Days of Christmas by Jan Brett
- Skipping Christmas by John Grisham
Related post: 15 Best Young Adult Books That Will Stay with You Long After You Finish Reading Them
The Best Christmas Books for Adults
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There are many Christmas books that are only for adults. Based on the results of my search, here are some of the books that are frequently mentioned and recommended as the best Christmas books for adults:
1. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
This timeless classic follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a grumpy old miser visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve who show him his past, present, and future, leading to his heartfelt transformation. I love how it reminds me of the joy in generosity and second chances—it never fails to warm my heart and make me tear up a bit. It's a beloved favorite for generations, with countless adaptations proving its enduring message of redemption and holiday spirit.
2. The Christmas Mystery by Jostein Gaarder
A young boy named Joachim finds a magical advent calendar that tells the story of a girl traveling backward through time to the first Christmas, blending mystery with history and philosophy. Reading it felt like unwrapping a daily surprise full of wonder and deep thoughts—it left me feeling enchanted and reflective. Many readers, especially families, adore its clever, heartwarming mix of adventure and spirituality, making it a modern holiday gem.
3. The Christmas Box by Richard Paul Evans
A young family moves in with an elderly widow, Mary, where the husband discovers letters in a Christmas box revealing her poignant past and the true meaning of the season through loss and love. This one hit me hard emotionally; it made me hug my loved ones tighter and appreciate family more. It's a tearjerker that's touched millions, often called a modern classic for its inspiring message about priorities and healing.
4. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
The rowdy Herdman kids—the "worst kids in town"—take over the church Christmas pageant, turning chaos into a fresh, heartfelt take on the Nativity story. I laughed out loud at their antics but felt deeply moved by the innocence they bring—it's hilarious yet profound. This funny, uplifting tale is a perennial favorite, beloved by readers of all ages for its humor and sweet reminder of Christmas's real meaning.
5. Hercule Poirot's Christmas by Agatha Christie
On Christmas Eve, tyrannical millionaire Simeon Lee gathers his dysfunctional family at his estate, only to be brutally murdered in a locked room—prompting the brilliant detective Hercule Poirot to unravel secrets, grudges, and surprises amid the festive cheer. I loved the clever twists and snowy tension; it kept me guessing while adding a dark, thrilling edge to the holidays. Readers adore this golden-age mystery as a clever, cozy-yet-chilling tradition, perfect for fans who want suspense with their seasonal spirit.
6. Skipping Christmas by John Grisham
Luther and Nora Krank decide to skip the holiday frenzy and take a cruise instead, but neighborhood pressure and unexpected events turn their plan upside down in comical ways. It had me chuckling at the absurdity of holiday stress while nodding in recognition—such a fun, relatable escape. Fans love its lighthearted satire on commercial Christmas, and it became a hit movie for its witty take on tradition.
7. The Christmas Train by David Baldacci
Disillusioned journalist Tom Langdon takes a cross-country train ride to LA for Christmas, meeting quirky passengers, rekindling an old romance, and discovering holiday magic along the way. I enjoyed the adventure and warmth—it felt like a cozy journey full of surprises and hope. Readers often praise its heartwarming mix of romance, mystery, and redemption, perfect for believing in second chances during the season.
8. The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry
A poor young couple, Della and Jim, each sacrifice their most prized possession to buy a special Christmas gift for the other, only to find ironic, touching results. This short story always makes me smile through tears—it's a beautiful reminder of selfless love. It's an iconic classic, cherished worldwide for its clever twist and profound lesson on the wisest gifts coming from the heart.
9. A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote
Based on his childhood, a young boy and his elderly cousin share simple, joyful rituals like baking fruitcakes and flying kites in rural Alabama during the holidays. It filled me with nostalgic warmth and a bittersweet ache—Capote's writing is so tender and vivid. This autobiographical gem is widely adored as a poignant, evocative portrait of friendship and innocent holiday magic.
10. Christmas at Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons
This collection of short stories includes a return to the quirky Starkadder family from Cold Comfort Farm, with festive tales full of wit, romance, and eccentric characters. I delighted in the sharp humor and cozy quirks—it felt like catching up with old, hilarious friends. Fans of Gibbons treasure its clever, entertaining style, offering lighthearted holiday escapism with her signature satirical charm.
