Some Christmas books are everywhere. They’re lovely, but by December you may feel like you have already read the same handful of stories a hundred times.
This list is for parents who want something a little different. Every pick is still warm, festive and child-friendly, but it is not just the most obvious classics. You will find funny stories, cosy read alouds and a few that are quietly meaningful, depending on what your child responds to most.
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The best Christmas stories for children by age
For ages 0–2
1. Baby Faces: Little Reindeer, Where Are You? by Ekaterina Trukhan
If you are buying for a baby or young toddler, this is the kind of festive book that actually holds attention. It is a lift-the-flap board book with a mirror on every spread, designed for early mirror play.
2. Little Reindeer What Can You See? by Cara Jenkins
This one is built around big, domed googly eyes that little hands can move up, down and around the page, while searching for festive friends and objects. It is simple, fun and interactive.
For ages 2–5
3. How to Grow a Reindeer by Rachel Morrisroe
A bright, funny story with a very kid-friendly idea: Santa needs help because his reindeer are sick. The “what could possibly go wrong?” energy is what makes this so re-readable. A brilliant bedtime book.
4. The Street Where Santa Lives by Harriet Howe and Julia Christians
This one feels modern, cosy and kind. It is about noticing others and showing up, in a way that still feels fun and festive. If you like Christmas stories with a warm community feel, this is for you.
5. Candy Corn Christmas! by Jonathan Fenske
A silly, high-energy story that kids tend to love because it breaks the rules a little. It is bright, funny and moves fast, which makes it ideal if your child prefers humor over sentimental stories.
6. Hap-Pea Holidays by Keith Baker
If you want a gentle Christmas book with lots to look at, this one is a strong choice. It follows the peas through classic holiday moments like decorating, baking and celebrating together.
For ages 5–8
7. Charlie and Lola I Am Wishing Every Minute for Christmas by Lauren Child
If your child is in full countdown mode from the minute December begins, this book will feel very familiar in the best way. It captures that excited, impatient holiday mood perfectly.
8. The 13th Day of Christmas by Adam Rex
This is a clever, funny twist on the familiar “12 Days of Christmas” idea, with the kind of escalating chaos kids find hilarious.
9. Santa Claws by Rosie Greening
A Christmas book for dinosaur kids. The idea is exactly what it sounds like. If your child is obsessed with dinosaurs, this will probably get more laughs than any “traditional” festive story.
10. The Christmas Pine by Julia Donaldson
A beautifully told Christmas story with a calm, wintry feel. It is a lovely choice for quieter bedtime reading when you want something gentle and meaningful without being heavy.
For ages 8–12
11. Diary of a Christmas Elf by Ben Miller
A fun chapter book for kids who want something they can read by themselves. It has humor and a light mystery vibe, which makes it an easy “just one more chapter” read.
12. Strays of Christmas by Natalie McKearin
This one is more tender and thoughtful, while still being very readable. It can be a wonderful pick for older kids who like animal stories or who enjoy Christmas books with emotional depth.
13. Lydia Marmalade and the Christmas Wish by Cariad Lloyd
A festive story that suits older children who still love Christmas books but want something with a bit more plot. It is warm, funny and feels like a proper seasonal adventure.
How to choose the right Christmas story for your child
If you are not sure what to pick, these quick rules help:
- For wiggly toddlers: choose flaps, mirrors and shorter books.
- For preschoolers: pick humor, repetition and simple plots.
- For early school age: look for longer picture books with a clear beginning, middle and end.
- For older kids: go for chapter books with a strong hook (mystery, wishes, animals, adventure).
One last thing
If you’re building a little Christmas reading tradition at home, start early in December and rotate a small stack. Children often love re-reading the same favourites, and that repetition is part of the magic.
