Looking for a new or classic Christmas book to read—or to give—this season? Here’s a list of engaging Christmas stories for kids that adults will also enjoy. Some are playful and fun, while others reflect deeply on the meaning of Christmas.
Fun & Whimsical Christmas Stories
Christmas Wombat — Jackie French
A comical tale of a wombat who hitches a ride on Santa’s sleigh.
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Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree — Robert Barry
Mr. Willowby’s too-tall tree spreads cheer as each forest creature gets a piece of it.
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Bear Stays Up for Christmas — Karma Wilson
A playful holiday story with enchanting illustrations and bouncy rhyme.
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Olive, the Other Reindeer — Vivian Walsh
Olive the dog thinks she’s a reindeer—and Santa discovers her unique skills are just what he needs.
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Little Porcupine’s Christmas — Joseph Slate
Feeling left out of the Christmas play, Little Porcupine gets an unexpected moment to shine.
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Christmas in Noisy Village — Astrid Lindgren
A nostalgic slice of Swedish Christmas from the creator of Pippi Longstocking.
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How the Grinch Stole Christmas! — Dr. Seuss
The beloved classic about hearts growing three sizes.
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Heartwarming & Thoughtful Christmas Stories
God Gave Us Christmas — Lisa Tawn Bergren
Mama Cub answers Little Cub’s big questions about the true meaning of Christmas.
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The Christmas Wish — Lori Evert
A beautifully photographed, Nordic-tinged quest to find Santa’s elves.
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Humphrey’s First Christmas — Carol Heyer
The Nativity seen through the eyes (and humor) of a camel.
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The Legend of the Candy Cane — Lori Walburg
A shopkeeper shares the story—and symbolism—behind the candy cane.
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The Legend of St. Nicholas: A Story of Christmas Giving — Dandi Daley Mackall
A kid-friendly look at the history of St. Nicholas and generous giving.
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The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale — Angela Elwell Hunt
A powerful folktale connecting three trees to Christ’s life.
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The Crippled Lamb — Max Lucado
A tender story about purpose, belonging, and God’s plan.
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The Drummer Boy: A Christmas Tale — Ted Dekker
A modern fable about offering our best to Jesus—even when Christmas is “banned.”
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Room for a Little One: A Christmas Tale — Martin Waddell
“Come in, there’s always room for a little one.” A gentle stable-side welcome.
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The Small One — Alex Walsh
A boy seeks the perfect buyer for his beloved donkey, Small One.
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Mortimer’s Christmas Manger — Karma Wilson
A little mouse learns to make room for Jesus.
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The Littlest Angel — Charles Tazewell
A mischievous angel discovers the joy of giving.
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The Polar Bear Who Saved Christmas — Fiona Boon & Clare Fennell
Pip the polar bear helps save Christmas in this sweet, sparkly tale.
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The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey — Susan Wojciechowski
A sorrowing woodcarver finds hope and healing at Christmas.
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Beloved Christmas Classics
The Polar Express — Chris Van Allsburg
A magical train ride to the North Pole and the wonder of belief.
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Who Is Coming to Our House? — Joseph Slate
Barn animals prepare a cozy welcome for the Holy Family.
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The Gift of the Magi — O. Henry
A timeless short story of sacrificial love; this edition features art by Lisbeth Zwerger.
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The Best Christmas Pageant Ever — Barbara Robinson
The rowdy Herdmans—and the most unforgettable pageant ever.
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