Charmspring's Hanukkah and Christmas Book List
The holidays are on the horizon so we’ve rounded up our favorite reads. We included classic picks and books that will become new favorites for children of all ages!
"The Polar Express" by Chris Van Allsburg is a classic story that remains magical year after year. Allsburg tells the story of a boy who boards a train to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Chosen by Santa to receive the first gift of Christmas, he asks for a silver bell from Santa's sleigh. The bell rings only for those who believe in Santa. Others lose faith over time but the boy's belief lets him hear its beautiful sound forever.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
“Every Who down in Who-ville liked Christmas a lot...but the Grinch, who lived just north of Who-ville, did NOT!” You can’t go wrong with “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!,” a classic story about a Grinch whose hatred of Christmas is transformed when he learns that the holiday spirit comes from love and togetherness, not things.
“Olivia Helps with Christmas” by Ian Falconer is a perfect choice for the toddler in your life. The story follows Olivia, an energetic pig, as she enthusiastically prepares for Christmas by helping her family decorate, wrap presents, and wait for Santa, bringing humor and holiday cheer along the way.
"Hanukkah Bear" by Eric A. Kimmel is a funny and heartwarming tale about Bubba Brayna, who unknowingly shares her Hanukkah feast with a bear, mistaking him for the rabbi. This book is a great choice for older children (6+) who will enjoy the tale and message of spreading holiday joy in unexpected ways.
"Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas" by Pamela Ehrenberg is a delightful story about a multicultural family blending traditions by making dosas for Hanukkah. When an accident occurs, the youngest sibling's quick thinking saves the day, showing the value of teamwork and creativity.
"The Twelve Days of Christmas" by Laurel Long is a beautifully illustrated rendition of a classic Christmas carol, where each verse comes to life through intricate artwork, capturing the magic and wonder of the season's traditions and gifts. The illustrations invite older children (9+) to find the gifts of each day of Christmas on every page.
"The Legend of the Poinsettia" by Tomie dePaola retells a traditional Mexican folktale about how the Poinsettia became a symbol of Christmas. The story follows a young girl, Lucida, who helps her mother weave a blanket for their church’s Christmas celebration. When her mother falls ill, Lucida feels she has nothing worthy to offer. In her sadness, she places a bundle of weeds at the altar, and they miraculously bloom into beautiful, vibrant poinsettias. This tale highlights themes of humility, faith, and the true spirit of giving.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar's 8 Nights of Chanukah
“The Very Hungry Caterpillar's 8 Nights of Chanukah" by Eric Carle is a charming introduction to Hanukkah traditions for your toddler. The Very Hungry Caterpillar celebrates the holiday by lighting the menorah, enjoying festive foods like latkes, and sharing the joy of the eight nights with family and friends, all through colorful illustrations and simple text.
Babies Love Christmas: Lift-a-Flap Board Book
“Babies Love Christmas: Lift-a-Flap Board Book” by Holly Berry-Byrd is a festive first Christmas book for the littlest ones. Through sturdy lift-the-flap pages, babies can explore festive Christmas scenes, discover surprises, and learn about holiday traditions.
