Best Christmas Chapter Books
It’s the most magical time of the year, Christmas season, and what better way to bring the whole family together than with a good old-fashioned read-aloud session? Trust me, it’s like sprinkling extra holiday cheer on top of your festivities. I know your family will love and enjoy this selection of Christmas chapter books!
Why is reading aloud such a fantastic idea during the Christmas season? (And every season!) First and foremost, it’s the ultimate bonding experience. Gather around the fireplace, cozy up with some blankets, and let the enchanting words of a chapter book bring you to a new place together. You’re not just reading a story; you’re creating memories that will warm your hearts for years to come. I have fond memories of reading A Tree for Peter and Jotham’s Journey when my children were a bit younger, and we cried while reading A Grandma for Christmas and we laughed at some of the ridiculous parts in I Saw Three Ships last year!
Imagine the joy of sharing a timeless tale with your loved ones, the laughter, the gasps of excitement, and maybe even a few tears. Reading aloud taps into that sense of togetherness, giving everyone a chance to escape into a world of imagination while still being close enough to share the experience. It’s like a literary family hug!
And let’s not forget the magic of the season itself. Whether it’s a classic like A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, whisking you away to Victorian England with Scrooge and the Ghosts of Christmas, or a heartwarming modern favorite like The True Gift, taking you to the farm and a selfless decision, these stories are the perfect way to embrace the spirit of Christmas.
Here are our favorite Christmas Chapter Books
The Birds’ Christmas Carol by Kate Douglas Wiggin is a such a heartwarming story! You are introduced to the extraordinary Bird family, with its radiant center being the charming and differently abled little girl, CarolBird. As the youngest member of the family, Carol’s unyielding optimism and boundless love encapsulates the true spirit of Christmas.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens – The timeless classic that tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a miserly old man to a compassionate soul, all thanks to the visitations of three Christmas spirits.
The True Gift by Patricia MacLachlan – A heartwarming tale of a young girl, her brother, and the special gift of kindness and generosity they receive from a neighbor during the holiday season.
The Light at Tern Rock by Julia L. Sauer – Set in a coastal village, this story follows the adventures of a young boy who helps bring light to a dark and stormy Christmas night.
I Saw Three Ships by Elizabeth Goudge – A beautifully written short novel that weaves together the lives of three generations of women and their experiences of love, hope, and the Christmas season.
The Story of Holly & Ivy by Rumor Godden – An enchanting and beautifully illustrated Christmas story about a doll named Ivy who longs for a family and a little girl named Holly who dreams of a doll.
A Tree for Peter by Kate Seredy – A tale of hope and compassion as a young, poor boy named Peter finds friendship andwarmth in an unexpected place during the holiday season.
The Family Under the Bridge by Natalie Savage Carlson – Follow the adventures of a homeless family and the warm-hearted Parisian who helps them find a home in a most unusual location.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson – A delightful and humorous story about the unruly Herdman siblings and how they shake up a traditional Christmas pageant, bringing unexpected joy and meaning to the season.
A Grandma for Christmas by Alta Halverson Seymour – A heartwarming story about a young Norwegian boy who is kind to his elderly neighbor.
Jotham’s Journey by Arnold Ytreeide (more mature content) – A captivating historical novel that takes readers on an adventurous journey through the Holy Land, set during the time of Jesus.
Tabitha’s Travels by Arnold Ytreeide (more mature content) – Join Tabitha on a thrilling journey through the ancient world, experiencing the events surrounding the birth of Christ.
Bartholomew’s Passage by Arnold Ytreeide (more mature content) – Follow Bartholomew on his quest to find his father in Bethlehem, encountering various characters and events from the biblical narrative.
Ishtar’s Odyssey by Arnold Ytreeide (more mature content) – The final installment in the series, this book continues the epic journey as Ishtar searches for a long-lost friend in Jerusalem during the time of Jesus.
There’s something about the cadence of a well-told story, the excitement of turning the pages together, and the shared anticipation of what happens next. It’s not just about the words on the page; it’s about the shared journey, the characters who become like old friends, and the magical moments that unfold as a family.
So, pick a cozy spot, brew some hot cocoa, and dive into the world of a good book together. Whether it’s a timeless classic or a contemporary gem, the real magic happens when you turn those pages as a family, creating your own little tradition that will make the holiday season even more special. Happy reading and Merry Christmas!
