Between no school and winter weather, the holiday season is a perfect time to introduce favorite stories to your kids or grandkids.
No matter what, or how, you celebrate, there’s a story perfect for your family. It’s the best way to spend time together after a delicious, filling meal. So grab a blanket, maybe even some cookies, and snuggle up with one of these holiday books.
If you’re separated from loved ones for the holidays, you can still be a part of story time. Check out Readeo or A Story Before Bed to make sure everyone is in on the fun.
Balloons Over Broadway
Melissa Sweet
If your family watches the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade every year, this is a perfect book to read on Thanksgiving Eve. Read about Tony Sarg, who created the helium balloons that have become a favorite part of the parade.
The Firefighters’ Thanksgiving
Maribeth Boelts, Terry Widener
Although the firefighters of Station 1 have prepared a huge Thanksgiving feast, their job doesn’t stop on holidays. After a busy day fighting fires, these men and women find a heartwarming surprise at the firehouse. Not only is this a great holiday book, but it’s also a meaningful way to learn about the men and women who serve our communities.
Chanukah Lights Everywhere
Michael J. Rosen, Melissa Iwai
A brother and sister discover what it means to celebrate the Festival of Lights while also noticing other lights that surround them in their town. This book teaches kids about Judaism and living in a world full of different religions and customs.
The Kvetch Who Stole Hanukkah
Bill Berlin, Susan Isakoff Berlin, Peter J. Welling
You know the Grinch, but what about the kvetch? The town of Oyville is ready to celebrate Hanukkah, but a cranky kvetch wants nothing to do with it. And despite stealing everyone’s menorahs, dreidels and latkes, the celebration goes on. Don’t miss this twist on Dr. Seuss’ Christmas classic.
Light the Lights! A Story About Celebrating Hanukkah and Christmas
Margaret Moorman
Does your family celebrate two major holidays at the end of the year? Emma’s family does, too. Celebrate that with this book, or use it to teach your kids about both holidays.
Olive, the Other Reindeer
J.otto Seibold and Vivian Walsh
Even pets want to get in on the holiday fun. Olive is a dog who thinks she’s a reindeer. This spunky pup quickly makes her way to the North Pole, ready to help Santa deliver toys to all the boys and girls on his list.
The Polar Express
Chris Van Allsburg
We all know how hard it can be to fall asleep on Christmas Eve, but that’s especially true when a magical train that will take you to meet Santa stops at your house. Your kids will love the illustrations of this Caldecott Medal winner.
The Night Before Christmas
Clement Clarke Moore, Jan Brett (Illustrator)
Introduce your children to this beloved classic with Jan Brett’s beautifully illustrated interpretation. While the words will be familiar for you, Brett tells her own story of two stowaway North Pole elves throughout the book.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
Barbara Robinson
What happens when the six worst kids in the world go to church for free snacks? They get cast in the Christmas play, of course. The problem is, they have their own interpretation of the Christmas story. This popular book is perfect for kids in middle school and junior high.
Bonus:
The Christmas Butterfly
F. Michael Smith
This nonfiction story by a Park Ridge resident was written with adults in mind, but the illustrations will keep your kids interested, too. Purchase the book at Camp Willow, Across the Street Gift Shop or through the author’s website.
