Ten Classic Children’s Tales of Christmas Magic
Alison Michalak ’20 / Emertainment Monthly Staff Writer
For most people, Christmas time comes with a major case of nostalgia for the days when Christmas brought excitement for Santa and presents, as opposed to stress over finals and work. So to help feed the feels this holiday season, here is a list—in no particular order—of some Christmas children’s books that may or may not be familiar.
The Polar Express by Chris van Allsburg
What better way to get into the spirit of Christmas than to crack open The Polar Express? Sure, popping in the movie for an hour and forty minutes of original music and adventure is always an option. But reading the original story, and seeing the beautiful illustrations, gives the reader a more wholesome experience.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens sure does know how to get the true meaning of Christmas across to his audience. This story is recommended to anyone who needs to be reminded of the benefits of good morals, and the idea of karma, right before they open presents.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
The Grinch has become a grouchy Christmas icon. His bad-turned-good trope is up there in infamy with Ebenezer Scrooge. If reliving childhood memories is the goal, then reading this Dr. Seuss classic is a definite must.
The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore
The Night Before Christmas is a Christmastime classic! Clement C. Moore wrote A Visit from St. Nick—more commonly known as The Night Before Christmas—in 1823. Since then, this poem has been made into countless books, accompanied by illustrations from a plethora of talented artist. The pop-up book version is always recommended.
The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski
This lesser-known children’s Christmas book is about a lonely woodcarver who lost his wife and children. But his life changes when a little boy who lost his father comes to him for help in making a wooden nativity scene. The story is truly heart-warming, and is great for learning about the kindness and generosity Christmas is all about.
A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles M. Schulz
Charlie Brown is always there for a good laugh, especially during the holidays. What’s Christmas without joining Charlie Brown as he discovers the reason for the season, and picks out the saddest Christmas tree in the lot.
Corduroy’s Christmas by B.G. Hennessy and Don Freeman
Sometimes it seems as if people forget about Corduroy. But Corduroy books never fail to be sugary-sweet, and to fill you with happiness. This adorable Christmas book is the story of how Corduroy came to belong to Lisa, his owner.
Franklin’s Christmas Gift by Paulette Bourgeois
In this story, Franklin the turtle learns through a toy drive that it’s not always easy finding the perfect Christmas gift.
Olive the Other Reindeer by J. otto Seibold
Also a beloved Christmas movie, Olive the Other Reindeer follows Olive the dog, who believes she is one of Santa’s reindeer. She then goes on adventure to the North Pole, where she tries her best to fulfill the duties of said magical deer.
The Nutcracker
Another classic Christmas story—but told in the form of a picture book. There are many versions, all with different illustrators, but beautiful images that remind one of the wonder of Christmas are guaranteed.
Olivia Helps with Christmas by Ian Falconer
This book is an adorable tale of a cute little pig who is more than excited for Christmas and presents. It follows Olivia as she helps her family get ready for Christmas, all the while impatiently awaiting what’s under the tree.