Our Favorite Christmas Books & Why We Think They’re Special
These books offer a mix of classic charm, humor, gentle lessons, and interactive elements—perfect for preschoolers to enjoy the magic of Christmas!
1. "Dream Snow" by Eric Carle
Why It’s Special: Eric Carle’s signature collage-style illustrations bring this gentle story to life. With clear, simple text and interactive transparent overlays showing the snow falling, it’s a magical experience for little ones.
2."Olive, the Other Reindeer" by Vivian Walsh & J. Otto Seibold
Why It’s Special: A hilarious twist on the classic Rudolph story, where a dog named Olive mishears a song and believes she’s a reindeer. The quirky illustrations and humor make it stand out.
3. "Bear Stays Up for Christmas" by Karma Wilson & Jane Chapman
Why It’s Special: This heartwarming rhyming book follows a bear who usually hibernates but stays up to experience the joy of giving. A beautiful message about friendship and selflessness.
4. "Construction Site on Christmas Night" by Sherri Duskey Rinker
Why It’s Special: A fun twist for truck-loving kids, this story follows hardworking construction vehicles preparing for Christmas. The rhyming text and surprise gifts make it extra engaging.
5. "The Christmas Quiet Book" by Deborah Underwood & Renata Liwska
Why It’s Special: Unlike loud, action-packed Christmas stories, this one celebrates quiet moments—snowfall, twinkling lights, and cozy cuddles. The soft, gentle illustrations create a soothing holiday mood.
6. "Snowmen at Christmas" by Caralyn Buehner & Mark Buehner
Why It’s Special: A whimsical tale that imagines what snowmen do at night to celebrate Christmas. The hidden pictures in the illustrations make it extra fun for little readers.
7. "The Jolly Christmas Postman" by Janet & Allan Ahlberg
Why It’s Special: A delightful interactive book where kids can open real envelopes with letters and surprises inside! The mix of storytelling and hands-on fun makes it a unique Christmas experience.
8. "Santa’s Underwear" by Marty Rhodes Figley & Marty Kelley
Why It’s Special: A silly and unexpected Christmas story where Santa loses his special holiday underwear! Preschoolers will love the humor, making it a fun and lighthearted read.
9. "Little Blue Truck’s Christmas" by Alice Schertle & Jill McElmurry
Why It’s Special: A Christmas spin on the beloved Little Blue Truck series, this book combines rhyming text, kindness, and a counting element as Blue delivers Christmas trees. The twinkling light surprise at the end makes it extra magical.
10. “Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree” by Robert Barry
Why It’s Special: This book has been around for a while…originally published in 1963. In this story a millionaire turns out to be a good bit more generous than most, providing Christmas cheer to all those around him. It’s a progressive story that children understand and often try to guess who will get the “tree” next.
