1. Pick a Pine Tree
by Patricia Toht and illustrated by Jarvis
Part of the magic of the Christmas season stems from the traditions that families and friends take part in every year: hanging up stockings; putting lights in the windows; and, one of the most important of all, picking out and taking home the Christmas tree.
2. How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?
by Mac Barnett and illustrated by Jon Klassen
When Santa arrives at a child’s house on Christmas Eve, does he go down the chimney feetfirst or headfirst? What if he gets stuck? What if there’s no chimney? Maybe he slides under the door, as thin as a piece of paper? Or is it possible he pours himself through the faucet? What happens once he’s inside? Whether it’s shape-shifting or impromptu laundry use, Mac Barnett’s iconic talent for earnest deadpan humor and Jon Klassen’s irresistibly funny art honor the timeless question with answers both ridiculous and plausible, mounting in hilarity as the night continues.
3. Twas the Night Before Christmas
by Clement Clarke Moore and illustrated by Mr. Boddington’s Studio
A perennial bestseller and timeless gift in the holiday season, multiple adaptations exist of this classic holiday tale, almost exclusively illustrated in bold classic colors. Mr. Boddington’s Studio provides a fresh take by using the same poem and updating the style with a sophisticated and modern color palette.
4. Silent Night
by Lara Hawethorne
Celebrate the magic of Christmas with this beautifully illustrated book, based on the world’s best-loved carol. Rediscover the Nativity Story in all its glory—from quaking shepherds to heaven-sent angels—as the song lyrics are brought to life on every spread. The world’s diversity is reflected in a cast of characters with a range of skin tones. A gorgeous book for all the family to share during the festive season.
5. Countdown to Christmas
by Greg Paprocki
Christmas is coming! Toddlers learn to count down from 10 by finding objects hidden throughout these charming scenes of holiday fun rendered in illustrator Greg Paprocki’s classically retro midcentury art style. From decorating cookies and caroling to hanging ornaments and reading favorite stories, there’s Christmas fun on every page. The final spread is packed with surprises! Discover new details in each illustration with every successive reading.
