30 Beloved Christmas Picture Books Perfect for Little Ones
I absolutely love discovering Christmas picture books that feel like true treasures. Over the years, I’ve gathered a collection of Christmas favorites that my family adores.
These books are the perfect length to captivate my 5-year-old’s attention while also delighting her younger sister during our cozy read-aloud moments.
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Here are my 30 all-time favorite Christmas picture books:
Dasher by Matt Tavares. A sweet story about a brave young reindeer named Dasher who dreams of a life beyond her family’s traveling circus. One night, she is finally able to escape and follows the North Star to Santa Claus. Her courage and kindness help her find a home and become one of Santa’s beloved reindeer.
The Birds of Bethlehem by Tomie dePaola. Tells the story of the nativity from the perspective of a group of birds who witness the events in Bethlehem. They narrate the miraculous birth of Jesus with simplicity and reverence, capturing the wonder of the first Christmas.
Room for a Little One by Martin Waddell, illustrated by Jason Cockcroft. A gentle Christmas tale about kindness and inclusion, as various animals find shelter in a stable on a cold night. They make room for Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus, showing that there’s always space for love and generosity.
This Is the Stable by Cynthia Cotten, illustrated by Delana Bettoli. A lyrical retelling of the nativity story, focusing on the humble stable where Jesus was born. It beautifully captures the peaceful and sacred atmosphere of the first Christmas night.
The Little Drummer Boy by Ezra Jack Keats. Retells the classical Christmas song about a poor boy who offers the gift of his music to baby Jesus. In a simple and beautiful way, it conveys the message that the most meaningful gifts come from the heart.
Jingle Bells by Susan Jeffers. A festive retelling of the classic Christmas song, following two young children and their sleigh ride adventure with Santa Claus. It is filled with joyful illustrations and captures the excitement of the Christmas season.
Christmas Trolls by Jan Brett. A heartwarming tale about Treva, a young girl who discovers that two mischievous trolls have been stealing her family’s Christmas decorations. As she helps them understand the true spirit of Christmas, she learns about kindness and the joy of the Christmas season.
Christmas Farm by Mary Lyn Ray, illustrated by Barry Root. Tells the story of Wilma and her neighbor Parker as they plant and care for Christmas trees over several years. This story highlights themes of patience, growth, and the joy of sharing the Christmas spirit with others.
Christmas in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder, illustrated by Renee Graef. All of the books in the series, “My First Little House Books” are perfect for young children! Christmas in the Big Woods is a simplified retelling of a Christmas celebration from the Little House series. It captures the joy of the Ingalls family’s Christmas traditions in their cozy log cabin in the Wisconsin woods.
God Gave Us Christmas by Lisa Tawn Bergren, illustrated by David Hohn. In this sweet story, we follow Little Cub and her mother as they explore the true meaning of Christmas. Through their journey, Little Cub learns that Christmas is a celebration of God’s greatest gift, His love through Jesus,.
The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski, illustrated by P.J. Lynch. This might be my favorite Christmas story I have read with my children. It is a touching story about a grieving woodcarver whose life is transformed by a widow and her son. They ask him to carve a nativity set, and through their friendship, Jonathan rediscovers hope and joy.
The Legend of the Candy Cane by Lori Walburg, illustrated by Richard Cowdrey. The story of a mysterious stranger who opens a candy store in a small down. He shares the Christian symbolism behind the candy cane. Through this tale, the candy cane becomes a reminder of Jesus’ love and sacrifice.
The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree by Gloria Houston, illustrated by Barbara Cooney. A heartfelt Appalachian tale about a young girl, Ruthie, and her mother. They fulfill their promise to provide the church’s Christmas tree, while Ruthie’s father is away at war. Through their determination and love, they bring joy to their community and celebrate the true spirit of Christmas.
The Story of Christmas by Patricia A. Pingry, illustrated by Rebecca Thornburgh. This is one of the first Christmas stories I read to my children. It is a simple retelling of the nativity story. Rebecca Thornburgh explains the birth of Jesus in a way young children can understand.
Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree by Robert Berry. If I had to choose my absolute favorite Christmas picture book, this would be it! This is a delightful story about a Christmas tree that’s too tall for Mr. Willowby’s parlor. This leads to its top being trimmed and shared with others. As each piece brings joy to different homes and creatures, the book celebrates the spirit of giving and spreading cheer.
Seek and Find: The First Christmas by Sarah Parker, illustrated by Andre Parker. This is a fun, interactive book that invites children to explore beautifully illustrated scenes of the nativity story. Through fun seek-and-find activities, it helps children engage with the story of Jesus’ birth.
Humphrey’s First Christmas by Carol Heyer. A humorous and touching story about Humphrey, a grumpy camel, who begrudgingly follows the wise men to Bethlehem. Along the way, he learns the joy of giving when he offers his blanket to baby Jesus.
The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry, illustrated by P.J. Lynch. A tale of a young couple who sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy each other meaningful Christmas gifts. Their selfless acts reveal the depth of their love and the true spirit of giving.
A Wish to be a Christmas Tree by Colleen Monroe, illustrated by Michael Glenn Monroe. A heartfelt story about an old pine tree who dreams of becoming a Christmas tree but is always overlooked. As woodland animals decorate him, he realizes his importance and the love he brings to his forest friends.
Red and Lulu by Matt Tavares. A story about two cardinals separated when their tree is cut down and taken to New York City for Christmas. Through Red’s determination and a miraculous reunion, this story highlights themes of love, perseverance, and the magic of Christmas.
Pick A Pine Tree by Patricia Toht. A festive celebration of the Christmas tradition of choosing, decorating, and enjoying a Christmas tree. This story captures the joy and magic of transforming a simple pine tree into a centerpiece of Christmas cheer.
Home for Christmas by Jan Brett. The story of a mischievous young troll who runs away from home to avoid chores. However, he soon realizes how much he misses his family. As he encounters woodland animals, he learns the value of love and responsibility, returning home just in time for Christmas.
The Christmas Boot by Lisa Wheeler, illustrated by Jerry Pinkney. A heartwarming tale about an old woman who finds a magical boot that brings her unexpected comfort and joy. When Santa comes to retrieve it, her selflessness is rewarded with a Christmas wish that changes her life.
Jan Brett’s The Nutcracker by Jan Brett. A beautiful retelling of Clara and her Nutcracker who takes her on an enchanting journey to the Land of Sweets. Jan Brett’s rich, detailed artwork adds a fresh and whimsical touch to this timeless Christmas tale.
Who’s That Knocking on Christmas Eve by Jan Brett. A tale about a boy and his pet polar bear who help protect a family’s Christmas feast from mischievous trolls. With Jan Brett’s signature detailed illustrations, the story captures the magic and adventure of a unique holiday tradition.
Listen to the Silent Night by Dandi Daley Mackall, illustrated by Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher. A poetic retelling of the nativity story, emphasizing the peaceful stillness and wonder of the night Jesus was born. The lyrical text invites readers to reflect on the beauty and quiet joy of the first Christmas.
Gingerbread Christmas by Jan Brett. This story follows Gingerbread Baby as he forms a gingerbread band to perform at the Christmas Festival. The story unfolds with festive fun and clever surprises as the band becomes the highlight of the Christmas celebration.
Mortimer’s Christmas Manger by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Jane Chapman. A sweet story about a mouse named Mortimer who discovers a nativity scene and decides to make it his home. As he learns about the true meaning of Christmas, he finds a special place in his heart for baby Jesus.
The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving by Jan & Mike Berenstain. In this Christmas story, Brother and Sister Bear learn that giving is more rewarding than receiving. Through their experience with the church play and Christmas giving, they discover the joy of generosity and selflessness.
Little Robin’s Christmas by Jan Fearnley. A heartwarming story about a kind little robin who gives away his warm vests to help other animals in need. His generosity is rewarded on Christmas Eve when he receives a special red vest from Santa. This symbolizes the joy of selflessness.
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What are your favorite Christmas stories? I’d love to hear which ones grab the top spots for you and your family!
