Ah, Christmas! The time of year when the world slows down just a little, the fireplace crackles (or your heating system hums), and the scent of pine and gingerbread fills the air.
And let’s be real: there’s nothing better than curling up under a cozy blanket with a great book. Whether you’re team “hot cocoa” or “eggnog with extra nog,” one thing’s for sure—reading a good book is the ultimate holiday vibe.
But what should you read? What are some best Christmas reads?
Fear not, fellow book lover. I’ve got you covered with a list of seven best books to read at Christmas.
These inspiring reads are perfect for the Christmas season. Some are festive, some are thought-provoking, and all are magical in their own way.
Revealing the Best Books to Read On Christmas 2024
1. “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens
Let’s start with the obvious classic.
You probably know the story of Ebenezer Scrooge even if you’ve never read the book. From Jim Carrey’s animated version to the Muppet Christmas Carol (arguably the best rendition, fight me), Dickens’ tale of redemption and holiday spirit is timeless.
It’s not just one of the best books to read this Christmas 2024 but all Christmases to come!
But have you actually read it? The original text is richer, darker, and far more moving than you might expect.
It’s like discovering the director’s cut of your favorite movie, with extra ghostly goodness.
Plus, Scrooge’s transformation from “Bah, humbug!” to “Merry Christmas!” is the ultimate feel-good story. Who doesn’t love a grumpy old man finding his heart just in time for the holidays?
2. “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott
If Christmas had an official book club, Little Women would be on the list.
The March sisters—Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy—are the ultimate squad. Their story is set during the Civil War, but it feels timeless with its themes of family, love, and self-discovery.
You’ve got laughter, tears, and that heart-wrenching moment with Beth (if you know, you know). And let’s not forget the holiday scenes!
From exchanging simple gifts to their famous Christmas breakfast, it’s a reminder that joy isn’t about the size of the present but the love behind it.
If you’ve already seen Greta Gerwig’s stunning 2019 adaptation, take it up a notch and dive into the book. Trust me, this is one of the best books to read this Christmas!
3. “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern
Alright, let’s add a little magic to the list. So, one of my favorite best books to read around Christmas is The Night Circus! It isn’t a Christmas book per se, but it’s got that whimsical, otherworldly vibe perfect for the season.
The story revolves around a mysterious circus that appears without warning and only operates at night.
The book’s lush descriptions of glittering tents, enchanted performances, and a slow-burn romance between two rival magicians feel like stepping into a dream.
Reading it during Christmas feels just right—it’s like pairing stardust with your candy canes.
4. “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling
Before you roll your eyes and say, “Isn’t that more of a Halloween book?”—hear me out.
The Christmas scenes at Hogwarts are everything. From the Great Hall’s towering Christmas trees to Mrs. Weasley’s hand-knitted sweaters, it’s holiday magic on steroids.
Reading (or re-reading) this book during Christmas hits differently. You’ll find yourself longing for a Hogwarts feast and dreaming of unwrapping a broomstick under the tree.
Plus, the story’s themes of friendship, bravery, and belonging are what the holidays are all about. And that’s what make it a timeless classic and one of no-brainer best books to read around Christmas time!
5. “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg
Okay, I know this is technically a children’s book, but who cares? Christmas is about embracing your inner kid, and all the cozy, nostalgic feels place The Polar Express among the best books to read during Christmas.
If you’ve only seen the (slightly uncanny) Tom Hanks movie, you’re missing out. The book’s illustrations are breathtaking, and the story—about a boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole—is a reminder that believing in magic isn’t just for kids.
So, pour yourself a hot cup of cocoa and take a ride on the Polar Express. Bonus points if you read it aloud with dramatic flair.
6. “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak
I know, I know—this one’s not exactly light and fluffy. But The Book Thief is deeply moving and surprisingly uplifting in its own way, which makes it one of the best books to read on Christmas.
It’s a perfect read for quieter, reflective moments during the holidays.
Set in Nazi Germany, the story follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others. Narrated by Death (yes, you read that right), the book is hauntingly beautiful and brimming with humanity.
It’s a story about the power of words, the resilience of the human spirit, and finding light even in the darkest of times. And isn’t that what Christmas is all about?
7. “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis
Nothing screams “Christmas vibes” quite like an eternal winter broken by a heroic group of siblings, a talking lion, and (surprise!) Father Christmas himself.
The Chronicles of Narnia kick off with The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, a magical tale of good versus evil set in a snow-covered wonderland. Sure, it’s technically a Christian allegory, but you don’t need to be religious to appreciate its themes of hope, redemption, and sacrifice.
Fun fact: When Aslan roars, the frozen winter thaws into spring. It’s basically a metaphor for how we all feel when the sun starts shining after a long, cold December.
So, this masterpiece is among the best books to read at Christmas time too
The Extras (Because I Couldn’t Resist)
- “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” by Dr. Seuss: Need I say more? The Grinch is the anti-hero turned hero we all love.
- “The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs: A picture book that will leave you in tears. Yes, you’re an adult. Yes, it’s okay to cry.
So, What’s the Plan?
Whether you’re revisiting a beloved classic like A Christmas Carol or diving into the magical world of The Night Circus, my best books to read this Christmas are guaranteed to make your holiday season brighter.
Grab one (or all), light a candle, and let the magic of reading take you away.
Which book are you picking up first? Let me know in the comments—or better yet, let’s turn this into a virtual book club. Because nothing says “Merry Christmas” like bonding over good stories and great conversations.
.
Read more on Christmas 2024:
