Brand-New Kids’ Books To Celebrate the Christmas Season
One of my favorite Christmas activities is gathering a stack of holiday-themed picture books and reading them with my kids while we snuggle under a blanket. Even as my kids get older, we all look forward to this tradition. Of course, this also means that we like to keep our eyes peeled for brand-new children’s books to add to our reading stack each year. Here are the titles we’re excited to dive into this Christmas.
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On Christmas Eve, Santa catches the flu and asks Cupig to step in and deliver all the presents. The plucky pig eagerly tackles her new job, but her enthusiasm turns to frustration as mistakes pile up. Thankfully, Cupig is a fast learner and manages to save the day. This humor-filled picture book is the perfect addition to any holiday collection.
(Ages 3-7) -
Explore the colors of Christmas with everyone’s favorite insect! Follow The Very Hungry Caterpillar through the pages of this sturdy, star-shaped board book as he crawls over Christmas trees, candy canes, and stockings.
(Ages 0-3) -
On Christmas Eve, the jungle animals gather together to enjoy the festivities. They play a game where everyone tries to guess who is wearing the Santa costume. Rhyming text and adorable illustrations make this board book an excellent addition to your child’s holiday bookshelf.
(Ages 0-3) -
Nobody does Christmas quite like Jan Brett, and fans will love poring over the detailed illustrations in her latest picture book. When Theo and his dog Ari go on a winter hike, the handmade sweater Theo’s grandmother made disappears in the snow — along with their footprints. Thankfully, even though the sweater is gone, it still helps them find their way home. This sweet book is full of surprises, friendship, and holiday spirit.
(Ages 4-8) -
The interrupting chicken returns in this hilarious holiday story. Chicken is so excited to see The Nutcracker that she gets carried away. Even though the audience isn’t supposed to get involved with the play, Chicken is soon dancing on stage, fighting off sword-wielding mice, and saving the nutcracker.
(Ages 4-8) -
Experience the wonder of New York at Christmastime through this lift-the-flap delight. Join Kit and Olivia navigating snowy sidewalks, twinkling lights, and the Rockefeller Center tree. With gentle narrative, flaps to reveal hidden holiday gems, and rich illustrations, this book captures both the magic of the season and the city’s winter sparkle.
(Ages 5-7)
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Prolific children’s book creator Adam Rex puts a humorous spin on the classic The 12 Days of Christmas. A man’s true love sends him impractical gifts while they’re spending the holiday season apart. With his home full of swans, milkmaids, and drummers, the onslaught of bizarre gifts takes a heartwarming turn. This feel-good and funny Christmas story is a must-read!
(Ages 5-8) -
Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree has captured children’s hearts since 1963. Now, thanks to a previously unpublished manuscript, this beloved classic is getting a sequel. When Mr. Willowby’s Christmas tree can’t be delivered, five of his woodland friends go searching for another option. This thrilling holiday adventure will win over a new generation of readers.
(Ages 3-7) -
Put on your detective cap and see if you can catch a Christmas tree thief! When Santa steals the neighborhood Christmas tree, Dog Detective Cluehound and Sergeant Squirrel set off in hot pursuit. This funny and charming holiday mystery has a surprise ending that will delight young readers.
(Ages 3-7) -
It’s holiday hustle time in Busytown — and Lowly Worm is ready to help! When Santa’s elves get sick, everyone’s favorite worm pitches in to make the toys. Full of classic Scarry detailed scenes, familiar faces, and a can-do spirit, this charming picture book is a perfect pick for little helpers who love a festive rescue.
(Ages 3-7) -
Preschoolers will love this follow-up to Elmore the Christmas Moose. When Santa comes down with a cold, he asks Elmore to take over Christmas preparations at the North Pole. But with elves squabbling and reindeer running wild, Elmore quickly gets overwhelmed. Kids will love the rib-tickling letters Elmore writes to Santa, asking for advice in this humorous holiday tale.
(Ages 3-7) -
Share the magic of the North Pole and the Island of Misfit Toys with your toddler this Christmas. Based on the 1964 TV special, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, this board book retells the beloved story for the tiniest of readers.
(Ages 0-3) -
Fact-loving kids can get their fill of Christmas trivia with this delightful anthology. If your kid has ever wondered what real reindeer are like or where the Christmas cactus comes from, they’ll love reading this book. It’s packed with interesting stories, holiday lore, and fun facts about items associated with Christmas.
(Ages 7-9)
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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2017 and updated in 2025.