Buying books this holiday season?
Lehighton librarian Melissa Hawk has some recommendations for those purchasing books for Christmas.
Twelve books of Christmas and one to celebrate our shortest day: some may be old favorites, some may become new favorites.
For everyone
“A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens, illustrated by Brett Helquist. An abridged version of the classic, the rich illustrations and shorter length make it accessible to readers of all ages.
“The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs. This silent, magical book is a classic with something for everyone.
“Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem” by Maya Angelou. Beautiful illustrations accompany this poem about hope and peace, just right for turbulent times.
For young children
“A Wish to Be a Christmas Tree” by Colleen Monroe. An evergreen wants to be chosen as a Christmas tree. A sweet story suitable for preschoolers with a message about finding your purpose that will resonate with children of all ages.
“Bear Stays Up for Christmas” by Karma Wilson. Adorable animals get ready for Christmas with their sleepy friend Bear. This is a fun story for preschoolers and their exhausted parents.
“Snowmen at Christmas” by Caralyn Buehner. Ever wonder how snowmen celebrate Christmas? Gorgeous illustrations of snow and light make this simple book one that you will go back to year after year. For preschool to elementary-aged children.
“The Story of Holly and Ivy” by Rumer Godden. This story about wishes is a tender look at what matters most at Christmas and throughout the year — somewhere to belong. For kindergartners and older children.
For middle grade readers:
“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” by Barbara Robinson
“The Last Holiday Concert” by Andrew Clements
These two fast, fun reads will put reluctant and eager readers into the Christmas spirit.
“The Shortest Day: Celebrating the Winter Solstice” by Wendy Pfeffer. A nonfiction book about how people have marked the beginning of winter in many eras and places. Science activities and a list of other books to discover make this a great starting point for young explorers.
For adults
“The Deal of a Lifetime: A Novella” by Fredrik Backman. This short story from the popular author of “A Man Called Ove” is a different kind of Christmas fable about a father, a son and a little girl battling cancer.
“Mr. Dickens and His Carol: A Novel” by Samantha Silva. An atmospheric look at what the process of writing the ultimate Christmas story may have been like for the author.
“The Noel Diary: A Novel” by Richard Paul Evans. The best-selling author’s new Christmas novel is about a man dealing with his past and looking for his future.
