9 Christmas Books To Read In 2025

The holiday season is a time for celebration, joy, and cherished traditions. Among the best ways to embrace the spirit of Christmas is through reading. Whether you are curled up by the fire or gathered with family and friends, Christmas books can create an atmosphere of warmth, nostalgia, and festive cheer. I made a list of 9 Christmas books that are perfect for your reading list, each one filled with heartwarming stories, timeless messages, and unforgettable characters.

1. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

No Christmas book list is complete without the classic A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. The tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man, who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of generosity, compassion, and the spirit of giving. The rich narrative, vivid characters, and timeless message make A Christmas Carol a must-read for anyone looking to experience the true meaning of Christmas.

2. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

The Polar Express is a stunningly illustrated Christmas book that has captivated readers for generations. Written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg, this holiday classic follows a young boy's magical journey to the North Pole aboard a mysterious train. Along the way, he learns about belief, wonder, and the importance of maintaining the magic of Christmas. The book’s beautifully detailed illustrations paired with its enchanting storyline make it a timeless favorite that captures the essence of Christmas magic.

3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is an unforgettable tale of redemption and the true meaning of Christmas. The Grinch, a bitter creature who despises Christmas, devises a plan to steal the holiday from the people of Whoville. However, after discovering the power of love and community, the Grinch experiences a transformation that warms the hearts of readers young and old. Dr. Seuss’s playful rhymes, whimsical illustrations, and delightful message make this book a Christmas favorite that should be on everyone’s reading list.

4. The Christmas Chronicles by Tim Slover

The Christmas Chronicles by Tim Slover brings a fresh take on the Christmas story, blending history, legend, and holiday magic. In this book, Santa Claus isn’t just a jolly figure who delivers presents — he is a central figure who plays a larger role in the story. The tale follows a family’s journey as they uncover the deeper mysteries of Christmas and discover how the magic of the season has endured throughout the centuries. The Christmas Chronicles is a delightful blend of mystery, history, and Christmas cheer that is perfect for readers of all ages.

5. An Amish Christmas by Cynthia Keller

An Amish Christmas by Cynthia Keller is a heartwarming tale set in a small Amish community where faith, family, and the spirit of Christmas are at the heart of the story. The book follows Lily, a young Amish woman who is preparing for the Christmas season, but her plans are thrown off course when she begins to question her path in life. As she navigates her feelings of doubt and confusion, Lily learns the importance of trusting in God’s plan and the true meaning of Christmas.

6. Miracle on 34th Street by Valentine Davies

Miracle on 34th Street, originally a short story by Valentine Davies, has become a Christmas classic in both film and literary form. This heartwarming tale centers around a department store Santa Claus who claims to be the real Santa Claus, and the legal battle that ensues to prove his identity. With its themes of belief, hope, and the Christmas spirit, this story reminds readers of the power of faith and the joy that comes from believing in something greater than ourselves. Whether reading the book or watching the classic movie adaptation, this tale is sure to spread holiday cheer.

7. Skipping Christmas by John Grisham

Skipping Christmas by John Grisham offers a hilarious and heartwarming look at the holiday season from a different perspective. The novel follows Nora and Luther Krank, a couple who decide to skip Christmas altogether and go on a cruise instead. Their decision is met with opposition from their community, who is shocked by their lack of festive spirit. However, as the story unfolds, Luther and Nora begin to realize the importance of family, tradition, and the true meaning of Christmas.

8. The Christmas Train by David Baldacci

The Christmas Train by David Baldacci is a heartwarming holiday novel filled with romance, adventure, and life-changing encounters. The story centers around Tom Langdon, a journalist who boards a cross-country train to visit family for Christmas. Along the way, he meets a diverse group of passengers, each with their own unique stories and struggles. As the journey unfolds, Tom finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Ellen, a woman with a mysterious past, and discovers the true meaning of Christmas. The Christmas Train is a delightful blend of holiday spirit, mystery, and romance, perfect for readers looking for an engaging and emotionally satisfying Christmas story.

9. The Christmas Mystery by Jostein Gaarder

The Christmas Mystery by Jostein Gaarder is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that blends the magic of Christmas with a deep philosophical exploration. The story follows Hans Thomas, a young boy who receives a mysterious book during the holiday season. As Hans reads the book, he embarks on a journey filled with magical events, mysterious characters, and revelations about life, love, and Christmas traditions. The book intertwines a story within a story, with a mixture of humor, adventure, and poignant moments.

Conclusion: The Heartwarming Magic of Christmas Books

Christmas books hold a special place in our hearts. They offer a way to experience the magic of the season through compelling stories, unforgettable characters, and powerful messages of love, joy, and generosity. Each one brings its own unique touch of magic to the season, creating lasting memories and holiday cheer for years to come.