24 Children’s & YA Books to Read This Holiday Season
As the days darken and winter fast approaches, what better way is there to celebrate the season than to curl up with a good book? Here are the top picks for the little ones in your life of all ages — from picture books about the magic of music and names; to middle grade tales of tufted creatures, mysterious towers, and unlikely friendships; and, finally, to heartfelt YA novels of familial grief, supernatural love, and fantastical adventures. However, don’t be mistaken, adult readers: these stories are so well-crafted that you may just end up falling for them too.
Picture Books:
Somebody to Love: The Story of Valerie June’s Sweet Little Baby Banjolele by Valerie June, illustrated by Marcela Avelar
With rollicking rhymes and magical illustrations, a young musician and her baby banjolele learn to face their doubts and find their voices. Written by Grammy-nominated singer, Valerie June, the book is an ode to dreams and those who help uplift them, paying homage to some of the biggest believers in history like Martin Luther King Jr., Albert Einstein, Oprah Winfrey, and Frida Kahlo. It’s the perfect read for children and reminder for adults looking to let their hearts sing.
Something Good by Marcy Campbell, illustrated by Corinna Luyken
When the appearance of a “bad-something” on a bathroom wall threatens to divide an elementary class, the school uses this opportunity to teach students the magic of community in creating “something good.” Using paint and poetry, the children’s dark and confusing situation is transformed into a world with vibrant color, light, and understanding. This is an amazing gift for the little artists in your life.
The Christmas Owl by Ellen Kalish & Gideon Sterer, illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki
Do you remember Rocky, the little owl that was discovered in the Rockefeller Christmas Tree? This is the fictional story — co-written by the woman who helped rehabilitate him, Ellen Kalish, and children’s book author, Gideon Sterer. This glittering story is a must-read this season and an instant holiday classic. Copies are flying off the shelf, so be sure to place your order soon.
How to Read a Book by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Melissa Sweet
With beautiful rhymes and stunning illustrations, get ready to delve into a poetic, sensory journey about the experience of reading. This story is perfect for children just beginning their reading journeys, or older readers who wish to relive the thrill of picking up a book for the first time.
Somewhere, Right Now by Kerry Docherty, illustrated by Suzie Mason
Filled with stunning illustrations of animals and nature, this book is a wonderful reminder for children and families to prioritize their wellness in the present moment. When Alma is faced with an unexpected disappointment, she learns that she might feel better if she imagines something beautiful happening in the world. Warm, heartfelt, and meditative.
Always Together at Christmas by Sara Sargent, illustrated by Mark Chambers
“Christmas will always mean love. / Even if love looks a little different this year.”
Though the holidays look a little different this year than when they did back in 2020 when Always Together at Christmas first came out, this picture book is still timely. With its beautiful message and sweet illustrations, this is a lovely gift to share with the little readers in your life.
Odd Dog Out by Rob Biddulph
We love this vibrant, gorgeously illustrated picture book about a dachshund who doesn’t fit in and goes to find herself, only to discover she may be better off where she started! Dog lovers of all ages will adore this quirky, fun read.
What Feelings Do When No One’s Looking by Tina Oziewicz, illustrated by Aleksandra Zając, translated by Jennifer Croft
From the tip of a chimney, readers plunge into the gentle, playful, and occasionally troublesome world of feelings, meeting a group of furry friends as they go. Accompanied by beautiful, original illustrations, this picture book soothes and surprises, leaping from adventure to adventure, creature to creature–-and inspires little readers to honor their emotions in full.
Middle Grade:
Dear Student by Elly Swartz
When Autumn becomes the secret voice of her school’s advice column, she gains her confidence and the courage to follow her heart. An inspiring and important book for middle-schoolers, there’s a reason why this novel was recommended by Parents Magazine. Enjoy the whoopie pie recipe at the back of the book too!
Zoned Out #2 (Area 51 Interns) by James S. Murray & Carsen Smith
Aliens and monster hijinks ensue when Viv and her friends spend the day at the most interesting place on the planet: Area 51. Celebrate a young reader’s imagination with this hilarious and adventurous book series from Impractical Jokers, James S. Murray and Carsen Smith.
The Last Kids on Earth and the Forbidden Fortress by Max Brallier
This #1 New York Times bestselling series is perfect for readers of Dav Pilkey or the Bad Guys books. With a video game, TV series, and spinoff comics on the way, there’s so much to love about the franchise.
Waffles and Pancake: Planetary-YUM by Drew Brockington
For the kids in your life who may be venturing off into reading on their own, we recommend Waffles and Pancake from Drew Brockington, creator of the wildly popular Catstronauts series. Planetary YUM, book 1, introduces readers to the beloved characters of the Catstronauts series when they were kittens, and is full of space facts and fun illustrations!
The Tea Dragon Society by K. O’Neill
This charming book is perfect for readers of all ages looking for a whimsical read. After discovering a lost tea dragon in the marketplace, Greta, a blacksmith apprentice, learns about the dying art form of tea dragon care-taking from a duo of tea shop owners. Soon, she sees how the craft enriches their spirits–and eventually her own.
A Thousand Questions by Saadia Faruqi
This tender and original middle grade novel tells the story of two girls navigating a summer of change in Karachi, Pakistan. Mimi spends her time living with grandparents she’s never met before, hoping to connect with her long-absent father. Meanwhile, Sakina aims to improve her English test score to be accepted into school while also working to support her family. The two girls find each other in a tangle of big dreams and unlikely friendship, and grow to better understand themselves and each other by asking all the right questions.
Mulysses by Øyvind Torseter, translated by Kari Dickson
A compelling graphic novel from one of Norway’s most acclaimed illustrators, this book is the perfect gift for readers interested in literary allusions and adventures. While in need, Ulysses meets a wealthy collector who offers him a fortune if he succeeds in collecting a rare treasure. Like Ulysses and many others before him, Ulysses must take to the sea in search of excitement and himself.
Pax by Sara Pennypacker, illustrated by Jon Klassen
Peter and his fox, Pax, have been best friends ever since Peter rescued him as a kit. But one day, Peter’s dad makes him return the fox to the wild. 300 miles away from home, Peter knows he isn’t where he should be and goes on a journey spurred by love and grief to reunite with Pax. Meanwhile, while waiting for Peter’s rescue, Pax embarks on adventures of his own. Wholesome, emotional, and compelling.
Young Adult:
Butterfly Yellow by Thanhhà Lại
In the final days of the Việt Nam War, Hằng is separated from her little brother, Linh. Now residing in Texas six years later as a refugee, the two siblings are reunited. But when Linh has no recollection of his sister or their family history, Hằng must find a way to bridge his gaps in memory. A stunning portrayal of familial grief, resilience, and the perseverance of love.
Only on the Weekends by Dean Atta
A beautiful novel in verse about the difficulties of long-distance relationships and emerging love triangles; the complications and loyalties of family culture; and the joys and nuances of discovering who you are. This is a book you don’t want to miss.
The In Between by Marc Klein
After an intense relationship and a fatal car accident, Tessa believes that Skylar is trying to connect with her from the afterlife. The resulting story is a stunning otherworldly romance to laugh, cry, and celebrate the complicated, wonder-filled magic of love. And as a bonus: check out the movie adaptation, starring Joey King, on Paramount+!
Milo and Marcos at the End of the World by Kevin Christopher Snipes
A debut YA romance by playwright and podcaster, Kevin Christopher Snipes, Milo and Marcos at the End of the World is a novel you and your teen won’t be able to put down. If you and the young adult in your life loved Heartstopper and Love, Victor, you’ll adore this book!
The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
This series went viral with rave reviews all over social media for a reason! The first book in this enthralling series starts with a mystery inheritance from a billionaire, a secret passage-filled house, and four grandsons who believe their assumed right to the Hawthorne riches. With danger around every corner, this book will have you at the edge of your seat with each turn of its pages.
A Little Bit Country by Brian D. Kennedy
Emmett Maguire, hopeful country star, and Luke Barnes, hater of all things country, become inseparable during their time at a fictional version of Dollywood. A Little Bit Of Country is a combination of the sweet Southern sass of Dumplin’ and the budding queer romance in Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda. YA readers will enjoy this entertaining, heartfelt, and emotional read.
Messy Roots: A Graphic Memoir of a Wuhanese American by Laura Gao
After spending her childhood in Wuhan, China–riding water buffalos and eating tofu–Laura moves to Texas where she must become friends with unfamiliarity. In her graphic memoir, Laura illustrates her coming-of-age as the girl who loves basketball, wants to escape Chinese school, and wonders why girls make her heart flutter. Honest, hilarious, and heartfelt.
Night Bus by Zuo Ma, translated by Orion Martin
A young woman finds herself on a late night bus ride that makes detours through fantastical landscapes, while a young cartoonist watches over his aging grandmother as she loses grip of her memory. Nostalgic leaps take the bus-bound woman–and readers–into a vibrantly surreal world. Ma has created a fevered, unpredictable dreamscape jam-packed with adventure, if you dare to enter it.
