Cold weather, hot cocoa, the light of a Christmas tree and a book wrap up the perfect winter evening for me.
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Need some inspiration?
Here are 12 tales to read your way into the spirit of the season.
- A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote
This story has a decidedly Southern flair and is based on memories of his time growing up in Alabama. Be warned: this one is a tearjerker but hey, “it’s fruitcake weather!”
- The Stupidest Angel: A Heartwarming Tale of Christmas Terror by Christopher Moore
After you tear up reading the first book on the list, you’ll need a laugh. And this book has plenty of those. Santa, angels and zombies? You’ll find it all in this one.
- The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
Get your tissues back out for this charming tale about children taking a magical train ride to the North Pole. Do you still hear the bell?
- Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris
Okay, there are more holidays than just Christmas featured in this essay collection but I dare you not to laugh until you cry reading his account of being an elf at Macy’s.
- The Legend of Holly Claus by Brittney Ryan
What happens when Santa and Mrs. Claus have a daughter? A terrible curse freezes her heart. Travel to the Land of the Immortals in this adventurous tale.
- Santa Mouse by Michael Brown
This was one of my favorite stories as a child. It’s all about a little mouse who becomes one of Santa’s helpers.
- Santa Calls by William Joyce
Anything by William Joyce is worth reading just for his illustrations alone but you’ll also be charmed by his tale of three children who help Santa defeat some evil elves.
- A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
The quintessential Christmas story about life, regrets and second chances is an inspiring tale for the holiday season.
- The Further Adventures of Ebenezer Scrooge by Charlie Lovett
Ever wondered what happens to Scrooge after he’s visited by three spirits? Does his transformation stick? This tale will catch you up on everyone’s favorite humbug.
- The Afterlife of Holly Chase by Cynthia Hand
While we’re on a Scrooge kick; check out this modern retelling of A Christmas Carol featuring 17-year-old Holly Chase. This book just came out in October and I devoured it.
- The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus by L. Frank Baum
Learn about Santa from the very beginning; being raised by fairies, building toys, finding flying reindeer and becoming immortal—all from the author of The Wizard of Oz. (It’s also been made into my favorite of the Rankin/Bass Christmas specials.)
- The Night Before Christmas by Clement C Moore
A list of holiday tales and stories wouldn’t be complete without The Night Before Christmas. I grew up with the beautifully illustrated Holly Hobbie version but various editions abound.
- Hiddensee by Gregory Maguire
I couldn’t leave it at 12 so it’s a baker’s dozen if you will. Ever wanted to know more about The Nutcracker’s mysterious Drosselmeyer? This book by the author of Wicked will quench your curiosity
Ready, set, read your way into the season. What’s your favorite holiday tale?
