Festive Tales for Independent Readers
From whimsical encounters with St. Nick to enthralling and enduring folktales, these books invite your child to celebrate diverse festivals of light.
This classic holiday tale makes a great independent read.
The Bells of Christmas by Virginia Hamilton
Enjoy a season of love and anticipation with this 1890s tale of an African-American family Christmas in Ohio.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
Laugh along with this favorite about a poor family who terrorizes — then triumphs — in their town.
The Christmas Book: How to Have the Best Christmas Ever by Juliana Foster
Full of Yuletide stories, carols, and poems as well as other tips for making the holidays special.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Reflect on your family's past, present, and future with this holiday classic. Learn more.
A Christmas Memory by Truman Capote
Drift back in time for a semi-autobiographical tale of fruitcake, friendship, and Christmas in Alabama.
The Christmas Menorahs: How a Town Fought Hate by Janice Cohn
Read the true story of how a Montana town banded together to battle prejudice.
Confused Hanukkah by Jon Koons
Yossel is sent to a neighboring village to learn about Hanukkah and bring his lessons back to his townspeople. But has Yossel been observing the right holiday? Learn more.
The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry
Show your child the meaning of Christmas with this tale of sacrifice and love.
Jar of Fools by Eric A. Kimmel
A collection of stories from the village of Chelm, where the residents see things differently than other people. Learn more.
Kringle by Tony Abbott
Who was Santa Claus? This fantastical tale searches for the answers! Learn more.
The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus by Julie Lane
Learn how Santa became Father Christmas in this 1932 classic.
New Year by Michele Spirn
Explore diverse celebrations across the globe in this inviting and informative book.
One Wintry Night by Ruth Bell Graham
This lyrical story-within-a-story retells the Christmas tale — from Creation to Resurrection — accompanied by sweeping illustrations.
Sam I Am by Ilene Cooper
Can a gradeschooler sort out his identity when his own interfaith family can't agree how to celebrate the holidays?
Santa Paws by Nicholas Edwards
A stray dog finds a home during the holidays then spreads cheer all year in this favorite series. Learn more.
Seven Spools of Thread by Angela Shelf Medearis
Learn the seven principles of Kwanzaa with this gorgeous folktale.
A Very Special Kwanzaa by Deborah Chocolate
Follow 4th-grader Charlie as he learns the true meaning of Kwanzaa. Learn more.
When Santa Fell to Earth by Cornelia Funke
Niklas Goodfellow is the last real Santa, fighting against the Great Christmas Council, who want to outlaw all of the old, magical ways of Christmas.
