“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” —Buddy the Elf

The second best way? Reading Christmas tales by the tree. We’re certain Buddy would agree—especially if you throw in some candy, candy canes, candy corns, and syrup. Top it off with a little hot cocoa and you have the makings of many magical nights ahead. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite new (and not so new) crowd-pleasing tales that are destined to be Christmas classics. Of course we can’t talk Christmas classics without mentioning one of our favorites: Auntie Claus. Click here for a list of some all-time faves. Oh wait, here too. Clearly, we have a thing for Christmas tales.

This may be our new favorite book. Festive illustrations and fun, rhythmic text make this an instant classic and the book you’ll read every year before piling in the car to pick up your tree. Pure magic! (A word to the wise, order fast because this beauty sold out early last year.)

A story to remind us that wishes can come true in the most unexpected ways. This one is brimming with magical illustrations.

A beautiful reminder of why we celebrate the season told in a way that helps children understand the true meaning of Christmas.

Every Christmas, J.R.R. Tolkien’s children would receive a letter from Father Christmas himself, with tales of reindeer run amok, an accident-prone polar bear, and troublesome goblins living under the house. With this wonderful collection, we all get to revel in the perks of having an author like Tolkien as a father. It must have been a charmed childhood, indeed.

A beautifully illustrated tale about the cheer of Christmas, the magic of New York City, and how important it is to be surrounded by love.

Silly and fun, this tale is all about making it home for Christmas to be the ones you love.

We may or may not be collecting these BabyLit books for our future grandchildren. Introducing favorite classics to babies: how can we not? Another Christmas classic, The Nutcracker, is also available.

Posted by Rachel