Our recommended reads for Christmas
It’s the perfect time to enjoy the season and curl up with a hot chocolate and a feel-good holiday book! We’ve gathered a selection of festive reads, from heartwarming romances to children’s classics, to brighten your winter break.
Midnight at the Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgan
In this heartwarming tale by Jenny Colgan, bestselling author of The Bookshop on the Corner, we follow Carmen as she finds herself in a holiday season full of challenges. Her beloved bookshop is being used as a Christmas movie set, she’s been evicted from her sister’s home, and her long-distance love interest feels farther away than ever.
When the elderly shop owner shares a heartfelt Christmas wish, Carmen is inspired to help. With a tight deadline to save the shop and fund the owner’s dream trip, she enlists the help of her neighbours, her family and a charming male nanny who becomes a delightful distraction. Through teamwork and sprinkles of holiday magic, Carmen discovers the true joy of Christmas.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr Seuss
This beloved children’s classic tells the story of the Grinch, a grouchy creature who despises Christmas and the happy Whos in Who-ville. Aiming to ruin their holiday, he disguises himself as Santa and steals presents, decorations and festive treats on Christmas Eve.
When he meets the kind-hearted Cindy-Lou Who and hears the Whos singing joyfully despite their losses, the Grinch realises Christmas is about more than material things.
A timeless tale of community and celebrating the true meaning of Christmas, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a must-read for everyone!
The Christmas Train by David Baldacci
In this charming and adventurous holiday story, glum journalist Tom Langdon is forced to travel cross-country by train after an airport security incident. His journey involves an eccentric mix of passengers, mysteries and hilarious misunderstandings.
As Tom travels from Washington to Los Angeles, he rediscovers humanity’s goodness and rekindles an old flame, making his journey one of self-discovery and romance. With humour and heart, The Christmas Train is a festive treat.
Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret by Benjamin Stevenson
From author of Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone, this darkly funny holiday whodunit is a very clever mystery. The story unfolds like an Advent calendar – 24 doors, 23 clues, and a thrilling resolution on Christmas Eve.
Ernest’s investigation begins when his ex-wife, Erin, is accused of murdering her partner, Lyle Pearse, just before Ernest’s own wedding. As he narrows down the suspects – including a magician, Lyle’s assistant, and twins from a rehab programme – each chapter unveils new clues and twists.
With witty fourth wall breaks and a festive blend of suspense and dark comedy, this book is a creative take on holiday mysteries.
Skipping Christmas by John Grisham
The inspiration behind the hit movie Christmas with the Kranks, this bestselling novel follows Luther and Nora Krank as they decide to skip Christmas completely. Instead of the usual holiday chaos, they plan a peaceful Caribbean cruise – no decorations, parties or gifts.
But their plans are thrown into disarray when their daughter, Blair, announces a last-minute trip home for the holidays. In a mad scramble, the Kranks find themselves caught up in unexpected chaos whilst rediscovering the joy and meaning of Christmas.
Skipping Christmas captures the challenges and rewards of holiday traditions, even when plans go hilariously wrong!
What are your favourite festive books? Comment below your Christmas reading recommendations!
