Whether you celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah there are a number of books that you can use to help your children or classroom understand the reason for the season and why people choose to celebrate it the way they do.
We have provided a small list of holiday books that we have loved throughout the years and new books that we have found that you may enjoy.
Christmas Books
A Wish to Be a Christmas Tree
This book tells the tale of a woodland pine whose greatest wish is to be a Christmas tree. However, he is passed up year after year, until his woodland pals decide to try to help his dreams come true.
Children Around the World Celebrate Christmas
This is a great educational opportunity for children. This books tells the story of 16 children in 16 different countries including the traditions they use to celebrate and how to say Merry Christmas in each child’s native language. This is a great book for those wishing to learn about other traditions and cultures.
The Polar Express
This classic book, now made into a classic movie tells the story of a magical train ride and a special gift from Santa.
Hanukkah Books
The Borrowed Hanukkah Latkes
Rachel’s family is preparing for their annual dinner with latkes. Each year Rachel’s family invites an elderly neighbor who stubbornly refuses to come. This year, Rachel finds a way to get her involved.
The Trees of the Dancing Goats
This picture book is about a family enjoying their Hanukkah preparations when they discover their Christian neighbors are too ill to decorate their Christmas trees. The family decides to pitch in and a special friendship is developed as two families learn about the spirit of giving.
Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins
This is the story of Hershel of Ostnopol saves Hanukkah for an entire village by tricking the goblins that have been haunting the old synagogue. In an afterword the author provides explanations of Jewish Hanukkah traditions. This book is great for children and families wishing to learn about other religions and cultures.
These are just a few of the many excellent Holiday books that can be found during this time of year. Other Christmas and Hanukkah recommendations include:
The Night Before Christmas, A Christmas Carol, A Charlie Brown Christmas, Christmas Oranges, Happy Hanukkah, Corduroy, Hanukkah Haiku, and Eight Winter Nights.