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Photograph: Courtesy Shutterstock
Photograph: Courtesy Shutterstock

The best Christmas books for kids

These special Christmas books for kids of all ages are perfect for holiday story time with the whole family. Now get reading!

Allie Early
Written by Hannah Doolin & Allie Early
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If a day spent browsing the choo-choos at a holiday train show and gazing at a twinkly tree isn't enough to get your youngsters in a festive mood, read our ranked list of fantastic Christmas books for kids before bedtime!

RECOMMENDED: Christmas for kids in NYC

While browsing through all of our favorite picks, you'll find great stuff like The Polar Express, where a little boy finds himself on a very special journey, or How the Grinch Stole Christmas, where you'll learn that even those with hearts three sizes too small can learn to appreciate the holidays. Don't miss Jan Brett's beautifully illustrated The Mitten or The Wild Christmas Reindeer!

Best Christmas books for kids

1. The Polar Express by Chris van Allsburg

The Polar Express by Chris van Allsburg
The Polar Express by Chris van Allsburg
On Christmas Eve in the middle of the night, a train magically appears outside a little boy’s home, and it’s headed to the North Pole. What adventure is in store? Who will meet Santa and receive the first gift of Christmas? This book is easy to fall in love with, and the masses agree: After its release in 1985, The Polar Express soon became a Caldecott Medal–winner (and a Christmas classic). Ages 4–7. 

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2. The Nutcracker by E.T.A. Hoffman

The Nutcracker by E.T.A. Hoffman
The Nutcracker by E.T.A. Hoffman
You've likely seen the ballet version of this amazing story, but have you brought it home? Follow a young girl as she helps her wooden nutcracker friend defeat an army of scary mice and explore a land of toys. Ages 4–8. 

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