Best books to make the 12 days of Christmas come alive for kids!
Published on December 15, 2025
Christmas Day isn’t the end of the season – it’s the beginning! The Church gives us 12 whole days to celebrate the birth of Jesus, linger in the glow of the Nativity, and soak up wonder with our children. One of the simplest (and coziest!) ways to do that is with a stack of beautiful Christmas books to read aloud as a family.
Below is a curated list of faith-filled classics and heartwarming tales to help families of all ages savor the season — one story at a time.
1. The Wise Men Who Found Christmas by Raymond Arroyo
A gorgeously illustrated retelling of the Magi’s journey, this book reads like an epic adventure while staying true to the Gospel accounts and historical evidence. Kids will love the vibrant art, parents will appreciate the historical accuracy, and the whole family will walk away with a deeper sense of what it means to seek Christ with courage.
2. A Child’s Christmas Counting Book by Paul Thigpen
A sweet, gentle introduction to both counting and Christmas symbols. Perfect for toddlers and early readers, this whimsically worded and illustrated book helps children see the meaning behind famous figures and animals in the Christmas tradition. A peaceful read for bedtime or around the tree.
3. The Grumpy Old Ox by Anthony DeStefano
This picture book tells the Nativity story through the eyes of a cranky old ox who discovers compassion and joy when he encounters the Holy Family. Watch the ox’s transformation in this subtle tale of kindness and conversion.
4. Joy to the World: Christmas Stories and Songs by Tomie DePaola
A delightful collection of traditional tales, Nativity stories, and Christmas songs all illustrated in DePaola’s iconic style. This book is made for slow mornings with cocoa and little ones snuggled under blankets.
5. Christmas in Heaven by Anthony DeStefano
A comforting, hope-filled story that gently introduces children to the promise of heaven. Beautifully illustrated and written with tenderness, this book is especially meaningful for families who have experienced loss during or before the holidays.
6. My True Love Gave to Me: A Children’s Catechism for the Twelve Days of Christmas by Katie Warner
A book that explains the hidden catechetical meanings behind each gift in The Twelve Days of Christmas carol, paired with illustrations based in some of the church’s richest art traditions from iconography to illustrated manuscripts to stained glass. This is a fantastic way to teach kids the richness of the faith while singing your way through the season.
7. The Story of the Other Wise Man by Henry Van Dyke
A classic legend following Artaban, the “fourth Wise Man,” whose long quest to find Christ is filled with sacrifice and charity. Best for older children or read-aloud family time, this brief story invites deep reflection on what it truly means to love as Christ loves.
8. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
This timeless masterpiece remains one of the best stories of redemption ever written. Whether you read an illustrated children’s edition or the original text, your family will delight in Scrooge’s transformation and the warm glow of generosity at its heart.
9. Illustrated Classic Christmas Carols by Katie Warner
Why just read about Christmas when you can also sing? This beautifully illustrated collection of beloved Christmas hymns is perfect for families who want to bring sacred music into the home. Each carol is paired with art that visually inspires reverence and wonder.
10. Christmas Around the Fire: Stories, Essays, & Poems for the Season of Christ’s Birth compiled by Ryan Topping
A rich and beautiful anthology of classic poems, essays, and short stories from some of the greatest Christian writers: Chesterton, Dickens, Newman, and more. Perfect for parents who want to deepen their own experience of the Christmas season while also sharing meaningful literature with older kids and teens. Read aloud one piece each evening and let these timeless reflections warm your home just as much as the crackling fire beside you.
11. The Shepherd’s Coat by Caryll Houselander
A tender, contemplative Christmas story from a beloved Catholic author. Houselander’s storytelling is reborn through new illustrations that gently draw children into the humility, generosity, and innocence of the Nativity. A quiet gem for reflective hearts.
12. The Vatican Christmas Cookbook by David Geisser & Thomas Kelly
Make the 12 days of Christmas come alive in your kitchen! Written by a former Swiss Guard, this stunning cookbook features traditional recipes from around the world, beautiful photos of Vatican Christmas celebrations, and inspiring reflections. Perfect for creating family traditions your kids will remember forever.
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