The best Christmas books to read over the holidays

Do you know what the best companion is on those lazy post-feast Christmas days? A book!

Water and plenty of leftovers might be your go-to, but picking up a good book and immersing yourself in a sweet Christmas story will have you forgetting about that extra glass of eggnog or the one too many pieces of Christmas pudding you had.

When people think of Christmas books their minds instantly wander to classic tales for children like The Night Before Christmas or Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

Fact is, there are actually so many Christmas books out there for adults, from steamy romance novels to murder mysteries. So, your seasonal literary library doesn’t just have to involve the traditional stories read to children on Christmas Eve, but can include so many books, all of which embody the Christmas spirit in one way or another.

Considering everyone watches Christmas movies, listens to Christmas carols and eats traditional Christmas food, it only makes sense for your book choice to follow suit and fit in with the holidays theme. And as someone who has been building a list of Christmas books to read over the holidays all year (and for years before that), I’ve curated some of the best Christmas books to read these holidays.

So, as work quietens down or finishes up, the kids are well-occupied with presents, and everyone is craving some relaxation time, try picking up one of these festive books to read. Or if you’re looking for last-minute gift ideas, these captivating Christmas books won’t disappoint, either.

Here are a few of my favourite Christmas books I’ve read over the years, or have on my list to read these holidays!