Make Reading A Family Tradition!
Kid Lit! aims to share some of the best titles in children's literature, and showcase authors that continue to charm our hearts and open our minds to new possibilities. With the right books, and a dedicated reader, children can be inspired to reach the highest heights. This is a selection of some of the best holiday books for kids, from newborn to 8 years.
Check out our selection of Mother's Day favorites!
Give the Gift of Literacy
Story time is one of the most wonderful things about being a child. Whether it's fun and silly, with plenty of 'audience participation', or calm and relaxing, reading with someone you love is what makes books so precious.When you read to a child, not only are you sharing something magical with them, but you are preparing them for all the learning they will do in their lives. Every time you sit down together with your favorite story, you encourage a love of reading - something that they will use forever.
Books are so much more than words and pictures. Each one has a message, as lesson that can help kids make good decisions and have high hopes. They are windows into other places, times and worlds, and can teach us many things.
The very next time you have the chance, read to someone close to you! They'll be glad you did.
Mother's Day and Father's Day Books
Reading one of these books with your own kids is a wonderful way to celebrate your special day together.
Guess How Much I Love You
By Sam Mcbratney
Guess How Much I Love You Sweetheart Edition
Amazon Price: $8.64 (as of 12/20/2009)
The Little Nutbrown Hare is so determined to stay up late, that he tries to come up with bigger and better ways to tell Big Nutbrown Hare how much he loves him. These bunnies love eachother all the way to the moon!
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Little Critter Loves His Family
Just Me and My Mom (A Little Critter Book)
An exciting and interesting trip in the city wears out Little Critter, and his mom, too!
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Amazon Price: $3.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
Little Critter: Grandma, Grandpa, and Me
There's nothing like a sleepover visit to Grandma and Grandpa's house!
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Amazon Price: $3.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
Just Me and My Dad (Look-Look)
A fun camping trip is special when father and son work together!
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Amazon Price: $3.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
Just Grandma and Me (Pictureback(R))
Little Critter goes to the beach with Grandma, and makes sure to help her whenever he can.
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Amazon Price: $3.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
Just Grandpa and Me (Look-Look)
Little Critter goes with his Grandpa to the department store, for a fun outing, just the two of them!
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Amazon Price: $3.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
Love You Forever
Love You Forever
Amazon Price: $10.17 (as of 12/20/2009)
List Price: $14.95
This touching poem always brings smiles and tears to the faces of parents. It makes a beautiful bedtime song, and cherished gift for new parents, as well. Robert Munsch's timeless classic is a welcome addition to every family's library.
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Cinderella
Cinderella
Amazon Price: (as of 12/20/2009)
This retelling of the classic fairy tale is not only a return to the pre-Disney story that kids will enjoy, but is also illustrated so beautifully that it's almost too good to be true. This book is a wonderful treat for any child that would like a romantic fairy tale, and makes a great gift for the whole family.
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Author and Artist Kinuko Y. Craft
Ms. Craft was educated at Kanazawa Municipal College of Fine and Industrial Art in Japan, as well as the School of the Art Institute of Chigaco. In addition to her editorial and freelance work, she has published several children's books. She has also spent much time as a judge in various competitions, and is a member of the advisory board to the Norman Rockwell Museum.
K. Y. Craft's amazing works of art are done primarily in oils and watercolors, and have won over a hundred various awards.
The Giving Tree
The Giving Tree 40th Anniversary Edition Book with CD
Amazon Price: $11.10 (as of 12/20/2009)
This story about the lastingness of love, and unconditional generosity is a wonderful addition to any child's library, any time of the year. Shel Silverstein's beautifully illustrated tale is a wonderful gift to give, to remind kids that holidays aren't just about the chocolate!
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Hallowe'en Books
In a Dark Dark Room
In a Dark, Dark Room and Other Scary Stories
Amazon Price: $3.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
List Price: $3.99
This collection of seven scary, spooky tales has been a favorite with kids and parents for over 2 decades. For some, just the mention of a 'dark, dark room' sends shivers down the spine. This is a great book for reading to groups of kids on Hallowe'en night!
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Favorite Friends on Hallowe'en
Clifford's Halloween
A ghost is the perfect costume for such a big red dog! But will it be a hit on Hallowe'en?
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Amazon Price: $3.99 (as of 12/19/2009)
The Berenstain Bears Trick or Treat (First Time Books(R))
The cubs are ready for their first Hallowe'en without Mama and Papa, and they learn a lesson about judging things by their appearance.
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Amazon Price: $3.99 (as of 12/19/2009)
Arthur's Halloween: An Arthur Adventure
Everything about Hallowe'en is scary for Arthur, until he discovers that sometimes things only look scary.
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Amazon Price: $6.99 (as of 12/19/2009)
Franklin's Halloween
Everyone is ready for Hallowe'en, until Franklin starts to believe that the party is being haunted by a real ghost!
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Amazon Price: $9.31 (as of 12/19/2009)
Little Critter: Happy Halloween, Little Critter!
Spooky ghosts, skeletons and monsters all turn up for a Hallowe'en party with Little Critter.
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Amazon Price: $6.99 (as of 12/19/2009)
It's the Great Pumpkin!
It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (Peanuts)
Amazon Price: $4.95 (as of 12/20/2009)
List Price: $4.95
Will Linus finally catch a glimpse of the legendary Great Pumpkin as he rises from the pumpkin patch on Hallowe'en night? Will poor Charlie Brown get anything good in his Trick-or-Treat bag?
This classic Peanuts' story is a classic Hallowe'en favorite!
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Author Charles M. Schulz
Charles Monroe Schulz was born on November 26, 1922 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. His love of drawing began with cartoon portraits of the family dog, Spike. His first published work was a picture of Spike that was accepted by Ripley's Believe it Or Not!.His first comic strips, L'il Folks were created and published in 1947, and were a regular appearance in the St. Paul Pioneer Press newspaper. Later the strip would evolve into Peanuts and become one of the most popular cartoons of all time. It ran for 49 years, and was published in 75 countries.
"Sparky" Schulz did not wish for the comics to continue after his retirement. In December of 1999, he retired due to complications from colon cancer, and the final Peanuts strip was published on February 13, 2000, the day after his death. He was honored by 42 cartoonists later that year in a nationwide tribute to Peanuts and it's creator.
Christmas Books
These cherished tales and holiday story books are a wonderful addition to your family's traditions, and will be remembered fondly for years to come!
The Grinch
How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Amazon Price: $8.97 (as of 12/20/2009)
No holiday celebration would be complete without an appearance by the Grinch! This Christmas tale has been delighting families since the late 1950's, and is sure to be a cherished classic for all time.
This wonderful story about love and the true meaning of Christmas is a great way to send your little ones off to sleep on Christmas Eve.
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Author Theodore Seuss Geisel
Theodor S. Geisel was born in 1904, in Springfield Massachusetts. He credits his mother with his gift for rhyme. Henrietta Suess Geisel had worked in a bakery before being married, and had a habit of chanting the daily pie specials to customers. When young Ted had trouble falling asleep, she would sing these pie chants to him. Little did she know that she would inspire some of the most treasured books of all time.He first used the name Seuss when secretly contributing to Jack-O-Lantern magazine at Dartmouth College. Later he would add Dr. as a tribute to his father, who had hoped that he would earn a doctorate at Oxford.
His first children's book, And To Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street was published in 1937.
Dr. Seuss wrote three more, then used his talents to help the war effort. He returned to children's literature after the war, and would eventually write the books that we all know and love.
Favorite Friends Say Happy Holidays!
Mr. Christmas (Mr. Men and Little Miss)
Mr. Christmas is on a special mission to help Santa deliver gifts to all of his friends!
Amazon Price: $3.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
Peanuts: A Charlie Brown Christmas
Learn about the true meaning of Christmas with Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the whole Peanuts gang!
Amazon Price: $10.77 (as of 12/20/2009)
Olivia Helps with Christmas (Olivia Series)
Olivia is very, very busy at Christmas time! Being helpful and waiting for Santa are tough jobs to do!
Amazon Price: $11.10 (as of 12/20/2009)
Merry Christmas, Curious George!
Curious George makes the holidays special for some friends at the hospital.
Amazon Price: $10.88 (as of 12/20/2009)
Babar and Father Christmas (Babar Books (Random House))
Can Babar find Santa and ask him to visit the Elephants for Christmas?
Amazon Price: $10.85 (as of 12/20/2009)
The Velveteen Rabbit
The Classic Tale of the Velveteen Rabbit: Or, How Toys Became Real(Christmas Edition)
Amazon Price: $9.95 (as of 12/20/2009)
Reading this wonderful story about love and friendship is a great way to spend time together on Christmas Day. The timeless tale about a stuffed rabbit who discovers that love is a magic that can make dreams come true, is one that will be a cherished favorite for years to come.
Controversial Poet Clement C. Moore
Born in New York city in 1779, Clement Clarke Moore was the son of an Episcopal bishop and scholar, Benjamin Moore. His family's legacy in New York lives on today, most notably as the Clement Clarke Moore Park, at 10th Avenue and 22nd Street. It was dedicated to the author more than 100 years after his death. His descendants include the Ogden family, including the artist Mary C. Moore Ogden, who illustrated an edition of "'Twas the Night Before Christmas".Some historians speculate that Moore's ownership of the famous poem is false. The original Christmas rhyme was first published anonymously in the New York Sentinel in 1823. The newspaper hinted at Moore as the poems author, though he wouldn't be named for penning the work until 1837. Official ownership of "A Visit from St. Nicholas" would not pass to Clement Moore until 1844, when his children encouraged him to put his name to the now familiar Christmas poem.
Although some suggest that the poem may have been written by Henry Livingston Jr., most printings of "'Twas the Night Before Christmas" credit Mr. Moore with the original concept. The rhyme and the story have both been used not only in print but in television and film many times. In 1974 the Rankin/Bass production team (Frosty the Snowman, The Last Unicorn) brought us a fun and memorable animated story that embellished on the original poem. And of course who could forget Tim Burton's dark spin-off "The Nightmare Before Christmas".
'Twas the Night...
...of Wonderful Reading
For a fun alternative, try reading Hay Visage form Sane Ticklish instead!
The Night Before Christmas: The Heirloom Edition
Amazon Price: (as of 12/20/2009)
'Twas the Night Before Christmas
Amazon Price: $10.08 (as of 12/20/2009)
Ke Ahiahi Mamua O Kalikimaka: Twas the Night Before Christmas in Hawaii
Amazon Price: $10.36 (as of 12/20/2009)
Twas the Night Before Christmas: An African-american Version
Amazon Price: (as of 12/20/2009)
The Night Before Christmas
Amazon Price: $11.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
A Visit from St. Nicholas
The Contoversial Christmas Poem
"A Visit from St. Nicholas" (also known as "The Night Before Christmas" and '"Twas the Night Before Christmas"' from its first line) is a poem written by Clement Clarke Moore, first published anonymously in 1823. It is largely responsible for the conception of Santa Claus from the mid-nineteenth century to today, including his physical appearance, the night of his visit, his mode of transportation, the number and names of his reindeer, and the tradition that he brings toys to children. Prior to the poem, American ideas about St. Nicholas and other Christmastide visitors varied considerably. The poem has influenced ideas about St. Nicholas and Santa Claus beyond the United States to the rest of the Anglosphere and the world.
Christmas Tales
A Wish to Be a Christmas Tree
This Christmas version of the "Ugly Duckling" story is sure to warm the hearts of the whole family. Beautiful illustrations by Michael Monroe will make this book a favorite year after year.
Amazon Price: $11.53 (as of 12/20/2009)
Bear's First Christmas
Join in the adventure of a young bear cub as he discovers the magic of Christmas, and makes a few friends along the way.
Amazon Price: $13.25 (as of 12/20/2009)
The Polar Express
The award winning tale of a magical train to the North Pole is a holiday classic that no family bookshelf should be without!
Amazon Price: $9.47 (as of 12/20/2009)
The Mitten
This adaptation of a Ukrainian folk tale is a wonderful story for the holidays. A mitten lost in the woods becomes a magical hideaway for many creatures on a cold winter night.
Amazon Price: $6.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
Yes, Virginia, There Is A Santa Claus: The Classic Edition
This beautifully illustrated re-printing of the famous letters in the New York Sun is a great read for an evening around the fire. Make this book your newest family tradition!
Amazon Price: $9.95 (as of 12/20/2009)
Yes, Virginia
When Dr. Philip O'Hanlon dodged his daughter's question about the existence of Santa Claus in 1897, who knew that it would be the beginning of a much cherished holiday tradition?Young Virginia O'Hanlon had been worried about whether or not the rumors were true - that there was no such thing as Santa Claus. Naturally, she asked her father, who told her to write to the New York Sun for, "If you see it in The Sun, it's so."
Luckily for Virgina, and the rest of the world, her letter was received by Francis Pharcellus Church. This editor took it upon himself to renew a young girl's faith in Santa, and inspire his readers to find hope in troubling times. Although the original editorial was near the bottom of the page, it was noticed - and loved - by so many people, that it is now a Christmas staple all over the world.
Yes, Virgina, there is a Santa Claus has been reprinted more times than any other editorial in the English language. It has inspired several television specials, books and even parodies. The original letter written by Virginia was appraised for fifty thousand dollars in 1998.
Valentine's Day Books
Love, Splat
By Rob Scotton
Love, Splat (Splat the Cat)
Amazon Price: $12.23 (as of 12/20/2009)
This charming sequel to Splat the Cat is a fun story about the birds and bees. Poor Splat is smitten with Kitten, but he's so confused! She's always poking him and acting mean, and his rival Spike is thwarting his efforts to win Kitten's love. Will Valentine's Day be a disaster for Splat?
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Who Will Be Your Valentine?
Max's Valentine (Max and Ruby)
Who wouldn't love an adorable baby brother like Max? Poor Ruby just doesn't understand little boys!
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Amazon Price: $5.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
Franklin's Valentines
Franklin learns about true friendship on Valentine's Day.
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Amazon Price: $4.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown (Peanuts)
Charlie Brown has some bad holiday luck! How can he concentrate on making Valentine's when he's watching for the mailman?
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Amazon Price: $4.95 (as of 12/20/2009)
Little Critter: Happy Valentine's Day, Little Critter!
Who is Little Critter's extraspecial Valentine?
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Amazon Price: $6.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
My Fuzzy Valentine
Elmo receives a mystery Valentine! Who is it from?
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Amazon Price: $4.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
The Day it Rained Hearts
by Felicia Bond
Day It Rained Hearts
Amazon Price: $6.99 (as of 12/20/2009)
When it starts raining hearts, Cornelia Augusta, grabs four of these strange raindrops and hurries home to turn them into Valentines. With a little creativity, and a lot of love, she creates special cards for her friends Rabbit, Turtle, Mouse, and Dog. Her thoughtful gifts bring them as much happiness as this story will bring to you and your family.
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The Best Holiday Book Ever!
Everyone has a favorite holiday tradition - a movie or story that they share year after year. Which essential holiday classic do you turn to?
Sensational Stories
Visit these lenses for even more excellent selections, and family library must-haves.-
Top Ten Christmas Movies
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One of the most wonderful things about the Christmas season is sharing traditions with friends and family members. Though there are thousands of different ways to make the holidays special, many families always make time for some classic Christmas fi...
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Kid Lit! The Very Best Story Books
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Reading to children is a wonderful activity and past time that both parents and teachers enjoy. Seeing their rapt, excited faces when there's a mystery to be solved, a surprise twist, or a happy ending is all the reward one needs. Not only are story...
Reader Favorites
If your favorite holiday book isn't featured on Kid Lit! add it here and share your traditions!
The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore
Readers young and old are invited into the enchant more...1 point
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
A magical train ride on Christmas Eve takes a boy more...1 point
On Halloween Night by Harriet Ziefert
Emily is so excited, she is dancing. Tonight is Ha more...0 points
The Best Halloween Ever by Barbara Robinson
The Herdmans plus Halloween have always spelled di more...0 points
The Night Before Thanksgiving (Reading Railroad Books) by Natasha Wing
A creative spin on the Clement C. Moore classic, T more...0 points
Thanksgiving Is for Giving Thanks by Margaret Sutherland, Sonja Lamut
Sure, Thanksgiving is about pilgrims and history-a more...0 points
Comments
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Do you have an all time favorite holiday book? If you don't see it on this list, share it here! There's always room for more wonderful children's books!
Please feel free to leave feedback about Kid Lit!, and don't forget to rate Holiday Storybooks.
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- superbookdepot superbookdepot Oct 31, 2009 @ 12:09 am
- Story books are indeed the best way to make a holiday memorable and exciting for children. We also have a good of collection of Children story books.
4 Star to this. I am lensrolling it to my "Childrens Books - TOP 10 & MORE" Lens.
Have a nice day
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- The_Party_Animal The_Party_Animal Jan 1, 2009 @ 10:59 am
- Yahoo you are a winner in The Squidoo Home for The Holidays Lens Contest So Go Grab your badge.
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- AwakenYourSpirit AwakenYourSpirit Nov 2, 2008 @ 10:27 pm
- It's no mystery I'm a fan of stories, given I have two lenses devoted to them (so far - and more to come!). Here's the one I think the visitors to this lens will enjoy the most, and where I've lensrolled your lens:
Short Christmas Stories
Have a delightful holiday season!
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Reply
- Evelyn_Saenz Evelyn_Saenz Oct 11, 2008 @ 5:41 pm
- I laughed out loud when I saw that you have my favorite scary book for Halloween, In a Dark, Dark Room. Kids love it because it is just scary enough, has large print and predictable language.
Please come tell me your favorites on my Beginning to Read Lens.
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- Joan4 Joan4 Oct 11, 2008 @ 5:03 pm
- Oh I love the idea of KidLit! Wonderful! Great selection here, too! I love Velveteen Rabbit for all ages!
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