4 Christmas books about Jesus
Here are four beautiful books in my (Catholic) family's collection that celebrate Jesus' birth, explain the season's traditions, and have a little fun with our favorite saints.
The first words out of my son’s mouth this morning were, “Let’s put up the Christmas tree!”
So our tree is up, only one ornament broke (and it was, in fact, my fault), and the living room is covered in half-open boxes of Christmas decorations. ‘Tis the season!
Advent begins Sunday, Dec. 1, and if you are looking for Christmas books for preschoolers and toddlers that celebrate Jesus’ birth, here are a few of our favorites:
“Mortimer’s Christmas Manger” written by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Jane Chapman
This one is my favorite! From the author and illustrator duo of the “Bear Snores On” series, “Mortimer’s Christmas Manger” is about a little mouse who learns what it means to make room for Jesus.
The illustrations are warm and cozy, Mortimer is cute and funny, and I tear up at the ending every time.
Recommended age: 3 - 6 years
“The Story of Christmas” written by Patricia A. Pingry, illustrated by Rebecca Thornburgh
This is a wonderful first Christmas book for babies and toddlers. If you’re looking for a book that explains the nativity story in a simple, approachable way, this is it!
I would say it’s best for ages 3 and younger.
Recommended age: 0 - 3 years
“This is the Stable” written by Cynthia Cotten, illustrated by Delana Bettoli
“This is the Stable” is a beautiful telling of the nativity story. My littles are absolutely captivated by this book’s illustrations. They are rich, vibrant, and full of incredible detail. The writing is lyrical, and the repetition of the “quiet stable, dusty and brown” brings us back to what Christmas is all about.
Read this to feel the beautiful blending of the supernatural and very human elements of that still and silent night.
Recommended age: 2 - 4 years
“The Night the Saints Saved Christmas” written by Gracie Jagla, illustrated by Michael Corsini
What happens when St. Nicholas gets sick on Christmas Eve? His fellow saints help make his deliveries! This is a fun read that combines the tradition of Santa Claus with everyone’s favorite saints. Look for cameos from St. Therese, St. John Paul II, Pier Giorgio, St. Joan of Arc and more.
Recommended age: 3 - 7 years
And ye, beneath life's crushing load,
whose forms are bending low,
who toil along the climbing way
with painful steps and slow,
look now! for glad and golden hours
come swiftly on the wing.
O rest beside the weary road,
and hear the angels sing!
— “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear”
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