Top 10 Christmas Books for Primary School Readers
We have reviewed our top ten Christmas books for primary school readers.
Suitable for Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, these books are great resources for content and inspiration during the festive season.
Grandpa Christmas by Michael Morpurgo
In this special newly-released book, Mia receives a letter from her grandfather in which he expresses a “heartfelt wish for a better world for Mia to live in.” “A hopeful and timely story about looking after our planet and making a better world for our future generations.”
The book contains a powerful, poignant message which couldn’t be more relevant than it is today. Beautiful illustrations adorn the pages and feel as though they are moving as Grandpa tells Mia of the challenges the world faces. There is a strong family thread running through the book which binds the whole message together.
We thoroughly enjoyed this read and recommend it for all.
Ages 4+. 32 pages.
Snow in the Garden: A First Christmas Book by Shirley Hughes
This charming 2018 release celebrates the wonder of Christmas as enjoyed through the eyes (and hands) of children. The book is made up of stories, poems and things to make and do throughout advent.
Traditional illustrations guide the reader through the book by decorating the stories and adding context to the activities. The activities and recipes have very clear instructions.
Family is at the centre of this warm-hearted festive creation across three generations making for a lovely bedtime read. The book reminded us of simpler times and is an instant Christmas classic.
Ages 5+. 64 pages.
The Gruffalo & The Gruffalo’s Child by Julia Donaldson
Two Christmas ever-presents since James Corden & co brought Julia Donaldson’s tales to life for the Christmas television schedule.
Brave & ingenious tales of courage, determination & wit.
Winter favourites for young and old and should be on all bookcases.
Ages 3+. 32 pages.
Geronimo by David Walliams
David Walliams’ latest release is a fun snowy caper set in a winter wonderland. A fun, short read, the tale follows Geronimo the Emperor penguin as he tries to take to air; but as we know penguins can’t fly.
A silly adventure with a positive message.
Ages 3+. 32 pages.
The Story Orchestra: The Nutcracker by Jessica Courtney-Tickle
Firstly, this is a beautiful book worthy of any bookcase. The textured finish of the cover, bright red colour and the illustrated artwork are stunning.
A pretty story set on Christmas Eve, the ‘press the note’ book retells The Nutcracker ballet and introduces children to the sounds of Tchaikovsky.
It is an enchanting tale and the perfect length for bedtime.
Ages 6+. 24 pages.
You can read more about how music can aid the learning of literacy skills here.
The Christmasaurus by Tom Fletcher
Tom Fletcher’s Christmas caper quickly became a festive favourite following its release. A fun Christmas Eve adventure that has it all: young William, elves, snow, Santa, reindeer, and… a dinosaur.
With illustrations jumping off the page and prose that interacts with the reader directly, this tale really draws you in. The story explores the darker sides of growing up, addressing issues appropriately, with the overall message that Christmas is a special time of year and ‘special’ is something that is subjective to you and your family.
Ages 7+. 400 pages.
The Snowman by Michael Morpurgo
Michael Morpurgo has reimagined this Christmas classic to bring it to a new generation. As enchanting as the original, there are nods to the Raymond Briggs story; this renewed version adds references to bullying and loneliness whilst maintaining the spirit of imagination & loss.
Warm additions to the Christmas classic will surely make this a classic in its own right in the coming years.
Ages 7+. 160 pages.
How Winston Delivered Christmas by Alex T. Smith
An advent story of twenty-four-and-a-half chapters, this Christmas tale of mighty proportions is intended to keep young readers engaged throughout the festive season.
A perfect read for the build-up to Christmas with daily stories and activities that will ensure this interactive is close at hand throughout the season. Beautifully illustrated by 2014’s World Book Day Illustrator, the prose tells a tale of a mouse’s mighty journey to deliver a lost Christmas card.
Sure to be a classic of future years.
Ages 5+. 176 pages.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
A Christmas classic gaining more attention than usual this year due to the release of the new animated movie.
Dr. Seuss books are a great introduction to reading, poetry and philosophy to be enjoyed by children & adults alike.
Ages 4+. 64 pages.
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