31 Best December Picture Books for Kids: Favorite Reads

Best December picture books for kids images of children's book covers arranged in rows with a watercolor snowman and watercolor text.

December Picture Books for Kids. This December booklist for kids is filled with literary gems centered around snow, winter, Christmas, and family. This booklist for kids is the twelfth of twelve monthly booklists, so make sure you sign up for my mailing list to have it delivered straight to your inbox. I hope you enjoy these beautiful stories throughout the month of December.

Welcome to Sprinkled with Stories: A Story-Formed Childhood. Here is December’s Booklist! Scroll to the pink box and grab your freebie and printable booklist.

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31 Best December Picture Books for Kids: Favorite Read Alouds

1. The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree: An Appalachian Story by Gloria Houston

A young girl bundled up in winter clothes and holding an ax looks longingly up at a large evergreen tree covered in snow with a large ribbon tied on top on the book cover of "The Year of The Perfect Christmas Tree," a book on the best books to read aloud Christmas for kids. — The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree: An Appalachian Story by Gloria Houston

Ruthie and her Papa find the perfect balsam tree up on the ridge. But before they can cut down the tree for the village, Papa has to go to the Great War across the sea. The Christmas season is hard without Papa, and Ruthie needs a dress to be an angel in the Christmas play. The illustrations of this Christmas picture book are beautiful, and the meaning of family and courage are woven together. I highly recommend this special book.

2. Too Many Tamales by Gary Soto

Children stare at a large stack of fresh tamales on a plate with concern and surprise on the children's book cover of "Too Many Tamales" by Gary Soto, a book on the children's picture books about food and story book list. — Too Many Tamales by Gary Soto

In this fun book, Maria and her cousins try to eat themselves out of trouble after losing her mom’s diamond ring while making tamales on Christmas Eve. This may be the funniest book on this picture books about cooking.

3. Finding Narnia: The Story of C.S. Lewis and His Brother by Caroline McAlister

C.S. Lewis and his brother open the door to the iconic wardrobe on the picture biography "Finding Narnia" by Caroline McAlister, a book on the Best December Picture Books for Kids booklist. — Finding Narnia: The Story of C.S. Lewis and His Brother by Caroline McAlister

This is a beautiful biography picture book about C. S. Lewis and his brother. Lewis spent his young days dreaming up stories of knights, castles, and talking animals, while his brother dreamed up trains, boats, and technology. Together, they created imaginary worlds, and one day, they discovered a dusty wardrobe in a little room.

4. So Much Snow by Kristen Schroeder

A little bear peeks from a pile of snow and watches snowflakes on the children's book cover "So Much Snow," a book on the Best December Picture Books for Kids booklist. — So Much Snow by Kristen Schroeder

This is a sweet picture book about seven forest animals in a snowstorm. The snow continues to pile up through the week. Finally, on Sunday, the sun peeks through the clouds, and the snow melts. But is it truly the start of spring, or is that more snow falling?

5. White Snow, Bright Snow by Alvin Tresselt

A blanket of snow covers busy sidewalks in the city on the cover of "White Snow Bright Snow," a book about snow for toddlers and kids. — White Snow, Bright Snow by Alvin Tresselt

In this classic book, a neighborhood is transformed into a winter wonderland. I love the contrast between the adults doing all their practical winter tasks against the children laughing and enjoying the snow. The book begins with a poem, then follows the snow through the town.

6. The Nutcracker by Valeria Docampo

Clara holds a wooden painted Nutcracker in front of a giant Christmas tree on the beloved ballet classic "The Nutcracker" by Valeria Docampo, a book on the Best December Picture Books for Kids booklist. — The Nutcracker by Valeria Docampo

This beloved picture book of the Nutcracker tells of the modern ballet based on George Balanchine’s production. The book’s stunning illustrations are inspired by the real-life backdrop and scenery used in the New York City Ballet’s production.

7. An Orange for Frankie by Patricia Polacco

Frankie, a young, holds a bright ripe orange in front of a fireplace decorated with garland and oranges on Christmas day. — An Orange for Frankie by Patricia Polacco

Every year Pa travels to Lansing to gather oranges for Christmas gifts for each family member. But the wintry weather makes it difficult for him to return and the family begins to worry. I love that the author writes from the inspiration of her childhood. If you enjoy Patricia Polacco’s children books, check out The Christmas Tapestry (behavior, teasing, and references to PK, preacher’s kid which was very confusing for my young girls) and Gifts of the Heart (content references singing Dixie and deals with loss).

8. The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski

A wood carver hands a young boy carve a piece of wood on the book cover of "The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey," a book on the best books to read around Christmas for kids. — The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski

This sweet, heartwarming story is about a gruff widowed woodcarver, a widowed mom, and her eight-year-old son. The mom needs a nativity scene and seeks out the impatient and unapproachable woodcarver, Jonathan Toomey. The little boy becomes fascinated with the woodcarver’s skill and returns to watch him work. As Jonathan carves the nativity scene, his heart begins to soften, and the three share in the joy of Christmas and the power of love and kindness.

9. Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree by Robert E. Barry

A large evergreen Christmas tree top bends at the top against the ceiling while someone tries to trim the top off on the book cover "Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree," a book on the best books to read around Christmas for kids. — Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree by Robert E. Barry

Mr. Willowby is a wealthy man who buys a Christmas tree that is too large for his house. His butler trims the very top off. The top of this tree continues to be trimmed, shared and passed down to others. The delightful read is filled with whimsy and is a true delight to share with young children at Christmas.

10. The Christmas Book Flood by Emily Kilgore

A young girl reads a book to her dog in front of books stacked in the shape of a Christmas tree with lights and a star in the middle of the snowy town on the cover of the children's picture book "The Christmas Book Flood." — The Christmas Book Flood by Emily Kilgore

Have you heard of the Icelandic tradition on Christmas Eve called Jolabokaflod (translated in English as Book Flood)? It’s a fantastic way to kick off the holiday season and start the celebration of your own book flood tradition on Christmas Eve. Content Warning: reference the word magic – “reading is like magic.”

How to Celebrate the Christmas Book Flood with Kids

11. How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss

Grinch looks mischievous on the orange book cover of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Suess. — How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss

This book is a timeless holiday classic by the beloved children’s author, Dr. Seuss. Our grouchy, green cave-dwelling friend decides to steal the joy of Christmas from the holiday-loving Whos. But, it turns out Christmas joy is not in wrapped packages. I love how Dr. Seuss captures the whimsy of Christmas!

12. Night Tree by Eve Bunting

A family of four stares up the perfect evergreen tree with a red bird resting on top on a quiet, clear night with a full moon high in the sky on the book cover of "Night Tree," a book on the best books to read around Christmas for kids. — Night Tree by Eve Bunting

On Christmas Eve, a family ventures into the woods guided by moonlight to decorate their favorite tree with popcorn strings, apples, tangerines, and sunflower-seed ornaments for the woodland creatures to enjoy. This book led to a Christmas family tradition of decorating a tree around our home with DIY birdseed pine cone feeders.

13. Red & Lulu by Matt Tavares

Two winter birds flying high above the city with a brightly light Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center on the book cover of "Red and Lulu." — Red & Lulu by Matt Tavares

One day, the unthinkable happens, and Red and Lulu are separated. They have spent most of their days living in a beautiful evergreen tree, shaded from the heat and protected and cozy in the cold months. They even enjoyed bright lights and carols on Christmas. Now, the tree is strapped to a trailer and headed to spread Christmas joy in New York City.

14. Walking in a Winter Wonderland by Richard B. Smith

Kids bundled in warm winter clothes run in the snowy woods filled with woodland creatures on the book cover of "Walking in a Winter Wonderland," a book about snow for toddlers. — Walking in a Winter Wonderland by Richard B. Smith

The adorable illustrations of this picture book is caught my eye. My little girls love reading and signing the lyrics to the classic holiday song “Walking in a Winter Wonderland” while following along the book’s snowy pages.

15. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

A long black train pulls up into a neighborhood on a snowy evening on the book cover of "The Polar Express," a beloved book on the best books to read around Christmas for kids book list. — The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

This beloved children’s book captures the magic of Christmas. There is just something about Christmas and trains. Late on Christmas Eve, a young boy boards a mysterious train while the town sleeps. There is a question of unbelief and a gift of a bell. I cannot tell you more without spoiling the story.

16. The Quiltmaker’s Gift by Jeff Brumbeau

The king marches along the border of the book with a man, a bear, and many gifts following. behind him with a colorful patch quilt flying above them on the book cover of "The Quiltmaker's Gift," a book about compassion for kids. — The Quiltmaker’s Gift by Jeff Brumbeau

In this picture book, a humble quilt maker pieces together beautiful quilts and gifts them to the poor. The patches on her last gifted quilt hold memories of a glorious story of riches to rags. I love the book’s colorful illustrations. This book is a bit longer than the typical picture book.

17. Mortimer’s Christmas Manger by Karma Wilson

A small brown mice holds onto a branch besides gold stars and a white and red candy cane on a decorated Christmas tree on the book cover of "Mortimer's Christmas Manger." — Mortimer’s Christmas Manger by Karma Wilson

Karma Wilson’s Bear books are a favorite in our home. Mortimer, the little brown mouse, discovers the real meaning of Christmas, and may it be my girls’ favorite book to read at Christmas time.

18. The Christmas Promise by Alison Mitchell

A bright red background with transparent hourglasses featuring a manager filled with hay and baby Jesus wearing a gold crown on the book cover of "The Christmas Promise," a book on the best books to read around Christmas for kids. — The Christmas Promise by Alison Mitchell

This book is a beautiful retelling of the Christmas story with stunning illustrations. “A very special King had been born—the King for all God’s people. This child was the promised New King! It presents the gospel clearly and concisely, reinforcing Jesus as the rescuing king—the forever King.

19. Silver Packages: An Appalachian Christmas Story by Cynthia Rylant

A little boy smiles while holding a silver package in front of a decorated Christmas tree on the children's book "Silver Packages" by Cynthia Rylant, a book on the best books to read around Christmas for kids booklist. — Silver Packages by Cynthia Rylant

Every Christmas, a train brings presents to all the children in Appalachia. And every year, one boy wishes for a toy doctor’s kit, yet he never receives it. I love the message of unconditional and cheerful giving. I find this book more for the adult reading than the children. It can be difficult for the children to grasp the message. But it still earns a spot on the Best Books to Read Around Christmas booklist.

20. Christmas Day in the Morning by Pearl S. Buck

One early morning on Christmas day a young boy holding a lantern walks up a snowy hill to a big red barn. — Christmas Day in the Morning by Pearl S. Buck

Rob doesn’t have much money to spend on gifts. So, he surprises his father with a special gift early in the morning on the farm. A true gift of the heart and the love between father and son!

21. A Simple Christmas on the Farm by Phyllis Alsdurf

A red barn is decorated for Christmas with bright lanterns, presents, red sleigh, and a Christmas tree on the children's book cover "A Simple Christmas on the Farm," on the book list of Christmas Picture Books for kid. — A Simple Christmas on the Farm by Phyllis Alsdurf

Her parents informed her that this year we will have a simple Christmas, “we’ll focus less on getting and more on giving.” She’s not so sure about this. I love the message of selflessness and contentment woven throughout the story. The focus is not on an elaborate plot, but rather on an ordinary family choosing to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas, rather than the consumerism that often surrounds the holiday season. The author includes instructions for homemade gifts and crafts in the back of the book.

22. Christmas Farm by Mary Lyn Ray

A family looks at the beautiful trees on their Christmas farm in the Children's book "Christmas Farm." — Christmas Farm by Mary Lyn Ray

This sweet picture book provides a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes- of a Christmas tree farm. In search of a new beginning for the garden, she starts with sixty-two dozen balsam seedlings with the help of her five-year-old neighbor. Perfect for a pre-trip read before heading out to pick the perfect tree at your local Christmas tree farm.

23. The Wild Christmas Reindeer by Jan Brett

A young blonde girl holds the harnesses of two Christmas reindeer on a snowy day on the children's book cover of "The Wild Christmas Reindeer," a book on the booklist of Reindeer books for kids. — The Wild Christmas Reindeer by Jan Brett

In this sweet picture book, Teeka must prepare Santa’s reindeer. However, the reindeer are not cooperating and have trouble following her bossy orders. Teeka soon discovers a better way to prepare the stubborn reindeer in time for their crucial flight.

24. Fletcher and the Snowflake Christmas by Julia Rawlinson

Fletcher, a little red box, talks with his woodland friends outside his den on a snowy winter day on the book cover of "Fletcher and the Snowflake Christmas," a book on the Christmas Picture Books for Kids booklist. — Fletcher and the Snowflake Christmas by Julia Rawlinson

Our favorite fall book is Fletcher and the Falling Leaves, so we were thrilled to find a sweet Christmas story featuring the beloved Fletcher. Fletcher, the fox, is concerned that Father Christmas won’t be able to find the rabbit’s new burrow. Being the helpful little fox, he devises a plan with the help of his woodland friends. But there is a snowy problem. The full-page illustrations are enchanting and sure to grab your little one’s attention. If you adore Fletcher, check out Fletcher and the Falling Leaves and Fletcher and the Springtime Blossoms.

25. The Snowy Nap by Jan Brett

A cuddly hedgehog rests in a bed in front of a window admiring the wintery scene of the farm on the book cover of "The Snowy Nap," a book about snow for toddlers and kids. — The Snowy Nap by Jan Brett

Jan Brett has quite a few winter themed books. This one may be my favorite one. Hedgie hears so many wonderful things about snow that he delays hibernation. Rescued by Lisa, he enjoys the wintery scene from a cozy bed positioned near a window in Lisa’s home.

26. Mouse’s Christmas Wish by Mindy Baker

A little mouse wearing a green sweater lights a candle in the church's window on the children's book cover "Mouse's Christmas Gift" by Mindy Baker, a book on the Best December Picture Books for Kids booklist. — Mouse’s Christmas Wish by Mindy Baker

That night, on Christmas Eve, a small group of villagers gathered in front of the darkened church. Mouse peered out the window and his heart began to pound. They came!

In this precious picture book, a tiny church mouse finds a way to bring everyone together on Christmas Eve even though Parson must cancel the service due to sickness.

27. Snow by Cynthia Rylant

A little child is dressed in a blue snow suit standing in amazement outside in the snow with heavy large snowflakes falling down on the book cover of "Snow" by Cynthia Rylant a book about snow for toddlers and kids. — Snow by Cynthia Rylant

This lovely book includes beautiful descriptions of the sights and feelings of fallen snow. My favorite line from this book is, “The best snow is the snow that comes softly in the night, like a shy friend afraid to knock, so she thinks she’ll just wait in the yard until you see her. This is the snow that brings you peace.”

28. A Creature Was Stirring by Heather S. Pierczynski

A happy, big-eared mouse marches with a drum on Christmas Eve on the children's book "A Creature Was Stirring," a book on the Best December Picture Books for kids booklist. — A Creature Was Stirring by Heather S. Pierczynski

In this delightful holiday book, Mouse is surprised to learn that a mouse is not supposed to stir on the night before Christmas. On Christmas Eve, Mouse’s stirring causes a commotion and he is sent to bed.

29. Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson

Sleepy bear holds one eye open in the snowy forest with his woodland friends gathering around on the book cover of "Bear Stays Up For Christmas." — Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson

Bear’s woodland friends do not want him to miss Christmas. Sleepy Bear helps them find a Christmas tree, bake, and decorate his lair. This sweet story teaches the value of friendship, kindness, and cheerful giving. The rhythmic text and charming illustrations will have young children begging you to read it again, or in my house, they shout in unison, “Again, Again!” If you love this one, there are more Bear books, and we love them ALL.

30. The Legend of the Candy Cane by Lori Walburg

A husband and wife wearing warm green and red winter clothes, carrying brown sacks of candy, and walking along the snowy road on the book cover "The Legend of the Candy Cane." — The Legend of the Candy Cane by Lori Walburg

A newcomer has set up shop in a quaint prairie town, and it’s a candy store! Upon meeting his new young friend Lucy, he proceeds to share the legend of the candy cane. This delightful story is a wonderful way to share the gospel message with children during the holiday season.

31. Jan Brett’s Christmas Treasury

Santa Claus rides in a sleigh pulled by flying reindeer over the snowy land on the book cover "Jan Brett's Christmas Treasury." — Jan Brett’s Christmas Treasury

If you love Jan Brett’s children’s books, then this is the perfect Christmas Treasury to add to your Christmas book stack.

THE CHILDREN’S TREASURY INCLUDES:

The Mitten
The Wild Christmas Reindeer
Trouble with Trolls
Twelve Days of Christmas
The Hat
The Night Before Christmas

Interested in More Booklists for Kids: Check These Out!

Best Books to Read Around Christmas for Kids

Children's book covers arranged on a background of red holly all featured on the booklist best books to read around Christmas to kids with curly decorative fonts and a Christmas wreath with holly berries.

Get the full list of great picture books for Christmas HERE.

Best Best Books About Snow: A Picture Book Collection

A collage of book covers featuring books about snow for toddlers and kids with cool-colored decorative snowflakes and black bold text.

Get the complete list of books about snow HERE.

Best January Picture Books for Kids

Best January picture books arranged in rows with images of favorite children's picture book covers with a white circle text overlay and decorative font reading Best January picture books for kids.

Check out this booklist of our favorite children’s books to read in January HERE

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Thanks for Stopping By!

Lastly, thank you for stopping by! Please say Hi in the comment section and share one of your favorite books on the Best December Picture Books for Kids booklist. This booklist was so fun to make. If you enjoyed this booklist, subscribe to my mailing list to receive each monthly picture booklist right in your inbox. Each booklist includes 31 wholesome picture books for kids and a free printable. My goal is to help you build a list of great read alouds for all the little readers in your life.

Please note this booklist does not encompass a comprehensive list of all the themes and December holidays and is curated for ages 3-6 years old. I will continue to add more themed booklist.

HAPPY READING!