5 Sweet Children’s Christmas Books That Will Bring You To Tears

My pre-school daughter brought the December Scholastic book catalog home the other day and, I have to admit, I was a bit underwhelmed. So many of the books seemed like the usual watered-down or pop culture-inspired stuff that I also see front and center at Barnes & Noble and Walmart. So I thought I’d share some Christmas books with a little more depth to them. These five books  are inspiring, beautiful, and really bring to life the true spirit of the season. Some of them are so sweet they might even move you to tears…

Find these books on Amazon or check your local library in Dallas you can reserve online and they will pull for you!). Any of these would make a special gift this season. 

1. Song of the Stars 

The youngest of children will enjoy the beautiful illustrations of Alison Jay, but you will tear up reading this story told from the point of view of the animals and flowers and the rest of God’s expectant creation on the night of Jesus’ birth. A precious gift book for young children. 

2.The Story of Holly and Ivy

A tear-jerker, but in a good way! An orphan little girl wishes to find a family of her own, a doll wishes to be bought for a little girl’s Christmas present, and a sweet couple longs for the child they never could have. This classic children’s book is precious and would be a special gift for a little girl of any age, maybe even paired with a doll of her very own. 

3. Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot

This picture book is based on the true story of the Berlin Airlift, when British and American planes dropped food and humanitarian supplies to the people of West Berlin post WWII. Lt. Gail S. Halvorsen became known as the “Chocolate Pilot” when he dropped candy, and thus hope, upon the children of West Berlin. 

4. The Family Under the Bridge

A sweet story about a Parisian homeless man that reluctantly befriends a family of homeless children. This is an appropriate book to read aloud to elementary and middle school children. His heart softens toward them and your heart will soften toward the homeless. (Note: originally published in 1958, this book is not “PC” in the sense that it uses words like hobos instead of homeless, but allows for good conversation nonetheless.)

For younger children, Kate DiCamillo’s Great Joy is also a moving story along these same lines and has beautiful illustrations. 

5. The Lion in the Box

I read this book to my girls a few years ago (when they were four and six) and I was ugly crying as I read the last chapter to my girls. (They stared at me like I was crazy, of course!). The story of how the generosity of one family affects another less fortunate family is one that will stick with me for the rest of my life. It’s a great one to read during this season of giving. This book is out of print but check your local library or order it used on Amazon. It will be enjoyed by all ages. 

I could go on and on about my favorite children’s Christmas books but would love to your favorites, too. Share below!