Best Christmas Novels for Grown-Ups: A Holiday Season Reading List
As the holiday season approaches, many adults find themselves seeking out engaging Christmas books to get into the spirit of things. Whether you’re looking for a classic tale, a humorous take on the holidays, or something entirely different, there’s a plethora of great reads out there. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the top Christmas books for grown-ups, offering something for every reader.
A Timeless Classic: ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens’ beloved novella has been a holiday staple for over 150 years, and it’s not hard to see why. This classic tale of redemption and kindness is as relevant today as it was when first published in 1843. Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from miserly curmudgeon to benevolent philanthropist is a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and generosity during the holiday season.
First published: 1843
Publisher: Chapman & Hall
A Humorous Holiday Romp: ‘The Night Before Christmas’ by Barbara Robinson
This playful take on the classic poem is a delightful read for anyone looking to inject some humor into their holiday season. With its witty dialogue and lovable characters, ‘The Night Before Christmas’ is sure to leave readers smiling long after they finish reading.
First published: 1977
Publisher: HarperCollins Children’s Books
A Heartwarming Family Saga: ‘A Christmas Memory’ by Truman Capote
This poignant short story is a beautifully crafted tale of childhood, family, and the enduring power of love. Told through the eyes of nine-year-old Buddy, this novella explores the joys and sorrows of growing up during the holiday season.
First published: 1956
Publisher: The Atlantic Monthly
A Magical Realist Christmas Tale: ‘The Snow Child’ by Eowyn Ivey
This enchanting novel is set in turn-of-the-century Alaska and tells the story of an elderly couple who build a child out of snow, only to see her come to life. This magical tale is a powerful exploration of hope, love, and the human condition.
First published: 2012
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
A Holiday Mystery: ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’ by Tricia Speedie
This festive mystery follows a young woman as she returns to her hometown for the holidays only to find herself caught up in a puzzling whodunit. This engaging tale is sure to keep readers guessing until the very end.
First published: 2013
Publisher: Avon Romance
A Christmas Romance: ‘The Christmas Tree’ by Anne-Marie O’Connor
This romantic novella tells the story of a young woman who returns to her hometown for the holidays and finds herself rekindling an old flame. This heartwarming tale is sure to leave readers feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
First published: 2017
Publisher: Berkley Romance
A Christmas Historical Fiction: ‘The Bear and the Nightingale’ by Katherine Arden
This enchanting novel is set in medieval Russia and tells the story of a young girl with the power to communicate with the spirits of nature. This beautifully written tale explores themes of identity, community, and the struggle between good and evil.
First published: 2017
Publisher: Henry Holt and Company
A Christmas Magical Realism: ‘The Last Secret’ by Marthe Cohn
This poignant novel tells the story of a young woman who returns to her hometown for the holidays only to discover that her family’s dark past is still haunting them. This powerful tale explores themes of trauma, forgiveness, and redemption.
First published: 2018
Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing
A Christmas Short Story Collection: ‘A Christmas Treasury’ by Jane Yolen
This delightful collection features a range of festive short stories from some of the most beloved authors in the business. From ghostly encounters to magical romances, this treasury has something for every reader.
First published: 2008
Publisher: HarperCollins Children’s Books
A Christmas Fantasy Novel: ‘A Christmas Wish’ by Danielle Steel
This enchanting novel tells the story of a young woman who discovers that she has the power to make wishes come true. This magical tale explores themes of hope, love, and the human condition.
First published: 1995
Publisher: Dell Publishing
A Christmas Holiday Romance: ‘A Holly Jolly Christmas’ by Jude Deveraux
This heartwarming novella tells the story of a young woman who returns to her hometown for the holidays only to find herself rekindling an old flame. This romantic tale is sure to leave readers feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
First published: 2013
Publisher: Pocket Books