Best New Children&039s Christmas Books for 2021

Follow PHEBINHVANHOC on

YOU ARE READING: Best New Children&039s Christmas Books for 2021 AT PhebinhvanhocEN

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

a roundup of the best new Christmas books for 2021

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

All of us at goodreadswithronna.com wish you a warm and wonderful Christmas!

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

reviews:

JINGLE BELLS / NAVIDAD: Bilingual Nursery Rhymes (English & Spanish) Written and illustrated by Susie Jaramillo (Canticos; $10.99, Ages 0-6)

This 16-page bilingual board book with lift-up flaps is not only beautiful to look at (its cover has foil accents), but it also stars the sweet chicks from the emmy-nominated series. What more delicious way to celebrate the holidays than by sharing the “rattlesnake” song with the children in English and Spanish. There are cute characters in vibrant colors to enjoy, like a mother hen, a purple spider, an adorable elephant, a frog, and a bunny. Kids can have fun lifting the assorted flaps to find additional words like warmth/warmth, joy/joy, and others, while improving their bilingual language skills. a larger format board book ($14.99) with an accordion design offers the opportunity to read “jingle bells” in one side entirely in English and the other in Spanish. visit canticosworld.com for free resources, activities and more. For a limited time, the charms app is available for free.

reviewed by ronna mandel

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

MERRY CHRISTMAS, GUS Written and illustrated by Chris Chatterton (Penguin Workshop; $17.99, Ages 3-5)

Merry Christmas, Gus is the second book by Chris Chatterton starring the lovable grumpy bloodhound, Gus. There doesn’t seem to be much to Gus about the holiday season until a pup enters the picture, so, . . . maybe.

As in the first book, the art is funny due to Gus’s somber expressions. my favorite part is the ending, sorry you’ll have to read it yourself! the perfect gift for the person who isn’t too keen on their holiday shopping list.

reviewed by christine van zandt

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

THE TOYS’ CHRISTMAS Written by Claire Clément Illustrated by Geneviève Godbout (Frances Lincoln Children’s Books; $17.99, Ages 3-7)

Let the cozy feeling of this sweet Christmas bedtime story envelop your little ones as they drift off to sleep. i loved the premise of christmas of toys in which little noah can’t fall asleep because his favorite stuffed animal is nowhere to be found. Delighted by his disappearance, you might ask? No. i loved his devotion to noah. fanfan, it seems, is on a secret mission along with all the other stuffed animals he meets on his long and special journey. once a year the beloved toys travel to the north pole. there they can “tell santa what her son wants for christmas. after all, they know her son best.” well, this moved me and I hope it does the same with her child. Rest assured, FanFan returns to delight Noah, who is also thrilled that his Christmas wish is coming true. Coupled with godbout’s gorgeous colored pencil and pastel illustrations in faded tones, not unlike many beloved toys after years of hugs and washes, clément’s gentle prose is sure to delight.

reviewed by ronna mandel

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

CHRISTMAS, HERE I COME! Written by D. J. Steinberg Illustrated by Laurie Stansfield (Grosset & Dunlap; $5.99, Ages 4-6)

If you’re looking for a gift to bring to family, friends or neighbors before or on Christmas day, look no further than Christmas, here I come!, one of the many books on the best selling series This paperback is packed with humorous and sentimental poems revolving around the holiday, from tree picking to fruitcake jokes, from the merry mess of wrapping paper to Santas around the world. There are even stickers at the end for added entertainment. one of my favorites is called “peace on earth” about two neighbors who compete for the most lights in their homes until the circuits blew up. another is “my christmas sweater” about the hilarity and comfort of the traditional ugly sweater. There is also a recurring letter from beloved Santa Claus from a character named Bobby that many youngsters will identify with. Stansfield’s art evokes the spirit of Christmas, capturing the rich experiences detailed in Steinberg’s poetry.

reviewed by ronna mandel

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

JOY TO THE WORLD!: Christmas Around the Globe Written by Kate DePalma Illustrated by Sophie Fatus (Barefoot Books; $17.99, Ages 4-10)

joy to the world!, with its embossed gold lettering and cover accents, makes a great Christmas gift for families, friends, and anyone curious about Christmas traditions in 13 countries that go from Argentina. teeming with diverse children and their families celebrating in a special way, this colorful picture book not only entertains but also educates.

Kids will see how Simbang Gabi in the Philippines lasts for nine days, including daily worship. “We come every day, and they say if you do/whatever you want on the ninth it will come true.” The stars twinkle throughout this particular two-page spread, and the beautifully bordered art (throughout the book and exclusive to that country) in a joyous palette of jewel tones exudes joy and community. in ethiopia, where people celebrate genna on january 7, families gather around the mesob (a basket-shaped table) and feed each other “with a large quantity of food at hand”. I love that so many celebrations revolve around food as well as family and religious rituals. Older readers will find even more useful information in the previous topic that expands on the brief rhyming information for each country that was described on the previous pages. This cozy and lively picture book full of happy families puts the world’s celebrations at your fingertips in the most charming way.

reviewed by ronna mandel

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

THE STAR TREE Written and illustrated by Gisela Cölle Translated by Rosemary Lanning (first published in Switzerland) (NorthSouth Books; $17.99, Ages 4-8)

for a quiet story this busy holiday season, consider gisela cölle’s the star tree. a mustachioed old man missed days of yore, away from sprawling city life. No one looks up to the sky anymore as they rush through their busy days.

cölle’s illustrations reflect the rustic simplicity of the text. This timeless classic proves that sometimes less can be more, and by taking that first step, you can join a community. you’ll also be inspired to cut out some stars!

reviewed by christine van zandt

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

CARLA AND THE CHRISTMAS CORNBREAD Written by Carla Hall with Kristen Hartke Illustrated by Cherise Harris (Denene Millner Books/Simon & Schuster BYR; $17.99, Ages 4-8)

I find it hard to resist food-themed picture books. your? Carla and the Christmas Cornbread happily took me back to the ’70s for a story based on the early childhood memories of author, chef, and TV food personality Carla Hall.

turning to his grandparents, with mom driving, older sister kim sitting in the passenger seat and carla in the back seat along with a host of gifts, he enjoyed the ride “watching the lights glisten on the houses as we zoomed past “. .” carla was excited to see her grandparents and eat the delicious cornbread her grandmother made. Spending time at Christmas at her house was clearly a highlight for her. From cooking cornbread together with Grandma, to listening to Grandpa “Doc” share stories about his time in France when he once ate snails, to searching the Christmas tree for the black Santa ornament that looks just like her, these cute moments convey the warmth of family that meant a lot to this young lady. Harris’ playful art, full of attention to detail and a feeling for the times, complements this beautiful story.

but when, just before bed, she bit into the cookie meant for santa claus, carla worried about getting in trouble. Certain that Santa would put her on her naughty list, Ella Carla was relieved when Grandma, who heard Carla confess, suggested they make Santa “a special Christmas cornbread.” Even though the doctor assured her that Ella Santa probably got tired of all her cookies, Ella Carla still felt sad. But it all ends well when Christmas morning brings more than joy for her and the readers invest in seeing a happy outcome for Carla. Be sure to read to the very last page where a surprise illustration shows Santa nibbling on a tasty treat! bonus: a cornbread recipe is included.

reviewed by ronna mandel

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

JUST BE CLAUS: A Christmas Story Written by Barbara Joosse Illustrated by Kim Barnes (Sleeping Bear Press; $16.99; Ages 4-8)

This adorably illustrated picture book answers the question: What was Santa like as a child? With a “round belly that quivers when he laughs like a bowl full of jam,” Clausie is different and “unusual” from the start. her “ho ho ho ho” laughter, her creative talent for making “cool things” with Grandma in her super-secret workshop, and her tendency to help the opposing hockey team score make him stand out and “feel out of place.” ”. he expresses his desire to be like the other children, but the grandmother assures him: “you are creative, considerate and generous… don’t try to be like the others. Just be you.” A blizzard brings the entire town to a standstill, preventing the train from delivering its huge load of presents. Clausie’s clever act of kindness not only saves Christmas Day, but also helps him embrace his own cuteness. Wrapping up this sweet holiday book are themes of empathy, love, and self-acceptance that can be explored any time of year.

reviewed by armineh manookian

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

THE CHRISTMAS OWL: Based on the True Story of a Little Owl Named Rockefeller Written by Ellen Kalish and Gideon Sterer Illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki (Little, Brown BYR; $17.99, Ages 4-8)

Animal lovers will enjoy this heartwarming picture book, The Christmas Owl, by Ellen Kalish and Gideon Sterer. Based on a true story of a little owl trapped in a felled tree and brought to the city, the story is seen through the eyes of the little owl who wonders what happened and where they have taken her. At all times, she wonders, is this Christmas? at the end, she is able to explain to her friends from the forest what the holidays are all about.

While Ramona Kaulitzki’s illustrations bring the story to life, be sure to look on the back cover as well. the real photos of the owl are more than cute and their release is very joyful. Take a look under the dust jacket for a different cover image!

reviewed by christine van zandt

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

MERRY WITCHMAS Written by Petrell Marie Özbay and Tess La Bella Illustrated by Sonya Abby (Boyds Mill Press; $17.99, Ages 3-7)

Don’t let the word witch in the title fool you. happy witchcraft is not about halloween, although you could start sharing it in October. It’s actually about a sweet witch named Ginger who loves everything related to Christmas. be it “a flying sleigh, a red-nosed reindeer” or the toys. But the most important thing is that Ginger wants a visit from Santa Claus. You see that she lives in the “invisible forest” that was not on Santa’s radar. Regardless, she always behaved carefully to get on Santa’s “good list.” this year she has decided to take things one step further and write to santa so that maybe he will believe that she existed. She would even include a map!

the magic of ginger delivers the letter directly to santa claus, who checked his lists and then double-checked them. no witch named ginger appeared. Since she didn’t believe in witches, she had never actually looked for them. However, if children could believe in Santa, why couldn’t witches exist as well? he wonders. that’s when the magic happens. Using the gingerbread map, Santa heads to the magical land of the young witch and at last, the two finally meet and bring Christmas cheer to both of them. Kids will want to see the fun details Abby includes in his cute artwork that exudes warmth and humor. my favorite touch is the jingles of the kitty looking for christmas cookies along with the christmas decorations in his house. With all the Christmas sentiments, this picture book is a new take on the holidays and not giving up on your dreams.

reviewed by ronna mandel

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

SANTA IN THE CITY Written by Tiffany D. Jackson Illustrated by Reggie Brown (Dial BYR; $17.99, Ages 4-8)

★Featured Reviews: Book List, School Library Journal

Deja is very excited for Christmas, but her classmates’ mistrust of Santa visiting them in town sends her into a downward spiral of self-doubt. “‘How does Santa get into our house if we don’t have a fireplace? …Where will [santa] park his sleigh?” Ella leaves question after question of Ella’s mother, who, along with extended family and neighborhood friends, patiently answers each one. her replies provide some relief, as evidenced by her refrain “‘oh’…makes sense”, but she leaves needing more proof. Cheerful illustrations of a diverse and vibrant urban setting filled with the holiday spirit drive home the point: what she leaves behind is already close to her beautiful neighborhood. A surprise on Christmas morning assures her heart that “magic really does find a way,” just like Mom has said all along.

reviewed by armineh manookian

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

GRUMPY MONKEY OH, NO! CHRISTMASWritten by Suzanne Lang Illustrated by Max Lang (Random House Studio; $18.99, Ages 3-7)

beloved character jim panzee is back, this time for the holidays, grumpier than ever. the weather has been “grizzly, drizzle” all week, his morning banana green, plus he accidentally trips over a mud puddle. on top of everything else, his jungle friends insist that he absolutely must be excited about the upcoming holiday season. one by one, they take turns telling her how she “must” do one thing or another to celebrate properly: write a card for mom, wrap presents, “reflect silently.” But for grumpy, miserable Jim, “everything sucks!”—that is, until his kind gorilla friend, Norman, helps him see things from a different perspective. Conversations about kindness and gratitude lighten his load and give him a strong reason to celebrate. Readers young and old will fall in love all over again with Jim Panzee’s crankiness, expressed so perfectly by Lang’s hilarious and hilarious illustrations.

reviewed by armineh manookian

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

A SIMPLE CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM Written by Phyllis Alsdurf Illustrated by Lisa Hunt (Beaming Books; $17.99, Ages 3-8)

For those looking for a traditional Christmas story with a Christian theme, A Simple Christmas on the Farmis an excellent choice. Eager to kick off the festivities, the parents of a girl living on the farm remind her that they’ll be celebrating “keeping things simple this year” with a focus on modest decorations, homemade gifts, and giving more than getting. This spirit of simplicity is further intensified when the girl is inspired to celebrate Christmas in her little red barn. Traveling into town with a tray of homemade cookies, she and her mother spread the word about her party, inviting everyone in the community. meanwhile, they prepare gifts and crafts for their guests. Step-by-step instructions for these crafts are included in the backmatter. When everyone joins in the special day, laughter, joy and a wonderful feast surround her big table, making this simple but big-hearted Christmas the best ever.

reviewed by armineh manookian

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

THE CHRISTMAS MITZVAH Written by Jeff Gottesfeld Illustrated by Michelle Laurentia Agatha (Creston Books; $18.99, Ages 4-9)

If you’re looking for a feel-good story that hits all the right notes, The Christmas Mitzvah is it. Inspired by a true story, this heartwarming picture book begins with “Al Rosen was a Jewish man who loved Christmas. It wasn’t his vacation. he had hanukkah, the festival of lights. but what could be wrong with peace on earth and good will to mankind?” I immediately cared for this man with a great attitude and a great personality. I then read on to learn that Al Rosen decided to use the Christmas break as an opportunity to perform mitzvahs (good deeds) for people in his community. Ever since that afternoon in 1969, Rosen has offered to help workers leave their jobs to be home with their families. no matter what the task, he took it on himself, doing so for more than three decades. What a big heart he had! At first, he was pink, sometimes with his son, Jonathan. Later, when Jonathan finished med school, he married and had children of his own, everyone pitching in when possible, performing mitzvot every Christmas.

Most impressive is the variety of work Al Rosen did, though he didn’t necessarily excel at it. He started by walking into Shorty’s local newsstand. After he spread the word of Rosen’s good deeds. applications came in and soon he was pumping gas and parking cars, tending the bar and collecting tolls. al rosen’s mitzvos were limitless. he and jonathan even inspired christian and muslim friends who “did their thing on the jewish holidays”. In fact, Rosen’s kind spirit led people of various faiths to help others on their vacations, paying for it in the best possible way. when al got too old and finally had to give it up, his mitzvot left lasting memories and goodwill in his city. Agatha’s bold artwork adds vibrancy and humorous touches to the story. Rosen’s diverse community celebrates scene after scene conveying the camaraderie created by his mitzvot. gottesfeld includes back material so readers can learn more about the man behind the good deeds, as well as the holiday of hanukkah. I hope that the most important takeaway from the Christmas mitzvah for young readers is that you don’t have to be a Jew to do good deeds and spread goodness.

reviewed by ronna mandel

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

CHRISTMAS IS COMING: Traditions from Around the World Written by Monika Utnik-Strugala Illustrated by Ewa Poklewska-Koziello Translated from Polish by Antonia Lloyd-Jones (NorthSouth Books; $25, Ages 4 and up)

An international collection of legends and traditions can be found in Monika Utnik-Strugala’s non-fiction book Christmas is Coming!: Traditions from Around the World. this book satisfies many of her questions about vacations. Of course, you will find information about Santa, but there is much more. for example, how Swedish cities have candlelight processions on December 13, or how the Japanese have adopted Christmas, but celebrate it with reindeer and pandas! In Mexico, Spain and Colombia, the day of the holy innocents (December 28) is like our day of the innocents. my favorite sections include food, decorations, plants, and finding good luck for the new year.

full-color art by the talented ewa poklewska-koziello adorns every page, cheering people on and their celebrations. Although it is suitable for elementary school children who want to learn more than just about the santa claus of december 25 usa. In the US, older children will have plenty to read. Overall, this beautiful book promotes inclusivity and is one you’ll refer to repeatedly as a keepsake or to learn something new.

reviewed by christine van zandt

GOOD DOGS IN BAD SWEATERS Written by Rachel Wenitsky and David Sidorov Illustrated by Tor Freeman (G.P. Putnam’s Sons BYR; $13.99, Ages 7-10)

I’m so glad I stuck with this high-energy picture book for middle graders despite the introduction of several dog names that make it hard to keep track at first. however, after the first few pages, there was no denying the humor and personality of all the dog characters, and I was immediately drawn to it. The main characters in this, the third book in the series revolving around the nursery for good dogs, are Hugo and his younger sister, Waffles, King and his older sister, Cleo, Lulu, and their new friend Teacup Pig, buttercup. Another dog, Napoleon, seems to have matured in this book based on feedback from the other dogs, but while he appears in several chapters and brings a fun therapist’s perspective to several situations, he doesn’t have a chapter dedicated to his p.o.v. minor characters who may have had bigger roles in the previous two books are the crazy squirrel and the pickled cat. kids may notice that each dog has a different font, which is a nice touch. Not having read the previous books, I never felt like it mattered, as the story was pretty straightforward and engaging.

In addition to the canine friends getting to know each other, we also get to know their human owners, adding more opportunities for hilarious dialogue and mischief. there are tons of jokes about sniffing ass, throwing balls, and peeing that feel appropriate for this age group. The main plot point is that Sweet Puppy Waffles, about to celebrate her first Christmas, hopes that Santadoodle will bring her something special, but Hugo knows that won’t happen. what’s a loving older brother supposed to do? make little sister’s wish come true, of course! And if that means involving all the good dogs in your quest, so be it.

The antics the team gets up to as they try to get their paws on the waffle treat had me smiling every time. That’s on top of the bits about ugly (but comfy) Christmas sweaters, Lulu being an Instagram influencer, and how dogs deal with their families, whose dynamic should resonate with readers. Various subplots involving agility competitions and career choices are both comical and poignant, reflecting the zany sensibilities of the book’s authors, Wenitsky and Sidorov. A plus for me is that the book includes many references to Hanukkah as several of the dogs come from Jewish or mixed families. Mix that with Tor Freeman’s fabulous, whimsical, and extremely satisfying illustrations and you’ll see why this combination of talents works so well. Add this middle grade book (some may call it an older chapter book) to your TBR lists for a charming canine comedy this holiday season.
- reviewed by ronna mandel
See Also: 6 Great Childrens Books That Teach Safety Lessons | Child Safe Kit

You are reading: New children’s christmas books 2021

see last year’s summary here.

Additional recommended Christmas reading for this year includes:

the little owl & The Big Tree: A Christmas Story by Jonah Winter & jeanette winter the nutcracker by jan brett santa’s jaws by bridget heos what the dinosaurs did the night before christmas by refe & susana tuma

See Also: Best Audible DRM Removal 2022

Other content

Best New Children&039s Christmas Books for 2021

a roundup of the best new Christmas books for 2021

reviews:

see last year’s summary here.

Additional recommended Christmas reading for this year includes:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply