Top 10 Children’s Christmas Books UK Kids Will Love This Year
This Christmas, the World Literacy Foundation (WLF) is encouraging families across the UK to give a gift that goes beyond toys and screens: the gift of reading.
To help families choose meaningful presents, WLF has curated a list of 10 much-loved Christmas books by UK authors and illustrators, perfect for children aged 0–13. These stories are ideal for reading together at bedtime, sharing on cosy winter evenings, or enjoying quietly on Christmas morning.
Why does this matter? In the UK, children from disadvantaged backgrounds are far less likely to own books at home, which can affect their reading confidence, wellbeing, and future learning. Research from literacy organisations shows that children who grow up with books are more likely to enjoy reading and succeed at school. Even one book can make a lasting difference.
Andrew Kay, CEO & Founder of the World Literacy Foundation, says:
“Books create moments of connection between children and families. When we read together, we build imagination, empathy, and confidence. This Christmas, choosing a book means giving a child the chance to dream, explore, and feel supported especially those who may not have books at home.”
Top 10 Children’s Christmas Books (UK, 2025)
The Christmas Pig – J.K. Rowling (2021)
Chapter book | Ages 7–12
A magical adventure about a boy searching for his lost toy on Christmas Eve, exploring hope, love, and imagination.
2. The Snowman – Raymond Briggs (1978)
Wordless picture book | Ages 3–7
A timeless classic where a snowman comes to life, told entirely through iconic illustrations.
3. Father Christmas – Raymond Briggs (1973)
Graphic picture book | Ages 4–8
A humorous and cosy story following Father Christmas as he prepares for the busiest night of the year.
4. The Crayons’ Christmas – Drew Daywalt & Oliver Jeffers (2019)
Interactive picture book | Ages 3–8
A festive, hands-on story with letters, envelopes, and surprises for young readers.
5. Mog’s Christmas – Judith Kerr (2015)
Picture book | Ages 3–7
A heartwarming and funny Christmas story featuring the much-loved cat, Mog.
6. One Snowy Night – Nick Butterworth (1989)
Picture book | Ages 3–6
Percy the Park Keeper helps animals find shelter during a snowy winter night.
7. The Empty Stocking – Richard Curtis & Rebecca Cobb (2023)
Picture book | Ages 4–8
A funny and thoughtful story about kindness, behaviour, and the true meaning of Christmas.
8. The Snow Dragon – Abi Elphinstone (2018)
Picture book | Ages 4–8
A beautifully illustrated tale about loneliness, magic, and rediscovering hope.
9. The Jolly Christmas Postman – Janet & Allan Ahlberg (1991)
Interactive picture book | Ages 3–8
A beloved classic featuring real letters from fairy-tale characters.
10. Christmas in Exeter Street – Diana Hendry (2018)
Picture book | Ages 4–8
A warm Christmas Eve story celebrating generosity, community, and togetherness.
Why Give Books This Christmas?
Books help children develop language skills, imagination, and emotional understanding. They create shared moments between parents and children and can inspire a lifelong love of reading. This Christmas, the World Literacy Foundation encourages families across the UK to give more than a present give a child the gift of a story.
