There is more excitement for Christmas with each passing day. It’s hard not to get into the holiday mood when there are holiday decorations and signs every where you go. There are also a plethora of holiday movies on television, including the classics (I can’t believe they are airing them before Thanksgiving).

Kids are even more excited for Santa’s visit. My “work kids” have already been writing their holiday wish lists (some of them are funny).

If you are looking for some wonderful seasonal books to add to your family’s library, check out these new publications from Candlewick Press.

Ruffles and the Cold, Cold Snow

Written by David Melling

Ages 2 to 5

Ruffles loves playing with the teeny, tiny kittens. He does not love the snow. But when the kittens want to play outside, Ruffles decides to tag along.

I’m an animal lover, and I’m a sucker for an adorable book. This book is absolutely adorable.

We used to have a dog, Espn (yes, like that sports channel). He hated the snow. He never wanted to go outside. This book reminded me of him.

The kittens in the book are like my cats too. When they go out on the balcony when it snows, they quickly regret their decision.

Mr. Santa

Writtne by Jarvis

Ages 3 to 7

With wit and affection, the inimitable Jarvis imagines the giddy wonder of a child who finds she has Santa all to herself—with free rein to ask all the questions that spring to mind.

This book is so magical. The illustrations are dreamy.

The young girl in this book asks many of the questions most kids have about Santa and what he needs to do at Christmas time. This is a charming book that lets kids take a ride along with Santa as he does his work on Christmas Eve.

Bunnies in a Sleigh

Written by Philip Ardagh and illustrated by Ben Mantle

Ages 3 to 7

Make space under the tree for a zany, rollicking holiday romp from the team who brought us Bunnies on a Bus and Bunnies in a Boat.

This book is so funny! The bunnies are crazy, but in a fun way.

The illustrations made me laugh too. If you read this book be sure to pay attention to the illustrations on the page, because there are a lot of silly things going on and funny expressions on some of the characters faces.

Dasher Gift Set

By Matt Tavares

Ages 4 to 8

Celebrate five years of Matt Tavares’s New York Times best-selling holiday classic with a beautifully designed gift set featuring four press-out keepsakes. Includes Dasher and Dasher Can’t Wait for Christmas in hardcover.

These books are geared towards children ages four to eight, however, I believe these stories are great for all ages. I’m an adult and I absolutely love these books. The illustrations are gorgeous. They would made wonderful artwork for you wall or even Christmas cards. It’s truly beautiful.

The stories as well are extraordinary. I cannot say enough positive things about these books. They are truly a holiday classic that can be enjoyed as a family for years to come.

Socks: A Kid’s Christmas Lament

Written by JD McPherson and  illustrated by Anika Orrock

Ages 3 to 7

Rock and roller JD McPherson’s comical salute to Christmas curmudgeons, based on the cult classic “Socks” (from his eponymous Christmas album). A hilarious homage to a stereotypically bad gift—and its disappointed recipients—in a deftly extended picture-book version of his song. 

I think many kids (and adults) can relate to the feeling of disappointment to receive socks on Christmas morning. Kids don’t want socks. They want toys and games.

I LOVE the illustrations in this book. They have a retro vibe to them.

This is a fun story. Hopefully children will learn to appreciate any gift they receive under the tree that might not be what they were expecting.

These are just a few seasonal/holiday books from Candlewick Press. You can find these books at many retail locations, including Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

You can learn more about these and other books at Candlewick.com. You can also find them on social media.

Kimberly

*I received free copies of these books in order to do this review. There was no compensation. The opinions expressed are my own and not influenced in any way.