Classic Christmas Novels To Read This Holiday Season

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than by curling up with a classic Christmas novel? There's something special about reading a book that evokes the magic and wonder of Christmas, especially one that has been beloved by generations of readers. In this article, we'll explore some of the most iconic and enduring Christmas novels of all time, guaranteed to put you in a festive mood.

From timeless tales of love and redemption to heartwarming stories of family and friendship, these classic Christmas novels have captivated readers for centuries. Whether you're looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane or a new favorite holiday read, we've got you covered. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, settle in by the fire, and let's dive into the world of classic Christmas novels.

1. "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens

Published in 1843, Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" is perhaps the most iconic Christmas novel of all time. This timeless tale tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, and the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. As Scrooge is forced to confront his own miserliness and the error of his ways, he undergoes a transformative journey that ultimately leads to his redemption.

Dickens' vivid prose and memorable characters have made "A Christmas Carol" a holiday classic, and its themes of kindness, generosity, and the importance of human connection continue to resonate with readers today.

A Brief Summary of the Plot

The story begins on a cold and bleak Christmas Eve in London, where Ebenezer Scrooge is working in his counting house. Scrooge is notorious for his miserliness and disdain for Christmas, which he views as a waste of time and resources. However, when Marley's ghost appears to Scrooge, he is warned that he will be condemned to wander the earth wearing heavy chains if he does not change his ways.

Scrooge is then visited by the Spirit of Christmas Past, who takes him on a journey through his childhood and early adulthood, highlighting the moments that shaped him into the man he is today. The Spirit of Christmas Present then appears, revealing to Scrooge how his actions have affected those around him, including his clerk, Bob Cratchit, and his family.

Finally, the Spirit of Christmas Yet to Come appears, showing Scrooge a possible future where he has died and is mourned by no one. Horrified by this vision, Scrooge begs for a chance to change his ways and is given a second chance. On Christmas morning, Scrooge wakes up a new man, filled with kindness and generosity, and sets out to make amends with those he has wronged.

2. "The Night Before Christmas" by Clement Clarke Moore

First published anonymously in 1823, "The Night Before Christmas" is a beloved holiday poem that has been delighting readers of all ages for nearly two centuries. The poem tells the story of a magical Christmas Eve, where a jolly old elf named Santa Claus delivers gifts to children all around the world.

Moore's poem is a masterclass in atmosphere and imagination, evoking the magic and wonder of Christmas through its vivid descriptions of the night sky, the reindeer, and the big man himself.

A Brief Summary of the Plot

The poem begins on a snowy Christmas Eve, where a family is settled in for the night. But as the night wears on, the sound of sleigh bells is heard outside, and the children rush to the window to see what's happening. There, they see Santa Claus and his reindeer, hard at work delivering gifts to children all around the world.

As the night unfolds, the poem takes the reader on a magical journey, describing the sights and sounds of the season in vivid detail. From the " miniature sleigh" to the "little round belly" of Santa Claus, the poem is a joyous celebration of the holiday spirit.

3. "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry

First published in 1906, "The Gift of the Magi" is a heartwarming short story about a young couple, Jim and Della, who are struggling to make ends meet during the holiday season. Despite their poverty, they are determined to buy each other the perfect Christmas gift.

O. Henry's story is a beautifully crafted tale of love, sacrifice, and the true meaning of Christmas.

A Brief Summary of the Plot

The story begins on a cold and snowy Christmas Eve, where Della is desperate to find the perfect gift for Jim. She has only $1.87 to spend, but she is determined to find something special. After much searching, she comes across a beautiful gold comb that she knows Jim will love. However, she doesn't have enough money to buy it.

In a moment of desperation, Della cuts off her long, beautiful hair and sells it to buy the comb. Meanwhile, Jim is struggling to find the perfect gift for Della. He knows how much she loves her hair, so he decides to buy her a beautiful set of tortoiseshell combs.

As the night unfolds, the couple exchanges gifts, each one revealing the sacrifice they have made for the other. Della's hair is gone, but she is overjoyed to receive the beautiful chain Jim has given her. Jim, meanwhile, is devastated to see that Della has cut off her hair, but he is touched by her sacrifice.

As the story comes to a close, the couple realizes that the true gift of Christmas is not the presents they exchange, but the love and sacrifice they show each other.

4. "A Christmas Memory" by Truman Capote

First published in 1956, "A Christmas Memory" is a beautifully written short story about a young boy's Christmas in a small Alabama town. The story is told through the eyes of the boy, Buddy, who is spending the holiday with his elderly cousin, Sook.

Capote's story is a poignant and nostalgic tale of childhood, love, and the magic of Christmas.

A Brief Summary of the Plot

The story begins on a cold and snowy Christmas Eve, where Buddy is spending the holiday with his cousin Sook. Sook is a kind and gentle woman who takes Buddy under her wing, teaching him the joys of baking, cooking, and celebrating Christmas.

As the night unfolds, Buddy and Sook set out to make Christmas cookies, decorate the tree, and prepare for the holiday. Along the way, they share stories, laugh, and enjoy each other's company. As the night comes to a close, Buddy reflects on the magic of Christmas and the love and kindness of his cousin Sook.

5. "The Polar Express" by Chris Van Allsburg

First published in 1985, "The Polar Express" is a beloved children's book about a young boy's magical journey to the North Pole. The story follows a young boy who is skeptical of the existence of Santa Claus, but is convinced otherwise when he boards a magical train called the Polar Express.

Van Allsburg's story is a beautifully illustrated and imaginative tale of wonder and enchantment.

A Brief Summary of the Plot

The story begins on a snowy Christmas Eve, where a young boy is lying in bed, listening to the sound of trains outside. Suddenly, he hears a loud whistle and sees a magnificent train pulling up to his house. The conductor invites him to board the train, which is called the Polar Express.

As the train chugs along, the boy meets other children who are also on their way to the North Pole. Along the way, they see incredible sights, including reindeer, elves, and even Santa Claus himself. When they finally arrive at the North Pole, the boy is amazed by the magic and wonder of the place.

As the night unfolds, the boy learns the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of believing in the magic of the season.

As the holiday season approaches, we invite you to settle in with one of these classic Christmas novels and experience the magic and wonder of the season for yourself. Whether you're a fan of timeless tales or heartwarming stories, there's something on this list for everyone. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy by the fire, and let the spirit of Christmas wash over you.