Each December, we look for ways to slow down and savor the season.
The weeks leading up to Christmas can feel hurried and full, yet when we pause to light a candle, read a story, or share a simple meal, we create space for connection and wonder.
One of the most beautiful ways to do this as a family is through stories.
In the Charlotte Mason tradition, living books—those rich in language, ideas, and imagination—are considered some of the best teachers for children. Rather than dry facts, these books stir hearts and inspire lives. They help us see the world with fresh eyes and nurture a love for truth, goodness, and beauty.
Christmas picture books are a perfect expression of this idea. With their timeless illustrations and heartwarming stories, they invite both children and adults to enter into the joy and meaning of the season. This Christmas book list includes both preschool Christmas books and elementary Christmas books, making it easy to share the magic of the season with kids of all ages.
Over the years, our family has celebrated Advent in many ways: with chocolate Advent calendars, handmade wreaths, and even animal-themed traditions.
But one of our favorites has been creating a Christmas book Advent—wrapping up 25 picture books and opening one each day of December. This simple rhythm turns our ordinary habit of reading aloud into a month-long journey of delight and anticipation. It's based on the Icelandic tradition of Jolabokaflod or "Book flood".
To help your family begin this tradition with ease, we created a special Advent guide: The Peaceful Press Holiday Book Flood.
Over the 25 days preceding Christmas, you’ll enjoy:
🌲 A new read-aloud each day with YouTube links
🌲 An active game or nature study activity
🌲 A recipe, craft, or handmade gift to make together
🌲 A poem, artwork, or hand rhyme to enjoy
We’ve also included 25 printable cards so you can hang them on twine for a visual Advent calendar—a simple, beautiful way to mark the season.
This is an all-ages guide, perfect for family morning time, cozy evenings, or as part of your homeschool rhythm that will make your December will feel both holy and happy.
25 Christmas Picture Books for Families
Here’s a peek at the 25 books included in The Peaceful Press Holiday Book Flood, a curated Christmas book list full of preschool Christmas books and elementary Christmas books that spark joy and wonder for the whole family.
We chose a mix of Christ-centered stories, nature themes, and a few lighthearted classics—books that will spark joy and meaningful conversation throughout the season.
Christmas Day in the Morning by Pearl S. Buck
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
The Nutcracker illustrated by Valeria Do Campo
Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree by Robert Barry
Three Wise Kings by Tomie de Paola
The Jolly Christmas Postman by Allan and Janet Ahlberg
The Message of the Birds by Kate Westerlund
The Legend of the Poinsettias by Tomie de Paola
The Twelve Days of Christmas by Rachel Isadora
Candle Walk by Karin Holsinger Sherman
Santa’s Lost Reindeer by Rachel Hilz
The Friendly Beasts by Tomie de Paola
Saint Nicholas: The Real Story of the Christmas Legend by Julie Stiegemeyer
The Candymaker's Gift by Helen Haidle
Christmas Farm by Mary Lyn Ray
The Tree That’s Meant To Be by Yuval Zommer
If You Take A Mouse to the Movies by Laura Numeroff
A Simple Christmas on the Farm by Phyllis Alsdurf
The Night of Las Posadas by Tomie de Paola
The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clark Moore
An Orange for Frankie by Patricia Polacco
The Story of Holly and Ivy by Rumer Godden
Room for a Little One by Martin Waddell
Start Your Own Book Flood Tradition
Creating a Christmas book Advent doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little preparation, you can wrap each book ahead of time, or simply stack them in a basket by the tree and let your children choose one each night.
The most important thing isn’t perfection—it’s creating memories of slowing down, gathering close, and celebrating the joy of Christ’s coming through the gift of story.
Click here to purchase The Peaceful Press Holiday Book Flood and begin a new family tradition this Christmas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this Christmas book Advent be adapted for different ages?
A: Yes! The Holiday Book Flood is designed for all ages. Younger children can enjoy the picture books and accompanying crafts or activities, while older children can explore deeper discussion prompts or nature-based activities. You can also adapt the rhythm—read aloud together, enjoy a craft, or simply unwrap a book each day for family story time.
What kinds of activities are included with the Holiday Book Flood?
A: Each day includes a short, hands-on activity to extend the story beyond reading. This could be a simple craft, a recipe, a nature study, a game, or a poem. Activities are designed to be easy to implement and meaningful for children of all ages.