As the year comes to a close, it’s time to celebrate the joy of reading and introduce your little ones to some fantastic end-of-year books. These 13 books, specifically curated for children, are not only entertaining but also educational, making them ideal gifts and enjoyable bonding activities to share with your kids.
1. “The Truth Pixie” by Matt Haig
A heartwarming tale about a pixie who can only tell the truth and learns how reality can still be magical.
2. “Winterhouse” by Ben Guterson
This delightful mystery-adventure novel features a young girl discovering surprising family secrets and magical powers in a mysterious manor during winter vacation.
3. “Last Stop on the Reindeer Express” by Maudie Powell-Tuck
Catering to the young reader’s imagination, this book takes children on a magical journey to deliver their holiday wishes to family members far away.
4. “Oskar and the Eight Blessings” by Tanya Simon
This heartening book tells the story of Oskar, a refugee boy who finds hope and joy in New York City on the seventh night of Hanukkah.
5. “The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs
A timeless classic that takes readers on an awe-inspiring adventure with a snowman that magically comes to life.
6. “Red and Lulu” by Matt Tavares
Follow the journey of two lovable birds as they venture to New York City after being separated when their tree-home becomes the Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree.
7. “Imogene’s Antlers” by David Small
A fun, light-hearted story about a young girl who wakes up one morning with antlers and learns how her uniqueness makes her special.
8. “Owl Moon” by Jane Yolen
Teaching patience and persistence, this charming book highlights the bond between father and daughter as they embark on a late-night adventure into the snowy woods to find owls.
9. “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg
An enchanting tale of bravery and belief, embarking upon a magical journey to the North Pole aboard the magical Polar Express.
10. “The Family Under the Bridge” by Natalie Savage Carlson
Explore the impact of kindness, family, and acceptance through the heartwarming story of a homeless man who finds an adopted family in three siblings living under a bridge.
11. “The Twelve Dogs of Christmas” by Alison Ritchie
This festive book features an endearing little girl attempting to keep twelve energetic puppies under control during the holiday season.
12. “A Wish To Be A Christmas Tree” by Colleen Monroe
A touching story about a tree that dreams of adding joy to people’s lives, ultimately discovering its true purpose thanks to the animals’ help.
13. “Latkes, Latkes, Good to Eat: A Hanukkah Story” by Naomi Howland
This lively tale teaches children about gratitude and generosity through a Hanukkah story involving magical latkes and an old woman’s kindness.
These end-of-year books offer captivating stories that can be cherished throughout the holidays and beyond. Ensure your kids have an enjoyable time exploring these fantastic tales that will not only improve their reading skills but also encourage their imaginative prowess!
