Hi all!
Welcome to Blogmas Day 17. Today I am going to recommend some of my favourite seasonal reads. These books either remind me of Christmas or take place during that time. Some may even surprise you! I couldn’t do Blogmas without writing up at least one post about reading. Without further ado, let’s get into it!
1.) THE BOOK THIEF by MARKUS ZUSAK
I’m sure everybody knows this classic by now? Narrated by Death during WWII, this story follows young orphan Liesel, who arrives at the home of her new foster parents Hans and Rosa. When Hans learns that Liesel cannot read, he teaches her the wonders of the written language. Liesel grows to love books; even rescuing one from a Nazi bonfire. Though Liesel’s new family barely scrape by, their situation becomes even more precarious when they secretly shelter a Jewish boy.
This novel reminds me of Christmas because there is a scene where Liesel builds a snowman for the Jewish boy in the basement. It’s such a touching moment. She receives two books for Christmas and treasures them lovingly. Having grown up poor, it is evident how much these gifts means to her. I would recommend the film adaptation as well.
2.) HARRY POTTER & THE PHILOSOPHER’S STONE by J.K. ROWLING
This is the perfect book to read and re-read during the Christmas time. I don’t think I need to outline the plot. Similar to Liesel, Harry grows up as an orphan and isn’t used to receiving gifts. In his first year at Hogwarts, Harry is delighted to discover lots of presents for him from his new friends. It’s so sweet. I love the way Hogwarts is described at Christmas; with plenty of magical decorations and lots of snow. Again, I would recommend the film…although I’m sure you’ve seen it!
3.) FRENCH KISSMAS by CATHERINE HAPKA
For Nicole Larson, the Christmas season in Paris is more than just a romantic interlude – it’s also a homecoming. Nic studied abroad in Paris a year ago, and is back in town with her friend Annike to spend Christmas and New Year’s in the City of Love. Of course, now that Nic is there, the chemistry she once had with Parisian hottie Luc instantly reignites. But why fuel a romance that has only three weeks to survive? Nic would rather spend time with her new buddy Mike . . . until it becomes clear that Mike is also interested in being more than just friends. With a backdrop of twinkling lights on the Champs-Elysées and Parisian Christmas carols, it’s going to be difficult for Nic to deny the romance around her. . . .
This is actually the sequel to Pardon my French, but you don’t need to read the first book to appreciate/understand the second. This novel is perfect for those who want to read a light, fluffy YA Christmas romance. I really enjoyed it. The Parisian setting is so magical. It makes you want to visit during the holiday season.
4.) LET IT SNOW by JOHN GREEN, MAUREEN JOHNSON & LAUREN MYRACLE
This book comprises of three separate stories that intertwine with one another. They are “The Jubilee Express” by Maureen Johnson, “A Cheertastic Christmas Miracle” by John Green, and “The Patron Saint of Pigs” by Lauren Myracle. It follows three different teenagers as they experience a huge snow storm in the town of Gracetown during the Christmas season.
I did a review of the Netflix adaptation which you can check out here. I haven’t actually read Maureen & Lauren’s story but I loved the one by John Green and highly recommend this book to get you into the Christmas spirit!
5.) IMAGINARY FRIEND by STEPHEN CHBOSKY
For those that love the horror genre (like myself), I highly highly recommend this book. I read it this year and it has officially made my top 10 best reads of 2019 (stay tuned for that post).
It tells the story of seven year old Christopher, who moves with his mother to a new town after she flees an abusive ex. When Christopher goes missing for six days, a series of strange occurrences take place post his return, including a lottery windfall and Christopher’s sudden boost in intelligence. The strangest thing however, is that Christopher begins seeing a demon called ‘the hissing lady’ who repeats over and over that everyone will die on Christmas Day. Every single event leads up to December 25th. It is absolutely terrifying, action-packed and brilliant. I will be gushing more over this book towards the end of the year.
6.) LITTLE WOMEN by LOUISA MAY ALCOTT
Another classic and beloved favourite of mine, this story follows four sisters: Jo, Meg, Amy & Beth who grow up during the Civil War. With their father off fighting, the girls have to contend with societal expectations and poverty. The sisters struggle to celebrate Christmas as they are unable to afford presents. However, they learn that what really matters is being together and celebrating as a family. It’s so heartwarming, sad and poignant. I cannot wait to see the latest film adaptation!
I hope you enjoyed this list of seasonal book recommendations. What novels remind you of Christmas? Leave them down below. Thanks so much for reading and I’ll see you tomorrow!
Peace & Love xoxo