Twelve Books of Christmas

By far, the ‘Twelve Books of Christmas’ is one of my favorite traditions as a parent. After Thanksgiving is complete and I’ve recovered from my turkey trance, I spend time gathering ten of our favorite children’s Christmas books from the dusty bookshelf. Yes, my bookshelf is quite dusty at times- don’t judge. One by one I wrap them in festive Christmas paper and place them in a basket. Then, I proceed to the bookstore and choose two more new children’s Christmas books, and secretly wrap and mix them into the basket.

In the month of December, we carve out time here and there to allow our kids to open a wrapped book. Their little hands proceed to tear open the paper and their eyes beam with excitement to see the book. It always makes me giggle that most of the books are ones we have owned for years. But to them, it’s all magical and new again. The boys get extra giddy when they open the packages that contain the new books! So giddy, that at times we have to have the ‘don’t snatch that from your brother’ talk. 

We snuggle in bed and read together as a family. By Christmas Eve, we have finished unwrapping the twelve books. But, my children know that we have saved the best book for last.  On the couch with our tree twinkling in the forefront, we sit in our flannel Christmas jammies and read The Christmas Story from the Bible. 

I covet this tradition for many reasons- my kids learn to appreciate books, to appreciate quality time as a family, and to cherish items we already own. Little did I know the tradition, however, would minister to me as a mother. I find myself being intentional in my actions at the holidays, overriding the constant whirlwind of parties, carnivals, decorating and gift-giving. We are intentionally placing emphasis on moments to remember and on God’s word. My kids rest in the consistency that comes with that basket of wrapped books- mom and dad have time for me, mom and dad thought ahead, and mom and dad want to teach us about Jesus. 

I look forward to dusting off those beloved books, and have already been eyeing which new ones to add to our family. And yes, I LOVE gift wrap so I’ve already found some that’s adorable (meanwhile already having probably 6 rolls in my craft closet- again, don’t judge).

As we read Christmas books this holiday season, let us cherish the precious moments these books bring. Each of the twelve books will lead our families to the most miraculous and impactful story of all time. “…And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. ¹⁰ When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. ¹¹ And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.” (Matthew 2: 9-11)

Needing children’s Christian-themed Christmas book suggestions? Here’s a few great ones

The Christmas Story by Jane Werner part of Little Golden Book
The Christmas Promise by Alison Mitchell
A Gift To Remember by Merideth Tullous
A Birthday Party for Jesus by Susan Jones
Room For A Little One by Martin Waddell
Cami and Wyatt Share the Christmas Spirit by Stacy C. Bauer
The Legend of The Candy Cane by Lauri Walberg
Good Night Baby Jesus by Adam Gamble
Humphrey’s First Christmas by Carol Heyer

Merideth Tullous is an award-winning children’s author and speaker. Her Christmas book, A Gift To Remember (The Remembering Books) has just recently been awarded the Bronze medal at the Illumination Awards, being recognized in the children’s category of shining the light on Christian literature. Merideth is a mother, wife, fine arts educator and works in a local school. Her most recent book, MOOSHEGAGA, was just published and was written to inspire children to pick up their pencils and find the joy in writing.  www.meridethtullous.com