Children's Picture Books for Christmas

There are so many children’s picture books out today that tell the Christmas story.  Here is a short collection of books that I would highly recommend.  These stories are fun and engaging, plus they tell the true meaning of Christmas.  Your kids will enjoy hearing them again and again!
Don’t miss our look at the top children’s Bibles available in 2020.
God Gave Us Christmas, by Lisa Tawn Bergren
This is a third story about Little Cub, whose curiosity is cherished by her Mama.  When she asks, “Who invented Christmas?” Mama responds in tenderness and invites her child into the wonder of discovering the world around her.  This book sensitively identifies Santa as someone who “reminds us about many good things,” but focuses on Christ being the reason for Christmas.  Together, the mother and child learn about the gift of a Savior and the beauty of God’s love, found in unique places.  David Hohn illustrates this book with heartwarming images.  It is intended for readers, ages 2-5.
My Christmas Gift, by Crystal Bowman
Crystal Bowman catches the reader’s attention with the opening scene of a little boy and girl running to the tree on Christmas morning.  They eagerly anticipate opening presents, yet the author asks, “What is Christmas really about?”  In one of the more comprehensive gospel messages for a children’s book, Bowman succinctly explains that salvation through Jesus Christ is the best gift we can ever receive.  Claudine Gevry illustrations are fun and colorful and add to the simple, rhyming text of this board book, perfect for infants through preschool age.
One Wintery Night, by Ruth Bell Graham
Most of these suggestions are great books for younger readers.  This one in particular is written for children in grades 4-6.  It is quite lengthy for a picture book, but could be read in chapters, to hold the readers’ attention.  The story takes place in a cabin, where a woman unravels the Christmas story, beginning with Creation and ending at the Resurrection.  It is certainly a comprehensive rendition, but it does provide a great overview of God’s plan of redemption over the course of history.  The illustrations, by Richard Jesse Watson, are stunning and riveting.  I would highly recommend this book for older readers.
The Crippled Lamb, by Max Lucado
I love this story, in particular for children who may feel alone in their world.  It is the tale of Abigail (a cow) and Joshua (a crippled lamb).  Since Joshua can’t do things that other lambs do, he feels inadequate and different.   As a good friend, Abigail listens and says, “God has a special place for those who feel left out.”  Joshua’s “special place” ends up being next to the Savior, as He helps to welcome Christ into the world.  This is a great story about God’s purpose and love for everyone, illustrated beautifully by Liz Bonham.
Room for a Little One:  A Christmas Tale, by Martin Waddell
This is a simple story with an engaging refrain for children 4-8 years old, illustrated by Jason Cockcroft.  It occurs inside the stable with Kind Ox inviting one friend in after another to take refuge– Old Dog, Stray Cat, Small Mouse, and Tired Donkey bringing Mary and Joseph with him.  When Mary asks, “Where will my baby be born?” Kind Ox answers, “There’s always room for a little one here.”  The animals all welcome Jesus to the barn.  The story ends with, “That cold winter’s night, beneath the star’s light… a little One came for the world.”
What other children’s picture books would you add to this list?  Please leave your suggestions in the comments below.  Thanks!