Here are 83 books that How the Grinch Stole Christmas fans have personally recommended if you like How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Book DNA is a community of 13,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of The Gift of the Magi

Barbara Hinske Author Of The Christmas Club

From my list on heartwarming Christmas books.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always been fascinated by the role that love plays in a satisfying life—from romantic love, to brotherly love, to friendship. Compassion and caring affect not only the recipient, but also profoundly change the life of the giver as well. That’s why I’m drawn to redemptive character arcs. I write women’s fiction, sweet Christmas stories, and literary fiction that revolve around these themes—sometimes with a hint of mystery/thriller/suspense for fun! My novella, The Christmas Club, was adapted for the screen in 2019 as a Hallmark Channel Christmas movie of the same name.

Barbara's book list on heartwarming Christmas books

Barbara Hinske Why Barbara loves this book

This story shines a spotlight on selfless love. I cried buckets when I read this as a child. I also wondered if I’d ever be willing to cut my hair, as Della did, to raise the money to buy Jim that watch chain. I’m still not sure I would. The story beautifully articulates the parameters of selfless love. I’ve always been fascinated by this theme.

By O. Henry ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Gift of the Magi as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

"The Gift of the Magi" is a short story, about a young married couple and how they deal with the challenge of buying secret Christmas gifts for each other with very little money. As a sentimental story with a moral lesson about gift-giving, it has been a popular one for adaptation, especially for presentation during the Christmas season.


If you love How the Grinch Stole Christmas...

Book cover of Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace

Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace by Evonne Blanchard,

My books are a space adventure fantasy series for children ages 5-10. The first book in the series is Amelia, the Moochins and the Sapphire Palace.

Amelia gets a present that's not a present for her birthday. It's an alien called Uglesnoo from Pluto. Crazy stuff eh! Uglesnoo’s sister…

Book cover of A Christmas Carol

Carolyn Scott Author Of When Cris Met Kringle

From my list on curl up at Christmas by the fire with hot cocoa.

Why am I passionate about this?

Anyone who knows me knows that Christmas is my absolute favorite time of year! I devour all things Christmas, from decor to movies to music to cookies, so curling up with a magical holiday book is my idea of a very merry holiday!

Carolyn's book list on curl up at Christmas by the fire with hot cocoa

Carolyn Scott Why Carolyn loves this book

This is a quintessential read for any Christmas bookworm. I read it every year at the holidays. It’s a quick read but such a fun way to immerse myself in the magic of that era. I recommend reading the book as it takes on a totally different feel in the mind than just watching the films.

By Charles Dickens ,

Why should I read it?

23 authors picked A Christmas Carol as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

Tom Baker reads Charles Dickens' timeless seasonal story.

Charles Dickens' story of solitary miser Ebenezer Scrooge, who is taught the true meaning of Christmas by the three ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future, has become one of the timeless classics of English literature. First published in 1843, it introduces us not only to Scrooge himself, but also to the memorable characters of underpaid desk clerk Bob Cratchit and his poor family, the poorest amongst whom is the ailing and crippled Tiny Tim.

In this captivating recording, Tom Baker delivers a tour-de-force performance as he narrates the story. The listener…


Book cover of Madeline's Christmas

Barbara Hinske Author Of The Christmas Club

From my list on heartwarming Christmas books.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always been fascinated by the role that love plays in a satisfying life—from romantic love, to brotherly love, to friendship. Compassion and caring affect not only the recipient, but also profoundly change the life of the giver as well. That’s why I’m drawn to redemptive character arcs. I write women’s fiction, sweet Christmas stories, and literary fiction that revolve around these themes—sometimes with a hint of mystery/thriller/suspense for fun! My novella, The Christmas Club, was adapted for the screen in 2019 as a Hallmark Channel Christmas movie of the same name.

Barbara's book list on heartwarming Christmas books

Barbara Hinske Why Barbara loves this book

Who doesn’t love the twelve little girls in two straight lines, whose mantra is: We love our bread, we love our butter, but most of all, we love each other? Madeline is a resourceful, kind, and hard-working protagonist—even if she does occasionally get into a bit of harmless mischief. Every book in the Madeline series is uplifting. Yes, please.

By Ludwig Bemelmans ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Madeline's Christmas as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

"In an old house in Paris
that was covered with vines
lived twelve little girls
in two straight lines
the smallest one was Madeline."


Nothing frightens Madeline-not tigers, not even mice. With its endearing, courageous heroine, cheerful humor, and wonderful, whimsical drawings of Paris, the Madeline stories are true classics that continue to charm readers even after 75 years!

It's the night before Christmas and everyone is sick in bed. All except brave Madeline, who is up and about and feeling just fine. Taking care of eleven little girls and Miss Clavel is hard work, but when Madeline…


If you love Dr. Seuss...

Book cover of A Foot is Not a Fish!

A Foot is Not a Fish! by Cornelia Maude Spelman,

In a time of alternative facts and the loss of a shared sense of reality, A Foot is Not a Fish playfully illustrates the difference between what is true and what is not through absurd fun comparisons that every child—and parent—will instantly understand.

This book playfully illustrates common truths by…

Book cover of Polar Express

Cindy McKinley Alder Author Of One Smile

From my list on books with surprise endings.

Why am I passionate about this?

I read every single day without fail. So I have read a lot of books over the years. I am always so impressed with- and love- a good, twisty, surprise ending. From children’s books to middle grade to adult… surprise me at the end, and I’m in! (Extra points for making me cry a little bit!) If you, too, love a good twist at the end of a story, give these books a try!

Cindy's book list on books with surprise endings

Cindy McKinley Alder Why Cindy loves this book

Just try to read this book to a child around the holidays and not cry! I go to this book when I feel too wrapped up in the busyness of the holiday season and forget what it is really about. The story and the illustrations are beautiful. But it is the message that has me blinking back tears every time.

The little boy’s lost reindeer’s bell from Santa appearing magically under his tree, ringing its beautiful sound Christmas morning, is just the first reason it’s so wonderful. But then VanAllsburg says that the grownups cannot hear it ring! How can that be? Because we grown-ups, sadly, have lost the magic of Christmas. (I read this to get the magic back!)

By Chris Van Allsburg ,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked Polar Express as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Discover The Polar Express, a true Christmas classic.
"Magical" Guardian
"Evocative and atmospheric" Sunday Times
"A thrilling tale" Independent
All aboard the Polar Express to the North Pole! Follow one boy's journey to receive a very special gift from Santa himself: a bell that only true believers in Father Christmas can hear ring. Discover the beloved Christmas classic that inspired the blockbuster family favourite movie starring Tom Hanks.


Book cover of Construction Site on Christmas Night

Dawn Young Author Of Once Upon a Christmas

From my list on fun and festive Christmas pictures.

Why am I passionate about this?

I write funny picture books. Since some of my best memories include reading to my kids while they were plopped in my lap, giggling at silly, fun picture books, I want to bring that same joy to families everywhere. I’m in awe of clever humor, and I’m especially fond of wordplay, puns, and jokes. Of all the holidays, Christmas is my favorite. The tree, the décor, and the traditions bring so much merriment. When my kids were young, reading Christmas books was a huge part of our holiday. Once Upon a Christmas gave me the chance to write a humorous, fun, and festive story that families can enjoy together.

Dawn's book list on fun and festive Christmas pictures

Dawn Young Why Dawn loves this book

Construction Site on Christmas Night is part of the Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site series and my favorite of the set. The cover, with its snowy and festive scene, immediately sparks the Christmas spirit. The illustrations continue to keep the Christmas spirit alive throughout, from red-rimmed tires and candy cane drums to ornament-like wrecking balls and a red and white fire crew. I love rhyming picture books, and this one does not disappoint. The clever couplets and smooth rhythm make it a joy to read. What’s especially great about this book is how after all the fun and surprises, the story ends on a tender note. This book is both fun and sentimental.

By Sherri Duskey Rinker , AG Ford (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Construction Site on Christmas Night as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, and 5.

What is this book about?

From the author of the #1 New York Times bestselling Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site series. More than two million copies have sold across the series!

Created for lovers of Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site, as well as fans of Sherri Duskey Rinker's storytelling and AG Ford's art, this beautiful holiday picture book shows Excavator, Bulldozer, Crane, Dump Truck and Cement Mixer building a new home for fire engines. As they finish their big, important job, they get their own Christmas surprises. Your kids will have fun discovering the special surprise awaiting each vehicle as much as they will love rhyming along…


Book cover of Blame It on the Mistletoe

Sophia Soames Author Of In this Bed of Snowflakes we Lie

From my list on holiday romance you’ll want to read every year.

Why am I passionate about this?

Having grown up in snowy Scandinavia, my passion for Christmas has always been with me. Nothing beats a good romantic holiday novel, and especially one containing all those themes we know and love. A little bit of loneliness. A pinch of festive fun. Add that special meet-cute. Sprinkle magic over the pages and a comfort-read for years to come is born. As an author I hope my readers enjoy my festive romps, and that perhaps even they, can become a well-read yearly comfort read.

Sophia's book list on holiday romance you’ll want to read every year

Sophia Soames Why Sophia loves this book

Eli Easton’s Blame It on the Mistletoe is classic M/M romance.

An easy, angst-free read, the slow-burning romance between sporty Mick and new roommate Fielding, will melt your heart in all the best ways. A sensitive portrayal of neurodivergence completes this festive romp, singing the message that we all deserve a happy ending.

If you love How the Grinch Stole Christmas...

Book cover of Prince Michael and the Unicorn

Prince Michael and the Unicorn by P.G. Badzey,

Prince Michael hears about a wondrous creature in the Great Forest. But he's only a kid! How could such an amazing creature take notice of him?

With his trusty magic rope in hand, he heads out on a quest to catch a unicorn, only to find out that things are…

Book cover of Royal Holiday

KC McCormick Ciftci Author Of We Were Inevitable

From my list on romance about falling in love in another country.

Why am I passionate about this?

I spent the majority of my twenties living and working abroad, and I've always been a sucker for a love story that crosses borders. I met my husband while living and working in Turkey, and now I write lighthearted romance novels inspired by the idea that you don't have to choose between catching flights or catching feelings - why not both? While I'm doing less traveling these days, I feel like I still get to experience different countries, cultures, and settings thanks to so many wonderful books that feel like vacations.

KC's book list on romance about falling in love in another country

KC McCormick Ciftci Why KC loves this book

I love that Royal Holiday features older charactersthe main character in this book is the mother of the main character in another of the same series. Because yes, whirlwind love stories shouldn't be restricted just to the 20- or 30-somethings.

The maturity and self-knowledge of the main characters was so refreshing, and of course the setting is a part of why I love every single book on this list.

By Jasmine Guillory ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Royal Holiday as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Reese Witherspoon, Oprah and Roxane Gay LOVE her! Readers love her!

Have you discovered New York Times bestseller and Reese's Book Club pick Jasmine Guillory yet?

'The queen of contemporary romance' OprahMag.com
'She writes the sexiest and smartest romances' Red Magazine
'Just as essential to a good summer holiday as SPF' Grazia

'Jasmine has done it again. A fun, engaging, light romance'

'The loveliest little snack from the talented Jasmine Guillory'

'Like a Hallmark movie in book form'
............................................................

IT'S THE CHRISTMAS ROMANCE YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS!

When Vivian Forest gets the chance to tag along on her daughter…


Book cover of The Twelve Terrors of Christmas

Kyle Sullivan Author Of Krampus Confidential

From my list on delivering holiday magic with a dark twist.

Why am I passionate about this?

Since I was a child, Halloween and Christmas have held equally hallowed positions in my heart. When I learned of Krampus folklore in my teens, I was immediately fascinated. Krampus offered the best of both worlds—a dose of Halloween creepiness to counterbalance the bright jubilation of the winter holidays. Krampus Confidential, a middle-grade mystery, and adaptation of The Maltese Falcon, is my second children’s book that aims to introduce this magnificent creature to children in a way that doesn’t inspire nightmares. My first, Goodnight Krampus, is a board book for young readers that reimagines the monster as a rambunctious toddler who gives Santa a hard time by refusing to go to sleep on Christmas Eve.

Kyle's book list on delivering holiday magic with a dark twist

Kyle Sullivan Why Kyle loves this book

No list of the delightfully dark would be complete without an appearance by the preeminent gothic illustrator, Edward Gorey. Gorey’s wry, one-of-a-kind style brings to life (and death) John Updike’s dark deconstruction of 12 Christmas traditions. Though it’s now out of print, this title is a must-have for any Edward Gorey enthusiast, and for any fan of the unlimited imaginative potential when artists look beyond the lights of the holiday season to focus on the shadows instead.

By John Updike , Edward Gorey (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Twelve Terrors of Christmas as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Edward Gorey's off-kilter depictions of Yuletide mayhem and John Updike's wryly jaundiced text examine a dozen Christmas traditions with a decidedly wheezy ho-ho-ho. This long out-of-print classic is the perfect stocking-stuffer for any bah humbug. 32 pages, smyth-sewn casebound book, with jacket.


Book cover of A Christmas Promise

Elisabeth Fairchild Author Of The Holly and the Ivy

From my list on film worthy regency era Christmas.

Why am I passionate about this?

A Jane Austen devotee since third grade, inspired by subtlety, wit, and clever banter, neck deep in richly evocative Regency research and sensory detail, I've authored 17 Jane Austen-style novels, (3 Christmas) and 4 novellas (3 Christmas) published by NAL/Penguin. Fascinated by lyrical language, budding love matches, and honorable, moral, and ethical themes, I'm particularly fond of historically accurate warm-hearted Christmas novels. I'd love to see a Christmas Regency Classic added to the ranks of beloved Holiday films, so I was thrilled to come up with a list of favorites! Awards: Golden Quill, Holt Medallion, Bookseller’s Best, Waldensbook Bestseller of the Year, Romantic Times Top Pick, Reviewers Choice, Best Regency Novel, a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Elisabeth's book list on film worthy regency era Christmas

Elisabeth Fairchild Why Elisabeth loves this book

This moving, character-focused Christmas novel captures the loneliness inherent in the once-common practice of an arranged marriage. Troubled by clashes of background, social standing, and financial independence, neither party truly desires the match, but both choose to honor a dying man’s hopes and wishes, gaining deeper insight into a rambunctious family Christmas to be remembered.

By Mary Balogh ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked A Christmas Promise as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Eleanor Transome found her father's wealth a dubious blessing, for he was determined that she marry a nobleman. Lord Randolph Falloden was on the brink of ruin, and so agreed to the match. Love was never part of the bargain, as Eleanor was already in love with the handsome, but poor, Wilfred Ellis.


Book cover of Christmas: A Candid History

Jason Mankey Author Of Llewellyn's Little Book of Yule

From my list on Christmas and the Holiday Season.

Why am I passionate about this?

Since I was four years old, I have been in love with Christmas! I’m the kind of person who starts humming carols in October and puts up their first decorations the moment Halloween ends. I’ve got a Christmas Sweater for every day and a card or a present for every friend I bump into. Without a doubt, the Holiday Season is the best time of the year!

Jason's book list on Christmas and the Holiday Season

Jason Mankey Why Jason loves this book

One of the things I love best about the Christmas season is how it’s a combination of many different things. Paganism, Christianity, and commerce have all contributed to Yuletide, resulting in a mishmash of traditions and customs.

I think holidays are stronger when they’ve been influenced by dozens of cultures. There’s room for everybody during the Holidays, and it’s always been that way. 

By Bruce David Forbes ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Christmas as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Written for everyone who loves and is simultaneously driven crazy by the holiday season, "Christmas: A Candid History" provides an enlightening, entertaining perspective on how the annual Yuletide celebration got to be what it is today. In a fascinating, concise tour through history, the book tells the story of Christmas - from its pre-Christian roots, through the birth of Jesus, to the holiday's spread across Europe into the Americas and beyond, and to its mind-boggling transformation through modern consumerism. Packed with intriguing stories, based on research into myriad sources, full of insights, the book explores the historical origins of traditions…


Book cover of The Gift of the Magi
Book cover of A Christmas Carol
Book cover of Madeline's Christmas

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