1. Little Robin Red Vest by Jan Fearnley

Recommended for: A classic festive story about kindness and the joy of giving to others

Little Robin Red Vest is a charming picture book about the joy of giving that has the feel of a gentle Just-So story with a festive twist.

The tale is likely to inspire children to tap into the spirit of giving that Robin demonstrates so unreservedly.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the story’s publication, and to celebrate Nosy Crow has released a new deluxe edition of the bestselling Christmas classic. You’ll find this story nestled among our Christmas picturebook favourites on the BooksForTopics Christmas Books for EYFS and KS1 booklist.

2. The Christmas Carrolls by Mel Taylor-Bessent & Selom Sunu.

Recommended for: A super-fun chapter book that is easy to read and provides plenty of humour and cheer

Sprinkled with seasonal goodwill and a good dose of ho-ho-ho, this is a perfectly heart-warming and humorous read for the festive season and is the first in a series of three fun Christmassy stories.

We thoroughly enjoyed this feel-good read with its loveable cast of characters, festive puns aplenty and themes of kindness, inclusion and sparing a thought for others in the community.

The Christmas Carrolls is a top choice of story for KS2 and supporting resource sheets and activity ideas are available via the author’s website.

3. Leah’s Star by Margaret Bateson-Hill & Karin Littlewood

Recommended for: A nativity story told through the tender eyes of a young child.

We love this tender retelling of the Nativity story through the eyes of Leah, the innkeeper’s daughter.

he story is full of humanity and at its heart it depicts a young girl’s personal encounter with the very special baby at the centre of the nativity story.

Illustrated with Karin Littlewood’s watercolour scenes, this beautiful picture book brings a familiar Christmas story to life through a fresh pair of eyes and is a worthy addition to your collection of nativity storybooks.

4. The Boy Who Slept Through Christmas by Matt Lucas & Forrest Burdett

Recommended for: An entertaining musical-turned-chapter-book with novelty value

New for this year, The Boy Who Slept Through Christmas blends the enchantment of the festive season with the joy of music, and one that will appeal to the many children who love both. What sets this book apart is the addition of QR codes sprinkled throughout the narrative, linking to a musical soundtrack of songs that enhance the reading experience.  If you fancy a class sing-a-long, this might be just the right Christmas story for you.

Drawing on his comedy and musical theatre background, Matt Lucas injects a whimsical charm and a touch of originality into the crowded market of Christmas chapter books this year. The story has earned a spot on our Christmas Booklist for KS2, and the songs and additional activities are available via the author’s website.

5. Kid Christmas by David Litchfield

Recommended for: A charming take on the origins of St Nicholas, with rich and detailed illustrations that appeal to all ages

Celebrated author–illustrator David Litchfield offers a magical and festive picturebook about generosity and Christmas spirit, which could be enjoyed at different levels across the primary age range.

Kid Christmas of the Claus Brothers Toy Shop is a fresh take on the origin story of Santa Claus (St. Nicholas). It is heartwarming and charming, while teaching about kindness, compassion and love. The illustrations detail Victorian street scenes and the magic of a toy workshop, as well as capturing facial expressions of delight and joy that allow the magic of Christmas to shine through.

Kid Christmas is a beautiful and enjoyable book with stunning, rich illustrations accompanying a unique and thoughtful story that will entertain and delight. 

https://www.booksfortopics.com/christmas-books-5-festive-story-recommendations-for-primary-schools/