Modern and Underrated Christmas Books You’ll Want to Add to Your Shelf

Not every Christmas classic needs a century to earn its reputation. Some books, though younger, already sparkle with that same timeless warmth we crave during the holidays. They may be lesser-known, but they have all the makings of future favourites: kindness, wonder, magic, and the emotional depth that gives a story staying power.

Below is a lovingly curated list of newer and underrated Christmas books, grouped for both children and adults. Whether you're adding something new to your family tradition or gifting a fresh favourite, these titles are filled with holiday heart.

Books for Children & Families

A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig (2015, UK)

A whimsical and magical origin story of Father Christmas, this book has been adapted into a heartwarming Netflix movie starring Maggie Smith and Jim Broadbent. Perfect for middle-grade readers, it's a tale full of elves, flying reindeer, and a boy named Nikolas who learns the power of hope and generosity.

Dasher by Matt Tavares (2019, USA)

Beautifully illustrated and filled with gentle storytelling, this picture book introduces Dasher, the first of Santa’s reindeer. It’s ideal for young readers who love animals and holiday magic.

Pick a Pine Tree by Patricia Toht, illustrated by Jarvis (2017, UK)

This rhythmic and joyful story takes readers through the experience of choosing, decorating, and celebrating around the Christmas tree. The illustrations are rich and nostalgic, perfect for families to share aloud.

The Girl Who Saved Christmas by Matt Haig (2016, UK)

The sequel to A Boy Called Christmas, this book dives deeper into themes of resilience and kindness. Young Amelia’s wish helps save Christmas, reminding us all how much hope matters in dark times.

The Christmas Eve Tree by Delia Huddy (2015, UK)

This quiet gem tells the story of a scraggly little tree that finds its home in a cardboard box community, bringing unexpected joy. A powerful message about small wonders and unlikely heroes.

The Snowflake by Benji Davies (2020, UK)

Told with lyrical elegance, this book follows a snowflake looking for a place to land, mirroring a little girl’s own sense of searching. It’s an understated, comforting read with lovely wintry illustrations.

The Christmasaurus by Tom Fletcher (2016, UK)

With dinosaurs, magic, music, and mayhem, this book has become a holiday hit with kids ages 8–12. Rumours of a film adaptation have floated for years. Fun, fast-paced, and perfect for giggles.

Red and Lulu by Matt Tavares (2017, USA)

This beautifully illustrated story of two cardinals separated during a tree felling is emotional and hopeful. When they reunite under the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, you may tear up. A stunning book with limited words but big heart.

When Santa Was a Baby by Linda Bailey & Geneviève Godbout (2015, Canada)

A delightful origin tale with a vintage art style. Young Santa loves giving gifts, has a booming voice, and insists on wearing red. Witty and endearing.

The Jolly Christmas Postman by Janet & Allan Ahlberg (1991, UK)

Not new, but too lovely to ignore. This interactive book includes letters to fairy tale characters, with real envelopes and notes tucked inside. A brilliant hands-on experience for little readers.

For Adults & Holiday Nostalgics

Mr. Dickens and His Carol by Samantha Silva (2017, USA)

A richly imagined tale about how Charles Dickens came to write A Christmas Carol. Set in foggy, Victorian London, it’s full of literary atmosphere and redemptive joy — ideal for a fireside evening.

Christmas Days: 12 Stories and 12 Feasts for 12 Days by Jeanette Winterson (2016, UK)

This genre-blending collection of ghost stories, love tales, and holiday essays — interspersed with recipes — is haunting, beautiful, and uniquely festive.

The Deal of a Lifetime by Fredrik Backman (2017, Sweden)

Short, philosophical, and moving, this novella about a father’s sacrifice will leave you thinking long after the final page. Backman, author of A Man Called Ove, captures the bittersweet side of Christmas.

One Day in December by Josie Silver (2018, UK)

A romance that begins at a bus stop and stretches across multiple Christmases. It's heartfelt and tangled with life’s missed chances — and it’s already set for a film adaptation.

Comfort and Joy by Kristin Hannah (2005, USA)

This second-chance romance has a small-town charm and gentle pacing. A story about healing, love, and rediscovering joy.

The Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgan (2021, UK/Scotland)

Set in Edinburgh, this story centres around a bookshop in need of saving and a woman in need of direction. Uplifting and full of charming side characters.

Twelve Birds of Christmas by Stephen Moss (2019, UK)

Part nature diary, part Christmas reflection, this is a peaceful, poetic exploration of the birds tied to seasonal tradition. Ideal for slow December mornings.

An Irish Country Yuletide by Patrick Taylor (2021, Ireland)

This entry in the Irish Country Doctor series is full of heart and nostalgia, following beloved characters through a snowy Christmas season.

The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox (2021, Canada)

Imagine The Parent Trap meets Hallmark holiday movies. Twin sisters trade places in the lead-up to Christmas. Sweet, frothy fun with baking competitions and romance.

Let It Snow: Three Holiday Romances by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle (2008, USA)

This YA collection of interlocking stories is now a Netflix film. It’s cosy, charming, and brimming with teen holiday feels — snowstorms, heartbreak, and cocoa included.

A Snapshot of Christmas Classics

Here’s a quick-reference table with essential information about some of the most beloved Christmas books:

What Makes These Worth Adding?

They may not all be famous (yet), but these books capture the same seasonal magic that gives older classics their charm:

• Emotion: Stories that touch the heart, from laughter to tears.
• Wonder: Imaginative worlds where anything is possible.
• Warmth: From frosty forests to candle-lit rooms, these books glow.
• Reflection: They invite us to pause, reconnect, and believe — in ourselves, in magic, or just in a better tomorrow.

So while we cherish our well-worn copies of A Christmas Carol, there’s something special about discovering a new gem. After all, today’s bedtime favourite or fireside read might just become tomorrow’s classic.

Happy reading — and may your December be filled with great stories, hot drinks, and magical moments.