A Bad Kitty Christmas

by Nick Bruel

Summary: After destroying all of the gifts and decorations at home, Bad Kitty escapes from the car on Christmas Eve and finds a new friend, who helps her learn the true meaning of Christmas.

I love this book! The book contains three alphabetical lists, including naughty things kitty did. The rhyming lists are woven beautifully into this heartwarming story. The text is lengthy, and may be most enjoyed when read one-on-one with a child. Like other books in the Bad Kitty series, this holiday story involves humor.

Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3
Reading Level: grade 4

New Christmas picture books

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Elmer's Christmas 

by David McKee

Summary: Elmer, the patchwork elephant, helps the excited youngsters prepare for the Christmas visit of Papa Red.

This is a wonderful Christmas book for discussing the deeper meanings of the holiday season, especially generosity. The story seems to be going down a predictable path, but the ending has a twist. I have never seen this type of ending to a Christmas story before. This book may be most enjoyed when an adult reads it with a child one-on-one. However, primary school age children may like it as well. There are other Elmer books by David McKee that also address personal characteristics. 

Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3

Reading Level: grade 2

Strega Nona's Gift 

by Tomie dePaola

Summary: Smelling the treats Strega Nona is cooking for her animals for the holidays, Big Anthony can't resist and samples everything, bringing about unexpected consequences.

This is a wonderful tale about generosity. Italian Christmas traditions and other holiday traditions are explored throughout this book. As a read aloud, this book is most appropriate for older primary school children. 

Interest Level: grades k-3

Reading Level: grade 4

Joan of Arc

by Demi

Summary: Presents an illustrated biography of Joan of Arc, from her early vision of Archangel Michael to her military victories, and eventual execution at the stake for heresy.

The illustrations of this book are beautiful, rich illustrations typical of Demi. I like the use of gold and the depictions of characters in this book. The best audience for this book is fourth to sixth graders or older students interested in learning about Joan of Arc. Younger children may not appreciate this story because of its length and sensitive subject matters. However, this story can be used as a springboard into moral discussions.

Interest Level: grades 4-6
Reading Level: grade 5

 

Oh, What a Christmas! 

by Michael Garland

Summary: After Santa loses his reindeer midflight on Christmas Eve, he improvises by seeking the help of some barnyard animals to complete his trip.

This original Santa story is slightly off-beat, but humorous. Children will enjoy the bright, vibrant illustrations that make the night come alive.

Interest Level: ages 2-grade 3

Reading Level: grade 4

Snowed Under and Other Christmas Confusions 

by Serge Bloch

Summary: A snow storm the day before Christmas causes a boy many worries, which are not helped by such confusing phrases as: "Don't be a wet blanket" and "That's the way the cookie crumbles."

This is a terrific book for discussing idioms and figures of speech. The story’s light humor makes it a fun read aloud whether it is used as a teaching tool or not. Children who enjoy this holiday treat may enjoy Michael Dahl’s Monster Street series, Tedd Arnold’s Parts series or Amelia Parrish’s Amelia Bedelia series. 

Interest Level: grades k-3

Reading Level: grade 3