Raemona Roundup // Books To Read This Christmas

There are two types of people in December:

1. Those who become hyper-festive and start wearing pyjamas with reindeer on them, and

2. Those who stare into the void wondering how another year has passed and why they’re

still receiving “When are you getting married?” questions.

Regardless of which camp you fall into, a book can save you. Truly. A good story can turn even the most chaotic holiday season into something that feels intentional, cosy, and gently romantic, even if your real life is just you, a blanket, and questionable hot chocolate.

So here are the books worth curling up with this Christmas. No pressure, no pretentiousness, just stories that feel good in your hands.

1. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Let’s start with the obvious classic. This book basically invented the modern Christmas vibe, ghosts, second chances, dramatic life lessons, emotional transformation… and all in under 150 pages. It’s short, sharp, and surprisingly warm. A great pick if your attention span has been personally victimised by social media.

2. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

Say what you want, but nobody does cosy winter nostalgia like early Harry Potter. Whether you're re-reading or picking it up for the first time, the Christmas chapter alone is worth it: snow at Hogwarts, knitted jumpers, and the kind of childhood magic we all secretly miss. Perfect for escaping adulthood for a few hours.

3. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

If you're in the mood to actually feel something this Christmas (instead of numbing yourself with sugar and Netflix), this is the book. It's heartbreaking, poetic, unforgettable, and a global favourite for a reason. A heavier pick, but sometimes winter calls for stories with depth and soul.

4. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Yes, it’s staying. Because no Christmas reading list is complete without the March sisters. The book feels like warm bread, knitted blankets, and all the parts of girlhood we outgrow too quickly. It’s one of those novels every woman should read at least once in her lifetime, and December is the perfect month to do it.

5. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy

A pocket-sized therapy session disguised as a picture book. It’s sweet, gentle, beautifully illustrated, and comforting in a way that should honestly be illegal. Reads well at any age, especially during That Emotional Week Between Christmas and New Year.

6. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Why read it at Christmas?

Because the entire book feels like a warm room with a fire going somewhere in the background. It’s witty, comforting, and deeply satisfying in that slow-burn, enemies-to- lovers, “Sir, I cannot tolerate you but I am also in love with you” way. Plus, nothing pairs better with December than the emotional delicacy of Miss Bennet rolling her eyes at Mr Darcy across a candlelit room. It’s basically the original rom-com, but with empire-line dresses and social tension you could butter toast with.

7. Let It Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson & Lauren Myracle

Let It Snow is hot chocolate with whipped cream, fairy lights, and someone laughing way too

loudly in the background. This YA trio is a global favourite, especially at Christmas. Three short stories, all interconnected, all adorable, all set during a snowstorm. It’s funny, sweet, and wonderfully dramatic in that teenage way where every emotion feels like the end of the world. It’s perfect for readers who want something light, quick, and festive without committing to a 500-page emotional journey. You can dip in and out between gift-wrapping, last-minute errands, or the classic Christmas nap that somehow lasts three hours.

8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss

Every holiday reading list needs at least one book that reminds us it’s okay to be done with everything, because the Grinch gets it. He really does.

If you haven’t read this since childhood, give it another look. It’s surprisingly therapeutic as an adult. The Grinch is basically the patron saint of people who cannot handle one more Christmas jingle. And yet… the story ends with warmth, kindness, community, and a message that feels more relevant the older we get. It’s short, iconic, joyful, and timeless. Also: you absolutely can read picture books in your 20s or 30s. This is a safe space.

And that’s it, your little stack of Christmas reads for when you need a break, a breather, or just something nicer than scrolling. Pick the one that feels right, grab a warm drink, and settle in. Here’s to a December full of cosy corners, good stories, and the kind of quiet moments we all forget to take.

Happy reading — and Merry Christmas, you lovely thing.