With Christmas just around the corner, here we have the countdown of the top ten reads to put you in the festive spirit over the holiday season!
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
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Written for J.R.R. Tolkien’s own children, ‘The Hobbit’ is a story that can be loved by the whole family. And whether a newbie to the genre, or a seasoned fantasy veteran, ‘The Hobbit’ and the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy are essential reads. These stunning pocket editions also mean you can take this riveting world with you, wherever you go!
Available in the UK and the US.
A Christma
s Carol by Charles Dickens
This tiny volume has been adapted for numerous films and theatre productions and is a much-beloved classic. The infamous characters of Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future have become icons for the true meaning of Christmas.
Available in the UK and the US.
The Snowman by Raymond Briggs
Because, well, it’s ‘The Snowman’. No Christmas period is complete without the adolescent dulcet tones of Aled Jones blasting out of the speakers. So experiencing the original magic of this wordless story in this beautifully illustrated format is a must. For ultimate immersion, stream We’re Walking in the Air, whilst you drift along with the story…
Available in the UK and the US.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
For me, wintertime means Harry Potter time. December is the month of my annual reread of this magical series and I delight in it time and time again. The themes of friendship, wonderment and strength in the face of adversity make this a fitting read for this time of year. And the descriptions of all the sumptuous foods will make your mouth water in anticipation for the Christmas day spread!
Available in the UK and the US.
Fantastic Beasts and 
Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplay by J.K. Rowling
If you have had enough Harry Potter to last a lifetime, why not try one of the newer instalments in the magical family? All of the enchantment of the original series is contained in a new format. With the film premiering only weeks ago, there is no better time to read Rowling’s screenplay debut.
Available in the UK and the US.
Read the full review here.
My True Love Gave to Me edited by Stephanie Perkins
A beautiful anthology of twelve winter-themed romantic short stories, penned by numerous powerhouses in the young adult genre. This is guaranteed to offer something for everyone! Numerous editions of this are available but this ice-blue hardback with the hot pink page edges makes this one a standout piece for your bookshelves… or the perfect present for a fellow book lover!
Available in the UK and the US.
The Living Memory by Tim Byrne and Emma Dyer
The holiday season is about more than mince pies and tinsel! It is a time to appreciate your loved one and be mindful of what matters most in your life. In spirit of this, ‘The Living Memory’ is the perfect holiday pick!
Available in the UK and the US.
Read the full review here.
Grief is the Thing with Fe
athers by Max Porter
The nights are closing in and the weather is getting bleaker, meaning it is the perfect time to delve into some brooding, atmospheric fiction. And Porter’s lyrical masterpiece certainly is dark! This compelling read measures in at just over 100 pages, meaning you are almost guaranteed to fit it in between all those Christmas parties!
Available in the UK and the US.
Read the full review here.
Love Letters of Great Men edited by Ursula Doyle
This book is a collection of letters from (you guessed it) great men from throughout history to their love, or in some cases, loves plural. Reading it made my own heart pine for men I have never known with words that were not penned for me. Guaranteed to fill your heart with joy this festive season.
Available in the UK and the US.
Read my full review here.
Classic Literature
Use the extended time off work or school to enjoy the classic books that have been on your reading list since time began! Whether you opt for an Austen, a Tolstoy or a Woolf, you can’t go wrong with a text that has stood the test of time.
Have any essentials to add to the list? Let us know your Christmas favourites below.
