The festive, wintery weeks leading up to Christmas are the perfect time to snuggle in front of the fire with a book and large mug of hot chocolate. These are some of my festive favourites.
Christmas Ever After
A CHRISTMAS CAROL - Charles Dickens
This used to be the first story my children would reach for as Christmas approached and even though they're now long past the age where they want to curl up and listen to me read to them, I still enjoy reading it myself. With lights twinkling on the tree and the scent of cinnamon and mixed spice coming from the kitchen, this book heralds the start of the festive period.
A VISIT FROM ST NICHOLAS
Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a reading of Clement Clarke Moore's ever popular poem about a visit from St Nicolas. We have a beautifully illustrated version handed down from grandparents and much loved. When I asked readers on facebook to name their favourite Christmas story, this came out on top.
LETTERS FROM FATHER CHRISTMAS - JRR TOLKEIN
I love this collection of letters written by Tolkein for his children, describing the adventures of Father Christmas and his helpers. Perfect Christmas reading.
BRIDGET JONES' DIARY - Helen Fielding
Not a Christmas book specifically but there is snow, turkey curry and Christmas jumpers. And Mark Darcy. And this is one of those rare occasions where I love the movie every bit as much as the book.
THE GREAT CHRISTMAS KNIT OFF - Alexandra Brown
I write romantic fiction, so it goes without saying that I also enjoy reading it and I love Alexandra Brown's warm, relatable characters. This book is romantic, uplifting and deliciously festive. It's the literary equivalent of a warm hug on a cold day.
I HEART CHRISTMAS - LINDSEY KELK
I dream of spending Christmas in New York City, but while I'm waiting for that to happen reading about it is the next best thing. This book has all Lindsey Kelk's trademark humour and the New York setting is perfect.
HARRY POTTER AND THE PHILOSOPHER'S STONE
This is a magical series (in every sense!) but one of my favourite scenes, in both the books and the movie, is Harry's first Christmas at Hogwarts.
NORTHERN LIGHTS by Nora Roberts
Part thriller, part romance, this book isn't a Christmas story, but it's set in Alaska and the vivid description of the snowy wilderness will have you turning up the fire and reaching for another wooly layer. Perfect if your Christmas isn't as white as you'd like it to be.
LITTLE TREE by E.E.CUMMINGS
Another poem, rather than a book, but it's been part of my Christmas reading for as long as I can remember. Truly beautiful.
MOG'S CHRISTMAS CALAMITY - Judith Kerr
The book I'm buying all the small children in my family (and some of the big ones) this Christmas is by renowned children's author, Judith Kerr. Accident prone Mog creates a festive disaster, but with a little help from neighbors and friends, Christmas is saved. It's funny and charming, and all the proceeds from the book go to Save the Children to improve child literacy in the UK.
I hope you find some wonderful reading this Christmas.
Love Sarah
xx
Christmas Ever After, by Sarah Morgan (MIRA) is out now.