The holiday season is the perfect time to dive into stories that capture the magic, mischief, and meaning of Christmas. As a fan of heartwarming middle-grade adventures, I’m thrilled to share a list of 7 awesome middle grade Christmas books that are sure to delight readers of all ages.
Naturally, I had to include my own book, Naughty Week — not just because I wrote it, but because I genuinely believe it’s a fun, action-packed tale filled with irreverent humor, heart, holiday cheer, and ranks up there with the best middle grade Christmas books ever. So let’s dive in and take a look at some truly wonderful holiday reads!
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Naughty Week
What can I say, I love this book! Naughty Week is a delightful holiday romp that asks: what if kids get to be as naughty as they want to be while Santa’s on vacation? For Harrison and his brother Max, the discovery of Santa’s vacation itinerary unleashes a week of wild mischief. But when their antics escalate to a faux bank heist, Harrison learns the hard way that actions have consequences. Packed with humor, heart, and lessons about choices and family, this Christmastime tale captures the imagination and earnest spirit of a 10-year-old boy.
A Boy Called Christmas
Eleven-year-old Nikolas, affectionately nicknamed “Christmas,” has lived a humble life, cherishing the simple gift of a turnip doll from his loving parents. When his father disappears, Nikolas embarks on a daring journey to the North Pole to find him. Along the way, he befriends a cranky reindeer, outwits a troll, and uncovers the magical village of Elfhelm. But with Christmas spirit fading and the elves in turmoil, Nikolas must find a way to restore goodwill — before time runs out for both his father and the magic of the season.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever follows the unruly Herdman kids, who take over the church Christmas pageant, turning it into a chaotic yet heartfelt journey. Their unique interpretation of the nativity transforms the town’s understanding of Christmas, making this year’s pageant one of the most surprising — and possibly the best — ever.
Winterfrost
Twelve-year-old Bettina is left to care for her family’s home, farm, and baby sister, Pia, during a frosty Christmas when her parents are called away. In the chaos, her family forgets to set out the traditional rice pudding for the nisse, magical beings said to protect the farm. When Pia mysteriously disappears, Bettina discovers the nisse are real—and mischievous. To rescue her sister, she must navigate their enchanting yet perilous world in this charming winter tale of tradition, courage, and holiday magic.
Greenglass House
Winter at Greenglass House is usually peaceful, and twelve-year-old Milo plans to enjoy a quiet holiday. But when unexpected guests start arriving at the old smuggler’s inn, each with a mysterious connection to the house, chaos ensues. As strange events unfold and tensions rise, Milo and Meddy, the cook’s daughter, team up to solve the puzzle of their guests’ secrets, missing objects, and the true history of Greenglass House. This captivating mystery weaves together adventure, self-discovery, and the magic of the season.
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street
The Vanderbeekers adore their cozy brownstone on 141st Street; it’s more than a home—it’s part of the family. But when their grouchy and mysterious landlord, Mr. Beiderman, refuses to renew their lease, the five siblings face an impossible challenge: they have just eleven days to save their beloved home before Christmas. Determined and resourceful, the Vanderbeekers hatch creative, heartfelt, and often hilarious plans to show Mr. Beiderman why the brownstone—and their family—are worth keeping. This warm, spirited story is a perfect holiday read about love, home, and community.
Nutcracked
Georgie has dreamed of dancing as Clara in The Nutcracker for years, and when she finally gets the role, it feels like a dream come true—because it is. Each time she dances with the Nutcracker doll, she is transported to a magical world where everything is larger than life. But when the magic begins to leak into her real world and threatens her friend’s safety, Georgie must find a way to save everyone—before it’s too late, and Christmas is ruined.
Give the Gift of Awesome Middle Grade Christmas Books
These holiday stories are perfect for sparking imagination, building excitement, and bringing a little extra magic into the season for the whole family. Whether you’re giving the gift of a funny, heartfelt adventure or a magical journey that inspires, these middle grade Christmas books are sure to be a hit with young readers. So this year consider gifting a story that will ignite a love for reading, creating memories that will last long after the holidays are over. After all, there’s no better present than the gift of an engaging book!
