Part of the fabled magic of Christmas is reading stories to children - whispered to the background of crackling and sparking log fires, the glinting of fairy lights and the comforting weight of a good book to make for unforgettable Christmas memories...in theory!
I'm keen on a compressed Christmas, starting on Christmas Eve and finishing on Boxing day - not quite the Grinch - probably more Ebenezer Scrooge - Christmas loses it sparkle in the dank, wet British gloom of global warming winters. Crisp crunching snow is a distant childhood memory - certainly in the south of England, where we sink into a soggy, grey torpor...not for me the saccharine sentimentality and the clinical efficiency of extracting cash from wallets and dopamine from souls..."bah humbug!"
The Promise of a Book—a Christmas Book
And yet, there’s the promise of a book—a Christmas book. The kind that reminds us, just fleetingly, what we’re pretending to feel: warmth, joy, nostalgia for something that might never have been quite real in the first place. But still, we open the covers and hope.
If you’ve ever dreamed of writing your own Christmas stories for children, now is the perfect time.
I’ve known how stories can bring families together during the festive season and one of the great pleasures is reading a Christmas book to children and adults. If you’ve ever dreamed of writing your own Christmas stories for children, now is the perfect time.
Writing a holiday story isn’t just about creating magic on the page; it’s about capturing the joy, wonder, and warmth that defines the Christmas or holiday season.
Here, we’ll explore the secrets to writing Christmas stories for children, with practical tips, a list of inspiring examples, and a glimpse into the world of festive children’s publishing.
Snow by Joanna Surman
In 2020, Jo was the winner of the Stratford-Salariya Picture Book Prize for her children's book "Snow?" which she wrote and illustrated and shows the art of writing Christmas stories for children.
Joanne Surman studied art up to B-Tec level before achieving a B.A. (hons) in Design and Communication. She then completed a Master's degree in Illustration with distinction in 2018.
Following a career in advertising, Joanne worked in different design fields: software graphics, 3D modelling, and animation for the gaming industry, children's television (BBC and Channel 4), website design, and interactive software design for heritage sites (National Trust and museums).
Having decided to concentrate on her love for illustration, Joanne is writing and creating illustrations for children's books in a range of styles and media.
Jo's beautifully illustrated prize-winning book is an ideal example of a Christmas book for the UK and USA markets. In American publishing, Christmas books with the word 'Christmas' can lean more towards religion - so Jo's book shows a book for the American and UK markets. I found the UK and USA publishing markets to be at times tricky as a book that would sell in the UK didn't always sell that well in the USA and visa versa.
Stunning Endpapers
Snow opens with stunning endpapers showing an autumn scene. Fox cubs are sleeping underground beneath the roots of tree. Curious about what snow is, the little cubs ask Mother Fox, but she falls asleep before answering. Determined to find out, the cubs venture out during the day to ask other woodland creatures about snow. They collect as much information as possible, yet nothing can truly prepare them for the marvel of the first snow. The back endpapers show the same scene that opened the book - this time though enveloped in thick snow, the perfect scene of Christmas stillness.
The Stratford-Salariya Children's Picture Book Prize used specific criteria to assess submissions and determine winners.
Creativity and Originality: Judges sought unique storytelling and innovative illustrations that distinguished themselves from other entries.
Quality of Writing and Illustration: The clarity, structure, and overall presentation of both text and illustrations were essential. Judges evaluated how well the writing captivated young readers and how effectively the illustrations supported the story.
Marketability: Judges assessed the book's potential appeal to international publishers and its appropriateness for children’s audiences.
Emotional Impact: The book's ability to emotionally connect with children and convey a meaningful message was a crucial factor in the evaluation process.
Why Write a Christmas Story?
Writing a Christmas story for children offers a unique opportunity to tap into their sense of wonder. Whether it’s about mischievous elves, talking animals, or heartwarming lessons, Christmas tales often stick with readers for life.
Beyond the joy of storytelling, there’s also the chance to make a lasting impact. The right story could become a family tradition, read year after year during the holidays.
What’s more, Christmas stories have a longer shelf life than most genres. Publishers and readers alike revisit them every year, and a successful book can generate steady income over decades. Writing a Christmas story isn’t just a creative endeavour—it’s a gift that keeps on giving if the story and the design of the book works!
The Christmas Chronicles started as a different set of books that I'd devised as four separate board books in a cardboard tray - I'd decided to commission - artwork as if Santa was in a version of the modern age - operating as a business with all the accoutrements of the present day - inspired by a figure of Santa Clause on a scooter in Selfridges in 2007. The tray of books format wasn't selling very well - so it was time to have a rethink and a change of format. Making the cover into an advent calendar provided a way of making an individual chapter of the story to be read every night until Christmas eve was the answer and John Townsend took all James Newman Grays artwork and made it into a cohesive story. Then the artwork went through the magic of photoshop wizards Isobel Lundie and Rob Walker.
Key Ingredients for a Great Christmas Story
To write a timeless tale, you need the perfect mix of magic, emotion, and relatability. Here’s what to include:
A Relatable Hero
Children love protagonists they can root for- a kind-hearted child, a curious animal, or a misunderstood misfit. Think of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer—his journey from outcast to hero is a classic example. The Christmas Chronicals has Santa himself as the hero.
A Christmas Setting
From snowy landscapes to bustling toy workshops, the setting is everything. Transport readers to a world that feels quintessentially festive. Use sensory details—crunching snow, jingling bells, or the warm scent of gingerbread—to immerse them in the story.
A Sprinkle of Magic
Christmas is a time for believing in the impossible. Whether it’s a talking snowman or a time-travelling sleigh, adding a touch of the extraordinary captures the spirit of the season.
A Lesson or Moral
Many classic Christmas stories impart a lesson about kindness, generosity, or the true meaning of the season. The best stories weave these messages into the narrative seamlessly, without feeling preachy.
A Satisfying Ending
Christmas tales should leave readers with a warm, fuzzy feeling. Whether it’s a happy reunion, a lesson learned, or a magical transformation, the ending should wrap up the story like a perfectly tied bow.
Inspiration: Christmas Classics and Hidden Gems
If you’re struggling to get started, look to these timeless Christmas stories for inspiration:
The Snowman
Author: Raymond BriggsIllustrator: Raymond BriggsPublisher: Hamish HamiltonPublication Date: 1978
ISBN: 978-0241567478
This wordless picture book is a masterclass in visual storytelling. The bittersweet tale captures the magic and fragility of Christmas.
A Christmas Carol
Author: Charles Dickens
Illustrator: John Leech (original edition) Publisher: Chapman & Hall (original publication) Publication Date: 19 December 1843ISBN: Various editions available
A quintessential Christmas tale, it’s a reminder of the season’s transformative power. Recognised as the book that invented 'Christmas,' its timeless themes resonate across generations.
The Polar Express
Author: Chris Van Allsburg
Illustrator: Chris Van Allsburg
Publisher: Houghton MifflinPublication Date: 28 October
1985ISBN: 978-0395389492
This beautifully illustrated book transports readers on a magical journey to the North Pole, exploring themes of belief and wonder.
Father Christmas
Author: Raymond Briggs
Illustrator: Raymond Briggs
Publisher: Hamish Hamilton
Publication Date: 1973
ISBN: 978-0140501250
With a grumpy yet endearing Santa, this humorous tale grounds Father Christmas in the reality of making deliveries—echoing the routines of Briggs’s milkman father.
The Jolly Christmas Postman
Author: Janet and Allan Ahlberg
Illustrator: Janet AhlbergPublisher: Heinemann (UK) / Little, Brown (US)
Publication Date: 1 September 1991ISBN: 978-0316127158
This interactive book combines storytelling with fun surprises, making it a hit with younger readers year after year.
The Story of Holly and Ivy
Author: Rumer Godden
Illustrator: Barbara Cooney
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: 1 October 1985ISBN: 978-0670801683
This touching tale intertwines the lives of an orphan girl, a Christmas doll, and a lonely couple, capturing themes of hope, love, and belonging during the Christmas season.
These examples prove there’s no single way to write a Christmas story. Whether it’s poetic, humorous, or heartwarming, the most important thing is to write from the heart!
"Christmas Greetings from Salariya" video by Jonathan Salariya of illustrations by Isobel Lundie of drawings of Father Christmas coming alive after being trapped in the scanner.
Tips for Writing Christmas Stories
Start with a "What-If" Question
A great story often begins with a “what if” question. What if a snowman came to life? What if Santa got lost? Let your imagination run wild.
We know of a famous Snowman who came to life in Raymond Briggs classic book...and you will probably recognise other obvious scenarios below...or perhaps some new ones.
What if Christmas trees could talk?
What if Christmas decorations came alive? (Like Toy Story)
What stories would they tell about the families who decorate them?
What if Santa decided to retire? Who would take over, and how would they handle the job?
What if the North Pole melted? How would Santa and his elves save Christmas?
What if the reindeer went on strike? How would Santa deliver presents without them?
What if an elf accidentally became human? How would they adjust to life outside the North Pole?
What if Santa’s workshop computers were hacked? Could the elves recover in time to save Christmas?
What if Christmas lights were magical? Could they brighten more than just the holiday season?
What if a snowstorm grounded Santa’s sleigh? How would he deliver presents without his usual transport?
What if a child accidentally caught Santa in their chimney? How would they keep his secret while helping him escape?
What if Christmas didn’t exist? How would people rediscover the spirit of giving?
What if the Naughty and Nice List was swapped? How would Santa and the elves fix the mix-up?
What if Santa’s sleigh developed artificial intelligence? Could it outwit Santa or save him from disaster...or become 'Hal'...and take over?
What if Christmas spirit was the key to flying the sleigh? What happens when Christmas spirit - or the spirit of Christmas is in short supply?
What if an ancient Christmas spell was broken? How would it change the Christmas season forever?
What if an alien landed at the North Pole on Christmas Eve? How would Santa and the elves handle the unexpected visitor?
What if the ornaments on a Christmas tree came to life? What kind of adventures would they have - leaving the tree and not getting back in time - treeless they need to forge a new life outside the Christmas period.
What if Santa accidentally delivered a present to the wrong house? How would the mistake affect Christmas?
What if the Grinch tried to steal Christmas again? Could he be stopped, or would someone else become the new hero of Whoville?
What if time froze on Christmas Eve? How would Santa unfreeze it to save the day?
What if snowflakes held secret messages? Who would discover them, and what would they mean?
What if Santa’s hat had magical powers? What would happen if someone else put it on?
What if a pet became an honorary reindeer? Could a dog, cat, hamster or budgie help pull the sleigh?
What if an elf fell asleep on a rooftop and was left behind? How would they find their way back to the North Pole?
What if the Christmas spirit was a real, tangible thing? What happens if it’s lost or stolen?
What if Santa met a child who didn’t believe in him? How would he change their mind?
Keep the Language Simple and Engaging
Use age-appropriate language, but don’t talk down to your readers. Writing for children is about clarity and connection.
Add Humour Where Possible
Christmas chaos—like tangled lights or reindeer mischief— can make for funny scenes. A little humour goes a long way in entertaining kids and parents alike.
Collaborate with an Illustrator
In children’s books, illustrations play the most vital of roles. If you’re not an artist yourself, consider teaming up with an artist who can bring your story to life.
Read Aloud
Reading your story aloud is the best way to ensure it flows well. Pay attention to the rhythm, dialogue, and emotional beats.
The Lucrative Side of Christmas Stories
Writing children’s Christmas books can be surprisingly lucrative. In the UK, the demand for festive tales spikes months before December, as parents, schools, and libraries search for new additions to their collections.
Many Christmas books enjoy a perennial appeal, returning to shelves every year without losing relevance.
According to Nielsen BookScan, children’s Christmas books often outperform other genres during the holiday season. Bestseller lists are frequently topped by festive titles, with some authors earning significant royalties from reprints and special editions.
Self-published authors can also thrive in this niche. With platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, it’s easier than ever to market your book directly to readers. Add a seasonal cover, a catchy title, and good SEO, and you could carve out a profitable space in the market!
The Joy of Sharing Your Story
At its heart, writing a Christmas story for children is about sharing joy. Imagine families gathering around your book, laughing, gasping, and dreaming along with your characters. It’s an incredible feeling to know your words have become part of someone’s holiday tradition.
Christmas Stories for Children
If you’re ready to jump in, remember this: the best Christmas stories don’t just celebrate the holiday. They celebrate love, kindness, and the magic of being together.
Opening lines
Classic Christmas Opening Sentences
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
“Every Who down in Who-ville loved Christmas a lot, but the Grinch, who lived just north of Who-ville, did NOT.”
This line introduces the iconic character of the Grinch and his disdain for Christmas, setting up the central conflict of the story.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Marley was dead: to begin with.
This famous opening line establishes the ghostly theme of the story and hooks readers with its intriguing premise.
The Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore
“’Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.”
This classic line paints a peaceful scene on Christmas Eve, inviting readers into a world of holiday magic.
Mog’s Christmas by Judith Kerr
“Mog was not sure about Christmas.”
This simple yet effective sentence introduces Mog, a cat who finds herself in humorous predicaments during the festive season.
Madeline’s Christmas by Ludwig Bemelmans
“In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines, lived twelve little girls in two straight lines.”
This line sets the stage for Madeline's adventures and her acts of kindness during the Christmas holidays.
"The Jolly Christmas Postman" by Janet & Allan Ahlberg
“It’s Christmas Eve and the Jolly Postman is delivering letters to all his fairy tale friends.”
This engaging opening invites readers into a whimsical world filled with familiar characters and festive cheer.
"The Snowman" by Raymond Briggs
“One winter’s night, when all was quiet, a boy made a snowman.”
This sentence leads to a magical adventure which captures the wonder of childhood imagination during winter with the overwhelming sadness that all things are trancient.
These opening lines not only capture the essence of Christmas but also evoke nostalgia and excitement for readers of all ages.
Writing a Christmas story for children isn’t only a creative outlet—it’s a chance to bring joy, spark imagination, and make something timeless.
The Heart of Christmas
For many, Christmas arrives gift-wrapped in the traditions of Santa with his many elves, with reindeer bounding through starry skies and stockings stuffed with surprises. These stories - jolly, bright, and steeped in magic - are part of the traditions of modern Christmas, offering excitement for children and nostalgia for adults.
But as we rush to decorate, bake, and shop, we can often forget the quieter, ancient story at the heart of Christmas: the Nativity.
A Story of Hope and Humility
The Nativity isn’t only a religious narrative - it’s a story of hope, humility, and light in the darkest of seasons. It’s the story of a young woman named Mary, her faith, and a miraculous birth in the poorest of settings. It’s the story of shepherds who left their flocks to follow the angel’s call, and of Wise Men who travelled great distances, guided only by a star, to pay allegiance to a newborn baby.
As we take pleasure in the magic of Santa’s sleigh and the joy of giving and receiving gifts, it’s worth pausing to reflect on this deeper magic - of kindness, generosity, and love.
Sharing the Nativity with Children
Reintroducing the Nativity story to children doesn’t mean sidelining elves or Santa; it means adding depth to their understanding of Christmas. There are different ways to make this story engaging for young readers and listeners:
Christmas Stories for Children Through Their Eyes
Children connect with relatable characters. Imagine a shepherd boy witnessing the angels’ announcement, or an animal in the stable offering its perspective on the miraculous night. Stories like these breathe life into Nativity and spark curiosity.
The Journey of the Star
A star is a symbol of wonder and possibility. Children might be fascinated by a story told from the Star of Bethlehem’s point of view, as it guides the Wise Men to their destination.
The Humble King The Nativity reminds us that greatness often comes in the simplest forms. Retelling this as a lyrical story or picture book—where a stable becomes a palace and the child a king—can captivate a young imagination.
Parallels to Today
A modern story, perhaps a child preparing for a Christmas play and discovering the meaning behind their role as Mary or Joseph, can bridge the gap between the past and present, showing how the Nativity’s themes of love, courage, and faith are timeless.
The Power of Balance
Christmas can hold both stories - the jingle of sleigh bells and the gentle whooshing of angel wings. Santa brings excitement and cheer, but the Nativity gives the season its heart, reminding us that Christmas is not just about receiving but also about giving.
So, as we hang our stockings and shove Tesco's mincemeat pies in the microwave, let’s also take a moment for the Nativity. Whether it’s through a beautifully illustrated children’s book, a Christmas Eve story, or a simple conversation, sharing the story of the first Christmas can add to our celebrations and leave children with a sense of wonder that lasts far well beyond Boxing Day.
A Modern Nativity: Finding Hope in Today’s World
The Nativity story, immortalised by Renaissance artists, is a tale of resilience, humility, and the profound hope that comes with new life. Reimagined in a modern context, its themes feel as urgent today as they did a thousand years ago.
See Mary and Joseph as a young couple displaced by crisis and war and poverty, finding shelter not in a stable, but in an abandoned building or makeshift refugee camp. The shepherds become night-shift workers - delivery drivers or paramedics - whose quiet acts of care reflect humanity. The Wise Men, perhaps a teacher, a social-worker, and a doctor, bring gifts of community support and healing. The star guiding them all? A beacon in the night - technology, community, or sheer perseverance.
This contemporary Nativity can remind us of not only of the harsh realities many families face today, but it also speaks to the enduring power of hope, kindness, and the wonder of a newborn child. It’s a story that goes beyond time, reminding us to look for light in the darkness - a message as relevant now as it was when it first inspired the great artists of the Renaissance.
If ever there were a story to inspire children’s books that connect past and present, the Nativity is it.
These books below are fairly old and would reflect the times we would be reading to our son Jonathan.
The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey
Author: Susan Wojciechowski
Illustrator: P.J. Lynch
Publisher: Walker Books Ltd
Publication Date: 1 October 1995
ISBN: 978-0744554021
This story follows a grieving woodcarver, Jonathan Toomey, who is commissioned by a widow and her son to carve a Nativity set. Through this craft, he experiences healing and a renewal of spirit.
Room for a Little One: A Christmas Tale
Author: Martin Waddell
Illustrator: Jason Cockcroft
Publisher: Orchard Books
Publication Date: 6 October 2005
ISBN: 978-1843620143
Set in the stable on the night of Jesus's birth, this gentle story is told from the perspective of the animals, emphasising themes of kindness and inclusion.
The Nativity
Author: Text from the Bible
Illustrator: Julie Vivas
Publisher: Walker Books Ltd
Publication Date: 1 October 1995
ISBN: 978-0744543247
A straightforward retelling of the Nativity story, complemented by Julie Vivas's whimsical and soft watercolour illustrations, bringing warmth and humanity to the holy family.
The Story of Holly and Ivy
Author: Rumer Godden
Illustrator: Barbara Cooney
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: 1 October 1985
ISBN: 978-0670801683
This tale intertwines the lives of an orphan girl, a Christmas doll, and a lonely couple, capturing themes of hope, love, and belonging during the Christmas season.
Who Is Coming to Our House?
Author: Joseph Slate
Illustrator: Ashley Wolff
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: 1 September 2001
ISBN: 978-0399234101
A rhythmic and repetitive story suitable for very young children, featuring animals in the stable preparing for the arrival of Mary and Joseph.
Angela and the Baby Jesus
Author: Frank McCourt
Illustrator: Raúl Colón
Publisher: Scribner
Publication Date: 21 November 2007
ISBN: 978-1416562467
Based on a true story from the author's mother’s childhood in Ireland, this poignant tale involves a young girl who takes the baby Jesus from a church Nativity scene to keep him warm, leading to unexpected consequences.
Jesus' Christmas Party
Author: Nicholas Allan
Publisher: Red Fox
Publication Date: 1 October 1991
ISBN: 978-0099724910
A humorous retelling of the Nativity from the perspective of an innkeeper who is repeatedly disturbed by visitors to his stable, blending reverence with lightheartedness.
Papa Panov’s Special Day
Author: Based on a story by Leo Tolstoy
Illustrator: Mig Holder
Publisher: Lion Children's Books
Publication Date: 18 September 2015
ISBN: 978-0745965819
Description: This story follows an elderly shoemaker, Papa Panov, who hopes to meet Jesus on Christmas Day. Instead, he encounters various people in need and helps them, realizing that in serving others, he has met Christ.
The Crippled Lamb
Author: Max Lucado
Illustrator: Liz Bonham
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: 1 October 1994
ISBN: 978-0849910050
This Christian story tells of a little lamb who feels left out because he can’t keep up with the flock. However, his unique position allows him to witness the birth of Jesus and keep the baby warm.
These books offer a range of perspectives on the Christmas story, from traditional retellings to imaginative narratives which bring the Nativity to life for children.
Whether you’re inspired by classics like The Snowman or crammed with original ideas, there’s a space for your voice in this festive genre.
So, grab a quill, a pen (or laptop) and start scripting or tapping your tale. Who knows? Your story might just be the next Christmas classic to light up homes across the world.
Happy Christmas writing, and may your words bring magic to the season and a future bestseller!
"Though I have grown old, the bell still rings for me as it does for all who truly believe.”
The Polar Express" by Chris Van Allsburg
If I were to offer advice to an author just starting out in their writing career, here’s what I’d think about - take multiple opinions though…so let’s recap:
Find the Heart of Your Story
Christmas stories are so much more than tinsel and snow; they resonate because they can tap into universal feelings: kindness, joy, nostalgia, or even the bittersweetness of the season. Ask yourself: What’s the emotional core of my story? Is it about togetherness? The thrill of giving? Could it be the calm, magical moments which elevate the season? Without this core, the season lacks substance and becomes only glitter.
Keep Your Audience in Mind
Remember you are writing for young children—often under seven—so think about their world. Simplicity is the ideal, but that doesn’t mean talking down. Children are sharp, use language that’s sparse, playful, and age-appropriate. Also, think about what parents will enjoy reading aloud. If the text is easily recited or has a pleasing rhythm, it is sure to become a favourite.
It’s not only the words; it’s the pictures
Remember, picture books are a partnership between your words and an illustrator’s art. Every word you write should earn its place on the page because much of the story will be told visually. Consider allowing illustrations to take the lead, instead of describing every single detail of Santa’s workshop (do that in your notes to your illustrator), let the illustrator bring your ideas to life.
Create Characters Worth Rooting For
Kids fall in love with characters, whether it’s a curious little elf, a reindeer who can’t fly, or a snowman with a big dream. Make your protagonist relatable and give them a clear goal or problem to solve. Christmas stories often tackle big emotions—wanting, waiting, giving, or learning—and your character should drive the story.
Timelessness Over Trends
A great Christmas story should stay with readers even after 20 years. While a dash of modernity is fine, try to write a story with a timeless quality. Think of the enduring appeal of Christmas Classics. They feel rooted in a magical "forever" space.
The Magic is in the Details.
Christmas is a sensory holiday—think crackling fires, jingling bells, the smell of pine and gingerbread. Use sensory details sparingly but effectively to bring your world to life. Remember, children experience the world through their senses, and so should your story.
Embrace the Spirit of Christmas
At its heart, Christmas is about more than presents and carols. It’s about love, generosity, and hope. Whatever story you tell, make sure it captures the spirit of the season. That will resonate with kids and adults who read to them.
Test It Out Loud
Once you’ve written your manuscript, read it aloud—again and again. Does it flow? Does it have a rhythm that will captivate a room of wriggly children at storytime? Repetition, rhyme, or even a lilting prose style can work wonders.
Persevere through the process.
Publishing is extraordinarily competitive, and children’s books are no exception. If your first attempt doesn't find a home right away, don't give up, rejection is part of this process. Keep refining, keep submitting, and most importantly, keep writing. You’ll only get better with practice.
Remember Why You’re Writing
Finally, never lose sight of the joy that led you to write your Christmas picture book in the first place. If you believe in your story's magic, your enthusiasm will rub off on others.
So, there you have it.
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