It’s that time of year again: that magical month when adults can browse the picture book aisle for as long as they like, without attracting any curious looks! Whether you’re scrambling to find a last-minute gift for a niece or nephew, or simply looking to read something lighthearted yourself, these 12 whimsical kids books are the perfect fit for the holidays.
One kiss, two kiss, three kiss, four! So many kisses and so many more. From bestselling author Richard Van Camp comes Kiss by Kiss (Orca Book Publishers), an adorable dual-language counting book that honors families. Learn to count (and kiss!) together in English and Plains Cree. | Ages 0–2
Jewish Fairy Tale Feasts (Tradewind Books) offers a playful and delicious way to celebrate Hannukah. Author Jane Yolen retells Jewish folktales, Heidi Stemple writes mouthwatering Jewish recipes to accompany them, and Sima Elizabeth Shefrin adds a finishing touch with colourful illustrations. | Ages 9–12
Based on one version of the Haida Moon cycle, Taan’s Moons (McKellar & Martin) by Alison Gear and illustrator Kiki van der Heiden is a gorgeous gift for readers young and old. Van der Heiden worked closely with the children on Haida Gwaii to create the unique felted artwork that complements each page of this wonderful story. | Age 4–7
In Hockey with Dad (Caitlin Press), author Willie Sellars and illustrator Nelson White follow the award-winning Dipnetting with Dad with yet another fun and meaningful adventure. Join Little Brother as he grows and learns about the importance of hockey to his Secwepemc community. | Ages 5–8
Drawing on the myth of the Chinese zodiac, Jen Sookfong Lee’s The Animals of Chinese New Year (Orca Book Publishers) follows 12 animals as they compete in a race held by the powerful Jade Emperor to represent the forthcoming new year. Written in both English and Simplified Chinese, this lively baby board book offers a special way to usher in the new year. | Ages 0–3
The Princess Dolls (Tradewind Books) by Ellen Schwartz and illustrator Mariko Ando is a touching story about friendship and community. Set against the backdrop of increasing hostility and racist attacks upon the Japanese community—culminating in the Internment—this powerful tale follows two best friends as they struggle to mend their friendship against all odds. | Ages 9–12
With an upbeat, rhyming text by Keegan Connor Tracy and vibrant illustrations by Roz MacLean, This is a Job for Mommy! (Promontory Press) is a delightful ABC adventure which shows that moms can do any job – and so can you! From A for actor to Z for zoologist, join a mother and daughter as they explore 26 different careers. | Ages 3–6
While not technically a kids book, Rae Congdon’s GAYBCs (Greystone Books) provides another lighthearted and refreshing approach to the traditional alphabet. Instead of apple, ball, and cheese, this book’s ABCs are ally, bisexual, and cisgender. Playful and subversive, GAYBCs aims to spread awareness and demystify LGBTQ+ terminology for everyone. | Ages 16+
Wild Woman Alphabet (Theytus Books) by Doris Muise offers one more quirky take on the ABCs, pairing Indigenous themes with colourful collages. Follow along as a crew of wild women wander the land in search of fine foods, munching on the sounds of the alphabet as they go. | Ages 5–7
Robert Bateman: The Boy Who Painted Nature (Orca Book Publishers) features a captivating story by Margriet Ruurs featuring the artwork of Robert Bateman himself. This story of how a young child achieved his dream of painting the world around him will engage, delight, and inspire kids and parents alike. | Ages 6–8
For a book that’s as engaging as it is educational, try Explore the Wild Coast with Sam and Crystal (Heritage House), written by Gloria Snively and illustrated by Karen Gillmore. As Aunt Kate takes the children for walks along the beach and teaches them about marine life and tidal zones, they learn the importance of observing, respecting, and preserving nature. | Ages 8–12
Nuptse and Lhotse Go to the West Coast (Rocky Mountain Books) by award-winning author and illustrator Jocey Asnong is a colourful, imaginative story for adventurers of all ages. In a land where forests eat fish, the trees have faces, and wolves swim like mermaids, will Nuptse and Lhotse and their new West Coast friends ever solve the mystery of all the missing starfish? Pick up a copy of this gorgeous book to find out. | Ages 4–8
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