Ever wonder why we trim the tree, hang stockings, or sing carols? These books tell the story.
Some Christmas books feel like stories, and some feel like opening a memory box. The older I get, the more I'm drawn to the ones that explain why we do the things we do every December—why there's an evergreen tree in the living room, why we hang stockings, where our favorite carols came from, and how all those traditions twined together over centuries.
If you've ever caught yourself wondering about the history and heart behind the holidays, this month's All Things Books pick is for you. These Christmas tradition and history books are perfect for curling up with a blanket, a mug of something warm, and a healthy dose of nostalgia.
Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains Amazon and Bookshop affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend books I truly love or believe readers will enjoy.
All Things Books | December: The Stories Behind Christmas
Below are eight beautiful, nostalgic books that explore the history, myths, and traditions behind Christmastime—from carols and customs to trees, treats, and treasured stories. Pick one to read slowly all month, or keep a stack nearby to dip into between holiday errands.
An Anthology of Christmas — Auriol Bishop
If you love the feeling of leafing through an old family scrapbook, this collection is for you. It gathers stories, carols, and historical notes into one richly illustrated volume, so you can wander through Christmas past one page at a time.
Buy: Amazon ·
Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas — Ace Collins
Ever wondered how candy canes, stockings, or even Rudolph became part of the season? This accessible guide breaks down well-known traditions into short, readable chapters that are perfect for nightly December snippets.
The Christmas Book: The History, Traditions, and Customs of Christmas — Fr. Francis X. Weiser
This classic dives a little deeper into the religious and cultural roots of Christmas, tracing how familiar customs developed over centuries. It's a wonderful choice if you enjoy learning the "how we got here" behind the holidays.
Christmas: Tradition, Truth and Total Baubles — Nick Page
For something a bit lighter in tone, this book mixes history with humor. Nick Page unpacks what's true, what's legend, and what's just plain festive nonsense—with plenty of fun facts you'll want to share around the table.
The History of Christmas: 2,000 Years of Faith, Fable, and Festivity — Heather Lefebvre
This one feels like sitting down with a thoughtful friend who loves both theology and tradition. It walks through the development of Christmas over two millennia, showing how faith, folklore, and everyday families shaped the season we know now.
The Book of Christmas: Everything We Once Knew and Loved About Christmastime — Jane Struthers
Packed with charming details—from why we kiss under mistletoe to how certain foods became "Christmas-only"—this book is perfect for browsing. It has that cozy, fireside feel that makes you want to pause and savor each custom.
The Nutcracker (Classic Illustrated Edition)
No exploration of Christmas traditions is complete without The Nutcracker. Whether you grew up going to the ballet or discovering the story through picture books, an illustrated edition brings back that sugar-plum magic and all the pageantry of Christmas Eve.
The Night Before Christmas (Keepsake Storybook)
This beloved poem has been illustrated countless times, but a keepsake edition turns it into a true heirloom. Choose a version with sturdy pages and classic art, and it becomes the book that gets pulled out every year—long after little ones are grown.
Whether you're the person who wants to know the story behind every carol or you simply love curling up with a beautiful holiday book, these titles add a layer of meaning (and a little bit of wonder) to the season. They're also lovely gift ideas for the reader who has "read all the Christmas romances" and is craving something a bit different this year.
Modern Christmas Classics We Return to Every Year
There's a special kind of magic that happens when a book becomes a tradition. We may have discovered these stories in more recent decades, but they still feel timeless—the ones we reach for again and again because they bring back the nostalgia, the wonder, and that sparkly "Christmas Eve" feeling. If you're looking to refresh your holiday shelf while still keeping the classics close, these are the perfect modern additions to read this year.
Classic Christmas Stories
Your December Reading Plans
There's something magical about understanding the why behind the traditions we love. Whether you pick up one of these history books to read slowly all month or stack a few classics by your tree to revisit with the family, I hope this list adds a little extra wonder to your December.
I'd love to hear from you: Which Christmas tradition are you most curious about? And if you've read any of these books, what did you think? Drop a comment below—I love discovering what resonates with other readers during the holidays!
Happy reading, and may your December be filled with cozy evenings, good books, and all the nostalgic magic of the season. 🎄✨
— Kat
More Christmas Reads
Looking for festive fiction to go with these tradition books? Here are more cozy picks:
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