5 Holiday Book Recommendations For Kids

During the Christmas break children have a lot more free time on their hands, so why not introduce them to some wonderful books? Reading during the holidays has many advantages for kids, including an expanded vocabulary and improved concentration.

Kids who read for leisure are introduced to new ideas which broaden their understanding of the world and foster empathy. Reading also helps develop cognitive skills such as problem solving, logical reasoning and creativity. It can even reduce stress.

Best of all, enthusiastic readers will often carry their appreciation for books into adulthood and become lifelong learners.

These holiday books will boost your child’s literacy skills and help them develop a love of reading.

“The Girl Who Drank the Moon” by Kelly Barnhill

In “The Girl Who Drank the Moon” by Kelly Barnhill, we meet Luna, a child imbued with extraordinary magic. Raised by a kind witch, Luna’s journey unravels a world of enchantment, sacrifice, and the potent magic within. Barnhill’s spellbinding narrative captivates readers, blending whimsy with profound lessons, creating an unforgettable modern fairy tale that celebrates courage, love, and the inherent power within every soul.

“Wonder” by R.J. Palacio

In “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio, Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial deformity, faces the trials of fifth grade with resilience and humour. This heartfelt tale intricately weaves themes of acceptance, kindness, and the beauty of diversity. Auggie’s journey inspires readers to look beyond appearances, fostering empathy and understanding, making “Wonder” an uplifting and impactful modern classic for children and adults alike.

“The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate

“The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate introduces Ivan, a silverback gorilla, whose artistic talent emerges amidst captivity. Narrated by Ivan, this poignant story unfolds as he befriends Ruby, a young elephant, sparking a journey towards freedom. Applegate crafts a tale of compassion, resilience, and the transformative power of friendship, offering a timeless narrative that resonates with readers of all ages.

“The House with Chicken Legs” by Sophie Anderson

In Sophie Anderson’s “The House with Chicken Legs,” Marinka’s magical dwelling has chicken legs and a will of its own. As a young girl yearning for a different fate, Marinka embarks on a whimsical quest for self-discovery. Anderson’s narrative weaves folklore and adventure into a tale that celebrates individuality, family bonds, and the courage to shape one’s destiny in an enchanting world.

“The Wild Robot” by Peter Brown

Peter Brown’s “The Wild Robot” unveils the extraordinary tale of Roz, a robot marooned on a wild island. Adaptation becomes Roz’s survival strategy as she learns the language of animals and fosters unexpected connections. Brown’s masterful storytelling explores themes of nature, friendship, and the essence of life, creating a poignant and engaging narrative that captivates readers of all ages.

How Can a Tutor Help?

A tutor can assist students to develop their literacy skills over the summer break by creating a personalised reading list based on each student’s interests. This encourages engagement and makes reading a more enjoyable experience.

Working with a tutor during the holidays encourages students to develop a daily reading habit. It gives them an opportunity to discuss and reflect on what they’ve read, which is ideal for enhancing critical thinking skills.