A big book list for that Christmas list

Books.

In my book (see what I did there?), you can never have enough books. In our home, I sometimes wonder if we have too many books (and quickly dismiss that thought!). And you know you check out a lot of books when the librarians know your name and lets you know if a book by a favorite author has come in :)

This year, we’ve read a lot of books—personally, I read more than I expected and enjoyed so many good books! And as a family, we’ve also read (or listened to!) many good ones. So, I’m going to share my favorites from this past year (and, well, maybe other years too!) just in case you need to add a few books to your Christmas list, need a gift idea, or just want to add some more books to your library check-out list :)

My top five books I’ve read recently:

Gently and Lowly by Dane Ortland. I plan to read it again soon and recommend it to everyone who needs fresh eyes to see Christ’s love for us.

Yours is the Night by Amanda Dykes. I’ve loved all her books, and this one was just lovely. I’m picky about Christian historical fiction (a lot of it is a bit too cheesy or unrealistic for me), but this had strong characters and a moving story.

A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus. I started reading this to the kids, but they weren’t super interested in it. I, however, ate it up. Such a sweet and delightful story :) This would make a lovely Christmas-time or winter read!

The Nature of Fragile Things by Susan Meissner. This one kept me at the edge of my seat (so it was a quick read), but also a story about resilience and friendship.

The Story of the Trapp Family Singers by Maria von Trapp. If you are a fan of The Sound of Music, you may want to add this to your list. I found it fun and fascinating to read about Maria von Trapp’s life.

Our favorite chapter books or series:

Secret of the Hidden Scrolls series by M.J. Thomas. My boys have really enjoyed reading these together and also listening on audiobook. A litttle adventure + Bible learning mixed together. Win! Win!

The Wingfeather Saga series by Andrew Peterson. My oldest has deep dived into these books and loved them. I’ve read the first one too and enjoyed all the interesting characters, purposeful themes, and funny footnotes.

The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart. Cute, funny, and lovable characters—plus adventure, surprises, and a little suspense. A refreshing read about friendship!

Christian Heroes Now and Then by Janet Benge. We’ve read a number of them (George Muller was probably the favorite) and I’ve stocked up on a number of them for the future.

Stick Dog by Tom Watson. Clever, cute, and full of adorable doggie characters. They are an easy and fun read with kiddos!

Some of our recent favorite picture books:

Any of the Tales the Tell Truth series from The Good Book company (we love them all!)

Seek and Find books—especially if you have a kiddo who likes the search and find books.

Richard Scarry’s Cars and Trucks and Things that Go. My boys all love this book—it’s quirky and fun. You can’t beat his illustrations!

Go, Go, Go! Stop! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve read this book. But I can tell you it’s A LOT.

Other favorites:

Risen Motherhood by Emily Jenson and Laura Wifler. Gospel + motherhood—such a refreshing, helpful, and encouraging read!

Awaking Wonder by Sally Clarkson. I soaked this one in. Such practical and loving encouragement.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Shaffer. I read it a few years ago, but it’s been a story that has stuck with me—sweet, full of interesting characters, and of course, a bit of romance too :)

Kaleidoscope Kids Bibles. We have been using a few of these for our morning time and absolutely love them. I’m learning from them too!

She Reads Truth Study Bible. It’s pretty, full of helpful study tools, and one of my favorite translations.

Beholding and Becoming: The Art of Everyday Worship by Ruth Chou Simons. This book is just so pretty (it decorates your coffee table for you!) and it’s also full of solid Biblical wisdom. Win! Win! And this one is one my own Christmas list :)

Friends, I could go on and on. But I won’t ;) I hope you discovered a few new books to add to your list or grab for your kids or family/friends. What books have you recently read that you’d recommend for a Christmas list?

Have a good one!

Nicole

ps. Some of these links are affiliate links —which simply means I receive a small commission if you purchase through these links.