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The best Christmas books for kids capture the magic of the holiday while telling an engaging story and containing beautiful or whimsical illustrations. These timeless Christmas books can be enjoyed by anyone that embraces the holiday and are appropriate for ages two through 102. Some have been shared by multiple generations while others are newer Christmas favorites. All share the spirit of Christmas with charm, laughter and rich storytelling.

Chris Van Allsburg's Caldecott award winning book, "The Polar Express" tops the list of children's Christmas books. Although the book was made into a hit movie in 2004, the classic storybook should top any children's Christmas book must-read list. The magic of a Christmas Eve train ride to the North Pole is a vision that any child can imagine with ease and is brought to life vividly by the book's lush illustrations. A simple, but poignant tale about the magic of belief, "The Polar Express" is a Christmas book that can be shared and cherished by all ages.

Tomie dePaola is a Caldecott and Newbery Honor Award winning author and illustrator. Known for his Strega Nona books, he has been publishing works for more than 30 years. His book, "The Legend of the Poinsettia" is a Christmas book that should be added to all children's collections. This retelling of the legend of the little Mexican girl who did not have a gift to offer the baby Jesus on Christmas Eve is exquisite. Readers will be drawn to Lucinda as she offers the Christ child what she can, an armful of weeds. Every child will delight as her sincere offering is transformed into beautiful a red plant, the first poinsettia. This book is also available in a Spanish language edition.

A different take on the Christmas story that will simultaneously bring a tear to your eye and a giggle to your lips, is Barbara Robinson's 1972 classic tale, "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever." This is not a picture book but a story for independent readers, although it is easily read aloud to even the youngest of story lovers. However, there are enough chapter sketches to fuel the imaginations of every reader. The story of the horrible Herdman family and how they take over the Christmas pageant in their small town; it illustrates the true spirit of Christmas. This book is funny, thought provoking and moving.

A children's book Christmas book collection would not be complete without a copy of Dr. Seuss's "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." Beloved since 1957, this holiday classic recounts the story

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