Christmas/the holidays isn’t a hugely popular topic in the young adult arena, but that doesn’t meant that they don’t exist! We got our first major snowfall in Michigan today, and it’s really putting me in the holiday mood. I lit some Christmas candles, gathered up my Christmas props for December pictures, and pulled out all my Christmas socks. Christmas is coming!
Hallmark Christmas movies are also a staple at my house during the holidays, which are (of course) already on and we’ve already been watching them. While they’re predictable and sometimes a bit cheesy, they’re just feel-good movies, which is perfect for the holidays. The books listed here have the same effect; curl up with some hot cocoa, a cozy blanket, put on a Christmas movie, and just watch the snow fall outside.
My True Love Gave to Me by Stephanie Perkins
Stephanie Perkins is known for her epic young adult romances, so her curated book of twelve stories will definitely get you in the holiday spirit. With romances from authors like Jenny Han, Ally Carter, David Levithan, and many more, you’ll want to read the stories all over again once you’re done with the book.
Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares by David Levithan and Rachel Cohn
Lily left a notebook full of dares on the shelf of her favorite bookstore, waiting for the right guy to pick it up and find his way to her. Dash picks up the book, sending the pair on a whirlwind hunt across the city. But are they really made for each other? The idea of finding a magical notebook in a bookstore that leads you to your true love is the perfect heartwarming story for the holiday season.
Kiss Me in New York by Catherine Rider
Charlotte, a British transfer student, is waiting at the airport to return home after a miserable first semester in New York. Anthony is about to be dumped in the middle of the airport after his girlfriend returns from traveling–with another guy. A fateful snowstorm draws the two of them together, spending a magical Christmas Eve adventuring about New York, following the book Ten Easy Steps for Getting Over Your Ex. The magic of Christmas draws them together–but might it also keep them apart?
Let It Snow by John Green, Lauren Myracle, and Maureen Johnson
A series of three different stories by prominent YA authors are woven together during a Christmas Eve snowstorm in a small town. Christmas, romance, and stolen kisses make this book Hallmark worthy–you’ll love the warm fuzzies you’ll feel once you finish up the last story.
My New Crush Gave to Me by Shani Petroff
Charlie knows exactly what she wants for Christmas: Teo Ortiz. So, she decides to rig the Secret Santa so that she can win his heart. With the help of his cousin, J.D., who isn’t quite as refined at Teo; he makes everything a joke and doesn’t seem to take anything seriously. But as Charlie and J.D. spend more time together, Charlie isn’t sure where he feelings lie anymore. In true holiday spirit, love and romance are in the air as Christmas draws near.