10+ Best Christmas Books for 14-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect Christmas books for 14-year-olds? Finding a book that strikes the right balance of fun, challenge, and engagement can be tricky at this age. Whether they love diving into different worlds or exploring new ideas, we’ve got you covered with a selection of books that will keep them hooked this holiday season. Keep reading to discover our top picks for Christmas books for 14-year-olds that promise to be a hit!

Fun Christmas Books for 14-Year-Olds

• A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig, illustrated by Chris Mould
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Christmas
  • Synopsis: This enchanting story tells of a young boy named Nikolas who sets out on a wintry adventure to find his father. Along the way, he discovers his destiny as Father Christmas.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a magical tale that combines adventure with the spirit of Christmas, perfect for sparking a love for reading through its engaging narrative and whimsical illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and anyone who loves a good origin story mixed with holiday magic.

• Dash & Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan
  • Genre(s): Romance, Young Adult, Holiday
  • Synopsis: Set during the Christmas season in New York, this book follows Lily, who leaves a red notebook full of challenges on a bookstore shelf, waiting for the right guy to come along and accept the dares. Dash finds the notebook and the game begins.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and heartwarming read that captures the essence of holiday romance and adventure through a unique exchange of dares and dreams.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy romantic escapades and the excitement of a serendipitous connection.

• The Girl Who Saved Christmas by Matt Haig, illustrated by Chris Mould
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Holiday, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When Christmas is in jeopardy, it's up to a young girl named Amelia Wishart to save it. With the help of some magical friends, she embarks on a journey that will determine the future of the holiday.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thrilling adventure combined with a heartwarming message about the power of hope and belief during the holiday season.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love a mix of magic and a quest, with a strong female lead.

• Let It Snow: Three Holiday Romances by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle
  • Genre(s): Romance, Young Adult, Holiday
  • Synopsis: This collection of three intertwined holiday romances brings laughter, love, and a lot of snow. Each story interconnects, creating a comprehensive tale of Christmas cheer and unexpected love.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a lighthearted and charming read that explores different aspects of love and friendship during the festive season.
  • Perfect for: Teens looking for a feel-good, festive read with relatable characters and multiple perspectives.

• Winterhouse by Ben Guterson, illustrated by Chloe Bristol
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Fantasy, Holiday
  • Synopsis: Elizabeth Somers is sent to the Winterhouse Hotel, where she uncovers magical books, puzzles, and a family secret. The enchanting hotel holds mysteries that she is determined to solve.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines mystery and magic in a wintry setting, perfect for those who enjoy solving puzzles and uncovering secrets.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and lovers of mystery and magic set against a snowy backdrop.

Educational Christmas Books for 14-Year-Olds

• The Christmasaurus by Tom Fletcher, illustrated by Shane Devries
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Christmas, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A young boy named William Trundle embarks on a magical adventure with a dinosaur called the Christmasaurus on Christmas Eve. The story combines the wonders of Christmas with the excitement of prehistoric creatures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, imagination, empathy, understanding of themes like friendship and disability
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a unique blend of Christmas cheer and dinosaur thrills, making it an exciting read that also touches on important values.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love dinosaurs and magical Christmas stories.

• The Toymaker's Apprentice by Sherri L. Smith
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Christmas
  • Synopsis: Stefan Drosselmeyer is a young apprentice toymaker who finds himself caught up in a magical adventure involving a nutcracker, a mouse queen, and a curse that needs breaking.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, mechanical understanding, creative problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a fresh take on the classic Nutcracker tale, filled with adventure and lessons in bravery and loyalty.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in classic stories with a twist and those fascinated by toys and their makers.

• The Nutcracker by E.T.A. Hoffmann, illustrated by Maurice Sendak
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Fairy Tale, Christmas
  • Synopsis: Young Marie Stahlbaum's favorite Christmas toy, the Nutcracker, comes alive and, after defeating the evil Mouse King in battle, whisks her away to a magical kingdom populated by dolls.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Literary analysis, imagination, appreciation for classic literature
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully illustrated version of the timeless holiday classic that captures the magic and mystery of Christmas.
  • Perfect for: Fans of classic fairy tales and anyone who enjoys a magical, festive story.

• Greenglass House by Kate Milford
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Christmas
  • Synopsis: During winter break, Milo Pine and his family, who live in an old smuggler's inn, receive unexpected guests that lead to a mystery involving old maps, treacherous thieves, and ghost stories.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, problem-solving, understanding of narrative structures and character development
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping mystery set during Christmas, perfect for those who love puzzles and intrigue in a snowy setting.
  • Perfect for: Mystery enthusiasts and young detectives who enjoy a good whodunit with a festive twist.

Challenging Christmas Books for 14-Year-Olds

• A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fantasy, Holiday
  • Synopsis: This timeless novel tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Through these supernatural encounters, Scrooge is transformed into a kinder, gentler man.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text features complex vocabulary and a rich use of allegory, requiring readers to engage deeply with both the language and the moral lessons.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound moral tale that explores themes of redemption and the spirit of the holiday season, offering both a challenging read and a heartwarming message.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy classic literature and stories with strong moral underpinnings.

• The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus by L. Frank Baum
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Christmas
  • Synopsis: This novel explores the origin and adventures of Santa Claus, detailing how he was raised by mythical creatures in the Forest of Burzee, invented toys, and earned his immortality.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative weaves a complex mythology around a well-known character, featuring sophisticated language and intricate plot developments.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique and imaginative take on the Santa Claus legend, enriching the reader's understanding of holiday traditions through creative storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Fans of fantasy and anyone interested in a deeper, mythical backstory of Santa Claus.

• Hogfather by Terry Pratchett
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Satire, Holiday
  • Synopsis: In this Discworld novel, the Hogfather, a Santa-like figure, is missing, and Death takes up his duties. The story combines humor with a critique of holiday commercialism and explores the nature of belief.
  • Why this book is challenging: Pratchett's work is known for its wit, layered meanings, and the use of satire to explore complex philosophical questions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous yet thought-provoking look at holiday traditions and beliefs, perfect for readers who enjoy satire and deeper reflections on society.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love fantasy mixed with humor and philosophical pondering.

• The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Christmas
  • Synopsis: On his eleventh birthday, Will Stanton discovers that he is the last of the Old Ones, tasked with a quest to combat the forces of the Dark. The story is set around Christmas and intertwines midwinter lore and Arthurian mythology.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel incorporates complex themes of good versus evil, various mythologies, and symbolic elements that require critical thinking and interpretation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It masterfully blends mythological elements with a suspenseful adventure, providing a captivating read that goes beyond typical holiday stories.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in mythology, fantasy, and tales of heroism set against the backdrop of the holiday season.

• Letters from Father Christmas by J.R.R. Tolkien
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Christmas, Epistolary
  • Synopsis: This collection of letters written by Tolkien to his children from the perspective of Father Christmas details the magical adventures and misadventures of Father Christmas and his helpers.
  • Why this book is challenging: The letters feature elaborate narratives with a richly imagined world, showcasing Tolkien's skill in creating detailed settings and characters.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique glimpse into the imaginative mind of Tolkien through a personal project that also celebrates the spirit of Christmas.
  • Perfect for: Tolkien fans and readers who enjoy creative storytelling through letters and fantastical tales.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into some fantastic Christmas books this season and you're around 14 years old, you might want to enhance your reading experience. Here are some simple exercises designed to help you develop good reading habits while enjoying your festive stories. These tips will not only make your reading more enjoyable but also more rewarding. Let's get started!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you want to read.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and make reading a regular part of your daily routine.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific spot at home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances concentration and makes your reading time special and interruption-free.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and well-lit, perhaps add a festive touch!

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Share the plot, characters, and your thoughts about the book with friends or family.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention, and you might gain new insights.
  • Tips: Try forming a mini book club or use social media to discuss books with peers.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress and reflections.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day after your reading session.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Spend some time reading the book aloud, either to yourself or to others.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps you engage more deeply with the text.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pace to match different characters or dramatic scenes.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Look up words you don’t understand in a dictionary.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and understanding of the book.
  • Tips: Keep a dictionary handy or use a dictionary app while reading.

• Reflect on the Reading
  • What it is: Take a few minutes to reflect on the book after you finish reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and personal connection to the story.
  • Tips: Think about how the themes or characters relate to your own life or current world events.

Wrapping up, these exercises are designed to enhance your reading experience and help you build strong reading habits that can last a lifetime. Whether you're curled up with a classic Christmas tale or a modern holiday adventure, integrating these practices can make your reading time even more enjoyable and effective. Happy reading!