Here in the Sacramento area, winter is basically here. We’ve been socked under our famous Tule Fog for a few weeks, grey skies and no sun. Ugh.

But this means it’s also a great time of year to revisit our To Be Read lists! Need something to read this holiday season? Let’s talk about some ideas!

A Christmas Carol

Ok, let’s first go with this classic. It’s not Christmas without invoking imagery and themes from Dicken’s most famous work. From “Marley was dead: to begin with” to “God bless us. Every one!” Dicken’s ode to Christmas reminds us all to check in with our generosity during the busy holidays. No bah-humbugs here. 🎄

Aside from the book, which movie version is your favorite? Mickey’s Christmas Carol? The Muppet Christmas Carol? (Not trying to start a rumble, folks.) Or maybe the Patric Stewart one? My kiddos and I watched an old Animaniacs episode with their own wacky one. Take your pick!

The Cricket on the Hearth

Another set of holiday themed stories from Charles Dickens. This is my current read to get into the holiday spirit. If you’ve read set of short stories let me know what you think (no spoilers!). 🦗

Kid book recommendation: The Legend of Old Befana.

La Befana is an Italian/ Italian American tradition in many homes, including mine. Like Santa Claus, La Befana comes and brings gifts or small treats to children on Epiphany. The story goes that an old woman/witch is too concerned for herself and misses out on traveling with the Three Wise Men to see the newborn King. When she realizes her error she tries to follow them and cannot find baby Jesus. Instead she finds other children and leaves them gifts, just in case. 🍊

This story book is by the same author as the Strega Nona series, Tomie DePaola, which are also just wonderful picture books for kiddos. His illustrations are magical. And I loved the way Old Befana is portrayed more as a lonely woman needing companionship instead of an ugly witch. Even if you don’t use this particular holiday tradition, check out the book for the story! 🧙🏼‍♀️🧹

The Mark of the Artist

Is this a story about Christmas? Nope. Does most of it take place in warmer weather? Sure does. Are you looking for a story that reminds you of summer because it’s sooooo cold and grey outside? Perfect! 🌞

My book has nothing to do with Santa, sleighbells, stockings, or any other holiday tradition! It is, however, about a passionate artist who goes up against an evil tattooed madman on the other side of a painting that he made of a castle in the dark, cold night. If you really want something wintery, there are a few scenes where they are in a cold pine forest. Look for your copy where paperbacks and ebooks are sold.

Maisie’s Escape

Need a little “Home Alone” energy? 😱 How about a sweet short story about an inventive girl escaping dumb would-be kidnappers? “Maisie’s Escape” will do that for you! Like Kevin, she is way smarter than her kidnappers. And you’ll also get insights into your favorite characters from The Mark of the Artist, since this is in the same world! 🖼️

I personally love Maisie’s can-do/try-me attitude. She may slip and say a couple of swear words, but she’s on the Nice List for sure! Find this ebook and start reading!

Happy Cozy Holiday Reading!

Well, I hope you’ve found a few items to add to your TBR list. Enjoy your coffee or hot cocoa, snuggle under a blanket, and ignore the grey skies! Happy reading! 📖🎄

Find The Mark of the Artist in paperback or ebook, and Maisie’s Escape in ebook format on Amazon, B&N, apple books and wherever books are sold.