It’s that time of year again, a period filled with festive cheer that often involves the hustle and bustle of shopping for the most popular toys or gadgets. However, you don’t have to brave the long lines for a big sale. If you’re a parent, teacher, relative, librarian, or friend to a child, consider giving the gift of books that can spark joy and allow for shared experiences.

**Preschool Selections**
— “I Like Your Chutzpah And Other Yiddish Words You’ll Like”
This delightful board book introduces young readers to 12 Yiddish words, each accompanied by charming illustrations that make reading engaging and fun. Written and illustrated by Suzy Ultman, this book is suitable for children ages 1-3 and is priced at $9.99.

— “The 13 Days of Swiftness: A Christmas Celebration”
A playful twist on the classic Christmas carol, this book features 13 festive days of celebration according to Taylor Swift fans. With vibrant illustrations and plenty of Easter eggs for fans, it includes a special page for personal notes or favorite lyrics. Written by Tiffany Garland and illustrated by Brooke O’Neill, it’s meant for children ages 3 and older, costing $10.99.

**Early Elementary Favorites**
— “Into the Uncut Grass”
Told by Trevor Noah, this picture book illustrates the adventures of a boy and his teddy bear as they navigate through uncut grass, picking up wisdom along the way. With a unique blend of humor and gentle watercolor imagery, this book is intended for all ages and is available for $26.

— “Proper Badger Would Never”
In this story, Badger strives to be the perfect guest at his first party but finds himself in comedic predicaments. This joyfully chaotic picture book, written by Lauren Glattly and illustrated by Rob Sayegh, is aimed at kids aged 4-8 and priced at $18.99.

— “The Man Who Didn’t Like Animals”
Experience the backstory of a man who prefers his tidy home over animals until they charm their way into his life, turning his space into a lively barn. This humorous tale, written by Deborah Underwood and illustrated by LeUyen Pham, is suitable for ages 4-8 for $19.99.

— “Attack of the Scones”
In this latest chapter of the series, Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast seek help from their fridge friends to fend off aliens. This rhyming adventure, written by Josh Funk and illustrated by Brendan Kearney, is for children ages 5-8, with hardcover priced at $18.99 or paperback at $8.99.

— “Bog Myrtle”
In this engaging graphic novel, two sisters differ vastly in their interests, leading to a narrative woven with irony and humor that tackles themes like environmental sustainability. Written and illustrated by Sid Sharp, it’s intended for ages 6-11, available for $22.99.

— “My UnderSlumberBumbleBeast”
Emerging author Zoje Stage offers a unique take on the monsters under the bed, introducing a quirky creature found by a girl named Pru while she cleans. This enchanting tale, illustrated by J.E. Larson, is meant for children ages 7-10 and retails for $15.99.

**Late Elementary and Middle Grade Picks**
— “Otto Normal’s Monsterton: The Disappearance of White Pine Beach”
Follow Otto as he transitions from a typical town to one filled with fantastical creatures, embarking on a fast-paced quest. The book’s captivating digital illustrations complement its unique story. Suitable for ages 8-12, it’s written by Danielle McKechnie and illustrated by Simon Estrada for $22.99.

— “The Wild Robot”
Roz, a robot stranded in the wild, adapts to life in nature and forms bonds with forest creatures through endearing narratives. This illustrated tale has gained popularity in various formats, including a special edition, and is intended for ages 8-12, starting at $8.99 for paperbacks.

— “The Young Green Witch’s Guide to Plant Magic”
With lovely watercolor depictions, this herbalist guide for young readers discusses various plants and contains easy recipes for fun projects. Written by Robin Rose Bennett and illustrated by Rachel Grant, it is targeted to ages 8-12 and costs $16.99.

— “The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science”
In a humorous tale penned by Kate McKinnon, three sisters who defy etiquette conventions stumble into a mystery threatening their town. This wildly imaginative novel is geared toward young readers aged 8-12, available for $17.99.

— “Plain Jane and the Mermaid”
In this graphic novel, Jane, an orphan with an urgent timeline for marriage, faces challenges when her potential suitor is taken by a mermaid. Highlighting gender dynamics humorously, this book is for ages 10-14, offered at $14.99.

**Young Adult Recommendations**
— “Queer Mythology: Epic Legends from Around the World”
This beautifully illustrated collection shares vibrant mythical tales highlighting LGBTQ+ characters from globally recognized legends, written by Guido A. Sanchez for readers aged 11 and above, priced at $19.99.

— “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder”
Pip attempts to clear a classmate’s name in this thrilling murder mystery. With a Netflix adaptation already out, this trilogy penned by Holly Jackson is ideal for 14 and up readers, with the paperback at $14.99 and boxed set at $47.97.

— “The Calculation of You and Me”
Explore Marlowe’s life as her world is upended following a breakup, portraying romance and self-discovery as a key theme. This entertaining novel is authored by Serena Kaylor for readers ages 13 and up, with paperback at $14 and hardcover at $24.

— “Lunar New Year Love Story”
Valentina fights against her fate of doomed romances, leading to a heartfelt journey illustrated by Gene Luen Yang. This graphic novel celebrates Asian culture and is for 14 and older, with prices of $17.99 for paperback and $25.99 for hardcover.

These carefully curated selections offer delightful avenues for gifting, ensuring cherished moments of reading together during the festive season.