African-American Christmas Books for Kids

Celebrate the holidays in color with these favorite African-American Christmas books!


So many of my favorite memories growing up are from Christmas time.

The women in my family have always been enthusiastic about the holiday season.

From the decorations to the food, they left nothing undone when it was time to celebrate.

Everything I learned about Christmas is from them.

I love sharing the traditions I had as a child with my children, and we also love creating our own traditions.

Since my kids love to read, reading Christmas stories aloud is one of our favorite things to do during the holiday season.

I’m always keeping an eye out for books about the holidays that feature Black characters. 

Read preschool books about Christmas.

There is no shortage of African-American Christmas book options!

African-American Christmas Books

The hunt for Christmas books with Black characters used to feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

Fortunately, in the last decade, Black authors and illustrators have enriched the holiday book scene with wonderful new stories showcasing African-American joy, family, and traditions.

Now there are many engaging options to choose from, and our family makes it a point to read them all.

If you’re looking to add some Black holiday joy to your bookshelf, check out these charming books featuring spirited tales and Black characters.

What is your favorite African-American Christmas book?

[mv_create key=”77″ layout=”hero” thumbnail=”https://mamaknowsitall.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/November-2023-Blog-Pics-1.png” title=”African-American Christmas Books for Kids” type=”list”] 

Representation matters.

Representation in books is so meaningful.

When kids see characters that look like them or their family members reflected in stories, it creates a powerful sense of belonging and validation.

The holiday season is a wonderful time to share Christmas books with African-American characters to help children feel seen and celebrated for who they are. 

And remember, books with Black characters aren’t just for Black kids!

With the range of spirited new titles now available, there are ample opportunities to find stories children can identify with, laugh with, and learn from.

The magic of the season shines even brighter when children can experience the joy and wonder of Christmas through books that reflect their lives and experiences.

9 responses to “African-American Christmas Books for Kids”

  1. Mindy Brouse Avatar

    Ok. Please write one. I’m looking for Christmas chapter books by POC authors…. None. 🙁

    1. brandijeter Avatar

      You know what, Mindy. I have an idea for one. Let me get on this!

  2. Mindy Brouse Avatar

    Really?! Or are you messing with me? Because I”d be thrilled. I host a podcast (Bookend Homeschoolers) and we are doing a Christmas read aloud episode and I am frustrated by the lack of POC chapter books. Lots of beautiful picture books, but I hate that my list for chapter books will be so white. I hope you do write it. I’ll be first in line to purchase.

    1. brandijeter Avatar

      No, I’m serious! I’m going to check out your podcast and connect with you!

  3. Ciara Hill Avatar

    Book Recommendation- “Soulful Holidays” (Picture Book)- An inclusive rhyming story celebrating the joys of Christmas and Kwanzaa!

    1. brandijeter Avatar

      Thank you so much for the recommendation! I’ll add it to the list!

  4. Linda Avatar
    Linda

    Under the Christmas Tree Hardcover, by Nikki Grimes and Kadir Nelson

    Night Before Christmas in Africa, The, by Jesse Foster, Hannah Foster, Carroll Foster, illustrated by Jean Christodoulou

    Every Other Christmas, by Katie Otey

    Twas the Night Before Christmas: An African-American Version, by Melodye Benson Rosale

  5. Linda Avatar
    Linda

    Under the Christmas Tree, by Nikki Grimes and Kadir Nelson

    The Night Before Christmas in Africa, by Jesse Foster, Hannah Foster, Carroll Foster, illustrated by Jean Christodoulou

    Every Other Christmas, by Katie Otey

    Twas the Night Before Christmas: An African-American Version, by Melodye Benson Rosales

    1. brandijeter Avatar

      Thank you, Linda! Great suggestions that I’ll add to the list!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *