Looking to read some Christmas books featuring African American characters this holiday season? Check out these modern day holiday classics!
Carla and the Christmas Cornbread by Carla Hall
Christmas is Carla’s favorite holiday of the year. She goes to her grandparents’ house and eats grandma’s special recipe—a perfectly delicious cornbread. She listens to her grandpa Doc’s marvelous stories about traveling the world. And, best of all, she spends lots of time with her family.
But when Carla accidentally takes a bite out of Santa’s sugar cookie, she thinks she’s ruined Christmas. How will Santa know to stop at their house if they don’t leave him a midnight snack? With her grandmother’s help, Carla comes up with a plan, but will it be enough to save Christmas?
Danny’s Christmas List by Tieska Jumbo
When Danny and his family visit a local Christmas market, he finds himself in a chance encounter with Santa. With his list in hand and Santa all alone, Danny sees a chance he must take. Can you guess what Danny asks? Join Danny and Santa in this heartwarming Christmas tale that is sure to be a Christmas classic!
Sophie Washington: Secret Santa by Tonya Duncan Ellis
Christmas is three weeks away and a mysterious “Santa” has been mailing presents to sixth grader Sophie in this heartwarming, illustrated chapter book for middle grade readers. There is no secret Santa gift exchange going on at her school, so she can’t imagine who it could be. Sophie’s best friends guess the gift giver is either Nathan or Toby, two boys in Sophie’s class who have liked her in the past, but she’s not so sure. Sophie uncovers clues to find her secret Santa, and the final reveal is bigger than any package she’s opened on Christmas morning. It’s a holiday surprise she’ll never forget!
In the Nick of Time by Deedee Cummings
Nick Saint never really put a lot of thought into his name until one snowy day in December when he accidentally receives a letter meant for Saint Nick. Realizing there is not much time left until Christmas, Nick opens the letter. The unexpected message inside ultimately leads him on a journey of understanding poverty, gratitude, and service to others while discovering the real meaning of the holiday spirit. Nick’s actions and kindness are filled with heartwarming results that even please Santa Claus himself!
The Nutcraker in Harlem by T.E. McMorrow
This jazz-inspired reinvention of The Nutcracker is a worthy tribute to the dreamlike wonder and magic of the Christmas season.
In this original retelling, set in New York City during the height of the Harlem Renaissance, one little girl finds her voice as a musician thanks to her enchanting adventures with a magical toy. An author’s note at the end provides additional information about the history of the Harlem Renaissance, and about the author’s inspiration for this musical retelling.
Santa in the City by Tiffany D. Jackson
It’s two weeks before Christmas, and Deja is worried that Santa might not be able to visit her–after all, as a city kid, she doesn’t have a chimney for him to come down and none of the parking spots on her block could fit a sleigh, let alone eight reindeer! But with a little help from her family, community, and Santa himself, Deja discovers that the Christmas spirit is alive and well in her city.
The Square Root of Possible by Lyn Sisson-Talbert and David E. Talbert
A heartwarming picture book story based on the song “The Square Root of Possible” from the Netflix holiday film Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey! A holiday tale set in the snow-covered town of Cobbleton, Jingle Jangle follows eccentric toymaker Jeronicus Jangle whose fanciful inventions burst with whimsy and wonder. But when a betrayal by a former protége leaves Jeronicus withdrawn and down on his luck, it’s up to his bright and adventurous granddaughter, Journey — and a singularly magical invention — to save the day.
Santa Claus is Coming to the Town by Thomishia Booker
Santa Claus is Coming to The Town is a rhyming, whimsical story that makes you feel nostalgic. The story takes place in Oakland, California and includes some of the author’s favorite locations. This lyrical story features a melanated Santa, celebrates the magic of Christmas, and will have you singing along while you read.
My Baby Love Christmas by Tara Nicole Whitaker
Celebrate all the lovely things that Baby discovers about Christmas. This board book, the perfect gift for a new baby, features rhythmic poetry from Jabari Asim and adorable art from Tara Nicole Whitaker.
Tonya Duncan Ellis is author of the bestselling, award winning Sophie Washington children’s book series, geared toward readers ages 8-12 and is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), the Authors Guild, Black Creators in KidLit and the Brown Bookshelf’s Highlights Foundation Sponsored Amplify Black Stories storyteller cohort.
www.tonyaduncanellis.com
Like Us on Facebook: @tonyaellisbooks
Follow Us on Twitter: @tonyaDEllis
Follow Us on Instagram: @tonyaellisbooks
Join Sophie’s Club for a FREE ebook! HERE