Nestled in bed listening to my first grader sound out words, discover new stories, and gain confidence as he learns to read is truly one of my favorite times of the day. Reading has become such a special way for my son and me to connect. Sometimes we’re laughing about whatever silly thing Rodrick did that day (IYKYK), and other times we’re cracking up over the completely outlandish illustrations in Dog Man. Those little moments are just so special. 

And what makes them even more magical? The twinkling lights from the small Christmas tree in the corner of his room, a cozy blanket, and time off from work and school at the end of the year. Without an alarm waiting for us the next morning, we can always squeeze in just one more chapter. 

With the holidays quickly approaching, the end of the year gives us a chance to slow down and enjoy a good book together between holiday gatherings, traditions, and all the excitement of the season. 

Here are a few simple ways to make time for books this holiday season, along with some great reads for every age to add to your family’s reading list. 

Let Everyone Pick a Favorite 

The best family reading lists have a little something for everyone. Let each family member choose a book they’re excited about. Whether it’s a funny picture book, graphic novel, fantasy adventure, mystery, romance or magazine. 

Giving kids the freedom to choose what they want to read can make picking up a book feel like a treat rather than an assignment. 

Make Reading Part of the Holiday Routine 

The holidays can be busy, but even a few quiet minutes can create a memorable reading moment. Curl up with a book before bed, listen to an audiobook while decorating the tree or bring a few books along for a cozy afternoon at home. 

Traveling for the holidays? Download an audiobook or ebook in Libby before you go and make reading part of the journey. 

Read Aloud, No Matter Their Age 

Reading together isn’t just for little kids. Take turns reading aloud or listening to an audiobook as a family. 

And don’t be afraid to talk about what you’re reading! Ask which character everyone likes best, what they think will happen next or which part made them laugh. 

Follow Their Interests 

Looking for a gift-free way to get a child excited about reading? Start with something they already love. 

Animals, sports, space, superheroes, magic, music, funny stories. Whatever catches their attention can lead to their next favorite book. Sometimes, finding the right story is all it takes to make reading feel like an adventure. 

Start a Family Reading Tradition 

Create a holiday tradition around books. Pick a story to read together every year, have everyone choose a book to open on a cozy winter night or set aside an afternoon for family reading. 

You could even start a mini family book club and let someone different choose the next book each time. There’s no right way to do it. The goal is simply to make books part of the time you spend together. 

Discover the Read with Jenna Jr. Collection 

Looking for a few more books to add to your family’s holiday reading list?  The Read with Jenna Jr. collection brings together engaging, kid-friendly titles that are perfect for cozy reading days. 

From picture books to middle-grade adventures and young adult favorites, there’s something for every young reader to discover this holiday season.