The Christmas Porringer by Evaleen Stein

An earthenware porringer, bought by a little Flemish girl of Bruges as a gift for the Christ child and stolen by Robber Hans, finally brings much happiness to her and her grandmother, the lace maker.

For readers ages 6-9.

The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus by Amelia C. Houghton

Draw close to the fire, all you who believe in the spirit of Christmas, whether you call it Santa Claus, or simply good will to men; and listen to the story of Nicholas the Wandering Orphan who became Nicholas the Wood-carver, a lover of little children. Follow him through his first years as a lonely little boy, who had the knack of carving playthings for children; then as a young man, busy over the little toys; then as a prosperous, fat, rosy old man, who overcomes all sorts of difficulties in order to attain his ambition, a toy for every child in the village. Learn how he started to drive a beautiful sleigh drawn by prancing reindeer; why he first came down a chimney; how he filled the first stocking; where the first Christmas tree was decorated; and finally how he came to be known as Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus.

For readers ages 6-10.

Kristy's Christmas Surprise by Olive Thorne Miller

When illness keeps Kristy at Grandma's for Christmas, she comes up with a most ingenious way to keep the holiday. She invites neighbors and relatives to a Christmas Eve gathering, announcing only after they arrive that they are all to tell a story of the oddest, most miserable, or most agreeable Christmas they ever spent. There follow 14 heartwarming tales that will call forth tears, dismay, laughter, and surprise. A fine collection of stories for family reading that embody the true spirit of Christmas.

For readers ages 7-10.

Christmas in Legend and Story by Elva S. Smith

An exceptional collection of Christmas stories, legends, and poems, that have distinct literary merit, a spirit of reverence, and an appeal for children. Chosen from a wide variety of sources by a pair of children's librarians, the stories represent the work of many writers. The selections are arranged chronologically, beginning with the birth of the Christ Child.

For readers ages 8-12.

The Birds' Christmas Carol by Kate Douglas Wiggin

Heartwarming story of the life of Carol Bird, who, though sickly herself, brings sunshine to all those around her, including the nine Ruggles children, whom she invites to a special Christmas dinner and celebration. Classic holiday book first published in 1887 and beloved by generations of children. Attractive color illustrations enliven the text.

For readers ages 9-11.

This Way to Christmas by Ruth Sawyer

Stranded in upstate New York with just seven days to go until Christmas, a lonesome boy comes up with an ingenious way to bring Christmas to the equally lonesome inhabitants of his small mountain community, all of whom were spending the winter far from home. Visiting each in turn, David befriends his neighbors and delights in hearing the Christmas stories they share with him, stories they heard in their homelands long ago. A final celebration brings all the neighbors of different nationalities together, forging relationships that will outlast the holiday season and sending a message of hope to a war-torn world.

For readers ages 9-12.

The Story of the Other Wise Man by Henry Van Dyke

In The Story of the Other Wise Man, the reader follows the travels of Artaban, the fourth wise man and a magus, who has read the coming of one who shall be born King of Israel in the stars. His fellow magi express skepticism toward his divination and none will accompany him on his journey, so Artaban sets out on a pilgrimage through the desert alone, traveling first to Jerusalem then on to Bethlehem. Bearing with him three precious jewels to offer as a gift to the newborn, this mysterious wise man spends 33 long years searching for the King and serving him as best he can until at last they meet.

For readers ages 11-14.