The Best Holiday Audiobooks for Making Spirits Bright | Audible.com

The Best Holiday Audiobooks for Making Spirits Bright | Audible.com

The best holiday audiobooks for making spirits bright

From serious family dramas to swoon-worthy romances, classic Christmas books to children's stories about Kwanzaa, there's a holiday audiobook for everyone. You're sure to find the perfect listen on our list!

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December 5, 2024

The best holiday audiobooks for making spirits bright

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The holiday season is a time to embrace joy, togetherness, and the warmth of storytelling. Whether you’re decorating your home, cooking festive meals, or relaxing with loved ones, audiobooks offer a perfect way to enhance the magic of the season. These selections celebrate the diverse ways people mark this special time, from the humor of holiday memoirs to enchanting classics and romances that capture the heart of winter. Featuring titles that highlight cultural traditions like Diwali, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, as well as timeless Christmas favorites, this curated list ensures there’s something for every listener. So, whip up a mug of cocoa, light a fire or some candles, and cozy up with one of these holiday audiobooks.

Classic & contemporary holiday books

Holiday romances

Young adult holiday books

Holiday books for the whole family

Mistletoe Murders

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For folks who love a little mystery during the holidays, the Mistletoe Murders series delivers chilling cases with a seasonal twist. The engaging storytelling will keep everyone guessing while offering a cozy, suspenseful listening experience. It’s perfect for car rides or evenings by the fire, and the narration by celebrity actors Cobie Smulders, Raymond Ablack, and Anna Cathcart is just the cherry on top. And there's no better time to start listening, with the third installment now live.

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The Ultimate Christmas Collection

Hans Christian Andersen, Louisa May Alcott, Arthur Conan Doyle, King James Bible, Robert Frost, Charles Dickens, Leo Tolstoy, Anton Chekhov, Willia Cather, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Nathaniel Hawthorne, James Joyce, Mark Twain, Selma Lagerlof, various

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This audiobook is a treasure trove of more than 60 beloved holiday stories, perfect for immersing yourself in the festive spirit. Featuring works from classic authors like Charles Dickens, Hans Christian Andersen, and Louisa May Alcott, it brings together timeless tales of joy, wonder, and reflection. Narrated by a cast of talented voice artists, the collection captures the magic of Christmas through a variety of perspectives and storytelling styles. It's a comprehensive anthology offering hours of holiday cheer for listeners of all ages.

Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret

Benjamin Stevenson

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Mystery fans fell in love with Benjamin Stevenson's Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone, and now Ernest Cunningham is back with another impossible murder mystery to solve, this time with a magician, a hypnotist, and an advent calendar to puzzle over. Barton Welch's narration, complete with Australian accent, makes this series a must-listen.

The Jolliest Bunch

Danny Pellegrino

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Danny Pellegrino’s witty narration turns his holiday memoir into a laugh-out-loud experience. With hilarious stories about family antics and traditions gone awry, this audiobook captures the chaos and charm of the holiday season. It’s perfect for anyone looking to embrace the imperfect but joyful reality of the holidays with plenty of humor along the way.

The Twelve Books of Christmas

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This festive audiobook is perfect for mystery lovers who adore a literary twist and a cozy holiday setting. Following book restoration expert Brooklyn Wainwright and her husband Derek as they unravel a mystery in a Scottish castle, the story is filled with rare books, holiday cheer, and an intriguing locked-room murder. Narrated with Kimberly M. Wetherell's warmth and a touch of suspense, it immerses listeners in the charm of a Scottish Christmas while keeping them guessing until the very end.

A Christmas Carol: A Signature Performance by Tim Curry

Charles Dickens

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There are few combinations more perfect than Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol and the exquisite skill set of English icon Tim Curry. The Victorian tale of guilt, greed, family, and redemption is matched beautifully by the dynamic (and, at times, appropriately chilling) narration. Curry previously performed the role of Ebenezer Scrooge in 2001’s Madison Square Garden musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol, and he brings the same stage-crackling energy to this narration of the story. With the arrival of each ghost of Christmas, the listener can hear the indignation, fear, remorse, and then, finally, joy in the voice of Curry’s Scrooge.

A Treasury of African American Christmas Stories

Bettye Collier-Thomas

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This collection of Christmas stories, compiled and edited by historian Dr. Bettye Collier-Thomas, contains writings from Black artists, activists, journalists, and writers from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many of the entries first appeared in the African American newspapers that thrived after the Civil War. By turns heartfelt, funny, serious, and whimsical, these stories celebrate the holiday traditions of Black Americans, as well as our country's rich Black literary history. The entire collection is read by accomplished narrator Adenrele Ojo.

Seven Days of Us

Francesca Hornak

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In this keenly observant and darkly funny holiday story from Frances Hornak, one family tests the limits of their love when they're forced to quarantine together. When oldest daughter Olivia returns home for the holidays after working abroad as a doctor in the middle of an epidemic, she's required to spend seven days in isolation—with the rest of her family. Tempers are tested, secrets are revealed, and long-buried tensions rise to the surface. Charming but heartfelt, Seven Days of Us is a painfully relatable but altogether hilarious holiday audiobook, perfectly narrated by Jilly Bond.

Letters from Father Christmas

J. R. R. Tolkien

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J.R.R. Tolkien's skill for voice and world-building extended far beyond his creation of Middle-earth. Each year, he replied to his children's letters to Father Christmas with whimsical missives. Collected here, these letters tell wonderful stories of Father Christmas's adventures in the North Pole and around the world. Warm and wonderfully narrated by Derek Jacobi with John Moffatt and Christian Rodska, this audiobook makes for cozy fireside listening.

Mr. Dickens and His Carol

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This inventive reimagining of A Christmas Carol is full of humor, heart, Victorian holiday cheer, and some endearing grumbling. Charles Dickens is not in a festive mood. The critics are railing against him, and it seems like everyone he knows wants money that he doesn't have. When his publisher asks him to write a Christmas book, he flat-out refuses. But everything changes on a walk through London, where he meets the mysterious Eleanor Lovejoy—a woman who reminds him what Christmas is all about. Actor Euan Morton, whose roles include playing King George in the Broadway musical Hamilton, narrates, impeccably.

Jingle Bell Pop

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Ever wonder why the same seasonal songs get played year after year after year? So did reporter John Seabrook. In Jingle Bell Pop, he offers a fascinating look inside the holiday music machine. Drawing on interviews with songwriters, producers, and singers, he sheds light on how holiday mega-hits are made, complete with secret recipes, and why they endure. Listen in to this wholly unique audiobook to learn the stories behind your favorite yuletide earworms, and you'll soon find yourself humming those familiar tunes.

Crush Hour: A Musical

Freya Slipper, Doug Crossley, Spring Day, Leila Navabi

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Get swept up in the magic and music of this uplifting holiday-themed Audible Original Podcast. Crush Hour: A Musical follows the stories of unknowingly connected strangers in London as they navigate love during rush hour. Various chance encounters on tubes, taxis, trains, and bikes result in hilarious outcomes. This festive musical drama stars award-winning singer Ellie Goulding, Douglas Booth, Samantha Barks, and Nick Collier (aka Ella Vaday), alongside a full-cast ensemble.

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A Chef's Christmas

Anthony Bourdain

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Though the late Anthony Bourdain is best loved for his deeply empathetic travelogue television series No Reservations, his writing and narration are exceptional in their own right. And while his memoirs, including the impeccable Kitchen Confidential and Medium Raw, are recognized exemplars of autobiography, this joyfully tongue-in-cheek holiday novella is well worth a listen too. Fans of Bourdain’s raw, gritty prose and irreverent sense of humor will love this story of the kitchen staffers at the struggling Saint Germain, who are determined, against all odds, to turn the eatery’s fate around.

Mr. and Mrs. Christmas

Michelle Stimpson

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Jamal and Lesley are Mr. and Mrs. Christmas, the perfect holiday couple—at least, that's what they tell the media. Lesley has been crushing on Jamal, her best friend's older brother, since she was a teenager, so she can't turn down the chance to fake date to help put their small town on the map. Marcella Cox and Ian Hackney's narration perfectly builds the tension between them as they realize that neither of them wants to leave this relationship behind when the snow melts.

Three Holidays and a Wedding

Uzma Jalaluddin, Marissa Stapley

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This charming holiday romance weaves together Christmas, Hanukkah, and Eid in a story full of heart, humor, and unexpected connections. When strangers Maryam and Anna find themselves stranded during a snowstorm, their lives collide in ways that transform their holiday plans. Narrated with warmth and depth by Ulka Simone Mohanty, this audiobook beautifully explores cultural traditions, family dynamics, and the magic of love across the winter season. It’s a perfect listen for anyone seeking a feel-good, inclusive holiday tale.

Booked for the Holidays

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Books about books are always tempting, and this one layers in a holiday romance to make it irresistible. When publishing employee Abi Schore arrives on the doorstep of one of her authors to see why she hasn't submitted her manuscript, it isn't mystery write D. B. Ziegler who opens the door—it's her grandson, Dov. When she couldn't finish the book, Dov promised to do it for her, but now he's in over his head. Together, Abi and Dov work on the story over Hanukkah, and an unexpected romance begins to brew. The dual narration by Eva Kaminsky and Andrew Eiden brings this love story to life.

Only Santas in the Building

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A festive story that blends holiday cheer with a touch of romance, Only Santas in the Building follows Evie Cruz, a comic book illustrator yearning for rest and holiday spirit, who finds herself drawn to her attractive upstairs neighbor. A Santa-themed party in their building and an unexpected sprig of mistletoe provide the perfect opportunity for her to pursue her holiday wishes. Part of the Under the Mistletoe collection, this story, narrated delightfully by Ruby Corazon, offers a quick, heartwarming listen that captures the magic of the season.

Love You a Latke

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This Hanukkah-themed romance is a perfect blend of humor, heart, and holiday spirit. Centered on a food blogger navigating family expectations and her own romantic misadventures, the story highlights Hanukkah traditions while delivering a sweet and engaging love story. With witty dialogue and relatable characters, it’s an ideal listen for anyone looking to embrace the holiday season in a fun and festive way. The audiobook's vivid narration by Kelli Tager makes it a delightful escape for fans of lighthearted romance and cultural celebration.

Not Another Christmas Rom Com

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This sharp and hilarious Audible Original flips holiday romance tropes on their head in the most delightful way. Narrators Andi Arndt and Teddy Hamilton bring their trademark wit and charm to this unconventional love story, where a disillusioned writer navigates the chaos of Christmas and finds a budding romance along the way. Perfect for anyone craving a fresh, laugh-out-loud take on holiday love stories, this audiobook is a festive treat with a modern twist.

Amor Actually

Adriana Herrera, Zoey Castile, Alexis Daria, Diana Muñoz Stewart, Priscilla Oliveras, Sabrina Sol, Mia Sosa

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Amor Actually is a delightful collection of nine interconnected stories set during Nochebuena in New York City, crafted by seven acclaimed Latina authors and narrated by Ramona Master and Gomez Pugh. Each tale offers a unique perspective on love, from second chances to unexpected connections, all infused with rich cultural traditions and festive spirit. The diverse voices and authentic narratives make this anthology a refreshing addition to holiday romance, celebrating the season through Latine experiences.

The Remaking of Corbin Wale

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This magical holiday romance is full of cozy treats, festive parties, and plenty of snowstorms. After losing his partner, job, and home in one blow, Alex decides it's time to leave New York and return to his small Michigan hometown to realize his dream of opening a bakery. He's immediately intrigued by Corbin, the quiet man who spends his afternoons writing at the table by the window. As they get to know each other, Alex and Corbin realize that sometimes the best holiday gifts are the unexpected people who come into your life at just the right time.

Eight Winter Nights

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This listen offers a fresh holiday twist on the classic boy meets the wrong girl. At last year's Hanukkah party, Rachel met a dreamy man, the sweet and charming Oz. But then her more confident, glam, and outgoing best friend swooped in, and Tamara and Oz have been dating ever since. Rachel does her best to hide her lingering feelings for Oz, but when he and Tamara finally break up—and he begs Rachel for help winning Tamara back before Hanukkah—well, Rachel can't keep up the charade.

Mangos and Mistletoe

Adriana Herrera

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This holiday romance novella is full of mouthwatering descriptions of delicious baked goods—so don't listen hungry! Latinx bakers Kiskeya and Sully each arrive in Scotland for reality TV's famed Holiday Baking Challenge with the same goal: to win and prove that they belong in the culinary world. Assigned to work together despite their different baking styles, the two women are standoffish at first, but it's not long before sparks start to fly, in and out of the kitchen. Will the heat of competition and an unexpected betrayal spoil their chance to make a great team?

The Matzah Ball

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For a decade, Rachel Rubenstein-Goldblatt has kept a big secret from her Jewish family—she loves Christmas, and, under a pseudonym, has a career as a successful Christmas romance novelist. But then her publisher asks her to write a Hanukkah romance, and Rachel can't come up with a single idea. Hoping to find inspiration, she attends the annual Matzah Ball, a Jewish music celebration held on the last night of Hanukkah. She's surprised to meet her childhood rival Jacob there—and even more surprised that she's drawn to both him and the holiday she always thought she hated. Jean Meltzer delivers a warmhearted holiday romance about second chances and finding the courage to be yourself.

Royal Holiday

Jasmine Guillory

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A holiday fling turns into a lifelong love in this delightful royal romp from Jasmine Guillory. Vivian is thrilled to accompany her daughter Maddie on a work trip to England, where Maddie will be styling a member of the royal family. Vivian is planning on enjoying some much-needed time off—she's not expecting to fall head over heels for the queen's private secretary, Malcolm. Vivian and Malcolm have no trouble navigating a steamy holiday romance. But when they realize they both want more, are they ready to take risks they never imagined?

A Holly Jolly Diwali

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Niki has always played it safe, working a dependable job and dating practical men—even if they don't exactly make her heart beat faster. But when she's abruptly laid off, she decides to throw caution to the wind and spontaneously flies to India for a friend's wedding. There, amid the light-filled magic of Diwali, she meets Sameer, a free-spirited London musician with whom she shares an immediate connection. As the end of the holiday season approaches, and with a new job offer on the horizon, Niki faces a decision: Will she return to her predictable life or stay and take a chance on love?

Bright Winter Lights

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One of our picks for the best winter rom-coms, Bright Winter Lights is a charming Hanukkah romance. Featuring a delightful dual narration from Andrew Eiden and Emily Lawrence, the story follows a pair of high school sweethearts who get a second chance at love. To avoid his matchmaker mother’s machinations, Adam, a driven business mogul, reaches out to his old girlfriend, Sara, a successful designer, to ask her to accompany him to his family’s Hanukkah party. For years, they've both been consumed by their careers. Before long, they rediscover the spark that first brought them together.

Eight Dates and Nights

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This adorable Hanukkah-themed audiobook blends family, tradition, and a bit of romance. Narrated with warmth and charm by Tara Sands, it follows Hannah Levin, a New Yorker stranded in a small Texas town during Hanukkah. There, she meets Noah, the only other Jewish teen in the area, whose enthusiasm for the holiday challenges her initial reluctance. As the two embark on eight memorable dates, Hannah discovers more about her heritage, family, and herself. With engaging narration and a refreshing focus on Jewish traditions, this audiobook offers a festive and heartfelt story for listeners looking for a holiday tale beyond the usual Christmas romances.

Flopping in a Winter Wonderland

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Set in a quirky year-round Christmas theme park on an island north of Alaska, this LGBTQIA+ rom-com delivers festive fun and unexpected romance. Aaron wants his brother Casey to move on from his ex, while Kris hopes to bring his uncle back to become the first gay Santa. Their paths collide in a whirlwind of holiday chaos and charm, leading to an unforgettable connection. Narrated with humor by the author and Shawn K. Jain, this audiobook celebrates love, self-discovery, and the magic of the holiday season in a fresh and inclusive way.

The Holiday Switch

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This adorable holiday romance centers on a Filipino American teen who discovers secrets, love, and a new sense of self while working at her local inn. Leiana Bertrand's lively performance makes the story sparkle, adding warmth to every moment. Fans of heartfelt coming-of-age stories and wintery romance will love this listen.

Only for the Holidays

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This sweet romance intertwines the festive spirit with themes of self-discovery and young love. The story follows Tia Solanké, a city girl reluctantly spending Christmas at Saiyan Hedge Farm, where she meets Quincy Parker, the farm owner's son. To save the farm's Winter Ball, they agree to a fake relationship, leading to genuine feelings as holiday preparations get underway. Bello's immersive storytelling and authentic characters, brought to life by Kenton Thomas and Nneka Okoye's narration, make this novel a perfect listen for those seeking a tale that explores the magic of the season and the complexities of young love.

Let It Snow (Movie Tie-In)

John Green, Lauren Myracle, Maureen Johnson

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There’s something uniquely joyous about the holiday season when you’re a teen—school’s out, the snow is mounting, and ice-skating and hot cocoa dates offer a chance at young love. In this contemporary young adult story, three pillars of the genre—Maureen Johnson, Lauren Myracle, and John Green—trace the fates of a cast of characters stuck in their small town on Christmas Eve by a massive storm. As their separate stories begin to intertwine, surprising, heartwarming connections are made, shining a light on the season’s joys. Narrators Rebecca Soler, Brandon Gill, and Ali Ahn bring Let It Snow and its magic to life for listeners.

My True Love Gave to Me

Stephanie Perkins - editor

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Whatever your favorite holiday, this YA anthology of holiday stories is sure to delight. My True Love Gave Me features a rich diversity of tales centered on a holiday—Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and the Solstice among them—from 12 young adult authors, including Rainbow Rowell, Jenny Han, Holly Black, and the collection's editor, Stephanie Perkins. Read by Julia Whelan, Kim Mai Guest, and Lincoln Hoppe, among other expert voices, and full of themes of family, love, and friendship, these stories will warm you right up.

Dash & Lily's Book of Dares (Netflix Series Tie-In Edition)

Rachel Cohn, David Levithan

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Can't get enough of holiday movies set in New York City? Then, you'll love this audiobook about two teenagers and their unexpected romance. Lily leaves a notebook containing a series of challenges on a shelf in her favorite bookstore. Dash, feeling lonely during the holidays, picks it up. What follows is a whirlwind romance full of adventures, dares, and dates all over the city, as they pass the notebook back and forth. An enchanting listen, Dash & Lily's Book of Dares is narrated in alternating voices by Ryan Gesell and Tara Sands.

Once upon a Diwali

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Riya eagerly anticipates Diwali's delicious treats but dreads the accompanying darkness and loud fireworks. Through a bedtime story, her mother shares the origins of Diwali, highlighting the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. This narrative not only educates young readers about the festival's significance but also empowers Riya to overcome her fears and fully embrace the celebrations. Author Anita Mishra and narrator Sneha Mathan authentically represent their cultures, showcasing how Diwali is celebrated across various religions, including Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism.

Together for Kwanzaa

Juwanda G. Ford

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Together for Kwanzaa is a heartwarming children’s audiobook that introduces the traditions and values of Kwanzaa through a relatable story. It follows Kayla, who worries her brother won’t make it home in time to light the Kinara with their family, emphasizing themes of unity, perseverance, and the importance of togetherness. Perfect for families and educators, the audiobook is a wonderful way to teach children about Kwanzaa’s cultural significance in an accessible and enjoyable format. Narrated beautifully by Yinka Ladeinde, it’s an inspiring addition to any holiday listening list.

Magical Christmas Fairy Tales

Hans Christian Andersen, Frances Jenkins Olcott, Emilie Poulsson, Andrew Lang

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Magical Christmas Fairy Tales brings together timeless holiday stories by renowned authors like Hans Christian Andersen, Frances Jenkins Olcott, Emilie Poulsson, and Andrew Lang. This enchanting collection includes beloved classics and lesser-known gems, offering a mix of magic, wonder, and the warmth of the season. Perfectly narrated by Nicki White, Erik Blior, and Holly Kyrre to capture the spirit of Christmas, these tales transport listeners to snow-dusted forests, cozy villages, and whimsical realms.

Eight Sweet Nights, a Festival of Lights

Charlotte Offsay

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This audiobook warmly introduces the traditions and celebratory meals of Hanukkah. As a loving family comes together to prepare for the festival, listeners are immersed in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the holiday, from cooking latkes to lighting the menorah. The story emphasizes the joy of family togetherness and the importance of passing down cultural traditions. Charmingly narrated by Emily Lawrence, this audiobook is perfect for families seeking to educate and entertain children about Hanukkah.

Ladybird Stories for Diwali

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This vibrant collection of stories celebrates the joy and traditions of Diwali, with rich narration by Rachel Petladwala. Whether you’re familiar with Diwali or discovering it for the first time, these tales beautifully highlight the holiday’s themes of light, community, and renewal. Perfect for listeners of all ages, it’s an inspiring celebration of cultural heritage.

The Lotterys More or Less

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This joyful book from bestselling author Emma Donoghue isn't about one particular holiday, as the Lottery Family doesn't celebrate just one holiday. Sumac lives with her two dads, two moms, and many siblings in a wonderful old house. Every year, she's the one who makes sure all the holiday rituals go according to plan. But when a visitor stays longer than expected, and her dad and brother can't get home to India in time to celebrate, Sumac learns that what's important about her family's unique mix of wonderful traditions can't be ruined by an ice storm or a power outage.

The People Remember

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This unique holiday listen uses the seven principles of Kwanzaa to explore African American history. Ibi Zoboi connects each principle to a different and equally inspiring real-life story. Read by the author and Hall of Fame narrator Robin Miles, the book includes histories of enslaved people in the United States and explores the rich cultures, rituals, and traditions that they built. A beautiful celebration of Black culture and social justice movements, The People Remember truly embodies the spirit of Kwanzaa.

Sam and the Lucky Money

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This is an enchanting listen for all children and especially for families who celebrate the Lunar New Year. The story follows Sam, a boy who's trying to decide how to spend the money he received for Chinese New Year. Luckily, he meets a stranger who helps him make the right decision—and teaches him something about giving and generosity in the process.

The Velveteen Rabbit

Margery Williams

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Alight with the childhood wonder of connecting with and loving those cherished stuffed companions, Margery Williams's British kidlit classic The Velveteen Rabbit has been breaking hearts and inspiring families for over a century. This holiday season, invite a little warmth into your home with Richard Armitage’s masterful rendition recounting a young boy’s beloved Christmas gift—the titular plush rabbit—as well as the pains of parting and the joys of recognizing his pal in the wild. This listen is perfect for families and those feeling a bit nostalgic during the festive season.

Seven Candles For Kwanzaa

Andrea Davis Pinkney

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This children's book by Andrea Davis Pinkney makes a wonderful introduction to Kwanzaa and its history and traditions. Accompanied by traditional African music, Emmy Award-winning actress Alfre Woodard's engaging narration brings the seven principles of Kwanzaa to life. Kids will learn about the importance of unity, community, collective responsibility, creativity, faith, and ancestral stories.

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