The holiday season is in full swing. The turkey from Thanksgiving is finished, and the shorter, colder days are upon us as fall turns itself over to winter. With so many holidays to celebrate before the end of the year, it may seem impossible to find the time to read. But what better time to open up a sweet book than this cozy season of merriment and togetherness. Here are some books for kids filled with messages of gratitude, kindness and self-worth, perfect for this holiday season.

The Elf on the Shelf® Family Cookbook

By Chanda A Bell

“The Elf on the Shelf® Family Cookbook” can help you find festive recipes to inspire kids in the kitchen and get into cooking. For something tasty to munch on in preparation for the big day on the 25^th try the “Reindeer Munch Snack Mix” or “The Cheer is Here! Pancakes” for a holiday spin on breakfast. And if you’ve still got a hint of Thanksgiving spirit lurking within you, you might want to try the “Pumpkin Pie Cones.”

Elmore The Christmas Moose

By Dev Petty and illustrated by Mike Boldt

Elmore the moose wants to take on the challenge of being one of Santa’s reindeer after seeing an ad for the job in the newspaper. In “Elmore The Christmas Moose” follow Elmore as he attempts to go after his dream of being one of Santa’s best and most dependable team of reindeer. On paper, it may not seem like he can do it, but that won’t stop him from trying. Recommended for ages 3-7.

The Gratitude Goggles

By Andrea Mendoza-Vasconez, Ph.D and illustrated by Rita Nilson

At the center of this story “The Gratitude Goggles” is the power of sight: how you see reflects how you feel about yourself. When feeling grateful a unique pair of goggles suddenly appears. These goggles guide children through numerous experiences, helping them to see the beauty in all things natural and realize the power of connection. The book reminds us to focus on what we already have and not put energy towards comparison or envy. The world is filled with wonder and it can be seen in all its many colors. Recommended for ages 4-7.

Extraordinary Noorah: Santa’s Magical Arctic Fox Book

By Chanda A Bell

With the movement of her tail Noorah the fox is able to channel the Northern Lights to appear in the sky and cause time to stop. In “Extraordinary Noorah,” her time altering talent gives Noorah the chance to help Santa so that he can deliver all the gifts around the world in one night. Pick up this book to share the story with all those looking to better understand Santa and one of his oldest friends. Recommended for ages 3 and up.

Everett Green: The Not-So-Christmas Tree

By Freddy Wexler and illustrated by Fanny Berthiaume 

Everett Green is a palm tree with dreams of becoming something big, like the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. After seeing the famous holiday tree on television, he dreams of becoming a real Christmas tree. A singer and dancer from Hawaii, Everett Green wants to get to New York City to realize this big dream. On his journey to NYC a series of mishaps teaches Everett the true spirit of Christmas is about giving rather than receiving attention. Fun fact: “Everett Green: The Not-So-Christmas Tree” is written by a Los Angeles local! Recommended for ages 4-8.

Zion’s Crown

By Zenda Walker and illustrated by Princess Karibo

In “Zion’s Crown” two boys, Zion and his brother, Zayn, have an experience at school that make them reject their hair. Their father steps in to show both boys what makes their hairstyles unique and beautiful, and their cultural significance. It is in these lessons Zion and his brother begin to see things differently. Recommended for ages 4-8.

For more book recommendations, check out our November Book Corner.