The holidays are here, and everyone is beginning to feel sentimental and reach for their favorite holiday traditions. For some, that includes books. Today, we wanted to share with you our (current) favorite holiday reads. Whether you celebrate the Solstice, Christmas, etc., we're sure to have something on our list for you. So grab your favorite cuppa and snack, and let's get to it!
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J. K. Rowling
While I believe all the Harry Potter books have a Christmas scene in them, my favorite to go back to is Sorcerer's Stone. It seems the most "magical" to me, at least in a lighthearted sense. Perhaps it's Harry's age and that it's his first year; the newness of the world, the enchantment everywhere before the darkness really takes hold. Harry's first Christmas is one of the most touching scenes in my opinion.
Pairing: Treacle tart + pumpkin juice
A Court Of Frost And Starlight by Sarah J. Maas
I mean, just look at that cover! ACOFAS is a quick, cozy read that bridges the gap between the end of Maas' ACOTAR series and the latest installment/spin-off coming in Feb 2021 (Who else is dying for it?! Where are my Nessian lovers?!). The novella follows the Inner Circle as they juggle rebuilding their kingdom, dealing with the scars left by war with the King of Hybern, and preparations for the Solstice/Feyre's birthday. It's a beautiful little book with a lot to say about PTSD and how we all handle trauma differently. I HAVE to read this book every Winter Solstice in honor of the birth of the High Lady of the Night Court!
Pairing: Roasted hazelnuts + spiced cocoa
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Okay, I know this one might be a bit cliché. But as it's my partner's favorite Christmas story, it is part of our holiday tradition. We read it every year, as well as watch A Muppet's Christmas Carol with Michael Kane. It's a classic! Not to mention they did such a great job sticking to the original dialogue, and the music is awesome.
Pairing: Christmas scones + orange spice tea
The Iron King by Julie Kagawa
This is one of Jordan's favorite winter reads, as a good chunk of the book takes place in the Winter Court of the fey realm, where all is snow, ice, and bloodthirsty creatures. If you fancy binging the entire Iron Fey series during winter (highly recommended), then you'll be introduced to even more Winter Court intrigue in the second book as the main character is held captive in the cold-hearted Winter Fey's clutches.
Pairing: Sugar plums + spiced cranberry hot toddy
The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis
Under the rule of a vicious White Queen and trapped in eternal winter, the fantastical land of Narnia is in dire need when the four Pevensie children step into it through a magic wardrobe. Whimsical, adventurous, and full of plenty wintery themes, this book is a fantastic read for adults and children alike (and who can say no to a movie night and hot cocoa after?).
Pairing: Turkish Delights + frozen hot chocolate
What's your favorite holiday read? Did we cover it in this post? Let's talk in the comments!