The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey by Susan Wojciechowski and PJ Lynch
This moving tale of a curmudgeonly woodcarver whose heart is melted by a young boy is a Christmas classic, and a special 20th anniversary edition has just been released. It is a tale all about the true spirit of Christmas, and PJ Lynch’s stunning illustrations for this book bring the warmth and emotion of the tale to life. This was one of two books for which Lynch was awarded the Kate Greenaway Medal Winner, presented annually by the UK Library Association ‘for an outstanding book in terms of illustration for children and young people.’
The Nutcracker illustrated by Niroot Puttapipat
This classic Christmas tale has been released in a stunning new edition, with striking silhouette illustrations and a pop up finale. Puttapipat’s illustrations are fantastic, making the story even more magical. Enchanting!
The Snow Beast by Chris Judge
Chris Judge’s beloved Beast (The Lonely Beast) returns in this action-packed caper which will delight young readers.
Pugs of the Frozen North by Philip Reeve & Sarah McIntyre
A fun-filled adventure story from the dynamic duo of Reeve and McIntyre. The illustrations and text work together wonderfully, and this book will entertain boys and girls.
Beyond The Stars edited by Sarah Webb
A wintery collection of tales written and illustrated by some of Ireland’s finest, with proceeds going to Fighting Words, a fantastic resource for young writers. I particularly enjoyed Siobhán Parkinson and Eoin Colfer’s stories, and the illustrations by PJ Lynch and Niamh Sharkey.
Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares by David Levithan and Rachel Cohn
A YA Christmas romance that will appeal to fans of John Green. Bookish types will love the setting of The Strand and all the literary allusions. Levithan wrote Dash and Cohn Lily, and their distinctive voices narrate alternating chapters. Highly recommended.
My True Love Gave To Me edited by Stephanie Perkins
A collection of short stories, all Christmassy YA romances. With big names like Rainbow Rowell, David Levithan, Jenny Han and Gayle Forman involved this is a real treat for YA fans. I didn’t love all the stories, my favourite was Rainbow Rowell but I also really enjoyed Steohanie Perkins, Gayle Forman and Kiersten White’s stories. A lovely book to curl up with with a nice cup of tea and plenty of chocolate.
The books, the art and me 