Satisfy the Reader in Any Family

Video games and electronic devices are uppermost in the minds of many youngsters for Christmas. If you’re among those that have an avid reader in the family, there are any number of books that will be a well-appreciated gift. There are books to please any age level or reading ability. Many combine the holiday season with mystery, fantasy or a heaping helping of humor. The following are just a few choices to consider.

Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

When the gem is stolen, it’s up to Sherlock Holmes and Watson to recover it and solve the holiday-based mystery. For ages 7 to 9.

Christmas Mystery by Jostein Gaarder

In this Norwegian novel, the girl Elisabet hasn’t been seen for years. Jochim must solve the mystery of the advent calendar and locate Elisabet. For ages 9 to 12.

Hogfather by Terry Prachet

Bureaucrats hire an assassin to dispatch the Hogfathe who brings children toys and sausages. It’s up to Death to save the day by dressing up as the merry old man. For age 11 to adults.

Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris

It’s a hilarious account of working as a department store elf during the holidays. For teens to adults.

Kwanzaa by Dr. Artika R. Tyner

Children learn about the traditions and celebration of Kwanzaa. For ages 5 to 8.

The Box of Delights by John Masefield

In this children’s fantasy novel, a boy finds a magic box on a train, only to discover he and the box are in danger from an evil magician. He travels through time and space to save himself and Christmas. For ages 9 to 12.

The Legend of the Poinsettia by Tomie dePaola

There’s more to the humble flower than meets the eye. It tells the sweet story of what the “Flower of Christmas Eve” means to Hispanic families. For ages 5 to 9.