The holidays are fast approaching, which means it’s time to break out the cozy blankets, sip on some hot cocoa (or tea, if that’s your jam), and dive into a good book. Forget the family drama and endless pie debates—this season is all about finding the perfect escape through the pages of a brilliant YA novel. Whether you're curled up by the fireplace, avoiding that one aunt who always asks “So, any special someone?”, or just want a break from binge-watching the same holiday movies, these seven YA reads with a holiday touch will have you hooked and to get you ready for the vibes. Let’s get started.
1. "Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares" by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
What’s more festive than a Christmas-themed scavenger hunt through the streets of New York City? Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares starts when cynical, Christmas-hating Dash stumbles across a red notebook in a bookstore. Inside, he finds a challenge left by the optimistic and Christmas-loving Lily, sparking a series of dares and notes passed between them as they navigate the city. It’s a whirlwind adventure that brings together two people who couldn’t be more different, with plenty of humor and heart along the way.
Perfect for anyone who loves cute rom-coms, Christmas in NYC, and wishes they could stumble upon a life-changing adventure in their favorite bookstore.
2. "Let It Snow" by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle
Snowstorms, small-town charm, and three interconnected love stories—Let It Snow is the ultimate cozy holiday read. When a snowstorm hits a small town on Christmas Eve, it sets off a series of events that bring together a stranded train of travelers, a group of friends racing to a Waffle House, and a girl dealing with a breakup. Each story in this anthology is heartwarming and filled with holiday spirit, with characters you’ll want to follow through the snow-covered streets. Plus, it’s written by some of the best YA authors out there, so you know it’s a winner.
Perfect for readers who love multiple storylines coming together, small-town settings, and a cozy winter night full of unexpected romance.
3. "My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories" edited by Stephanie Perkins
My True Love Gave to Me is like the ultimate holiday gift wrapped in a book. This anthology features twelve different holiday-themed stories from some of the biggest names in YA, including Rainbow Rowell, Laini Taylor, and David Levithan. Each story offers a different holiday experience—from Christmas to New Year’s Eve to Hanukkah—with a variety of genres, including contemporary romance, fantasy, and magical realism. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet romance or something a little more whimsical, this collection has it all, making it the perfect read to keep your holiday season magical.
Perfect for anyone who loves a little bit of everything: romance, fantasy, and a touch of holiday magic woven into each story.
4. "The Afterlife of Holly Chase" by Cynthia Hand
What if you ignored the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future? That’s exactly what Holly Chase did, and now she’s living the consequences. After blowing her chance at redemption, Holly is stuck working as the Ghost of Christmas Past for a top-secret company called Project Scrooge. She now spends her time trying to redeem other people, but when a new Scrooge shows up who reminds her of her past self, things take a turn. This witty, modern retelling of A Christmas Carol is full of snark, heart, and holiday redemption arcs—perfect for fans of classic Christmas tales with a fresh, YA twist.
Perfect for those who love modern retellings, a touch of humor with their holiday reads, and redemption stories that still feel lighthearted.
5. "10 Blind Dates" by Ashley Elston
Imagine being set up on 10 blind dates—by your family! That’s exactly what happens to Sophie after a breakup sends her back home for the holidays. Her big, meddling family takes matters into their own hands, and each relative arranges a blind date for her over the holiday season. The result is a hilarious and heartwarming adventure filled with chaotic family dynamics, unexpected romance, and all the feels. Sophie’s journey through these blind dates is full of awkward, funny, and sweet moments that’ll make you laugh out loud and root for her all the way through.
Perfect for anyone who loves laugh-out-loud romantic comedies, big family antics, and some good old-fashioned holiday matchmaking.
6. "The Bear and the Nightingale" by Katherine Arden
Set in the snow-covered wilderness of medieval Russia, The Bear and the Nightingale combines rich folklore with a magical, wintery atmosphere that’ll leave you spellbound. The story follows Vasilisa, a girl who can see and speak to ancient spirits that protect her home. When a new priest comes to town and convinces the villagers to abandon these spirits, winter begins to take a dangerous turn. With its atmospheric setting, beautifully crafted world, and deep ties to Russian folklore, this book is the perfect blend of fantasy and winter magic. If you want a story that feels like stepping into a winter fairy tale, this is the one.
Perfect for readers who love rich, atmospheric fantasy novels with folklore, strong heroines, and wintery landscapes that practically come alive.
7. "Winterspell" by Claire Legrand
Okay, I cheated a bit. But Winterspell is a darker, more magical retelling of The Nutcracker, perfect for readers who crave a fantasy adventure with a twist of holiday magic. Clara Stole isn’t just waiting around for things to happen—she’s a fierce heroine thrown into a dangerous world where magic, politics, and romance collide. With its enchanting world and strong female lead, this story offers a thrilling and darker version of the classic holiday tale. If you love fairy tale retellings with a bit more edge, Winterspell is the holiday fantasy you’ve been waiting for.
Perfect for fans of fantasy retellings, strong heroines who take charge, and holiday stories with a darker, magical twist.
And there you have it—seven YA books to get you into the festive mood and that are sure to keep you entertained and cozy. Whether you’re a sucker for sweet romances, love a bit of holiday magic, or prefer a dash of adventure with your hot cocoa, these books will make sure your holiday TBR is stacked.
What about you? Do you have a favorite holiday read, or is there a festive book you’re dying to dive into? Let me know in the comments below!