Just like the Grinch, many of us feel extra moody around the holidays. While it’s supposed to be a magical season, social obligations, financial hardship, loneliness, and daylight savings are all exacerbated during this time. That’s why I’ve come up with a handful of books to make you feel warm and fuzzy inside!
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy
This story follows the unlikely friendship of a boy, a mole, a fox, and a horse. The boy is grateful, the horse is wise, the fox is quiet, and the mole has an affinity for cake. All together they reflect on musings and vulnerabilities in the world. The book has gorgeous line art and watercolor illustrations. It’s for all ages. You can read it yourself or with children where insightful discussion is bound to ensue.
Sometimes all you hear about is the hate, but there is more love in this world than you could possibly imagine.
We’ll Prescribe You A Cat by Syou Ishida
We’ll Prescribe You A Cat is a heartwarming Japanese translation about a special clinic where patients who need help receive a cat. The book follows five storylines, and the felines spark transformation in all of them. This feel-good tale will remind you to appreciate the precious furry friends in your life.
How to Be a Good Creature by Sy Montgomery, illustrated by Rebecca Green
Continuing with the animal theme is How to Be a Good Creature. This memoir/nature book focuses on 13 animals, all of which have taught Sy how to exist in this tumultuous world. Other creatures have so many lessons to teach us, including commitment, accepting others, and optimism. If you like this one, you might enjoy her other books, including Of Time and Turtles, The Soul of an Octopus, and What a Chicken Knows.
Knowing someone who belongs to another species can enlarge your soul in surprising ways.
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
Lastly is The House in the Cerulean Sea. This cozy fantasy features Linus Baker, a caseworker for Magical Youth. Linus sticks to the rules, but the powerful children of Marsyas Island Orphanage and Arthur, their caretaker, change him for the better. Along the way, Linus finds an extraordinary new family. The sequel, Somewhere Beyond the Sea, is out now, in case you need a double dose of goodness.
It’s easy to be Grinchy, but it’s more rewarding to have a full heart. These reads can give you that holiday pick-me-up that you need. They also make great gifts!
Need some more peaceful recs? Check out this article.
Browse more comforting reads on our Cozy Mysteries shelf on Bookshop.
