For the first time in a really long time, I haven’t felt like blogging today. It’s been ages since I sat in front of a screen waiting for inspiration. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I’ve been on such a roll of late. But I’m determined to get through it so I’m still going to post something for Friday Favourites. It just might not be the best one yet. As it’s Christmas, we’re going to be doing festive-themed Friday posts for the next few weeks. It’ll be fun. Or not. I can’t make wild promises like that. But for now, I’ll start with a list of some of my favourite festive reads. Although, I’m normally struggling to finish books at this time of year so I never go ahead with my plans for themed reads. This year should be more successful. Maybe I’ll get the chance to read a few of these again?

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

The classic Christmas story. The one that everyone talks about and the one that is constantly being adapted for TV and film. Charles Dickens novella is one of the few Dickens books that I actually enjoyed reading. I love the added creepiness of the novella too. It’s such a weird and wonderful read. Definitely, one that deserves an annual outing.

Letters From Father Christmas by J.R.R. Tolkien

Obviously, I love my father. But could you imagine being J.R.R Tolkien’s child? Not only would he write Lord of the Rings for you but every year he’d send you a letter from Father Christmas. It’s so cute and the letters are a brilliant thing to read. So full of joy and charm. Read them to your children, read them to your friends, read them to people you meet on the street. These are the kind of thing that bring people together.

The Jolly Christmas Postman by Allan Ahlberg and Janet Ahlberg

I loved the Jolly Postman when I was younger. I can’t remember how many times I read it but I was obsessed. The Christmas version is just as much fun but with added festive hijinks. This book is the perfect childhood Christmas read. Not that grown-up children shouldn’t also get to read it.

Hercule Poirot’s Christmas by Agatha Christie

As I mentioned in my book review on Wednesday, I resent people who refer to Agatha Christie’s works as “cosy crime”. However, I also can’t deny that being wrapped up inside reading one on a Winter evening is a delight. And what better one to get into than this one?

How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss is always a delight to read but there is something so delicious about this tale. Especially as we get older and start to forget all of the joy that we used to feel around this time of year. Yes, we might get more Grinch-like as we get older but that’s all the more reason to read this. If only to remind you of the real message behind the holiday season.

The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle by Arthur Conan Doyle

One of the stories from The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. It’s Christmas time and a priceless gemstone is stolen from a hotel. There’s a Christmas goose and a hat. It’s got everything. Okay, it’s not the most Christmassy book of all time but it’ll do, right?

The Snowman by Raymond Briggs

A young boy builds a snowman which comes to life. Together they go on an adventure to the North Pole. This is an absolute classic. The film is a must-watch on Christmas Day and the book is just brilliant. Raymond Briggs’ story is heartwarming and the illustrations are gorgeous. The Snowman is a book full of charm. The perfect Christmas book.