Fri, December 21, 2012
Best Young Adult Holiday Books + Giveaway
This time of year, I can’t seem to stop talking about holiday/winter books — sharing my favorites, downloading new ones to try, asking friends for their recommendations. So it’s time to share: My list of the best young adult holiday books (those I’ve read and those I want to read).
The Ones I’ve Read
Ex-mas
By Kate Brian
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 224 pages
Publish date: Oct. 6, 2009
Two Exes. One holiday adventure. Merry Ex-Mas?
Seventeen-year-old Lila Beckwith’s parents just left for vacation, and Lila’s all set to throw the holiday party of the season. But when her Christmas-obsessed little brother, Cooper, discovers that global warming is melting the North Pole, he and his best friend, Tyler, take off on a runaway mission to save Santa.
Lila has to get Cooper safely home before her parents get back on Christmas Eve. But the only person who can help her is Tyler’s older brother, Beau a.k.a. Lila’s musician, anti-everything ex-boyfriend.It’ll take more than a Christmas miracle for Lila and Beau to overcome their differences and find their fugitive brothers. But could a journey destined for disaster help these polar opposites fall in love…all over again?
— Goodreads.com description
Just read this one, a gift from my friend Estelle. Super fluffy, road trip, snotty popular girl who get reformed…what’s not to love?
Snowed Over
By Angie Stanton
Vanguard Management, Inc., 126 pages
Publish date: Oct. 12, 2012
To college student, Katie Brandt, ‘Home for the Holidays’ sounds like hell. When her parents separated, their holiday traditions shattered like a dropped ornament. What could be worse than celebrating Christmas with her suddenly single mom and mom’s new boyfriend?
Alex Walker, an engaged 20-year-old, dreads going home for his own reasons. He has a daunting task ahead of him and wishes he could skip the holidays altogether. So when a friend of a friend needs a ride north, Alex finds that having beautiful Katie seated by his side proves to be just the distraction he needs.
A simple ride home for Christmas turns into a nightmare when light snow rages into a full-scale blizzard. Katie and Alex find themselves stranded, and a vacant cabin becomes a haven from the storm.
Under different circumstances, time alone with Alex would be the ultimate Christmas gift, but Katie knows Alex is engaged and she must hide her growing attraction.However, Alex harbors a secret that just might change this holiday from the worst Christmas ever, to the best.
— Goodreads.com description
This novella is another one I just read. Cheesy? Sure! Rushed in parts? Totally? DO I LOOK LIKE I CARE? No. That’s what I want in my Lifetime and Hallmark and ABC Family Channel holiday movies, and it’s what I want in my holiday books too. Don’t you judge me!
Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares
By David Levithan and Rachel Cohn
Knopf Books for Young Readers, 260 pages
Publish date: Oct. 26, 2010
“I’ve left some clues for you.
If you want them, turn the page.
If you don’t, put the book back on the shelf, please.”So begins the latest whirlwind romance from the bestselling authors of Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist. Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a comic mismatch of disastrous proportions?
Rachel Cohn and David Levithan have written a love story that will have readers perusing bookstore shelves, looking and longing for a love (and a red notebook) of their own.
— Goodreads.com description
Probably my favorite holiday book yet…which reminds me, why don’t I own this one?! Totally re-read worthy!
Love on the Lifts
By Rachel Hawthorne
HarperTeen, 301 pages
Publish date: Dec. 13, 2005
Winter Break super-secret perfect cocoa recipe:
8 oz steamed whole milk
(no skim! doesn’t work!)2 tbsp. dark cocoa powder (big scoops)
1 tbsp. sugar (can’t be too sweet)
4 dried, crushed mint leaves
(or 1 tbsp. mint syrup)Stir thoroughly. Add mint swizzle stick. Combine with cute ski instructor, or brother’s cute best friend, or cute guy you never noticed was so cute…Enjoy.
— Goodreads.com description
Cute cute cute! Again, fluff. But, um, I love fluff.
Bittersweet
By Sarah Ockler
Simon Pulse, 378 pages
Publish date: Jan. 3, 2012
Once upon a time, Hudson knew exactly what her future looked like. Then a betrayal changed her life, and knocked her dreams to the ground. Now she’s a girl who doesn’t believe in second chances… a girl who stays under the radar by baking cupcakes at her mom’s diner and obsessing over what might have been.
So when things start looking up and she has another shot at her dreams, Hudson is equal parts hopeful and terrified. Of course, this is also the moment a cute, sweet guy walks into her life… and starts serving up some seriously mixed signals. She’s got a lot on her plate, and for a girl who’s been burned before, risking it all is easier said than done.
It’s time for Hudson to ask herself what she really wants, and how much she’s willing to sacrifice to get it. Because in a place where opportunities are fleeting, she knows this chance may very well be her last…
— Goodreads.com description
Lovely and romantic and wintery.
Girl, Overboard
By Justina Chen
Little, Brown Young Readers, 352 pages
Publish date: Jan. 1, 2009
Everybody thinks Syrah is the golden girl. After all, her father is Ethan Cheng, billionaire, and she has everything any kid could possibly desire: a waterfront mansion, jet plane, and custom-designed snowboards. But most of what glitters in her life is fool’s gold. Her half-siblings hate her, her best friend’s girlfriend is ruining their friendship, and her own so-called boyfriend is only after her for her father’s name. When her broken heart results in a snowboarding accident that exiles her from the mountains-the one place where she feels free and accepted for who she is, not what she has-can Syrah rehab both her busted-up knee, “and” her broken heart?
Justina Chen Headley writes with an engaging wit and a powerful, distinct voice. Her first novel, “Nothing But the Truth (and a few white lies) “was a Border’s Original Voices nominee, a Book Sense pick, and received a starred review from “Publisher’s Weekly: “Headley makes an impressive debut with this witty, intimate novel.”
— Goodreads.com description
A winter sports story for those of us who would be rather in the lodge sipping cocoa and reading a book than actually out there skiing/snowboarding/etc.
Winter’s Kiss
By Jennifer Echols & Catherine Hapka
Simon Pulse, 496 pages
Publish date: Jan. 3, 2012
Cozy up to a double dose of winter-themed romantic comedy with two books in one bind-up.
Lexi has come up with a master plan to make Cameron break up with her: get him to fall for another girl so she’ll be free (and guilt-free, too). But when the plan goes well—too well—Lexi starts to wonder if she hasn’t made a terrible mistake. Has she let the perfect guy get away? And is it too late to get him back?
Meanwhile, Hayden and Nick’s steamy relationship has ended in a frosty breakup, and now they’re just friends. But when they decide to go head-to-head in a boarding contest, the friendly competition gets heated….Will sparks start to fly on and off the slopes?
— Goodreads.com description
Two sweet books in one great bindup. Read this one last winter on a snowy day! Also? J. Echols. ‘Nuff said.
The Ones I Want to Read
Let It Snow
By John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle
Speak, 352 pages
Publish date: Oct. 2, 2008
Sparkling white snowdrifts, beautiful presents wrapped in ribbons, and multicolored lights glittering in the night through the falling snow. A Christmas Eve snowstorm transforms one small town into a romantic haven, the kind you see only in movies. Well, kinda. After all, a cold and wet hike from a stranded train through the middle of nowhere would not normally end with a delicious kiss from a charming stranger. And no one would think that a trip to the Waffle House through four feet of snow would lead to love with an old friend. Or that the way back to true love begins with a painfully early morning shift at Starbucks. Thanks to three of today’s bestselling teen authors—John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle—the magic of the holidays shines on these hilarious and charming interconnected tales of love, romance, and breathtaking kisses.
— Goodreads.com description
Why haven’t I read this collection of short stories yet?!
Snowed In
By Rachel Hawthorne
HarperTeen, 261 pages
Publish date: Nov. 27, 2007
Well, apparently I live here now–my mom just bought the place. And named it after me, Ashleigh, which was nice. But did she know how cold it is here
Um, it’s a tiny island with not much to do, unless you really like sleigh rides. But I gotta say there are quite a few hot guys on this cold island . . .
— Goodreads.com description
Wait? The girl is stuck on an island with hot guys? Yessssss.
Decked with Holly
By Marni Bates
K-Teen, 272 pages
Publish date: Sept. 25, 2012
Smartly blending of-the-moment pop culture references and timeless themes, Bates follows her YA debut, “Awkward”, with a hilarious, over-the-top adventure about a teen girl who becomes the fake girlfriend of a cute rock star.
Taking a Christmas cruise with her two cousins from hell isn’t Holly’s idea of a good time. And when seasickness forces her into an open suite, she’s pepper-sprayed by a gorgeous guy called Nick. But when Holly makes her exit, she’s greeted by a horde of screaming teenage fans. Because Nick happens to be Dominic Wyatt, drummer for one of the hottest bands in America. Suddenly rumours are swirling and Holly’s face is plastered all over the Internet. The band can’t risk a scandal destroying their family-friendly image, so Dominic convinces Holly to be his fake girlfriend – just for two weeks. How bad could it be to be “fauxmantically” involved with a cute rock star? She’s about to find out…
— Goodreads.com description
I’ve heard good things about this one — sounds fun!
So, where does this leave us? Well, first and foremost, I’d like your recommendations for holiday books. Please leave them in the comments. And if you do? Friends, you’ve gotten your first entry out of the way for my HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY.
Yes, indeed, I find myself in the possession of 15 duplicate books in need of a good home. Check out the books below and enter to win. Happy holidays! Talk to you in 2013!
(Why, yes, that is a tiara in the background. Every girl ought to have one.)
104 Comments
Leave a comment
About Me
I read. A lot. Mostly whatever YA novels the library has on hold for me that week. Sometimes grown-up books if my book club makes me.
Currently Reading
Jessica Darling's It List #1: The (Totally Not) Guaranteed Guide to Popularity, Prettiness & PerfectionBy Megan McCafferty
OMGGGGGG!!!!!!!!!!!!
Erica said:
The Ex Games by Jennifer Echols is AWESOME (it’s part of Winter’s Kiss bindup).
Last Christmas is the prequel to the Private series and is holiday themed and is awesome. Though that doesn’t do you any good without reading the series
I also loved Ex-Mas. That was too cute. I can’t think of as many Christmas-y books, more like Valentine’s day themed are coming to mind for me.
I have heard that Mistletoe by Hailey Abbott, Melissa de la Cruz, Aimee Friedman & Nina Malkin was really good though!
Erica recently posted..Cover Reveal – Skyship Academy: Strikeforce by Nick James
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
twan said:
I love Let it Snow- i’m a big fan of short stories that stand on their own but also work together. Another one I love isn’t a YA, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever has been a favorite since I was little.
twan recently posted..On the plus (and minus) side
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Lisa said:
I read Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares this month and loooved it. It has to be one of my favorites ever. I read Snowed Over, Let it Snow, and Decked with Holly too.
Let it Snow was good as you’d expect something by three good authors to be. I was surprised by Decked with Holly, though. It was corny, but… it’s a CHRISTMAS novel. Corny is okay. Haha.
Lisa recently posted..Review: Snowed Over – Angie Stanton
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Michelle said:
I just bought Decked With Holly yesterday and finished Bittersweet today!! Im loving these wintery books right now
As for recs, youve got a good list there!! How to Save a Life by Sara Zarr has a cool wintery cover as does Trapped by Michael Northrop.
Michelle recently posted..Wrecked Cover Reveal
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Emmy said:
I LOVED Mistletoe: Four Holiday Stories by Hailey Abbott, you get four amazing stories in one<3!!! and the author Hailey Abbott is AMAZING:)!!! Also, you should check out this list I found on goodreads, it is where I get ideas on holiday books to read:) http://www.goodreads.com/list/show/14473.Holiday_Winter_YA_Books I have not rea any of the books in your giveaway stack but have been wanting to read all of them just couldnt get ahold of them! THANK YOU SO SO SOOOO VERY MUCH THIS IS SO KIND AND GENEROUS OF YOU
!!!!!!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH AND HAVE A VERY AMAZING HOLIDAYS AND AN AWESOME NEW YEAR:)!!!!!!!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Christi the Teen Librarian said:
You already mentioned my favorite, Dash & Lily!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Sarah said:
I love Sarah Addison Allen’s The Sugar Queen. It’s not YA, but it’s a great crossover and puts me in the holiday spirit!
Sarah recently posted..Review – Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Judith said:
Let It Snow = Love Actually as a YA book. That is all.
Judith recently posted..The Maya Didn’t Consider My TBR Pile
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Beth said:
I may or may not have just visited Amazon to load up my Kindle with some of these books.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Ginger @ GReads! said:
hahahaha I thought that was a tiara back there!! Love you & love your holiday book list!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
manda-rae said:
So I don’t really have good holiday book recommendations; I can’t really remember the last time I read one. I know I like reading the Stork series next to a roaring fire because they’re so winter-y, but you’ve read that series. So… Sorry I have no recommendations. Thanks for the giveaway!
manda-rae recently posted..Guest Post and Giveaway: Fang Girl by Helen Keeble
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Allison Richmond said:
I haven’t read any YA ones but I’m a big fan of The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg. Received the book and a bell as a Christmas present and loved for my mom to read it to me every Christmas.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Samantha @ Reading-AndCoffee said:
I started Bittersweet last night, so I’m glad it made your list!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Morgan said:
Snowed In is my favorite!!! I reread it every year!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Sophia said:
I definitely recommend Dash & Lily’s! It was so much fun, and so much cute!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Tara said:
My favorite is Let It Snow, but that’s likely because I haven’t read many Christmas books! I’ll be looking into some of your recommendations, since I need something to read on Christmas Eve. (I also agree with the reader above who loves The Best Christmas Pageant Ever — that book is hilarious! I forgot all about it!)
Tara recently posted..Quotetastic Friday
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Nikki said:
The Ex-Games by Jennifer Echols. I’m sure you have already read this one, but I just love it! Thanks for the giveaway, Anna. Happy Holidays!
Nikki recently posted..Top Ten Tuesday: Books Read in 2012
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Shira S said:
Snowed In by Rachel Hawthorne. Thanks so much for the giveaway!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Chey said:
Hmm, the only ones that I’ve read are Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares and Bittersweet. Sorry I can’t recommend any others!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Celeste O said:
I’m reading The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater. It is really, really interesting.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Amy said:
Great list! I just Dash & Lily on my way to NYC and it really got me in the holiday spirit! One of my favorite Christmas-y books would have to be Rebel Angels by Libba Bray which is the second book in the Gemma Doyle trilogy. It’s not specifically a holiday book but it’s part of one of my favorite series and the setting for this installment is Victorian Christmas in London!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Amanda @ Vivalabooks said:
I don’t know why, but I just don’t have any Christmas-y books to recommend. My ideal holiday read is just sipping some hot coco next to a fireplace and a warm blanket reading a good book.
Amanda @ Vivalabooks recently posted..Fang Girl Blitz
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Katie @ Youth Literature Reviews said:
This is such an awesome list! Definitely the best collection of holiday YA books that I’ve found.
Katie @ Youth Literature Reviews recently posted..Top Ten Books I Read in 2012
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Chelsea said:
I love season appropriate books! My favorite actually isn’t YA. It is the novella that opened up Lisa Kleypas’ Friday harbor series. I love the whole series, and that books was actually the first I read on my Kindle when I got it for Christmas last year!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Sierra said:
I love dash and Lily’s book of dares.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Jamie said:
I really don’t remember reading any holiday books, but I remember Trapped by Michael Northrop. Problem is, it was a very boring and disappointing book. It’s about people being stuck in a school during a blizzard. It’s not as good as it sounds, believe me. Sorry to be such a downer…but I thought I’d post something wintery. Thanks so much for the giveaway! You’re officially awesome!
Jamie recently posted..Best Young Adult Holiday Books + Giveaway
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Lilian said:
Every year I always re-read David Sedaris’s “Six to Eight Black Men.” It’s not a book (thought it was re-published in his collection of essays, Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim,) but a very, very hilarious Christmas article for Esquire. I dare you to read it and not laugh.
Lilian recently posted..[review] Trust Me, I’m Lying: Confessions of a Media Manipulator by Ryan Holiday (2012)
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Ellice said:
I love Dash and Lily! Sadly, I haven’t read many holiday-themed books. I need to fix this!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Alyssa C. said:
Loved Dash and Lilly’s Book of Dares! Thanks for the list of other suggestions I needed some new holiday-themed books to read!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Anya said:
These all look worth a look!!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Beth S. said:
I guess I’m a Scrooge because I don’t really have a favorite holiday book. Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares is probably my closest to a favorite.
Beth S. recently posted..Christkindlmarket: A small taste of Germany in downtown Chicago
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Ashlee said:
Seeing that I read basically everything you recommend, I can’t think of any to recommend to you in the YA genre. I’ve read plenty of romance holiday books by authors such as Susan Mallery, Nora Roberts (of course!), Fern Michaels, and Sherryl Woods. They’re cheesy, formulaic, but still fun reads while drinking coffee and snuggling with a cat.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
alicia marie said:
I haven’t read many holiday themed books, so I can’t think of one to recommend! All of those sound pretty good though so I’ve got some I need to read now : )
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
LisaILJ said:
I don’t know if I have a recommendation other than what you have listed. I really enjoyed the books in A Winter’s Kiss, but I can’t think of any others.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Naiche Parker said:
I actually usually recommend summery books during the holidays, like The Summer I Turned Pretty and Twenty Boy Summer. It’s a cool little escape from the cold. :3
Naiche Parker recently posted..Follow Friday (8)
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Elise said:
If I read a book that is Christmas based, I tend to go old school…Yay, A Christmas Carol!!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Noel said:
I love dash and lily’s book of dares. It’s one of my favorite holiday books.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
kit said:
These sound cute and fluffy – perfect for Christmas reading!
kit recently posted..End of Year Book Survey 2012
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Tabitha @ Tabitha’s Book Blog said:
Hmm. I’ve only read a few holiday books, but I’d have to say my favorite is probably Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares. It was perfect to get into the holiday mood and you’re right… it’s definitely worthy of a re-read!
Tabitha @ Tabitha’s Book Blog recently posted..Review: Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Alexis @ Book Royalty said:
I love Christmas books as well! There is just something about the feel good books that make me unbelievably happy! Probably one of my favorites is Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor. It’s not YA, but when you talk about feel good books this is a great one!
Alexis @ Book Royalty recently posted..Waiting on Wednesday
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
We Heart YA said:
Ooo, we did a post about holiday (ish) books too: http://www.weheartya.com/2012/12/a-very-ya-christmas.html (Our only overlap with your list is DASH & LILY.) Great list, thanks for sharing!
We Heart YA recently posted..Fictional Gift Exchange
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Lisa said:
Those all look so go! I’ve only read Dash&lily and Let it Snow from that list. I’ve been wanting to read Bittersweet since you first posted about it:)
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Sandra said:
I don’t have a specific holiday book to recommend, although I do have several you mentioned on my shelf waiting to be read! During the holidays I tend to indulge in Christmas themed Harlequin romances.
Sandra recently posted..2012 YA Story Scavenger Hunt, Day 22
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Dardenitaaa said:
‘Going Home’ by Harriet Evans is a fantastic holiday chick-lit read. So intrigued about Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares!
)
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Clock Rewinders on a Book Binge 12/23/12 said:
[...] few theories on why female authors dominate YA books these days. ~ Anna from Anna Reads shares her list of favorite holiday books, and those she’d like to read. She’s also offering a giveaway of 15 YA books, in honor of the holiday! ~ Ginger from [...]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Amanda W said:
So hard. Hmm…Anything John Green because he is serious awesome. I will read anything that man writes!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
cyera said:
i love the book ex-mas. great holiday book
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Rachael said:
I love Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Sarah said:
I loved Let It Snow!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Kimberly Marie said:
I’m absolutely in love with Dash & Lilly’s Book of Dares!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Inspired Kathy said:
All I Want was my new holiday favorite this year.
Inspired Kathy recently posted..A Tincture of Murder by Donna Fletcher Crow
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Kirsten W said:
I just started Let it Snow and am really enjoying it
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Callie Stuck said:
Seraphina is a MUST READ!
Callie Stuck recently posted..The Holidays & Tragedy
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Andrea K. said:
I don’t think I’ve ever read any holiday books. The closest thing I’ve come to would be ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas…and that’s a poem. Nevertheless, a good YA book to read at any time would be Divergent!
(I’m obsessed with this book right now.) Well, anywho! Awesome post. Oh! Also, A Christmas Carol may be long-ish, but it’s a Christmas classic…one that should not be forgotten.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
erica s said:
The Christmas Carol is my go to holiday book. Love it.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Natalie said:
I’m currently reading Secret Santa by Sabrina James. It’s a little cheesy but that’s okay! (: My friend recommended it to me and it’s a quick read.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Sunny said:
I don’t really have any recommendations, but everyone (except kinda me) loves Dash and Lily.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Sarah said:
I never read specific books for the holidays (except for summer books)! Dash & Lily’s really good though (unless you’re Sunny, I guess:)
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Leah said:
If youve yet to read it I highly recommend ‘Throne of Glass’ by Sarah J Maas or any novel of Sarah Waters
. Amazing giveaway!
Leah recently posted..Dystopia Reading Challenge 2013
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
pointy.star said:
I definitely recommend Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares.
Thanks for having such an awesome giveaway!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Erika said:
I hope to read Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares and Let it Snow soon! Thanks for the list of wintery suggestions!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Clementine Bojangles said:
I don’t know what it is about the holidays that makes me want to break out the Christmas-themed Sweet Valley Highs, but that’s what I”ll be doing later tonight.
Clementine Bojangles recently posted..Book Review: Crazy by Amy Reed
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Kelly L. said:
I don’t think I’ve read any holiday books besides the one you have on your list already – Love on the Lifts. I just LOVE Rachel Hawthorne’s books. (:
Kelly L. recently posted..Merry Christmas! (:
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Sandra Dias said:
Thank you so much for this oportunity!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Brittany said:
Thank you for creating such a great list. I have not read any YA holiday book before (I don’t understand how that’s possible since I love YA and Christmas!)
These aren’t YA but I can recommend Christmas Jars by Jason F. Wright and A Perfect Christmas by Debbie Macomber.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Alison said:
I wish I could contribute something new to the conversation, but you’ve already got my all-time favorite (Dash and Lily) and close second (Let It Snow) on your list! Also, as cheesy as Lurlene McDaniel is, I also really like Starry, Starry Night. Happy holiday reading!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Theresa said:
I read Jingle Boy by Kieran Scott (who guess what? is Kate Brian!). Just great! It was funny and fun.. It reminded me of a movie you’d see on ABC Family.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Renee said:
Winter Town by Stephen Emond – not light and fluffy, but a good friendship/issues/realistic read – plus there’s some great illustrations
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Meaghan said:
Happy Holidays!! Thanks for all the great reviews and for making me spend more money on books than on my mortgage this year! Can’t wait to see what next year brings!
Meaghan recently posted..Waiting on Wednesday
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Jackie B said:
Hope you had a happy holiday, Anna! This is a pretty awesome stack o’ books.
Jackie B recently posted..Influenster Holiday VoxBox 2012
[Reply]
Jackie B Reply:
December 26th, 2012 at 9:28 pm
I forgot to leave a book rec! Saving Francesca by Melina Marchetta was by far my favorite book I read this year. So good.
Jackie B recently posted..Influenster Holiday VoxBox 2012
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Elizabeth @ TatteredSpines said:
My go-to holiday favorites are the Harry Potter books because the holiday season is always involved, even in the most dismal situations. Though it’s not necessarily a recommendation since I know you’ve read them. Another book I like with strong holiday moments is The Time Traveler’s Wife.
Elizabeth @ TatteredSpines recently posted..Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Erfa @bringontheink said:
I’ve got a dystopian book rec – What’s Left Of Me by Kat Zhang! It’s the first book in The Hybrid Chronicles, and it’s a beautiful read! Thanks for the giveaway, and happy holidays!
Erfa @bringontheink recently posted..Review: Matched (Matched, #1) – Allie Condie
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Andrea @ The Busy Bibliophile said:
Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares was a perfect holiday read!
Andrea @ The Busy Bibliophile recently posted..Top 10 of 2012 – Best Books Boyfriends Of the Year
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Kirsty (Blatant Biblioholic) said:
I really wish I was organised enough to actually read some holiday reads at the right time of year. I’m hanging my head in shame at the fact that the only one I can think of is A Christmas Carol! Thanks for the recommendations!
Kirsty (Blatant Biblioholic) recently posted..Mailbox Monday 2
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Sarah Handrich said:
I have only read Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Kait @ YA Vixens said:
I haven’t really read any holiday books, except for the classics! I am dying to read Let it Snow and Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares. Thanks for reminding me to check them out. :] And thanks for the giveaway.
Kait @ YA Vixens recently posted..Hopeless by Colleen Hoover
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Ashley said:
I just read Angelfall and LOVEd it!! I’m not sure if that’s a ‘holiday’ book, but it was amazing.
Ashley recently posted..The Perfect Cover (12) – Ashes and Ice
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
letteratura1 said:
I wanna read Lauren Myracle
It seems awesome ♥.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Tiffany Drew said:
I don’t have any holiday read recommendations, but as a winter read in general I recommend Drowning Instinct by Ilsa J. Bick because it is truly AMAZING!
Tiffany Drew recently posted..The Best of 2012 Giveaway Hop!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Jaime said:
Loved under the mistletoe by Jill shalvis and snowed over was a cute read!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Kelly.R said:
I don’t have a favorite, but I definitely need to fix that! I have one in my stack of need to reads… maybe it will be a winner
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
andy said:
I totally recommend “The Fault in Our Stars” or “For Darkness Shows The Stars”! They are 2 awesome books to let you escape the craziness of the holidays and take you on an adventure!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Tahleen said:
My favorite go-to holiday reads are Let It Snow by Maureen Johnson, John Green, and Lauren Myracle; and The Shepherd, the Angel, and Walter the Christmas Miracle Dog by Dave Barry. Thanks for the giveaway!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Pam said:
Loved Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares and Jennifer Echol’s Ex Games (anything by Jennifer Echols rocks!)
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Kamie said:
Well, since I collect them, I have to say my favorite holiday book is Twas the Night Before Christmas. I have about 13 different copies, I love all the cute Santas! Not great as far as a recommendation though! But that stack of books looks wonderful!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Amy said:
Not really a YA book, but it’s the book that got me started on my love of reading and I’d try and re-read it every year during the holidays…. A Wrinkle in Time.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Mimi said:
I’m not sure if this is befitting for the holidays (it is for the December 21, 2012 though), but I love the Last Survivals series. First book is Life As We Knew It. It makes you feel really thankful for what you have and how the world is at present.
Happy holidays!
Mimi recently posted..Best things of 2012↳ The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones, by…
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
molliekay said:
I Am Half-Sick of Shadows by Alan Bradley is a chilling Christmas-themed mystery starring an 11 year old sleuth. And, of course, Dash and Lily.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Jasmine Mora said:
Dash and Lily book of dares my personal favorite for the christmas days. And also Let it snow by John green and a bunch of other people I can’t remember.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Jackie said:
My holiday favorite is the Harry Potter series. I know they don’t actually revolve around the holidays, but they make me feel warm and cozy on snowy winter days. And, Harry’s Christmases always make me feel nostalgic.
Jackie recently posted..Books I Missed in 2012
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Lisa Marie said:
I don’t think I’ve actually ever read a holiday book. Other than children’s Christmas picture books, and whatnot. I am looking forward to reading some of your recommendations, though! Thank you for the giveaway!
Lisa Marie recently posted..In My Mailbox (21)
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
GillyB said:
I adored Let it Snow and Decked with Holly! Plus I read both A Christmas Carol and Little Women every Christmas.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Bernice said:
I haven’t read any holiday YA books yet! Need to bulk up my to read list for next winter!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Kayla Graham said:
I would suggest Let it Snow because I LOVE John Green. I haven’t read any “holiday” books, but if I were to it would be Let it Snow. Thanks so much for the awesome giveaway. Have a wonderful Sunday!
Kayla Graham recently posted..#FridayReads #2
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Orchid @ The Haunting of Orchid Forsythia said:
Decked with Holly is a really good Christmas read, as, is C.S. Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia (my favorite Christmastime read).
Orchid @ The Haunting of Orchid Forsythia recently posted..It’s My Birthday
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Rose said:
I’m not a big fan of holiday-themed books. I don’t read winter books in winter and summer books in summer, I read whatever book I want whenever I want! The closest things I have to holiday book recs would be The Snow Child or Breadcrumbs, though I haven’t finished reading either of them.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Ali Kiki said:
Unwrap Me Carolina Jordan
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Christianna (The Girl With The Blue Bow) said:
I’m just going to reaffirm the fact that you should read “Let It Snow”. I read it this year and it was super cute! I need to read more holiday books myself! Glad to have found your blog, it’s awesome and so is this giveaway!
Christianna (The Girl With The Blue Bow) recently posted..[Friday's Fancies - Fiona Apple - New Year's Finest]
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Ashley @ Ashley Loves Books said:
Hmmm i don’t know of any others not on your list, but I read Decked with Holly this year and I think you’d really like it! It’s so much fun and has some hilarious little moments that are really touching. Oddly I didn’t find it too Christmas-y, but that didn’t bother me really. Dash & Lily is my winter re-read now
(Also, OMG READ LET IT SNOW. It’s so good!)
Ashley @ Ashley Loves Books recently posted..The Weekly Wrap-Up (20): two more sleeps!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
eileen m said:
Ex-mas by Kate Brian is a great holiday read.
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Cait L. said:
Most of my favorite holiday reads are picture books… The Little Angel, A Charlie Brown Christmas… But I love to read Little Women this time of year, and I just finished Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares and it was wonderful!
Cait L. recently posted..Merry Christmas!
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Kierra said:
One of my most highly recommended books of this year is Cinder. Also Venom was an amazing read!
Kierra recently posted..7 reasons to spoil yourself with the Sullivans: Awesome reads and crazy awesome prizes
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012
Monica said:
Dash & Lily’s book of dares is amazing! Love it! Everyone needs to read this one!
Monica recently posted..The Indie Book Festival: Post -Christmas Sale
[Reply]
Posted on: Fri, December 21, 2012