Days are growing shorter, and the wind is carrying the sweet scent of cocoa and pine, which makes a familiar craving. Isn’t it? This is nothing but the yearning for festive delights and a bag full of gifts!
This holiday season, we are here to ask you to indulge in a double dose of cheer. You can do this by pairing your favorite holiday movies with admirable books. What more can you ask for?!
Let’s embark on a journey to a literary and cinematic land, where heartwarming classics, whimsical adventures, and captivating stories of holiday magic cast a spell upon you. Whether you are looking for cheer or laughter, romance or action, these pairs are going to ignite your imagination and keep you warm and happy throughout the cozy winter!
For the Heartwarmers
- Movie: It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
- Book: The Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
A timeless tale of redemption and the true meaning of Christmas, “It’s a Wonderful Life” finds George Bailey on the edge of despair, only to be shown he brings joy to others through the magical intervention of Clarence, the angel.
Pair this wonderful movie with Charles Dickens’s immortal “A Christmas Carol,” where Ebenezer Scrooge experiences his own transformative journey, learning the value of compassion and generosity. Both stories remind us that even in the darkest moments, hope and kindness can illuminate the path.
For the Romantics
- Movie: The Holiday (2006)
- Book: The Mistletoe and Mr. Right by Mary Balogh
Embark on a journey to quaint cottages and winter wonderlands with “The Holiday.” Iris and Amanda exchange homes and discover love in unexpected corners of the world.
Pair this with a heartwarming tale, “The Mistletoe and Mr. Right” by Mary Balogh. A book of romance brimming with mistletoe mishaps, witty dialogues, and a love story that unfolds amidst a festive house party. Both these stories celebrate the magic of connection. This reminds us that sometimes the greatest and the most extraordinary gifts come to us in the most unexpected packages.
For the Adventurers
- Movie: The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005)
- Book: The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
You can step into worlds where imagination and courage reign supreme. You can choose to journey through the wardrobe with the Pevensie siblings in “The Chronicles of Narnia,” where the frozen land longs for the liberation from the grasp of the White Witch.
You can combine this with “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg, where a young boy begins his journey on a fantastical train to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. Both these stories inspire us to believe and, sometimes, embrace the spirit of adventure. Therein lies the timeless reminder, which is — magic is always present within reach!
For the Introspective
- Movie: A Christmas Carol (2009)
- Book: The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
At times, the holiday season makes us think of the past and introspect our actions. Explore the complex emotions and the search for meaning through “A Christmas Carol (2009),” a haunting animation. In this movie, Scrooge confronts his past and ponders the legacy he leaves behind.
Couple this up with the thought-provoking “The Gifts of Imperfection,” by Brené Brown. A compelling exploration that helps us encourage our vulnerabilities and imperfections, discovering joy. These stories serve as a reminder that amid the festive celebrations and holiday season. Introspection and self-acceptance are important gifts we can give ourselves.
For the Laughter
- Movie: Elf (2003)
- Book: My Best Friend’s Exorcism by Grady Hendrix
If you want a good laugh during the holidays, check out Will Ferrell’s funny elf antics and Grady Hendrix’s hilarious horror-comedy.
In “Elf,” Buddy the Elf brings his North Pole cheer to New York City, and in “My Best Friend’s Exorcism,” two friends try to get rid of a Christmas demon from Abby’s body. Both stories show how laughter can make things brighter, even in crazy situations. So, if you need a dose of holiday laugh and cheer, these movies are a great start!
The Final Note
This is just a tiny peek into the many awesome combos of holiday movies and books out there!
You can go beyond the usual classics and find special treasures. It could be a cute short story in a charming Christmas village or a touching movie about unexpected holiday friendships.
So, get your best hot cocoa mug, snuggle up with a warm blanket, and let the wonderful movies and books take you on a lovely and amusing holiday adventure.
Bonus Tips:
- Host a festive book club party where you can choose a pairing from this list or another book and movie combination you love, and invite your friends to discuss the story over homemade treats and holiday beverages.
- Turn it into a family tradition by making it a yearly ritual that you are going to celebrate.
Wishing you happy reading and joyful watching!
About Author
Nitya Jain is an enthusiastic content writer and a life-long learner with an undying curiosity to explore new things. She loves fresh humour, just like her tea! When not writing, you'll find her raiding book stores or hopping cafes in town.
