John Williamson's Christmas in Australia by Mitch Vane

That Christmas Feeling by Lili Wilkinson and Amanda Francey – We adore this first picture book from young adult novelist, Lili Wilkinson, which sees a young girl misplace her Christmas spirit.All I Want for Christmas is Rain by Cori Brooke and Megan Forward – This is a distinctly Australian story with a simple and immensely satisfying narrative: a young girl wishes for rain to ease her family’s strain from a drought.Bouncing Bouncing Little Joeys by Lesley Gibbes and Doris Chang – A group of little joeys decorate a Christmas tree in anticipation of Santa’s arrival in this bouncy, charming tale.Christmas Wombat by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley – The irresistible Mothball the Wombat celebrates Christmas in her wombat way in this endearing tale.Coming Home by Michael Morpurgo and Kerry Hyndman – A plucky little robin sets out on an epic journey in this lyrical tale from Michael Morpurgo that has a decidedly classic feel.Kids will love the peep-through page and lift-the-flaps.

Last Stop on the Reindeer Express by Maudie Powell-Tuck and Karl James Mountford – We adore Karl James Mountford’s busy and intricate style which perfectly enlivens this magical tale about a girl who misses her father on Christmas day.

Little Christmas Tree by Ruth Symons and Jessica Courtney-Tickle – A sweet lift-the-flap picture book that celebrates nature and its transformative power on a little Christmas tree.

Waltz of the Snowflakes by Elly MacKay – This whimsical wordless picture book captures the magic of The Nutcracker and is a wonderful pick for a young ballet or theatre lover.

Pick a Pine Tree by Patricia Toht and Jarvis – This book is an ideal read-aloud with rhythmic, rolling text that describes the process of decorating a pine tree and a glorious double page spread of the final decorations that requires you tip the book sideways.

John Williamson's Christmas in Australia by Mitch Vane