Growing up, my parents always made this time of year special with festive lights, delicious food, and beloved family rituals. As an adult, I always enjoyed recreating that joy with my own family during the winter. Unfortunately, life isn’t always predictable and this year I find myself navigating divorce with a 10-year old in the mix. While researching potential books to offer my child some literary comfort, I noticed how few middle-grade novels address kids coping with major life changes during this season (*hint* *hint* fellow writers). I did, however, uncover five incredible stories that feature a diverse cast of children (and parents) learning to cope, adapt, and find joy through uncertainty during the winter months.
Why it Matters: Children experiencing big life changes need stories that validate their emotions, offer strategies for resilience, and normalize the messy mix of grief and growth that often accompanies these changes, especially during the winter holidays. Reading these novels can help kids feel seen and provide gentle guidance for navigating change this time of year.
Go Deeper: For readers and those supporting them who want middle grade novels that tackle the tough-stuff during the winter/holiday months, these five books are sure to fit the bill.
Read Time: 4 minutes
“The Sea in Winter” by Christine Day (2021)
Maisie, a talented Native girl and former dancer, faces a life-changing injury that forces her to give up her dream. Over the course of winter, she grapples with grief, identity, and belonging while reconnecting with her heritage and community.
Perfect for: Readers navigating setbacks or major life changes.
“The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street” by Karina Yan Glaser (2017)
The multiracial Vanderbeeker kids face the possible loss of their beloved brownstone just before the holidays. Together, they hatch creative plans to save their home and keep their family intact.
Perfect for: Readers who crave chaotic family adventures and lessons about teamwork and perseverance.
“Dreidels on the Brain” by Joel ben Izzy (2016)
Joel, the only Jewish kid at school, struggles with family pressures and isolation. During Hanukkah, he navigates challenges at home and school, learning hope, resilience, and the power of connection.
Perfect for: Readers feeling “different” during holiday celebrations.
“Let It Glow” by Marissa Meyer & Joanne Levy (2024)
Twins Aviva and Holly, separated at birth, discover each other just before the holidays. They swap households to experience each family’s celebrations, uncovering identity, belonging, and the meaning of family.
Perfect for: Readers exploring identity, belonging, and blended family dynamics.
“The 12 Dares of Christa” by Marissa Burt (2017)
Christa’s parents are separating just before Christmas, threatening her “perfect” holiday. Her father sends twelve holiday dares for her to complete during her trip to Europe, helping her find joy, connection, and resilience despite the upheaval.
Perfect for: Readers coping with family change, divorce, or disrupted holiday traditions.
In Closing:
If you know a reader who is facing a tough winter, these books may offer the comfort and clarity they need to navigate their season of change. Because sometimes the right story is all the coziness we need.
