12 holiday treats: Titles that capture the spirit of the holidays

The following popular titles are available or may be ordered in bookstores, can be found in several Free Library of Philadelphia branches across the city and may be requested in any Free Library branch. Audiobooks and e-books may be downloaded (using your library card and PIN) to your computer or e-reader from search.freelibrary.org.

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1. “Bless This Mouse” by Lois LowryRandom House/Listening Library, 2011Read by Bernadette Dunne (audiobook)A story of courage and faith for young middle grade listeners by the Newbery Award winning author.

2. “A Holiday Present” by Mark BinderLight Publications, 2010CDA complete holiday package of song and story wrapping up Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hannukah, Ramadan, Divali, and the Winter Solstice all in one pretty present for the entire family.

3. Holidays on Ice by David SedarisLittle, Brown and Company, 2008(e-book)No matter what your favorite holiday from Christmas to Easter to Halloween, you won’t want to miss celebrating it with the author who has been called “one of the funniest writers alive.” (The Economist)

4. “Snow Angel” by Glenn BeckISBN: 9781439187203. Threshold Editions, 2011A tale about family, forgiveness, and learning to treasure our memories while allowing ourselves to move forward.

5. “Blankets by” Craig ThompsonISBN: 9781891830433. Top Shelf, 2006(graphic novel)Wrapped in the landscape of a blustery Wisconsin winter, a tale of security and discovery, a fall from grace and the origins of faith. Winner of the 2004 Ignatz Award For Outstanding Artist and Outstanding Graphic Novel or Collection.

6. “Robot Dreams” by Sara VaronISBN: 9781596431089. First Second, 2007(wordless graphic novel)An ill-fated friendship between a dog and a robot is the basis for this wordless meditation on friendship. An enjoyment for all ages.

7. “The Invention of Hugo Cabret” by Brian SelznickISBN: 9780439813785. Scholastic Press, 2007(illustrated novel)Unfolding its magical story in a format that blends elements of picture book, novel, graphic novel, and film, Caldecott Honor-winning author-illustrator Brian Selznick has fashioned an intricate puzzle story.

8. “Press Here” by Hervé TulletISBN: 9780811879545. Chronicle Books, 2011(picture book)A magical, unique picture book about the power of imagination and interactivity that will provide read-aloud fun for all ages.

9. “The Christmas Wedding” by James Patterson and Richard DiLalloISBN: 9780316097390. Little, Brown, and Company, 2011A touching, emotional, and heartwarming story about family, love, and second chances.

10. “The Memory Quilt: A Christmas Story for Our Times” by T.D. JakesISBN:1439170452. Atria, 2009An inspiring, gentle, modern day retelling of the Virgin Mary story.

11. “Visions of Sugar Plum: A Stephanie Plum Holiday Novel” by Janet EvanovichMacmillan Audio, 2002(audiobook)Bring out the plastic reindeer, strap on your jingle bells, and get ready to celebrate the holidays Jersey style in another installment of the long-running, humor mystery series.

12. “The Perfect Christmas” by Debbie MacomberISBN: 978-0778312734. Mira, 2009Straight from the heart romance, with a message that life can be like the perfect Christmas present: a wonderful surprise!

Jeff Bullard, the library coordinator for the Free Library of Philadelphia, compiled this top 12 list for NewsWorks.