The concept of Christmas in July is said to have started in the 1930s at a summer camp, where Christmas-themed activies took place. Today, the midyear event is celebrated by stores, in movies, and more. 

These eight forthcoming board books and picture books will be available next month, long before December. Turn on some Christmas tunes, grab a Santa hat, and peruse these holly, jolly offerings.

The Birds of Christmas by Olivia Armstrong. illus. by Mira Miroslavova. Eerdmans. ISBN 9780802856470.
PreS-Gr 3–Raven is flying home in Bethlehem when a voice tells him that a child has been born this night and that he must go and tell all of the other birds. Raven takes on this duty and visits Wren, Nightingale, and Rooster, who attempts to do his normal cock-a-doodle-do, but instead crows in Latin that “Christ is born!” VERDICT An additional purchase, appropriate where Christian faith-based books are popular.

Alycat and the Christmas Cookie Swap by Alysson Foti Bourque. illus. by Chiara Civiati. Arcadia/Pelican. ISBN 9781455628216. 
K-Gr 3–The joy of good friends and the smell of fresh-baked cookies, with the challenge of a mystery to solve, makes a heartwarming tale that captures the simple delights of the holiday season. VERDICT This book’s positive message, colorful illustrations, creative problem-solving activity, and culinary fun make it an enjoyable addition to a library’s holiday collection.

Meowy Christmas by Panos Christodoulou. illus. by Daniela Stamatiadi. Post Wave. ISBN 9798895090343.
PreS-Gr 2–A cute and clever story of a naughty cat who just does not understand why there is a tree in his living room. After discovering a new guest in his room, Tiddles goes on a rampage: from attacking the “roots” to battling with a jingling Santa, Tiddles gets into all sorts of trouble with his new nemesis. VERDICT A great holiday addition for any library, focusing on a mischievous cat rather than the holiday itself.

It's Time for Christmas. illus. by Kathrin Fehrl. Gibbs Smith. ISBN 9781423668770. 
Toddler-K–Holiday cheer meets toddler-friendly design in this cozy peek-and-find board book. Busy elves bake cookies, build toys, and prepare Santa’s sleigh as readers search for a gingerbread friend hiding in each scene. VERDICT A charming and developmentally attuned Christmas title that blends sensory delight with early literacy skills. A welcome addition to holiday board book collections.

The Mouse Buffet by Della Ross Ferreri. illus. by Tim Bowers. Cherry Lake/Sleeping Bear. ISBN 9781534113381. 
PreS-K–A spread of treats on a festive Christmas table is inviting to more than just human guests. While a big cat sleeps nearby, a conglomeration of mice scrambles atop the table, discovering cookies, candy, and more treats they are anxious to try. VERDICT This is an enjoyable addition to story time collections, especially as a part of the Christmas holiday season.

A Cowpoke's Christmas by Ann Ingalls. illus. by Lauren Gallegos. Cherry Lake/Sleeping Bear. ISBN 9781534113565. 
PreS-K–It is Christmas Day on the farm, and there is so much to be done! Later, alongside the jingling of bells and the eventual arrival of night, an extra-special surprise awaits everyone in the barn. This rhyming picture book connects readers to the Christmas holiday in a farm setting. VERDICT Heartwarming and thoughtful, this picture book is a charming addition to the canon of Christmas tales for young children.

The Heart of Winter by Alessandro Montagnana. illus. by author. NubeOcho. ISBN 9788419253569. 
PreS-Gr 2–Chip the robin and his siblings love to watch the snowflakes fall during the winter. When a storm separates Chip from the others, he finds himself alone in the woods, unsure of where to go. Lula the fox spots Chip from her window, approaches him, and invites him into her home. VERDICT A beautiful picture book about friendship that will be enjoyed all year, but especially during winter and Christmas.

The Little Ghost Quilt's Winter Surprise by Riel Nason. illus. by Byron Eggenschwiler. Tundra. ISBN 9781774885376. 
K-Gr 2–It is winter. The little ghost quilt is cozy as he flies around the town, but his friends, who are sheet-ghosts, want to stay indoors to keep warm. He sees the happiness the season brings to the humans as he flies, so he thinks creatively to come up with ways to share the event with his friends. VERDICT This story about acceptance and kindness is a change of pace from many holiday picture books, and the humorously detailed illustrations provide plenty of added appeal.