Picture this: it’s Christmas Eve. Snowflakes dance outside, twinkling lights glow on the tree (unless you live in Texas, like us), and there’s a sense of magic in the air. Then, the best part happens—a pile of books just for you! That’s the joy of Jólabókaflóð or "The Christmas Book Flood", Iceland’s enchanting tradition of gifting books on Christmas Eve.
What is Jólabókaflóð?
In Iceland, books are the star of Christmas. The tradition began during World War II, when books became the go-to holiday gift because they were easier to get than other presents. Now, every Christmas Eve, families across Iceland give each other books and spend the night reading.
For kids, this is like stepping into a real-life storybook adventure! Imagine unwrapping a shiny new book filled with pirates, princesses, dragons, or silly jokes—then diving straight into the fun under the cozy glow of the Christmas tree.
Why Kids Love It
Books have a way of sparking a child’s imagination like nothing else. They’re portals to magical lands, treasure-filled islands, and castles with talking animals. With Jólabókaflóð, kids get to unwrap more than just a book—they unwrap an adventure.
And the best part? It’s not just about the story. It’s about the excitement of staying up late, snuggling in pajamas, and reading with family. Parents and kids can giggle over silly rhymes, solve mysteries together, or take turns reading aloud in funny voices.
How to Create a Kid-Friendly Jólabókaflóð
Bringing Jólabókaflóð into your family’s Christmas tradition is easy—and so much fun!
1. Pick the Perfect Books
Think about the stories your kids love. Are they into magical unicorns? Funny adventures? Spooky mysteries? Choose books that will make their eyes light up. Don’t forget to add a few holiday-themed tales to set the mood!
💡 Flip through your child's My Friends and I book and check out their friends’ answers—especially the one about "My favorite book." You might just find some great new reads to add to your list!
💡💡 A My Friends and I book, filled with answers from family and friends (and even Santa!) makes a heartfelt and personal gift. Your child will enjoy discovering everyone’s favorite snacks, songs, and activities, and they’ll love sharing it with more friends, classmates, teachers, and coaches along the way. It’s a keepsake they’ll cherish for years to come! Hurry, get $5 off each book with promo code JOY until December 31st!
2. Add a Little Extra Magic
Wrap each book with a personal note or a bookmark. Maybe include a packet of hot chocolate or a candy cane for snacking while reading.
3. Make It Cozy
Create a reading fort with blankets and pillows. Add fairy lights for extra magic, and let the kids bring their favorite stuffed animals for story time companions.
4. Let Their Imaginations Run Wild
Encourage kids to draw pictures of their favorite characters, act out parts of the story, or make up their own endings. Reading doesn’t have to end when the book does!
Why Books Are the Best Gifts for Kids
Books aren’t just gifts—they’re building blocks for curiosity, creativity, and connection. They help kids learn new things, dream bigger dreams, and explore new worlds. Plus, reading together as a family creates memories that last a lifetime.
And unlike toys that might end up at the bottom of the toy box, books stick around, ready to be rediscovered again and again.
Get Ready for Your Own Jólabókaflóð
This Christmas Eve, fill your home with the magic of Jólabókaflóð. Whether your kids are cracking up at a joke book, flipping through a pop-up fairy tale, or reading about daring superheroes, they’ll remember the love and laughter of this special tradition.
So go ahead—start your own family book flood. Wrap up some wonderful children’s books, snuggle up together, and let your imaginations soar. Because every great adventure starts with the words, “Once upon a time…”
Happy reading—and happy flooding!
Photo by Andreea Radu on Unsplash