Hey, comic book fans (and soon-to-be fans)! Let’s talk about the unsung heroes of holiday reads—comic books. 🎅📚 Sure, the season is full of classic novels and swoony romances. Still, there’s something extra magical about seeing your favorite heroes, villains, and quirky characters take on the holiday season in beautifully illustrated panels. Whether you’re a Marvel diehard, a DC devotee, or someone who loves a great story paired with stunning art, Christmas comics are like unwrapping a gift you didn’t even know you needed. 🎁✨
Superheroes donning Santa hats, villains taking a holiday break (or not), and heartwarming stories woven into snow-dusted landscapes. These aren’t only stories—they’re festive escapes with humor, action, and a touch of holiday cheer. And if you’re new to comics? Don’t worry—I’ve got picks that’ll make you fall in love faster than you can say, “Bah, humbug!” So grab a cozy blanket and some hot cocoa (spiked, if you’re feeling adventurous 😉), and get ready for a roundup of comics that’ll sleigh your holiday reading list.
10 Christmas Comic Books/Graphic Novels You Need To Read This Holiday Season
There’s something about the holiday season that calls for a little extra magic—maybe a dash of whimsy, a sprinkle of nostalgia, or some good old-fashioned fun. And what better way to indulge in those holiday vibes than with a Christmas comic or graphic novel?
Trust me, these festive graphic novels offer a unique mix of heart, humor, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re into superhero antics, quirky adventures, or want to laugh till your cocoa spills, this list is for you. So, grab your favorite blanket and a mug of something warm, and let’s read these ten comics that’ll add a little extra sparkle to your holiday season.✨
1. “Batman: Noël” by Lee Bermejo
📖 Goodreads Rating: 4.11/5
Tropes: Redemption, Christmas magic, superhero twist.
This isn’t your typical Batman story—it’s a holiday classic wrapped in Gotham’s usual noir charm. In Batman: Noël, the Dark Knight is visited by a ghostly figure reminiscent of A Christmas Carol, who guides him through a journey of self-reflection. With classic Batman brooding mixed with Christmas spirit, this comic is a perfect fit for fans of Batman and holiday magic alike.
🦇 Why It’s a Must-Read:
The artwork is gorgeous—moody, atmospheric, and yet full of holiday warmth. It’s an introspective journey for Batman, as he contemplates his past, present, and future, making it both an emotional and action-packed read. Plus, seeing Gotham through a Christmas lens is oddly comforting.
🎄 Personal Take:
I never thought Batman would be the one to make me teary-eyed during Christmas, but this book surprised me! It’s a beautiful story of redemption and introspection, with enough holiday magic to make it feel special.
2. The Xtreme Xploits of the Xplosive Xmas – Sticker Book by Meredith Rusu
Goodreads Rating: 4.3/5
Tropes: Wacky Adventures, Holiday Mayhem, Interactive Fun, Humor.
If you’ve been living under a rock and aren’t familiar with the Captain Underpants franchise, let me catch you up. This sticker book is part of the Epic Tales of Captain Underpants TV series tie-in. The book takes our goofy heroes—George and Harold—and launches them into a holiday-themed misadventure. Naturally, there are a ton of Christmas shenanigans, explosive antics, and, as the title suggests, “Xtreme Xploits” throughout the pages. It’s wild, zany, completely over-the-top, and your little one will love every second of it.
The interactive element of the book—stickers—adds a fun layer of engagement. Toddlers can place stickers in various scenes, which helps them participate in the story in a hands-on way. The story itself isn’t exactly what you’d call “serious”—it’s all about the laughter, the chaos, and the pure ridiculousness of Captain Underpants’ holiday escapades. The Characters:
Captain Underpants – You’ve got your superhero (or rather, underpants-wearing hero) who’s always ready to swoop in and save the day in the most absurd way possible.
George & Harold – The ever-daring, always-creative duo who are the masterminds behind the chaos. They’re usually up to some kind of hilarious trouble, and this Christmas special is no exception!
Professor Poopypants – Of course, you can’t have a Captain Underpants book without a villain, and Poopypants is the perfect mix of funny and, gross. (It’s the Captain Underpants world, after all!)
If your toddler has a thing for slapstick humor and silly adventures, this is their Christmas dream book. The Captain Underpants series has long been a favorite for its ability to be both outrageous and fun. With the added bonus of stickers, kids get the chance to be part of the action—sticking characters, props, and Christmas-themed items throughout the book. It’s the kind of thing that will keep your toddler giggling (and possibly repeating the words “underpants” more than you’re comfortable with 😉).
It’s also a great holiday-themed book to toss into the mix if you’re planning on cozying up with some Christmas reads. The artwork is in line with the typical Captain Underpants style—bright, bold, and colorful, with exaggerated, cartoonish drawings that will have your toddler laughing at the sheer silliness of it all. The designs are fun and action-packed, so your little one can’t help but be drawn into the world of Christmas chaos.
3. “A Charlie Brown Christmas” by Charles M. Schulz
📖 Goodreads Rating: 4.32/5
Tropes: Nostalgia, Christmas innocence, finding the meaning of Christmas.
This one’s a classic. If you grew up watching the beloved Peanuts holiday special, then you already know the story. This graphic novel captures the heart and soul of the original TV special, where Charlie Brown searches for the true meaning of Christmas, and Snoopy decorates his doghouse in his own way. The timeless themes of friendship, community, and the holiday spirit are as relevant today as they were when the comic was first published.
🎅 Why It’s an Iconic Read:
There’s something about A Charlie Brown Christmas that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. It’s simple, but it packs an emotional punch. Plus, who doesn’t love Snoopy? This graphic novel reminds you that Christmas isn’t about the gifts or the flashy decorations—it’s about what’s in your heart.
❤️ Personal Take:
This comic always brings a little tear to my eye, and I’m not afraid to admit it. I’ve read it countless times, and it never gets old. It’s the best Christmas pick-me-up when you need a reminder about what really matters.
4. “Marvel Holiday Special” (Various Writers & Artists)
📖 Goodreads Rating: 4.04/5
Tropes: Superheroes, holiday chaos, festive action.
If you’re a Marvel fan and you’re looking for something lighthearted yet full of action, Marvel Holiday Special is a great choice. This graphic novel is a collection of short stories featuring your favorite Marvel heroes—Spider-Man, Iron Man, Captain America, and the rest—celebrating the holidays in their own unique ways. Expect chaotic gift exchanges, superhero Christmas parties, and more than a few holiday mishaps.
🎁 Why It’s a Fun Read:
This one is a delightful combination of superhero action and Christmas cheer. Each story has a different flavor, but they all share a sense of humor and festive fun. The artwork is vibrant and dynamic, keeping things exciting even when they’re dealing with tangled Christmas lights.
🎄 Personal Take:
I’m all about the Marvel universe, and this collection always brings a smile to my face. It’s pure, unadulterated holiday joy with a superhero twist—and sometimes that’s exactly what I need when I want to kick back and just have fun.
5. “The Last Christmas” by Brian Posehn and Gerry Duggan
📖 Goodreads Rating: 4.06/5
Tropes: Dark humor, apocalypse, holiday survival.
Okay, full disclosure—this is not your typical sweet Christmas story. If you’re in the mood for something irreverent and funny, The Last Christmas is definitely up your alley. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where the holiday season is still going strong, this comic follows a group of survivors as they fight to keep the Christmas spirit alive while the world crumbles around them. It’s dark, and hilarious.
☠️ Why It’s an Anti-Holiday Treat:
If you like your Christmas stories with a side of sarcasm and violence, this one’s a good choice. It’s filled with dark humor, tongue-in-cheek commentary, and outrageous situations that somehow make the holiday even more absurd.
💀 Personal Take:
I’m a sucker for dark humor, and this book gave me exactly what I wanted. It’s not your heartwarming holiday read, but it’s definitely a blast if you need something that’s a bit different.
6. “The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn” by Hergé
📖 Goodreads Rating: 4.19/5
Tropes: Adventure, treasure hunt, family-friendly.
This is a Tintin adventure that’s not specifically Christmas-themed, but it’s for the holiday season if you’re looking for a family-friendly graphic novel with a sense of adventure. The snowy landscapes and timeless, classic feel make it a great pick to read around the holidays. Tintin and his dog Snowy uncover a treasure hunt that leads them on a series of thrilling escapades.
🌍 Why It’s a Classic:
Hergé’s art is iconic, and the Tintin books are always a joy to read. They’re fun, suspenseful, and the right amount of lighthearted. The adventure may not be directly related to Christmas, but there’s a sense of nostalgia and wonder that pairs with the season.
🎄 Personal Take:
I grew up with Tintin, and every time I read it, I feel like I’m being transported into a world of adventure and excitement. If you want something festive without the typical holiday story, this is a best choice.
7. Nightmare Before Christmas, Tim Burton’s The
📖 Goodreads Rating: 4.15/5
Tropes: Christmas magic, family adventure, Santa Claus mythology.
Unlike the film, the book invites you to slow down a bit and feel the world of Halloween Town in a whole new way. It’s that familiar yet wonderfully strange mix of dark and light. The book is like opening a letter from an old friend you haven’t seen in years. The illustrations—drawn by Burton himself—are hauntingly gorgeous, capturing that same hand-drawn, sketchy style we love in his films. The way the pages are filled with his own take on the oddball characters and strange landscapes brings the story to life like never before. 📚🖤
The Perfect Read For…
Honestly, if you’re someone who loves:
- Dark humor with a dash of sweetness.
- Unusual holiday cheer that’s both creepy and cozy.
- Beautiful, quirky illustrations that make you feel like you’re stepping into Burton’s mind.
🎅 Why You’ll Love It:
It’s got everything you want in a Christmas adventure: a fun storyline, lovable characters, and a heartwarming message. Plus, the artwork is vibrant and festive, making it a delightful visual experience.
🎄 Personal Take:
I love the movie, and the graphic novel adds an extra layer of holiday fun. It’s a best choice for younger readers or anyone who enjoys a good, heartwarming Christmas adventure.
8. Disney Manga: Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas (Softcover Edition) by Jun Asuka
Goodreads Rating: 4.2/5
Tropes: Holiday Fantasy, Magical Transformation, Unlikely Heroes, Dark Comedy, Anime Aesthetic.
If you’re familiar with the 1993 cult-classic film The Nightmare Before Christmas, then you already know the story. Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, is bored with the routine of spooky season and stumbles upon Christmas Town. Completely enchanted by the holiday, he tries to take over Christmas, with hilariously chaotic results. It’s a heartwarming, darkly humorous tale about discovering one’s purpose and appreciating what you already have. 🎃✨
In this manga adaptation, Jun Asuka takes Tim Burton’s iconic movie and reimagines it in the visually stunning, high-energy world of manga. The plot follows the film fairly closely—there’s no need to worry about missing out on key moments—but the artistic interpretation brings a fresh new dimension to the story. Expect all your favorite characters to appear: Jack, Sally, Oogie Boogie, Zero the ghost dog, and, the residents of both Halloween Town and Christmas Town.
The manga format itself makes the story feel even more vibrant and expressive. You’ll get those classic Burton-esque moments, but this version presents them with the added flair of exaggerated emotions and dynamic panel layouts that manga is known for. It’s like watching the movie but through the eyes of a comic book. 😱🎄
Okay, let’s talk about the art because this is the big selling point for manga adaptations! Jun Asuka does an amazing job blending Tim Burton’s unique, twisted visual style with the bold, energetic linework and exaggerated expressions of manga. The characters are rendered with a delicate, almost ethereal quality—especially Sally, who is portrayed with more softness and vulnerability compared to her movie counterpart. Jack Skellington, as usual, is wonderfully dramatic, with his long limbs and expressive face.
The backgrounds and details are gorgeous—there are beautiful scenes of Halloween Town’s eerie, yet festive setting, Christmas Town’s twinkling cheer, and the darker, more sinister atmosphere around Oogie Boogie’s lair. Every page is a visual treat, and Asuka really captures that Burton-esque blend of the whimsical and the unsettling. It’s perfect for those who are fans of both the spooky and the magical.
For adults who are long-time Nightmare Before Christmas fans (guilty as charged! 🎃💀), this manga version is a way to relive the magic while exploring the story in a completely new light. It’s fun, quirky, and it has that perfect Burton touch that never gets old.
9. “Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Clement C. Moore (Author), P.J. Lynch (Illustrator)
📖 Goodreads Rating: 4.20/5
Tropes: Santa’s origins, Christmas folklore, magical realism.
Clement C. Moore’s famous poem, also known as A Visit from St. Nicholas, has been an iconic piece of Christmas literature for nearly 200 years. It’s the poem that brought Santa Claus and his reindeer into popular culture as we know them today, introducing key elements like the names of the reindeer and Santa’s jolly appearance. Moore’s rhyme and rhythm have a magical, musical quality that makes this a perfect read-aloud book for all ages.
In this beautifully illustrated graphic novel, Santa Claus is reimagined from a magical, mythical perspective. It explores the origins of Santa Claus, from his early beginnings to the legendary figure we know and love today. The art is lush and vivid, drawing you into a world full of enchantment and wonder.
🎅 Why It’s Magical:
If you’ve ever wondered about the origins of Santa Claus and how he came to be, this book is the mix of storytelling and artistry. It’s the kind of book you could get lost in for hours.
🎄 Personal Take:
The art alone is worth the read—every page feels like a piece of Christmas magic. I enjoyed learning more about Santa’s mythical backstory, and it’s a cozy read for any holiday enthusiast.
10. “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” by Dr. Seuss (Graphic Novel Adaptation)
📖 Goodreads Rating: 4.29/5
Tropes: Classic Christmas, redemption, holiday cheer.
You’ve seen the classic book and probably the animated movie, but did you know there’s a Grinch graphic novel adaptation? This fun, colorful retelling of the Dr. Seuss classic brings the Grinch’s heartwarming transformation to life in full visual glory.
🎄 Why It’s Timeless:
The story is legendary, and the comic adaptation is a burst of energy and holiday spirit. The visuals are vibrant and lively, bringing Dr. Seuss’s whimsical world to life. It’s for you if you love the original story and wants to experience it in a new format.
❤️ Personal Take:
I mean, who doesn’t love the Grinch? It’s the ultimate Christmas tale of redemption, and this graphic novel makes it even more magical. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to spread a little extra holiday cheer.
Wrapping It Up
Now, your ultimate guide to comics that bring together festive cheer and epic storytelling. Whether you’re here for the humor, the heartfelt moments, or the over-the-top action (because, yes, we love a Santa showdown with superheroes), there’s a comic on this list that’s perfect for you.
These comics and graphic novels are best for the holiday season. Each one brings its unique twist to the Christmas spirit, making them great picks for readers of all ages. So, add these to your holiday reading list, or better yet, wrap one up as the coolest gift for the comic lover in your life. 🎁 Let me know which ones you loved, or if there’s a must-read I missed.
So go ahead—grab one of these titles and get ready to immerse yourself in a world of holiday magic, laughter, and maybe even a few surprises. 🌟 Until then, happy reading, happy holidays, and may your Christmas be as colorful and action-packed as the panels of your favorite comic! 🦸♀️✨
More Christmas Collections For You:
15 Books To Read At Christmas: Merry Collection 2024
10 Best Christmas Books For Preschoolers
10 Magical Christmas Fantasy Books
10 Young Adult Christmas Books
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