15 Kids' Books With A Black Santa Claus

The spirit of Christmas comes alive when a special visitor delivers presents to all the good little girls and boys. The legend of Santa is based on the life of Saint Nicholas, a monk who generously gave to those in need and followed the command to love your neighbor. Over hundreds of years, he has evolved into a jolly, old man who maintains very detailed Naughty and Nice lists. He rewards the well-behaved little ones with presents, and leaves coal behind for the little ones who could use a little self-improvement. Kids' books about a black Santa Claus capture the essence of this Christmastime figure who delivers magic all around the world.

Every child who lays down to sleep on Christmas Eve wonders about the special visitor who will be coming that night. This story is about a little boy who wonders if the real Santa looks like him. All of the figurines around his home are black, but he still wants proof that this magical man resembles him. His dreams come true when he manages to get a sneak peak of his face one magical evening. The next morning, the boy and his family join together for a joyous celebration. An overall heartwarming book about a black Santa Claus for families to add to their collection this Christmas.

Books Featuring An African American Santa Claus

Santa Claus delivers magic to children all around the world on Christmas Eve. Flying high through the sky on a sleigh overflowing with presents, he somehow gets an impossible job done just in time for all the little kids who wake up bright and early. Reading children's books with an African American Santa Claus, along with Christmas stories featuring black families, is a special way  to get into the holiday spirit. Here is a collection of some of the best stories for kids of all ages to enjoy this season. Reading children books with diverse characters is important for families of all backgrounds during the holidays and all year long.

Santa in the City

Children's books usually show Santa Claus sliding down a chimney with a sack of presents. But Deja is a little girl who lives in the city and her house doesn't have the typical accommodations Santa needs to make a delivery. In fact, he probably wouldn't even be able to find a parking space for his sleigh. The seeds of doubt are further planted by other kids who question his existence. Fortunately, her mother opens her eyes to the spirit of Christmas all around her. She reassures her that he can manage to deliver gifts in apartments without chimneys, too.

A Piece of Black Cake for Santa

It's a Caribbean Christmas celebration for children who join together in making last-minute preparations. They excitedly decorate for the holiday, prepare the traditional ham, and make all kinds of goodies, including the delicious Black Cake and Sorrel. The author includes an interesting glossary of terms all related to Caribbean Christmas customs.

Snowflake Kisses and Gingerbread Smiles

A festive, photographic book featuring African American children enjoying all kinds of Christmas festivities. This sturdy board book with a padded cover is just right for preschoolers and toddlers. Every page has a bouncy little rhyme and a pictures of Christmas objects, including reindeer, Christmas trees, and piles of presents.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas: An African-American Version

A gorgeously illustrated version of the Clement C. Moore classic featuring a black Santa Claus as well as an African American family. The author includes a few creative but subtle changes throughout the poem in this culturally diverse rendition.

Santa's Kwanzaa

Two holidays are celebrated in a clever book about the importance of giving. A black Santa Claus returns to the North Pole after an exhausting night of delivering presents. Fortunately, he finds the energy to engage in a festive celebration of Kwanzaa with his wife and all the elves. Kwanzaa symbols and customs are introduced to young readers, along with illustrations and colors that are symbolic of this holiday. 

Does Santa Look Like Me?

AJ is extremely excited for the upcoming Christmas holiday, but one particular thing is weighing on him. Everywhere he goes, he sees Santa Claus toys and decorations that look nothing like him. He is further distraught when he visits with a real live Santa, and again, he looks just like all the others. In a creative twist, Santa steps out of the picture and assures AJ that he does indeed look however you choose to see him. A sweet Santa book about diversity and inclusiveness that will help parents of young children who have the same concerns.

The Day Santa Got Sick

Christmas is fast approaching and Santa is feeling a bit under the weather. Delivering presents on Christmas Eve requires him to be in the best of health, so Mrs. Claus and a little elf jump into action. They put together a plan of action so that little girls and boys will receive their gifts in time for Christmas. This is a refreshingly inclusive book with a black Santa, Mrs. Claus and other characters. Perfect for all kids, and especially those who want to see a Santa who looks like them.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas

For families looking for a classic Christmas book featuring a brown skinned characters, this edition of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas is a good choice. It's almost identical in verse to the original classic, with only a few modifications that will appeal to young readers. A charming and accessible read aloud for preschoolers and up.

That's My Santa

Santa Claus is overwhelmed with his workload one year, so he has to recruit help. When a little boy named Keenan is out and about with his mom one day, he comes across a Santa who doesn't look like all the others he has seen. This enlightening, inclusive book for children features a dark skinned Santa, as well as a fun cast of characters that defy the norm. Funny pictures and an important message for every kid who wonders about the appearance of the real Santa.