By Ellen Byrne, Nathan Collett, Jess Land and Megan Hall
This Christmas, there’s no better time to give the gift of books. With so many great titles coming out of northern publishing houses, we’ve compiled eight of the best to help you decide what to buy for your book-loving friends and family. From cosy winter books to read by the fire, to fantastical lands far away, this holiday gift guide has got you covered!
For Younger Readers
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871cdd_020e439ec9d146c483b2681a9063f2d3~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_400,h_500,al_c,q_80,enc_auto/871cdd_020e439ec9d146c483b2681a9063f2d3~mv2.jpeg)
One Snowy Christmas Eve by Marc Bratcher and Korky Paul
Published by independent UCLan Publishing in Preston, One Snowy Christmas Eve takes readers on a magical adventure with Father Christmas as he prepares all the presents for the big day. This picture book, written by Marc Bratcher and illustrated by Korky Paul, combines traditional Christmas storytelling with enchanting innovation and guarantees festive spirit on every page; the perfect gift to put under the tree for all the little bookworms in your life.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871cdd_21a2385f10374701828a8fc2df517fdb~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_980,h_1404,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/871cdd_21a2385f10374701828a8fc2df517fdb~mv2.jpeg)
The Late Crew by Rab Ferguson
The Late Crew follows Levi, who finds himself in detention with an eclectic mix of some of his classmates. However, when the group stumbles across an alien egg, they must work together to investigate the mystery and save their school. The first book in a series published by Valley Press in North Yorkshire, The Late Crew is not only an exciting tale of extra-terrestrial activity, but its representation of young carers and neurodivergence makes it a wonderful addition to any middle-grade bookshelf this Christmas. A must-read for eight to twelve-year-olds.
For the Lovers of Myths and Other Worlds
The Executioner’s Blade by Andrew Knighton
Northodox Press’ final release of the year, The Executioner’s Blade, is an epic fantasy novel which is not to be missed. It follows the protagonist, Lena Sturm, as she embarks on a search for justice in a world also inhabited by dragons and beasts. Aside from her quest, she must fight to keep the city of Unteholz safe amid the backdrop of an enemy attack. This book ticks all the boxes for an intriguing and captivating fantasy read. It is also available with 25% off throughout December if you use the code “NORTHODOXMAS” on their website.
Djoser and the Gods by Michael J. Lowis
Part historical fiction, part sci-fi, Djoser and the Gods by Michael J. Lowis, published by Stairwell Books in York, takes us back over 4000 years to shed some light on the many mysteries surrounding the building of the Egyptian pyramids. The story follows Pharaoh Djoser who wakes up one night confronted by a voice of a god, supposedly, who lives in another universe. This novel would be the perfect (and niche) choice for fans of myth, historical conspiracy theory or science-fiction.
For Fans of Crime and Mystery
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871cdd_7efa0e74d72f466a9024b77a0890c29f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_978,h_1500,al_c,q_85,enc_auto/871cdd_7efa0e74d72f466a9024b77a0890c29f~mv2.jpg)
Jackal by Erin E. Adams
Jackal is the debut novel from Erin E. Adams, published by Dead Ink. This psychological thriller follows Liz Roacher returning to her predominantly white hometown, for her best friend's wedding. As the day of the wedding arrives, the bride's daughter Caroline is missing, leaving only a blood-stained sliver of fabric. The search unearths a distant memory for Liz as she pieces together a horrifying town secret. Forgotten children have been going missing for decades in the woods. Adams explores the systematic neglect of missing people of colour masterfully through the lens of horror. This page-turner is perfect for fans of Gone Girl or Get Out and demands to be read in one sitting.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871cdd_a343dc326602482898ed469025eaecb8~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_977,h_1500,al_c,q_85,enc_auto/871cdd_a343dc326602482898ed469025eaecb8~mv2.jpg)
The Black Country by Kerry Hadley-Pryce
Set in the titular Black Country, Salt Publishing brings you a gripping gothic thriller. Maddie and Harry’s relationship spirals out of control one fateful night when they are involved in a deadly collision. They both flee the scene of the crime, convinced they have killed someone. Attempting to uncover the truth, their unstable relationship is presented for your judgement. As their increasingly peculiar relationship unravels, past mistakes are laid bare, from Maddie's secret life to Harry’s previous schoolgirl lover. Dark and humorous, this unsettling narrative will linger with you long after the final page.
For the “Mood Reader”
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871cdd_1c8a9be304314d9c8d140df894368cfd~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_581,h_877,al_c,q_85,enc_auto/871cdd_1c8a9be304314d9c8d140df894368cfd~mv2.jpg)
The Nature of Winter by Jim Crumley
Published by Saraband, an award-winning independent publisher based in Salford, The Nature of Winter unearths the world of animals during their resting period. Crumley witnessed firsthand the effects that harsh cold weather has on fascinating animals, from red deer to golden eagles to whales. Encapsulating wildlife’s winter in all its highs and lows, joys and heartbreaks, this book is an educational adventure. This seasonal pick would be a brilliant gift for those who love a David Attenborough documentary or always get into the spirit of winter and all its weird and wonderful quirks.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/871cdd_61cfc182ad5a48a5b3d10edbd5141b0f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_589,h_905,al_c,q_85,enc_auto/871cdd_61cfc182ad5a48a5b3d10edbd5141b0f~mv2.jpg)
While the Earth Holds its Breath by Helen Moat
While the Earth Holds its Breath, a book also published by Saraband, is for those who love the elegant falling snow but would rather watch it from a window than get out in the cold. Helen Moat’s navigation through the harsh winter will perhaps inspire her readers to step out of their comfort zones and enjoy new aspects of the holiday season. Questioning why the coldest places have the lowest rates of seasonal depression, Moat travels to some of the coldest parts of the world to discover their lifestyle and cultural practices that are lavish in the cold weather. This book is great for anyone wanting to get into the holiday mood despite the dark atmosphere.