Star Tribune Illustration/iStock

Star Tribune Illustration/iStock

It’s dark out there. And cold. And it’s only going to get darker, and colder. What you need — what everybody needs — is a good book. Good books lengthen these short winter afternoons and help you escape to other times and places. We are here to help. Our annual four-page holiday books guide highlights a dozen novels and a dozen books of nonfiction, as well as a liberal sprinkling of glowing picture books; important young-adult fiction; bold, gorgeous graphic novels, and regional books steeped in sense of place. In addition, our top 10 critics have each named their favorite book of the year. And because books don’t spoil and not all of the best books are new books, readers have written in with their favorite books to offer as gifts. (Everything from a gorgeous illustrated edition of “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” to the goofy books of Bill Bryson.) Bring these reviews with you to the bookstore. Load up on books for yourself and your loved ones. Feel the warmth. Turn on the light. – LAURIE HERTZEL

• All Books (59)
• Critics’ Choice (10)
• Fiction (11)
• Non-fiction (12)
• Graphic Novels (6)
• Picture Books (10)
• Regional (5)
• Young Adult (5)
• List (59)

More Recommendations

Readers write about books they love to give

I give “Goodnight Moon” to new parents-to-be. It’s never too early to start reading.

Judy Miemietz, Coon Rapids

See all reader recommendations

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