My children will be the first to tell you that I draw a hard line when it comes to the Christmas season. I have been known to stop dead in the aisle at Target and shriek if I spot Christmas items on display before the trick-or-treaters have come by, and we always wait until after the turkey coma and football before even thinking about Saint Nick or red and green home decor. But since I have a Christmas book coming out this Tuesday, I’m bending my own rules. Here’s a ten song playlist especially chosen to complement the feel of The Christmas Scoop. Happy listening!

Carolina on My Mind – James Taylor

I’ll Be Home for Christmas – The Count Basie Orchestra

Christmas Is Coming – Vince Guaraldi Trio

Santa Claus Is Coming to Town – Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters

Sleigh Ride – Tex Beneke, Ray Eberle, The Modernaires, and Paula Kelly

I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm – Red Norvo and His Orchestra with Mildred Bailey

Born in Bethlehem – The Blind Boys of Alabama featuring Mavis Staples

Cool Yule – Louis Armstrong

You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch – Thurl Ravenscroft

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas – Ella Fitzgerald