Tomies Little Christmas Pageant

A perfect first Christmas book

This inventive and fresh Nativity story is told from a bird's-eye view. On the morning of the first Christmas, the birds of Bethlehem gather in the fields--not only to eat but to share the exciting news. People from all over have descended on Bethlehem and an angel has appeared in the night sky. Something extraordinary is coming! The birds agree that they must find this wondrous thing, and off they fly to the stable where a child has been born.

In simple language and dazzling pictures, beloved author-illustrator Tomie dePaola shares the awe and anticipation of the first Christmas. His cast of brightly colored, curious birds will appeal to young children, making this a perfect introduction to the story of Christmas.

* “The art is classic dePaola. . . . The effect is as pleasing as the whimsical storytelling, as dePaola offers a refreshingly indirect take on how the news of Jesus’s birth spread to all creatures.”

“A bird’s-eye view of the Nativity. . . . dePaola does not disappoint with his charmingly simple illustrations and spare text. An ideal read-aloud.”

“The acrylic paintings of the birds and Holy Family are theatrically composed on spacious spreads. The colors of the birds (each, as they are in nature, a different shade from its mate) are a refreshing contrast to the holiday’s usual hues.”

“Traces the Nativity story reverently and without sentimentality. . . . The illustrations are notable for their simplified forms, pleasing compositions, and subtle combinations of colors. An inviting readaloud choice for Christmas.”

Children dressed as Mary and Joseph, the angels, the shepherds and the three wise men perform in their school Christmas pageant. The book opens with a scene of the class getting ready-hanging stars, painting scenery, and putting on costumes as a sheep on wheels "looks on." Then the story of the first Christmas unfolds in a simple text narrated by a red-headed boy. Tomie dePaola's bright colors and appealing scenes full of warmth and humor provide an original approach to a well-loved story in a board book perfect for the very young.

Originally published in 1978 as The Christmas Pageant in a longer picture book version, Tomie's Little Christmas Pageant with new text will delight a whole new audience.

Tomie dePaola is the acclaimed author and/or illustrator of more than 200 books for children. He has received the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award, a Newbery Honor for 26 Fairmount Avenue and a Caldecott Honor for Strega Nona. He was awarded the Smithson Medal, the Regina Medal (from the Catholic Library Association), and was designated a "living treasure" by the state of New Hampshire. He lives in New London, New Hampshire.