Christmas in the Stable facts for kids

Christmas in the Stable is a lovely children's book. Its original Swedish title is Jul i stallet. The famous author Astrid Lindgren wrote the story. Harald Wiberg created the beautiful illustrations.

What's the Story About?

The book tells the story of the very first Christmas. A mother shares this special tale with her child. Even though it happened long ago, the child imagines it on their own farm.

A Special Night

A man and a woman are very tired. They have traveled a long way. They look for a place to rest, but all the houses are dark. So, they decide to go into a stable. Inside the stable, the animals gather around the woman. They help keep her warm.

Soon after, the woman has a baby. Suddenly, all the stars in the sky light up. One star shines extra brightly. It stands right above the stable. Shepherds in the fields notice this amazing star. They wonder why it is above the stable. When they see the new baby, they understand. The star is shining just for this special child.

The First Crib

There is no proper bed for the baby. So, the woman gently places her child in a manger. A manger is a feeding trough for animals. The baby sleeps peacefully. The shepherds and animals watch over the newborn. The bright star continues to shine in the sky.

About the Book

Christmas in the Stable was first released in Sweden. This happened in 1961. The publisher was Raben & Sjogren. Astrid Lindgren wrote the words. Harald Wiberg drew the pictures.

Translations and New Editions

This sweet story has been translated into many languages. You can find it in English, German, Low German, and Frisian. In 2002, a new version came out in Sweden and Germany. It had new pictures by Lars Klinting. This newer edition was not published in English.

Awards and Recognition

Christmas in the Stable has won some special awards:

• 1970: Lewis Carroll Shelf Award
• 1973: The Brooklyn Art Books For Children Citations