The Littlest Angel facts for kids

The Littlest Angel is a popular American children's book. It was written by Charles Tazewell. The book first came out in 1946. Katherine Evans drew the pictures for this first edition. Later, new versions were released in 1962 and 1991. These had different artists. All versions were published by Children's Press Inc. By 2001, it was one of the top 15 best-selling children's books ever. Many people call it a "classic Christmas story."

Story of The Littlest Angel

This story is about a four-year-old boy. He arrives in heaven after he passes away. But he finds it hard to get used to life there. He can't sing the songs. He is always late for prayers. His angel robe and halo are always messy.

The other angels are annoyed by him. He feels very sad and alone. Then, he meets an Understanding Angel. This angel asks him what he truly wants. The boy asks for a special box. It holds his favorite childhood treasures. He used to keep it under his bed on Earth.

When he gets his box, he becomes happy. He starts acting like a proper angel. Soon after, the birth of the Christ Child is announced. All the angels get ready to give their best gifts. The Littlest Angel decides to give his own box. It is full of his favorite things from when he was a boy.

This gift makes God very happy. God causes the box to rise into the sky. It then becomes the bright Star of Bethlehem.

How the Story Was Made

Charles Tazewell wrote The Littlest Angel very quickly. He wrote it in just three days in 1939. It was meant to be a Christmas story for radio. It was first heard on the radio in 1940. It was played many times after that. Famous people like Ethel Barrymore and Helen Hayes read the story.

The book version came out in 1946. Katherine Evans drew the pictures for it. It was re-released in 1962. Sergio Leone did the new illustrations. It came out again in 1991. Paul Micich drew the pictures for that edition. When Tazewell passed away in 1972, the book was already in its 38th printing. By 2001, over 5 million copies had been sold.

Music and Recordings

Many famous actors recorded the story. These include Loretta Young and Joan Crawford. Bob Keeshan, known as "Captain Kangaroo," also recorded it.

The McGuire Sisters recorded a song. It was based on the story of the Littlest Angel. Bing Crosby also recorded this song. It was part of his 1962 album, I Wish You a Merry Christmas.

Film Adaptations

The Littlest Angel has been made into several films. In 1969, it became a musical TV show. It was part of the Hallmark Hall of Fame. This show was repeated for many Christmases.

Johnny Whitaker played the Littlest Angel. Fred Gwynne played the Understanding Angel. Other actors included Cab Calloway and Tony Randall.

An animated movie version was made in 2011. Caleb Wolfe was the voice of the Littlest Angel. Ed Kelly voiced his dog. Ron Perlman was the voice of God.