The First Christmas

by Tomie dePaola

Simple text and pop-up illustrations retell the story of the birth of Jesus, from the Annunciation to the visit of the shepherds and the three kings.

Genres: Christmas, Picture Books, Faith, Childrens, Religion

13 pages, Hardcover

First published September 10, 1984

About the author

Tomie dePaola (pronounced Tommy da-POW-la) was best known for his books for children.

He had a five-decade writing and illustrating career during which he published more than 270 books, including 26 Fairmount Avenue, Strega Nona, and Meet the Barkers.

Tomie dePaola and his work have been recognized with the Caldecott Honor Award, the Newbery Honor Award, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award, and the New Hampshire Governor's Arts Award of Living Treasure.

Reviews

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best Christmas book ever. It's a pop-up book with great artistry. I used it for my children and now my grandchildren. If you can find a copy, buy it. Amazon is pricing a used one at over $50.00. It's worth it!

[Kris Dersch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully illustrated Nativity pop-up book. Includes full Christmas story at the front and then brief sentences about each scene happening.

[Joy Gerbode · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely, pop-up depictions of the story of Christmas, with just a few words so beginner readers can enjoy it for themselves

[Jean Bowen]

One of our beloved Christmas books kept with our Christmas decorations. The children love rereading it each year.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

#1987 Gift The story of the arrival of baby Jesus in Bethlehem, lovingly illustrated by Tomie de Paola.

[Jennifer Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great pop up Christmas book that I got secondhand some years ago. The illustrations are delightful and the retelling of the Christmas story simple and true to the scriptures.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a perfectly beautiful pop-up book. The final scene could serve as a decorative nativity scene at Christmas time.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

great pop-up book!