The Heart of It's a Wonderful Life: Life: How the Most Inspirational Movie of All Time Still Inspires the Spirit

by Jimmy Hawkins

“You really had a wonderful life. Don’t you see what a mistake it would be to throw it away?” —CLARENCE

In this special book, Jimmy Hawkins helps us focus on the true meaning behind the classic holiday movie. It’s not just the message or its many famous lines but rather the motivation behind the creation of the film and director Frank Capra’s unrelenting vision for what it should be.

As a boy, Jimmy played George Bailey’s youngest son, Tommy. And he has spent the eight decades since living out the heart of the story and becoming arguably the world’s foremost expert on the movie. Filled with unpublished facts that the author has collected about the cast and crew, this book gives a clearer understanding of what they all brought to the scripted pages.

Through excerpts from the screenplay, never-before-seen photos, and a lifetime of friendship with both Frank Capra and the stars of the movie, Hawkins guides us to discover why this story still touches the spirit decades after its release. Because It’s a Wonderful Life is not just George Bailey’s or Frank Capra’s story—it’s the story of all of us, and of many generations to come.

Photographs can be found in the audiobook companion PDF download.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christmas, Holiday

208 pages, Hardcover

Published September 23, 2025

Reviews

[*TUDOR^QUEEN* · Rating 4 out of 5]

"It's a Wonderful Life" is my favorite Christmas themed movie, so it was a no brainer to read this one. Much like when I'm watching the movie, there were many moments reading this when my heart was warm and eyes filled with tears. This short book of just over 200 pages was written by the actor who portrayed George Bailey's young son Tommy Bailey. lf you want to geek out over this movie in a good way, this is a wonderful way to do it. There are excerpts from the screenplay, photographs, many insider facts, and inspirational interpretations from this movie. This was a lovely book for learning more about a movie loved by millions.

Thank you to the publisher Harper Horizon who provided an advance reader copy via NetGalley.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.

I have seen It’s A Wonderful Life so many times that I know every scene by heart. ❤️ I absolutely loved learning more details about the show and cast. Things like George and Mary's cab ride for the honeymoon - it wasn't supposed to be a cab ride. George was supposed to be driving, but he had PTSD from the war (not that it was called that back then) and was afraid to drive that far. So the director rewrote the screen. Tons of new information in here that I never knew.

Definitely would recommend!

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Someone should keep reminding Mr. Average Man that he was born free, diving strong; uncrushable by fate, society, or hell itself; and that he is a child of God, equal heir to all the bounties of God; and goodness is riches, kindness is power, and freedom is glory. ~ Frank Capra

I have a confession to make. The first time I saw the movie 'It's a Wonderful Life' I did not get it. The Black and White bleakness was all I saw. George Bailey seemed like such a hopeless case.

That could not be further from the truth. Reading this book by Jimmy Hawkins (the actor who played Tommy Bailey in the movie) has reinforced my growing appreciation for Frank Capra's masterpiece. Here is why you might enjoy reading about the movie before your annual viewing during the Christmas season:

🎥Photos from the movie and script excerpts are combined with inspirational thoughts that expand how we see this cultural phenomenon.
💻The film was released in 1946 and inadvertently became part of the public domain already in 1974 due to a clerical error. Would we all know it so well if that mistake had not occurred?
😇Clarence gets my vote for Most Valuable Angel as he shepherds George through the world as it would have been without him: Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole.
👨Jimmy Stewart - Could they have chosen a better actor to play George Bailey? I don't think so. His experiences in WW II gave him the depth needed to deliver on screen.
👱‍♀️Donna Reed - Her contribution to the film was also a labor of love. Jimmy Hawkins was also able to work with her on her sitcom and knew how valuable she was to the film.

Take peace. The gloom of the world is but a shadow. Behind it, yet within reach, is joy. There is a radiance and glory in the darkness, could we but see. And to see we have only to look. I beseech you to look! ~ Fra Giovanni (Frank Capra's favorite quote)

This would make a fabulous Christmas gift for someone you know who loves the film. The book was published on September 23, 2025 and should be available for early shopping. Thank you to HarperCollins Focus and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.

[Penny A · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author played Tommy Bailey, the youngest child of Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed in this beloved movie. At 84 years old, he reminisces about the experience while sharing little know facts about the movie. It was supposed to star Cary Grant. It was based on a short story that a man so believed in that he sent it out as a Christmas card to 200 friends. One turned out to be a Hollywood agent who thought it would make a great movie. It took a variety of writers, producers and studios before it ended up in the hands of Frank Capra, who considered it his masterpiece.

The public did not. It was basically a box office flop. One theory presented is that in 1946, when the film was released, people wanted light entertainment after years of WWII. (I beg to differ since “The Best Years of our Lives” won seven Oscars that year and touches on difficulties faced by veterans coming home.) Hawkins mentions Stewart’s service during the war, and how they impacted his acting. He became so emotional during the scene on the bridge where he prays that when Capra asked him to do it again, he said no.

In 1974, due to a “clerical error” (not explained in the book) the movie came into the public domain, and has become a holiday favorite ever since. The book features excerpts from the movie script, photos from the film and Hawkin’s own life story and his take on the movie’s themes: prayer, never giving up, how one incident can change a life, the power of family and community, etc. In that way, it is also a self-help or inspirational book that many may find comforting in today’s cynical world.

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of The Heart of It's a Wonderful Life.

I didn't see It's a Wonderful Life until I was in college.

For many years, for some reason, i thought the movie was hokey and corny.

Then one day I was channel surfing, caught the first few minutes and was immediately drawn in.

I was on my way out for a family dinner and didn't finish the movie but for the rest of the night I couldn't stop thinking about it.

What happened to George Bailey?

Why did he want to take his own life?

After I finally watched the film in its entirety, I understood what the film was truly about.

I misunderstood the premise of the book.

I thought it was a behind the scenes look at the film filled with anecdotes and the author's reminiscences during the making of the film.

Instead, the author (he played George Bailey's youngest son) takes the heart and hope of the movie's message and applies it to real life.

He recounts memorable scenes from the movie along with photos of the author's favorite scenes that highlight the turning points in George Bailey's life.

The author reminds readers of the film's original premise, that there are good people who have meaningful impacts on our lives and community (including each of us) and what we do matters.

We matter.

This is a book we all need right now especially now during tumultuous political and social climate.

[Lori S. · Rating 2 out of 5]

Like many seeking to read this book, I'm a longtime fan of the movie. I saw it the first time as a teenager, and it quickly became my favorite Christmas movie. I was hoping for a book that provided a variety of insights on the movie but it's really not that. It's more a book celebrating the movie with lots of excerpts from the script and gushing praise. Hawkins also seems to become preachy at times, and it makes the book almost as much about faith as anything. There are some insights on the movie, but these are quite limited. I suppose the fact that Hawkins was just a young boy may have much to do with this. It's obvious Hawkins has a lot of love for this movie and I appreciate that but if you are looking for behind the scenes stuff or little-known facts, you won't find it here. I have a book with the entire script that I think has more insights than in this work.

Overall, this was an okay read that those who love to pore over scenes from the movie will likely enjoy. I rate it 2.5 stars. Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Horizon for giving me a free advance reader copy. I have voluntarily provided my feedback.

[Jocelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever watched It's a Wonderful Life at Christmas time? I have watched it several times. But "The Heart of It's A Wonderful Life" by Jimmy Hawkins, who portrayed the Bailey's youngest son Tommy, shares his insights and memories into the making of this iconic movie.

Jimmy brings to light the original intent of the director, Frank Capra, in this telling novel. A reminder of the original premise and deeper meanings behind the scenes. A quote, " If we could see what life would be like if we hadn't been born, I suspect we'd realize how truly fortunate we are just to be in this world. We would discover that every experience in our life, no matter how dull or difficult, somehow is leading us to our life's purpose."

It's a great read for anyone interested in classic movies. If you have never watched "It's a Wonderful Life" I would encourage you to catch it in the upcoming Christmas season. Reading the book will draw you in to the deeper meaning.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of the book," The Heart of It's a Wonderful Life" by Jimmy Hawkins from NetGalley. I was happy to see a book about It's a Wonderful Life through the eyes of the then youngest actor that was in the movie. Jimmy Hawkins writes about the movie and his favorite scenes. He writes of each of the scenes sharing lines from the movie and how this movie can still have a strong influence on those who watch this fantastic movie. He writes of the scenes that talk of George Bailey and his dreams of traveling the world building things only to be stuck in Bedford falls at the building and Loan. the missing money and George's breakdown and convinced the world would be better off without him. the wonderful angel named Clarence who shows him what life would be without him trying to convince George he really does have a Wonderful life. Jimmy Hawkins takes the movie and shares how this movie can be like real life where others may feel like failures, be discouraged with their lives. I really enjoyed reading this book. Like every year, wll be watching this wonderful movie soon.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was eleven or twelve when I happened upon It’s a Wonderful Life on television. It became my favorite movie which I still watch every year.

Jimmy Hawkins played George Bailey’s youngest son, the start of a long career. He holds the lessons of this movie close to his heart: community, the importance of the ‘little men’ who are really the ‘big men’ in life, second chances, how every human life has value.

This book is idealistic, a bit preachy, but has a whole wallop of love.

Hawkins includes the movie script for pivotal scenes. He offers background information on the making of the movie, insight into what the movie meant to director Frank Capra, and how Jimmy Stewart’s acting drew from painful WWII experiences. We learn that the theme of second chances has given grace to many, especially to prevent suicide.

Fans of the movie will enjoy reading Hawking’s insights.

Thanks to the publisher for a free book through NetGalley.

[Barbara · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you are a super fan of It’s a Wonderful Life (as I am), this book has some good nuggets but overall this is a miss. There’s a very long unnecessary summary of the movie (with some tiny mistakes!) and then the author (who was the youngest Bailey child) goes through each major scene with a discussion of the life lessons with a heavy overlay of religion.

The most meaningful backstory was the one about when Jimmy Stewart does the emotional climax of the movie at the end - when he pleads that he wants to live again. Stewart taps into his PTSD from the war and it makes the scene so powerful. So powerful he couldn’t do another take.

Very fast read - or in my case, a quick listen of an Advance Listener Copy.

[B.J. Burgess · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a free advance review copy of this book from the publisher.

I wouldn’t dare claim that The Heart of Its a Wonderful Life is a breathtaking literary masterpiece. Yet, there's an undeniable charm nestled within its pages. Call it a warm companion piece to the film—a love letter, perhaps. I genuinely enjoyed flipping through it. It’s even got me in the mood to revisit the film a bit earlier than I usually would, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. So, if you’re someone who cherishes It’s a Wonderful Life, grab yourself a copy, snuggle up, and prepare for a delightful stroll down memory lane.

Find my full review at https://www.coffeeaddictedwriter.com/....

[Michelle Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I requested this book because *It’s a Wonderful Life* remains one of my favorite Christmas movies, and a favorite times of the holiday season each year that I watch it (I watched this for the first time on a Saturday with my beloved grandfather in the 1980’s as a child, and the memory of that is precious to me).

Though I initially misunderstood the premise, I loved this book. I was expecting a look at the memories of shooting the movie and the author’s own memories of that time, and instead received a gift - reminders that there are good people in the world, which is a gift indeed during such a politically horrific time.

A definite recommendation.



Thank you to Harper Horizon and NetGalley for the DRC

[Deanna Loves to Read!!:) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this movie, so I really wanted to read this book written by the actor that played Tommy Bailey, George Bailey's young son. With photos and excerpts from the screenplay, it drew me in and made me wish that it was Christmas and I was watching the movie! There are nuggets of wisdom, heartwarming moments that brought some tears, and information and insight into the actors, directors, crew and original work..

I highly recommend this to anyone who really enjoys this movie!

Thank you NetGalley and Harper Horizon for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Luke Swanson · Rating 2 out of 5]

(I listened to this on audio, without the photos and script pages included in the physical version, so maybe that affected my enjoyment. But I don’t think so.)

If you’re looking for a book with in-depth behind-the-scenes insights and/or interesting analysis of the movie’s themes and impact, this ain’t it. 98% of this book is a middle-school-level motivational speech—follow your dreams, count your blessings, etc. Each chapter even starts with an obviously-Googled inspiring quote.
Just watch the movie. It’s a much better use of your time.

[Liz Gee · Rating 3 out of 5]

As this really is my favourite film of all time, I could not turn down the opportunity to read this book. The author played Tommy Bailey, and gives lots of fascinating information on the making of the film. It is perhaps a little too reliant on quoting scripts wholesale, rather than perhaps looking more closely at the main actors, more information on the locations, sets and so on. However as a huge fan of this film I was happy to read this book, and yes, it still inspires me.
Thanks to the publisher for a review copy.

[Lisa Yelichek · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NeGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. Part business planning, part self-help, part sermon…ALL “It’s a Wonderful Life”. Author Jimmy Hawkins, “Tommy Bailey” in the movie gives a unique look at how the lessons from this 1946 holiday classic still ring true today. It was such a great history lesson on how the movie came to be as well. It was a truly was an enjoyable story and I think I love the movie even that I already do.

[Maribeth Enos · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a Wonderful Life has always been our favorite Christmas movie. I was delighted to win this book by Jimmy Hawkins who played little Tommy Bailey in the movie. It gives behind the scenes views of Frank Capra, the director, the actors and famous scenes. It is also an inspirational book. Thanks to Harper Collins Publishing and Reading With Robin Kall Homonoff !
A perfect gift for those who love It's a Wonderful Life

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought it would include more behind the scenes stories. I wasn't prepared for the author's life advice, but I didn't hate it. It's such an iconic, heartwarming, life-affirming movie, that anything about it gets my thumbs up.
p.s. who knew there was an "It's a Wonderful Life " museum?!

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was interesting, but I was hoping for more behind the scenes of the movie.

[Karen Ivy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartfelt writing

Wonderful portrayal of the Holy Spirit in the lives of people who turn to Him for guidance. Mr. Hawkins, thank you for this work.

[Larissa Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

My favorite holiday movie ❤️

[Sarah Frye · Rating 4 out of 5]

wonderfully inspirational

Nice companion to rewatching It’s a Wonderful Life. Frank Capra was a genius in doing the film exactly as he saw fit.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book with insider information about Frank Cappa , the stars, and the script. He brought out how we can use the lessons learned from this wonderful movie.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartfelt, warm, and wise… quite simply, it’s a wonderful book! 😉

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love It’s a Wonderful Life. I watch it every year, and this short commentary on some life lessons from the movie was a delight. The author played the youngest child in the film. He has a couple of behind-the-scenes tales and some good insights on how this story can be applied today. There are lots of great photos as well.

Highly recommended to fans of the movie. But if you haven’t seen the movie, go watch it first.

Family friendly.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Horizon. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.