If you’ve ever wondered what the Nativity might have looked like from ground level, Janet McBride has the answer – and it comes with whiskers, twitchy noses and more curiosity than your average toddler on Christmas morning.
A Christmas Tale: What Harriet and Henrietta Mouse Saw in the Stable reimagines the very first Christmas Night through the eyes of two adventurous little mice who, quite accidentally, find themselves front-row witnesses to one of the most famous moments in history. Think Nativity, but with a charming rodent-eye view.
A cosy journey into the stable
The story opens with a gentle poem and a foreword by Dr Hazel L Carr, setting the tone for a tale filled with warmth and wonder. When Mary and Joseph arrive at the stable — no room at the inn, naturally — the animals rally round to make them comfortable. Enter Harriet and Henrietta, our mouse guides, peering out from their cosy nook to see what all the fuss is about.
What follows is a beautifully illustrated retelling of the birth of Jesus, complete with angels lighting up the night sky, shepherds hurrying in from the fields, and wise men following a mysterious star towards the humble stable. Through the mice’s bright and curious eyes, the familiar Nativity feels freshly magical.
Why mice? Why not!
Author Janet McBride wanted children to feel as though they were inside the stable — close enough to feel the hay, hear the soft snuffling of animals and sense the awe of the moment. And really, who better to take us on that journey than two tiny creatures who see everything, miss nothing and ask absolutely no permission before exploring?
“Children respond to animals, rhyme and pictures,” Janet explains. “Harriet and Henrietta bring a little fun and curiosity, while the story carries the joy of Jesus’ birth.”
A story parents and teachers already love
The book has already earned glowing praise, including a five-star review from a teacher who shared it with their nursery class. The mix of rhyme, colour and gentle faith makes it an easy read-aloud for families looking to introduce the Nativity in a way that feels joyful rather than formal.
Expect enthusiastic little faces, plenty of pointing at animals, and demands to “read it again!” – always the true sign of a holiday favourite.
A seasonal keepsake
With its bright illustrations, simple storytelling and heartwarming message, A Christmas Tale is set to become one of those books families pull out year after year – right alongside the decorations and the chocolate coins.
Watch the trailer
(And prepare to fall in love with two very sweet mice.)
Book trailer: drive link as provided.
The author
Janet McBride studied classical piano at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music before moving into composition, poetry and writing. Her creative work spans published poems and music — including her album Soft and Dramatic Mood Music — and now her debut children’s book, inspired by her love of storytelling and faith. She lives in Scotland, where she continues to compose, write and share stories with families.
‘A Christmas Tale: What Harriet and Henrietta Mouse Saw in the Stable’ is available now.
Monica Costa founded London Mums in September 2006 after her son Diego’s birth together with a group of mothers who felt the need of meeting up regularly to share the challenges and joys of motherhood in metropolitan and multicultural London. London Mums is the FREE and independent peer support group for mums and mumpreneurs based in London https://www.londonmumsmagazine.com and you can connect on Twitter @londonmums
