Away in a Manger

by Jan Brett

Brett's illustrated retelling of a Ukrainian folktale shares Beall's reverence for traditional stories, but where Beall adapts a carol into prayer, Brett transforms a folk narrative into a visual feast that rewards lingering on each page. Both books understand that beloved classics deserve illustrations that honor their spiritual warmth rather than rush past it.

by Carol Greene

Published in 1947, this bedtime classic predates your book by over fifty years, yet both share an almost liturgical quality—repetitive, soothing language that functions like a lullaby or prayer. Brown's rhythmic incantations of farewell create the same meditative space that Beall's carol-based narrative does, making the reader feel held and protected.

by Kate DiCamillo

Here's where I'm taking a slight risk: DiCamillo writes medieval fairy tales for modern children, complete with redemption arcs and forgiveness themes that echo the spiritual core of 'Away in a Manger.' But she does it through adventure and humor rather than prayer—there's a mouse knight, a rat, a princess, and a story about love conquering fear that feels earned rather than sentimental.

by Ezra Jack Keats

Keats captures childhood wonder through collage and spare text in a way that mirrors how Beall distills the carol's essence—both artists understand that less can be more sacred. Where your book uses prayer to create intimacy, Keats uses a single child's joy in snow to create the same sense of being witnessed and cherished by the world.

by Jon J Muth

Muth's watercolor adaptation of the classic folktale carries forward Beall's interest in stories that teach kindness and community care, but adds a contemporary setting and a gentle environmental consciousness. Both books believe in the power of simple narratives to transform how we see our responsibility to others—whether that's watching over children or nourishing strangers.