Writer

Charles Tazewell

1900–1972 · Des Moines, Iowa, U.S.

In the golden age of radio and children's literature, few writers captured the hearts of audiences quite like Charles Tazewell. A versatile creative talent who seamlessly bridged radio, theater, and children's storytelling, Tazewell became renowned for his ability to craft narratives that resonated deeply with both children and adults. His most enduring work, The Littlest Angel, would become a timeless Christmas classic that would touch millions of lives.

Early Life and Theatrical Beginnings

Born on June 2, 1900, in Des Moines, Iowa, Charles Tazewell discovered his passion for performance early in life. While still in high school, he began acting, laying the groundwork for what would become a multifaceted career in entertainment. His theatrical ambitions quickly took shape in the 1920s, when he began appearing in notable stage productions. In 1923, he secured a small part in a production, and by 1924, he was performing with the prestigious Theater Guild, appearing in plays like Ernst Toller's Man and the Masses. Tazewell's theatrical journey was marked by consistent involvement and exploration. He appeared in Howard's Lucky Sam McCarver and even wrote the book for a short-lived musical called Sugar Hill in 1931. These early experiences in theater would prove instrumental in developing his narrative skills and understanding of storytelling.

Radio and Writing Career

The 1930s marked a significant transition for Tazewell as he expanded into radio and writing. He began crafting scripts for radio programs, demonstrating his innovative approach to storytelling. One particularly experimental script was Downbeat on Murder, broadcast on June 6, 1937, which uniquely featured voices transforming into musical notes. This creative approach highlighted Tazewell's willingness to push artistic boundaries. However, Tazewell's most significant contribution would come through his children's writing. In 1939, he wrote an unproduced radio script that would later become The Littlest Angel, published as a book in 1945. The story, written in just three days, became a phenomenal success. By the time of his death in 1972, the book was in its 38th printing and had been translated into numerous languages. The heartwarming tale about a small boy adjusting to life as an angel and his gift to the holy infant captured readers' imaginations worldwide.

Diverse Creative Endeavors

Beyond The Littlest Angel, Tazewell continued to create compelling children's stories. The Small One, published in 1947, was adapted into a film by Disney in 1978. The Littlest Snowman won the Thomas A. Edison Prize for the best children's story in 1956 and was also adapted into film. His works consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to create emotionally resonant narratives that appealed to children and adults alike.

Personal Life and Legacy

Married to Louise Skinner Tazwell, Charles lived in Los Angeles before settling in New Hampshire. He was a founder of the Brattleboro Little Theater, continuing his commitment to creative expression. When he passed away on June 26, 1972, at the age of 72, he left behind a rich legacy of storytelling across multiple mediums. Tazewell's unique talent lay in his ability to craft stories that were simultaneously simple and profound. The Littlest Angel remains his most enduring work, a testament to his skill in creating narratives that touch the human heart.