
Long before the CGI animated Alvin and the Chipmunks known today, or the various hand-drawn versions from the Nineties, Eighties, Seventies and the Sixties, there was Richard Scarry's storybook illustrations.
Author and illustrator Richard Scarry is probably best known for his long-running "Busytown" series, featuring characters like Huckle Cat and Lowly Worm.
"The Chipmunks' Merry Christmas" Little Golden Book from 1959 was one of the earliest pieces of Alvin and the Chipmunks memorabilia. This was written by David Corwin and illustrated by Richard Scarry. Alvin and the Chipmunks were the creation of musician Ross Bagdasarian, Sr., and debuted in 1958.
These illustrations are quite charming.
The Chipmunks' human friend, David Seville, is not featured in this story, but their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chipmunk, are.
Alvin, Simon, and Theodore do have to stern music teacher named Mr. Owl, who gets to yell at Alvin since Dave is not around.

Don't worry, Chipmunks, Mr. Owl won't gobble you up if you misbehave (he's a tiny owl!).
The Chipmunks sing their famous song!
I like the watermelon painting in the background.I seem to remember Alvin wanting the hula hoop, but here it is Theodore...
What does Alvin want for Christmas? Where is Alvin?!? What happens next?!!Well, there's a wolf, and a car chase, and---wait, that's not what happens!

There is an appearance by Santa and Alvin gets what he deserves for Christmas. A lump of coal, because he was naughty. No! A Christmas tree, of course!