who wrote i want a hippopotamus for christmas

The song "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas" was written by 9-year-old Gayla Peevey. She originally recorded it in 1953, but it became a hit when it was re-released in 1955. The song is about a young girl who wants a hippopotamus for Christmas instead of the more traditional presents like dolls or a drum set. The song became a Christmas classic and is still played today.