Saturday, December 13; Saturday, December 20
Times: 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Cost: $11 Non-Member, $10 Member for cookies, milk, and storytime; $28 Non-Member, $25 Member for cookies, milk, storytime, and signed copy of the book
Ox & Yoke Café
Milk, Cookies, and Storytime with Local Author Bill Barnsley
Enjoy milk, cookies, and storytime with Sturbridge resident and author Bill Barnsley, author of If Mice Pulled the Sleigh. Copies of the book can be purchased in advance or at the event, and Bill Barnsley will be signing books after the reading. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. After storytime, embark on a journey through Christmas traditions past and present during Christmas by Candlelight (separate ticket required).
Sign up for December 13, 2025 | 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Sign up for December 20, 2025 | 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
In this whimsical and imaginative Christmas tale, the author explores the challenges and antics of mice, cats, dogs, ducks, snakes, or elephants attempting to pull Santa's sleigh on Christmas Eve. The cats do not follow directions, the dogs all slobber and bark, and the ducks land in a pond, soaking Santa, the sleigh, and the presents. Next, snakes slither out of their harnesses and try to warm themselves in Santa's pants. Then, elephants fall through roofs and leave large piles of poop for the elves to shovel. Ultimately, it reinforces why reindeer are the perfect choice for Santa's sleigh.
About the Author: Bill Barnsely is a Sturbridge resident and professional Santa* who has always enjoyed spinning tall tales, especially for children who live in a world of imagination and pretend. He grew up in a military family, cared for his children, and became a writer, storyteller, coach, scout leader, and teacher. Recently, those stories have been about elves, reindeer, and cookies. Jude, his constant companion, brings joy to everything he does. She is his sparkle.
