Book Review of If Mice Pulled the Sleigh
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The Children’s Book Review
If Mice Pulled the Sleigh
Written by Bill Barnsley
Illustrated by Mariano Epelbaum
Ages: 4-10 | 38 Pages
Publisher: Rooftop Press (2025) | ISBN: 9781571024954
What to Expect: Santa, animals, rhyming, silliness.
What is Christmas time without a little chaos? In Bill Barnsley’s whimsical story If Mice Pulled the Sleigh readers are introduced to a creative twist on the classic Christmas theme of Santa’s reindeer. Barnsley explores the challenges Santa faces when he tries to use animals other than reindeer to pull his sleigh. Of course, problems arise. The cats don’t listen, the dogs drool and shed, and don’t ask about the snakes!
In addition to providing a satisfactory explanation as to why reindeer are the preferred sleigh-pulling animals, Barnsley has constructed a compelling example of quatern poetry by using a strong and easily identifiable ABCB rhyming scheme. Younger readers will easily recognize patterns in his poetry, helping strengthen their understanding of rhythm and rhyme.
Adding a delightful, humorous touch to the story, Mariano Epelbaum’s illustrations bring the animals’ antics to life with playful images that not only make readers laugh but also reinforce Barnsley’s message. For added fun, the interior of the dust jacket features a poster of Santa and his reindeer flying through a moonlit sky.
If Mice Pulled the Sleigh captures the magic and joy of the season in a lighthearted and playful way, which will appeal to readers both young and old. Barnsley’s well-crafted story is a perfect way to celebrate the exciting lead-up to Christmas Day.
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About the Author
Bill Barnsley 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.
For more information, visit claus-industries.com.
About the Illustrator
Mariano Epelbaum is a master storyteller. His illustrations breathe life into characters and narratives without writing a single word. His art captivates imaginations with unspoken stories. Mariano’s work on the animated feature “Underdogs,” directed by the Oscar-winning Juan José Campanella, has been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2014 Goya Prize for Best Animated Feature Film, the Grand Prize Feature at the 2014 New York International Children’s Film Festival, and the Best Animation Film at the 2014 Platino Awards for Iberoamerican Cinema.
Dedicated Reviews allow authors and illustrators to gain prompt visibility for their work. This is a sponsored*, non-biased review of If Mice Pulled the Sleigh. Learn more about getting a book review …
