Once upon a Christmas

by David J.G. Oxtoby, David Sandison

When his new sled won't work and his old one isn't ready, Santa Claus sets out on foot to deliver the presents, but that is only the beginning of his troubles

Library Binding

First published October 1, 1986

Reviews

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

The elves try to give Santa A new souped up sleigh, but he prefers the old one. After Santa steals the spark plug from the sleigh, the elves have to bring back the old one, but it isn’t ready in time, so Santa starts out delivering presents on foot. Eventually the elves get the sleigh ready and meet up with Santa, but his difficulties for the night continue. How will Santa get the job done on time? Gift to Sarah, from Grandma Mary, 1986.

[Felicity Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though not as well known (and certainly not as charming) as The Night Before Christmas, to me, Once Upon A Time is every bit as good and even more funny.

A much more up to date story of Santa's exploits on Christmas Eve, this is probably more suited to slightly older readers and, I suspect, may well appeal more to boys.

Read along with The Night Before Christmas to our Great-nephew(2), he seemed to be more enthralled by the words of A Night Before Christmas whilst appearing to enjoy the illustrations of this one more.