Hear Mark A. Pritchard the first few pages of Billy Christmas
It’s that time of year again, as I’m sure you know. That time of year to rediscover all those things one loves and yet stores in boxes during the sunnier months–ornaments, heirlooms, wax statues, wreaths, and the classics. And although one should not consider Billy Christmas a novel pigeon-holed by its festive nature, for it is good any day of the year, (as are the classics!) we are so happy the holiday season is here to give us an opportunity to promote Mark A. Pritchard’s incredible young adult novel.
Hear Mark A. Pritchard read from Billy Christmas
“Through the snow his footprints linked the ancient trees of Higginson Park. Pausing at each trunk, he pressed his palms against the cold bark, listening for clues, but heard nothing. He knew he would have to get closer to see what was happening.
Looking around, he made his way down to the landing platform at the edge of the river. Across the lawns beside the cricket pavilion, he could see the Christmas tree stall brightly lit against the dark path. The stall was more crowded than he had hoped for, though less busy than either night before, and he didn’t want to return empty-handed again. Pulling his scarf high over his ill-fitting coat, he began to cross the park. An odd memory surfaced and steered him towards the bronze statue of Sir Steven Redgrave.
The Knight looked out towards the river, blade in hand, ready for action. Hoping it would still work, Billy Christmas slapped Sir Steve across the backside wishing grimly for luck before heading towards the stall…
Walking into this impromptu forest, he drew in the scent of pine and began to relax. However hard it was to leave the house these days, he still delighted in the sights and smells of the outside world. Starlight danced off the dusting snow on the tree branches. Billy thought that no decorations they had at home could exceed how nature had dressed these trees.”