Penny & Pokey Discover Christmas

About the Book

This is a story of two little, curious bear cubs who are interested in discovering and experiencing the mystery and pleasure of the Christmas event. They plan to surprise their Mama with a Christmas tree and, hopefully, a visit from Santa Claus.They learn of Christmas traditions and decorating a Christmas tree by observing three children who live nearby on a farm. Despite their Mama's discouragement, they are clever enough to acquire a tree, decorate it with ornaments and receive a visit from Santa Claus in the early morning of Christmas Day.

About the Author

Born in the small town of Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania, in 1943, F. Leo Goff, began writing poetry in high school with encouragement from his English teacher. It became a most gratifying means of expressing feelings and thoughts about the "great adventure" of life and living. Some of his poetry has been published in anthologies in the US and United Kingdom. Recently retired from university, research institute and research park administration, he has now re-settled in Gainesville, Florida, home of his alma mater, the University of Florida (BSBA, '67; M.Ed. '73).

The author began writing Christmas short stories, each year, for his children, family and friends, in the mid-1980s. That endeavor eventually grew to include the creation of short stories for more holidays, including Halloween, Easter, Thanksgiving and other special occasions.

His stories are intended to be read to young children by a caring adult as a story-telling experience, perhaps, over several evenings. And, the resulting purpose of such an experience, is to spark the child's interest in reading and mental visualization. "Unlocking creativity", as he puts it, "is through imagineering in the young mind"...visualizing the text of the story in vivid, mental detail.

The author hopes that you will enjoy the sharing of his stories and the satisfying experience of "imagineering" with your youthful friends and family. It has been his pleasure to do so, with his children, family and friends, for many years.