The First Ride: The Real Story of Santa Claus

By: Gary Paul Bryant

Narrated by: David A. Nickerson

Length: 33 mins

Publisher's summary

Forget Kris Kringle, Sinterklaas, and St. Nick. It's about time you learned the truth. In the 1870's in rural Hopeville, Connecticut, the Clauses came to work at Max Pepin's farm. Christmas hasn't been the same since. This is a Christmas story you've been waiting for. Everyone has their own version of the Santa Claus story. Whether it's reindeer, a trip down the chimney, or elves crafting handmade toys, The First Ride breathes new life into the old myths surrounding everybody’s favorite saint: St. Nick!

As we read Max Pepin’s diary of life at his quiet, country homestead, we witness the arrival a quirky new farm hand: Nicolas Claus. Along with his extended family, mysterious Nicolas turns life on the farm upside down! Told through the eyes of Max’s grandson, this charming story is set amid the snow drifts of Max’s farm in Connecticut. Today, this farm is a part of the Hopeville State Park in eastern Connecticut. “Hopeville doesn’t exist anymore,” pines the narrator, for times long gone, but “you can still park your car along the road and wander through trails and trees that were once the temporary home of Santa Claus.” Come along! Take the journey and discover the real story of Santa Claus for yourself.

©1992, 2011, 2018 Gary Paul Bryant (P)2018 Gary Paul Bryant

cute little story

this was a cute little short story. my kids and I listened to this. they were a little lost by the change of point of view in the beginning but they eventually got it.

the narrator sounded like a grandpa telling the story. in a nice way.

Origins of Santa Claus, set in Connecticut

If you know me, you know that I have a serious love of Santa Claus. I think he is the most magical figure. This of course explains why I wanted to listen to this audiobook and it did not disappoint. I LOVE the musical accompaniment, something I don't always hear in audiobooks and wish more folks did. This was done beautifully, so it complimented the story but did not distract from it.

David. A. Nickerson has a voice made for this story. His voice has a great timbre for books about snowfall and Santa Claus. Although I'm pretty sure books about other seasons and topics will be equally as charming when read by Nickerson.

I just finished watching Klaus on Netflix, a movie about the origins of Santa Claus, so listening to this audiobook came at a great time, because I got to experience two different origin stories about a man and a legend I hold so dear.

A sweet, quick read that I really enjoyed. It's just short enough to keep little ones from wandering and for adults to justify taking a break during the hustle of the holiday season, to sit and read while drinking hot cocoa.

Bonus points for taking place in Connecticut and for a grand use of sound!

A warm, new holiday tradition for the family!!

First off, buy this now! Christmas is upon us and this will be awesome to listen to as a family. Begin a new holiday tradition in your family. The tale is warm, kind, involving. I loved the well developed characters. Felt like real people.

On to the narrator. He is truly awesome!! Brings you right into the story. I found myself smiling, giggling listening. His voice brings you back to a kinder, gentler time. A warm feeling comes over you as he brings the story to life. This will be one I listen to over and over and play for the grandkids.

Grab this now!!! 💖💖💖💖

A very pleasant and refreshing tale.

It's a feel good story, sweet and entertaining. The only bad part is that I want more.

Merry Christmas!

When Nick Clauss and his wife Anna show up to Mr. Pepin‘s form to work as a form and. Mr. Pepin is more than happy to accommodate. Despite Mr. clause is funny quirks and his following surprises. He seems to do his job just right and always has his work done. I can’t really say much about the story as I don’t want to give it away. I will say I loved it and I can see having this this on after presents are opened, the turkey is in the oven and everyone’s getting ready for company with a fire in the hearth. Icould easily see this being a new tradition in anyone’s family. There is nothing greater than when a story gives you that happy feeling at the end you used to get when you were a child. That is exactly what I got with this book. I loved it and you will too it will be a great addition to your holiday reading list or like me you can make it a new staple in your holiday festivities. Drinking eggnog and listening to Santa’s first ride and Twas the night before Christmas. The narrator has the perfect voice for a Christmas time reading. He sounds familiar in like a close relative. This is just the perfect book for Christmas!

A New Christmas Eve Tradition

The First Ride
Gary Paul Bryant

This is a short yet wonderful production, that will become a family tradition for years to come. I found myself smiling as I listened, Twice because I liked it so much.



The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed. David A. Nickerson brought the story to life, the musical accompaniment was perfect!!!



I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.