'I Don't Want to Kiss a Llama': Storytelling poet now at Tanger in Branson

By CINDY THOMAS, Staff Writer

“I don’t want to kiss a llama!” When Byron von Rosenberg playfully suggested his young daughter, Erin, kiss the stuffed plush llama he was holding, her response inspired a poem that has brought smiles to children and adults alike since 2003. Lily the llama now appears in children’s poetry storybooks including the original title plus Christmas-themed “Lily Pulls the Sleigh” and “Alphabet Friends.”

These books, an accompanying selection of plush animals, and additional poetry by von Rosenberg are now available at Tanger Outlet Mall in Branson, where von Rosenberg recently opened a booth in the service area near A & W restaurant. Children and their parents or grandparents enjoy taking a break from shopping to enjoy “The Storytelling Store.”

Von Rosenberg figured out about 20 years ago that poetry was a natural form of expression for him, even for telling stories. “The words just start working together for thoughts that stick with you,” he said. “Poetry releases imagination.” During a stint as a scoutmaster, his “Scoutmaster Minute” in verse kept even teen boys laughing and paying attention.

Lily is not von Rosenberg’s only animal pal; dinosaurs star in some stories and are also featured in the plush toy selection. On a more serious topic, von Rosenberg found poetry a healing outlet for the emotions surrounding the death of his father from ALS in 2002, including the poem “Diamonds of the Dawn.” He has currently authored 19 books, including inspirational as well as children’s poetry, and says God has turned tragedy into joy as his father’s legacy lives on in every story.

There is a real “Lily the llama” at Grant’s Farm near St. Louis, where von Rosenberg originally met Lily’s mother, Annie the llama. He worked as a part-time storyteller there for many years and, after retiring from a 32-year career as a district executive for the Boy Scouts of America, full-time from 2016 to 2019.

Branson is not a new venue for von Rosenberg, who began coming in 2003 to share poetry at Silver Dollar City and Grand Village. He and his wife maintain their residence in Byrnes Mill, near St. Louis, where he has been designated “Poet Laureate” by the mayor. He still does storytelling at Grant’s Farm part-time as his schedule allows, and has some availability for storytelling sessions at area schools.

Byron von Rosenberg's booth at Tanger Outlet Center

Photo by Cindy Thomas

The books are published in the USA; a selection is on hand for sale, including personalized signed copies which make great gifts for children and grandchildren, along with the plush Lily, her friend Scruffy llama, and large and small dinosaur friends. However, von Rosenberg says it’s not so much about how many books he sells as about interacting and sharing the joy of poetry and storytelling, so the booth-style location is perfect.

See photos of Lily, peruse book titles, and learn more about von Rosenberg’s books at www. idontwanttokissallama.com. The Tanger location is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays. Stop by for a story and chat—you’ll be glad you did!

Byron with the popular original book featuring Lilly the llama

Photo by Cindy Thomas