annieb123
Written on Jul 11, 2020
Secrets of Storytelling is a colorful book full of creative writing prompts for kids. Due out 14th July 2020 from Callisto on their Rockridge Press imprint, it's 196 pages (for the print copy) and available in paperback and ebook formats (ebook is available now). It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.
This is a graphically appealing and accessible guide with 100 tutorial prompts and exercises aimed at young readers with structured ideas to get them writing. So much of our lives have been put on hold during the pandemic (and that includes our kids especially who have virtually no control over anything happening to them). Writing and journaling can give a measure of control and stress relief to everyone, including youngsters. This book includes lots of prompts which can also become an important part of online/distance learning. Many of these tutorials will fit seamlessly into home learning with or without other classes.
Most of the prompts include fill-in-the-blank exercises for things like dialogue, characterizations, settings, story arc, mood boards, and more. One feature which I really loved was the inclusion of encouraging words or quotes from famous authors and cultural icons (Desmond Tutu, Kate DiCamillo, Margery Williams, Roald Dahl, and more) in highlighted sidebars scattered throughout.
The book can be used in a linear manner, front to back, as well as a pick-and-choose resource with specific prompts where needed. Though the book is aimed at youngsters (~8-12 year olds), there are some good takeaways here for readers of all ages. I enjoyed it a lot and the exercises were really fun.
Five stars. This would make a superlative classroom or home learning resource.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.