In preparation for the class, I had to go back and re-read Liz Warren's textbook, The Oral Tradition Today, An Introduction to the Art of Storytelling. All I can say is WOW! Going back to the beginning is amazing! I am finding things and seeing things that I knew were there, in the back of my mind, but were dormant. 

The book is laid out in logical, step-by-step chapters, and takes students through the process of finding, preparing and performing stories. I remember reading it for Doug Bland’s class. But I am experiencing it in a whole new way now.

As I give reading assignments and ask the students to respond, I am discovering elements of the craft that I had forgotten, or let fall by the wayside. Now, as I am challenging my students to follow the process and learn the art of storytelling, I must also challenge myself to re-learn, and show by example.

One of the best tips I can give you is to urge you all to go back to this book, or other storytelling books you may have read, but that now sit dusty on the shelf. Now that you have been “out there” telling stories and searching for more venues…the best way to move forward…is to go back to the beginning!

Thanks Liz!