The Growth of a Storyteller: Helicopter Stories in Action

The sequel to Princesses, Dragons, and Helicopter Stories showcases the positive impact of Vivian Gussin Paley's storytelling and story-acting curriculum on young children's literacy, communication, and confidence. Through classroom-based research with children aged two to seven, the book demonstrates the Helicopter Stories approach in action, capturing the children's development as storytellers and their joy at having their stories listened to, recorded, and acted out. Trisha Lees' passion for children's unique voices shines through as she shares and reflects on the children's stories, paying them the same respect as adult writers. The book explores the importance of story in children's lives, examines the cognitive and developmental impact of implementing a Helicopter Stories approach, analyzes the stories told by children using the Heros Journey story structure, and explores how and why stories connect with us, including children's innate ability to empathize with the hero from a young age. Rich case studies of children at different ages and developmental stages, including those with additional needs, offer valuable insight into how Helicopter Stories work in practice.

Format: Hardback
Length: 154 pages
Publication date: 11 July 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating sequel to the beloved Princesses, Dragons, and Helicopter Stories delves into the remarkable impact of Vivian Gussin Paley's storytelling and story acting curriculum on the literacy, communication, and confidence of young children. Through a three-year classroom-based research with children aged two to seven, the book showcases the dynamic and effective Helicopter Stories approach in action, capturing the children's remarkable development as storytellers and their sheer joy at having their stories heard, recorded, and brought to life through captivating performances.

In each chapter, Trisha Lee's unwavering passion for children's unique voices shines through as she shares and reflects on the children's stories, treating them with the same respect and admiration typically reserved for adult writers. The book delves deep into the significance of storytelling in children's lives, examining the cognitive and developmental benefits of implementing a Helicopter Stories approach over an extended period. It analyzes the stories told by children using the story structure of the Heros Journey, identifying the seven basic plot types and exploring how and why stories resonate with us, including children's innate ability to empathize with the hero from a very young age.

Rich case studies of children at different ages and developmental stages, including those with additional needs, are included to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of Helicopter Stories. The book offers a fascinating insight into the practical application of this approach, addressing frequently asked questions about its benefits and offering valuable guidance for anyone interested in storytelling and story acting with their children.

Whether you are a parent, teacher, or storyteller, The Growth of a Storyteller is a must-read for anyone seeking to nurture the creativity, imagination, and communication skills of young minds. Through the power of storytelling, we can empower children to explore their world, express themselves, and build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367751890