Why is storytelling so important?

When I left teaching and decided to set up as a professional storyteller some people were a bit bemused. What is storytelling? Why are you going to do that? Aren't you going to get a 'real job'? were the questions I was frequently asked.

Here are  my answers.

What is Storytelling? Storytelling is an ancient art form. It is the earliest form of entertainment that man had. It is also how folklore, legends, myths and history were passed on amongst the population who couldn't write. Storytelling is the ability to bring a tale, story or event to life using spoken word, gesture and atmosphere and it takes real skill. I am constantly honing my craft: researching tales and legends, exploring how to change my voice, experimenting with expression and gesture. Anyone can sit down and tell a story to a group of people (people do it all the time in the form of conversation) but only storytellers can hold that audience captive no matter what else is going on around.

Why did you want to do it? For me, the most important skill we have as humans is the ability to communicate. Communication can be verbal, non-verbal, written or sung. Even tiny babies realise that if they make a sound, someone will respond. There is huge emphasis placed upon the importance of reading and writing (rightly so) but without the ability to speak and listen effectively, reading and writing can be harder to acquire. Storytelling allows children and adults the chance to immerse themselves in a world of words, to surround themselves with exciting and interesting vocabulary, to escape into different times and places and to be inspired. As a writer of children's stories, I am certainly inspired by stories, tales and legends. 

Put basically "To write a good story, you have to be able to tell a good story and to tell a good story you have to be able to listen to a good story" Taffy Thomas

It's my aim to bring a wide range of rich, interesting, exciting and stimulating vocabulary and stories to children and adults across the country.

Aren't you going to get a 'real job'?

This is a REAL job. I am doing education on my terms - introducing children to the joy and wonder of stories, imagination, creativity, words and expression. And, in my opinion, it's the best job in the world!

As well as storytelling, I also provide Drama Workshops, Creative Writing Workshops and a host of staff training for Primary schools. Please get in touch if you are interested.  [email protected] or visit https://littlelambpublishing.co.uk/ for information.