Why Tell Stories?

That's a question that every storyteller must answer at some time in their career. Why do I telll stories?

Because storytelling:

· creates a warm social relationship between the teller and the listener

· Improves listening comprehension, a vital pre-reading skill for children

· introduces us to literature we may not be familiar with

· whets our appetite for further literary experiences

· introduces us to characters with whom we can relate

· has been the best tool for passing on the values and morals of families and peoples for centuries

· increases our understanding and awareness of our world s diverse cultures

· keeps alive an ancient artform

· develops our mental imaging ability, another skill necessary for reading comprehension

And perhaps the best reason of all:

· Storytelling is fun!

And this final thought:

"Many people don't realize the extent to which stories influence our behavior and even shape our culture. Think about how Bible stories teach the fundamentals of religion and rules of conduct. Think of the fables and parables that molded your values. Think of how stories about your national, cultural or family history have shaped your attitudes about yourself and others."

---Lawrence Shapiro, Ph.D in How to Raise a Child With a High EQ: A Parents' Guide to Emotional Intelligence, HarperCollins Publishers, 1997.