I always seem to think about scary-story writing at Halloween time—when it is too late for many teachers to get it into their planning. If you want some tips for writing traditional spooky stories, see the link above. But, early for a change, let me also introduce another variation of the genre: two-sentence horror stories. … Continue reading
There is nothing like spending time in a bookstore. When I know exactly what I want, I love the convenience of ordering online, but despite websites’ best efforts to share what others “also ordered,” I rarely discover anything new and exciting that way. In contrast, a perfect Friday night at our house starts with dinner … Continue reading
Recently a middle school friend sent me a text, “First day of school 😦 .” I understand. While first-days-of-school can be filled with excitement, new school supplies, and the hope of better things, school routines can feel stifling after weeks of unfettered exploration. No more time for “messing around.” It is time for the serious … Continue reading
What happens when Cinderella goes high tech? Interstellar Cinderella, of course! In Deborah Underwood’s delightful new book, Cinderella loves fixing rocket engines, assisted by her robotic mouse Murgatroyd. Though her stepmother tries to keep her from the Royal Space Parade, you know that won’t stop her. Cinderella fixes the prince’s broken rocket and attends the … Continue reading
Recently I saw a notice of National Hummus Day, which made me smile. I mean, I like hummus, but how did it come to have a national day? Then I discovered hummus appears to have two celebrations: National (U.S.) Hummus Day on the third Thursday in May and International Hummus Day on May 13. I … Continue reading
Every once in a while I see a TV ad so creativity-focued I just can’t resist sharing. Not long ago I loved the General Electric ad on the care and feeding of an idea. Today, I loved Emily’s Oz. It would make a great lesson on perspective, visualization, or illustration. Watch and see. Yes, it’s … Continue reading
Ever dream of movie fame? As the screenwriter? Do you teach high school English or Media Studies? I have a book for you, with a title appropriate for our household of animals, “Save the Cat!” Writer Blake Snyder claims to have written “The Last Book on Screenwriting You’ll Ever Need,” despite the fact that he … Continue reading
It is the end of the semester, I’m buried in papers to read, and the Polar Vortex is bringing below-freezing temperatures back to Michigan. I definitely needed something to make me laugh. Then James Lane’s Unkind Ravens and Murderous Crows arrived in my mailbox, and the day was suddenly a little better. Yes, it’s attached … Continue reading
How do you choose a movie? My husband and I don’t see many movies, but when we do, we are often influenced by movie trailers–especially those shared by friends and family. So I was interested when a recent National Public Radio (NPR) broadcast featured Mike Woolen, who has created trailers for movies including Birdman, Boyhood, … Continue reading
What would have happened if Cinderella were a man? How might the story be different? An old Irish folk tale provides one answer. As retold by Shirley Climo (and just in time for St. Patrick’s Day), The Irish Cinderlad tells the story of Becan, whose chief worry since childhood was his enormous feet, until his … Continue reading
creativiteach 