I kept always two books in my pocket, one to read, one to write in.”
Robert Louis Stevenson
When you go out into the wild world, take a notebook with you. Any place will do, even your backyard. There are interesting animals (and people) to be found in every location. Jot down the things you notice. How do you feel in this place? What is around you? What do you hear? Can you smell anything? Look carefully, both near and far. Do you see animals? Where are they? Up high, down low, inside a cave or a hollow in a tree? What are the animals doing?
Use your notes to help you write your stories. You can also use pictures of places and animals or you can invent places and creatures in your head.
First, decide on your setting (destination). Next, imagine yourself or another character into that place. Now, think about one of those animals. What might it do if it gets surprised? What if it sees some tasty looking food? How would you react? What if that animal sneaks up on you or another person? What if that animal is in danger? How would you feel? What would you do? What action would you take? What if your plan didn’t work? What might happen next? Can you come up with a new solution?
Here is a sheet to help you think of some ideas:
Now that you have some ideas, let’s start writing.
Once upon a time… That’s one way to start your story, but you can start any way you want. You can also go back and change your first sentence if you think of something different later. The important thing is to start somewhere and explore your ideas from there. Use the most exciting words you can. Ready? Set? Go!
Would you like to share your story? I would love to read it. You and your parent or caregiver can send your story to me at: lisadunlop@gmail.com