Storytelling

There are several attributes to a good story. I thought I would explain what goes into making one that resonates with us. Here are a few points to consider:

• The world's favorite stories are universal - we can all related to what the author is telling us.

• Most memorable accounts have a structure - even Pixar managed to create a formula and it has proved popular.

• It has a purpose - the story conveys some ultimate reason for being told.

• The character is identifiable - we know this character, we have met this wort of being before.

• It is about the journey, not the destination - how the character gets there gives the story value.

• A hero comes in many forms - everyone needs a hero to fix the day and we never know where we will find one.

• Emotions can be characters too - this is a common way to make use identify ourselves.

• Surprising events punctuate the story - inventing twists and turns makes a reader want to know more.

• Stories that are great stick with us - the best ones always linger

If you feel that the story you tell has all of these attributes or most of them, you have accomplished what you set out to do. For me, it is easy to put together all these things because the story comes from the heart. The path I take to convey these stories alays involves animals because our curiosity and love of animals makes us want to know more.