Last term, members of The Writer’s Club each received a set of ‘Random Writes’ as their Easter gift. Cute huh? But this little box of random words is so much more than cute!  It’s pure writing inspiration. I’m not sure exactly where I first came upon this idea but I have been using it for a while now. The only real rule with this writing game is to keep writing – no matter what!

Guidelines For Playing

Random Writes is designed to develop writing fluency and kickstart a writer’s creativity. There are no right or wrong answers. Simply write the first thing that comes into your head.

Don”t lift your head to gaze around and think. Just try to keep writing.

Try not to lift your pen from your paper. Just keep writing.

And here’s one I heard from Adam Wallace at the last  Writer’s Masterclass’. He said, “If you can’t think of anything to write, just write ‘I’m stuck’ until an idea comes to you.” In other words, keep writing.

How to Play

Firstly, get yourself a timer. I use my iphone. Creating a time limit really helps children to focus their attention on the task. I usually start with three minutes and then increase the time limit slowly as we go.

Here are 5 tried and tested activities inspired by Random Writes.

1. Randomly choose a word (or ask a class member to pick one). Set the timer and start writing. Repeat this activity at least once so the group have a chance to relax into it.
2. Choose a random word. Set your timer and start writing. When the timer goes off, stop and ask your group to read what they have written. Ask them to highlight their favourite sentence. They then write that sentence on a Post It Note and pass it to someone else in the group or alternatively collect the Post It Notes and share them out amongst the group. Set the timer again but this time, use the sentence on the Post It Note to create a story hook (an interesting start to a piece of writing that makes us want to read further).
3. Choose five words from the box but do not share them yet. Explain to the group that they are going to write  five sentences – one for each one. Read out the first word and ask children to use that word in a sentence. Read out the next word. The trick is to use the second word in the next sentence in such a way that the two sentences flow. Repeat with the remaining words until you have five linking sentences. Did the sentences make sense? What sorts of wacky combinations came up? Is there anything there that gives you an idea for a story or piece of writing?
4. Choose a random word from the box. Ask children to write it on the top of their page. Now write five or even ten facts or ideas related to the chosen word. They can be funny, serious, heartfelt…Viola! You have yourself the beginnings of a very cool poem! See how Steven Herricks then uses this concept to build  a Refrain Poem.
5. Choose a random word and place it in the centre of a Mind Map. Set the timer for five minutes to allow enough time to explore ideas. Now use your five minutes to brainstorm all the possible writing ideas that could spring from this one word. When the timer goes off, circle the idea you like best and start writing.

One member came back to The Writers Club after the break with a story that she had written using nearly all the words in the box so the possibilities for this simple activity are only limited by your imagination. If you woud like a copy of our list of random words (complete with blanks to create your own), email me at beth@writeawaywithme.com

Happy random writing!

I’m taking part in an Instagram Challenge over the month of May (mainly as an incentive to discover what Instagram is and why it has captured the attention of all the kids I know, but also because it’s about books. What’s not to like?) Today the prompt was – Favourite Author. Now, really for a picture book lover (well actually an all round book lover) that simple prompt could keep me busy all morning. Once when my daughter asked my dad who was his favourite grandchild, he looked at her quite matter of factly, and said, “If I had to choose, I’d say the youngest! That way everyone gets a turn!” That’s how I feel about my favourite authors – they all get a turn during the course of a year. But one author has been with me all along. Dr Seuss! ‘A Fly Went By’ was the first book I can remember reading independently. (It was actually written by Mike McClintock but it’s still Dr Seuss to me!!)  I stood proudly in the kitchen and read it aloud to Mum, who then promptly asked me to repeat the show for Dad. He was impressed so Nana got to hear it too. Celebrations all around. I was part of ‘the club’. I was all growned up. I could finally read. And I do think that sort of memory deserves a little extra loyalty!

And by far, the Dr Seuss book I love the most, is ‘The Places You’ll Go’. Doesn’t matter what age you are – it has a message for you. And it’s the perfect book for a cold Monday morning, when one might need a nudging reminder to get out there and move mountains. I love this animated version too (below). It doesn’t include the full book but it certainly includes the highlights. So if like me, the weekend has left you slightly flattened – this is the perfect anecdote. And just remember…

Kid – you’ll move mountains.

Today is your day.

Your mountain is waiting.

So get on your way!

And if this doesn’t work, (though I am sure it will), I’d opt for a warm bowl of milky porridge, laced with honey and toasted almonds. Or perhaps do both. I’m eating my porridge as I write and I can report that I’m feeling better already. (Although I may need a little dark chocolate with my morning tea…)

Enjoy. Happy Monday!

Favourite authors? Want to share? Leave a comment or better still, join in the challenge. It’s not too late to start.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_2muj6fxpc

On the last Wednesday of every month at 1.00pm at The Mentone Public Library, I facilitate a storytelling club for adults. We meet, we share ideas and stories. We unravel our experiences and talk about our interests and passions. We listen to each other’s stories and hold them up to the light, examining them from all different angles. The Mentone Public Library ( totally run by a band of passionate volunteers) runs a very successful Author for All Seasons Program which I enjoy as a participant, so I was keen to give back something to this local icon and my community. Volunteering starts with a personal commitment, lead closely by the organisational nuts and bolts of planning and scheduling. At this early stage, the emphasis was on what skills I could offer and what program might be valuable. I didn’t realise how much the experience would enrich my life. What wasn’t apparent (at that point anyway), was how much I would in fact, receive, in return for just showing up. But I know better now. Each month, I look forward to coming together in that space and listening. And stopping to celebrate words and how they soothe and bind us together. Below is a response written by Carol, one of the library’s volunteer staff and a member of our group. I wanted to share it with you.

Wednesdays

This is what I learned.

That stories are like footprints.

They tell us where we have been or where we are going.

And yet,

we often rush through them,

a task attended hurriedly

often sandwiched between ‘more important things.’

But then,

something magic happened when I listened to those stories.

My attention was firmly held.

I followed the path, Beth’s words laid down for me.

And the magic unfolded

as we explored what lies beneath the words

and what hides within the sentences.

The message and the importance of the tale revealed.

Through my participation,

new thought processes emerged

combining story with my experiences

creating a synergy

and that’s the magic.

By Carol French ( Volunteer at The Mentone Public Library)

This group is open to anyone and the cost is a gold coin donation, which helps contribute to the library’s public liability insurance. So if you live nearby and are looking for fun, friendship and the chance to chase ideas and tickle your brain, please join us. We’d love to have a cuppa with you!

Last Thursday, forty five children attended Write Away With Me’s  inaugural ‘Writer’s Masterclass’. Jackie Kerin and Adam Wallace, each presented a great workshop designed to inspire children to get creative, unleash their imagination, indulge in a little storytelling and write (and draw) their stories into life! 

Here is some of the feedback I have received so far:

“Tom and Maddie absolutely loved the writers class…..they thought it was “the best” thing they have ever done.” Rachael

“Congratulations on your first masterclass! What a success! Mia had an amazing time and was so inspired by both guests… Particularly Adam and his UFO dog! There is not a brown lunch bag in our house without a cartoon creature scribbled on the front. A fantastic day Beth!” Ruth

“My daughter Serena McGrath attended the Writer’s Masterclass and thoroughly enjoyed it. She gave it a ten out of ten. She said it was extremely fun, the authors were extremely interesting and entertaining. She has picked up many points that she can use for writing in and out of school. The whole experience for her was very positive. She is hoping to attend the next one and possubly my son as well as he will be 7 by then. Thanks once again. “ Cynthia Boudeville

“My daughter, Maddie, attended the afternoon session with Adam and loved it! From the time she got home, she didn’t stop drawing and this continued over the weekend. It also encouraged her to resume a story that she started last year! Thanks for organising such a great session – she would love to do another one and this time wants to do the full day!” Michelle

And then yesterday, this great picture and article appeared in the Waverley Leader newspaper. It certainly captures the mood of the day!

Thank you to our guest presenters and to all the families and children who supported this program. The Writer’s Masterclass returns next holidays on the 11th July. Stay tuned for more information! Who will be our guest authors? All will soon be revealed…

In the meantime, The Writer’s Club begins at both our Melbourne venues ( Oakleigh and Parkdale) in the first week of May. We are doing ‘The 6×6 Challenge – Six Stories in Six Weeks’ (all inspired by writing and storytelling games!) Yes folks – there will be fun! There will be games! And there will be plenty of writing! If you would like more information about The Writer’s Club, please send me an email at beth@writeawaywithme.com.

Only three more sleeps until The Writer’s Masterclass. Yes folks – we are counting down the days around here. The office is a buzz with coloured name tags and registration signs and lists ( and more lists) of things to pack for the big day!

But STOP PRESS!! One more piece of exciting news! Jackie Kerin has printed copies of her new comic which is based on a Kamishibai story you will hear in her workshop! It’s a great little story (one of my favourites actually) and she is also responsible for the illustrations and design. Inside, you’ll even find jokes and trivia relating to this very Australian folk tale. These freshly printed comics will be great souvenir and are available at The Writer’s Masterclass for $2.00!! Yes – $2.00!! So bring along a gold coin and take home a great story to share with your friends and family. The Adventures of Split Dog and Ol Joe may even inspire you to create a little storytelling magic ( and a comic) of your own! Thanks Jackie – what a great idea!

]]> http://www.writeawaywithme.com/literature/storytelling/do-you-love-comics-this-one-is-straight-off-the-press/feed/ 0 http://www.writeawaywithme.com/literature/meet-adam-wallace/ http://www.writeawaywithme.com/literature/meet-adam-wallace/#comments Wed, 03 Apr 2013 22:52:13 +0000 Beth Cregan http://www.writeawaywithme.com/?p=3374 Continue reading →]]>

Adam Wallace is an engineer turned Primary School teacher turned children’s book author. With 30 published books out in the big wide world, Adam enjoys spending his days writing, drawing, taking workshops, and having the occasional siesta. And on April 11th, Adam Wallace will be one of our guest presenters at The Writer’s Masterclass! So all you young ‘Masterclassers’ – come prepared to write, draw, create characters and generate lots of ideas for your future writing projects. When I think ‘Adam Wallace’ – I think ‘high energy’ and his workshops will definitely reflect this! So want to get to know Adam a little better? Read on…

 Where is your favourite place to write?

Anywhere an idea hits me. I write anywhere and everywhere, even in the car at traffic lights, but most of my writing is done at my computer with the early morning sun coming through the window.

 Who is your favourite author?

Hmmm, well, my favourite children’s authors are Andy Griffiths, Roald Dahl and Dr Seuss – I can’t split them. I also love Stephen King and Malcolm Gladwell.

What is one of your most vivid childhood memories?

Getting my finger caught in a train door and nearly cutting it off. Or getting hit in the head with a golf club and getting 7 stitches. Yep, painful memories!

Name one essential item you keep on your desk.

My computer! And a tennis ball in case I need a distraction.

What is one thing you couldn’t live without?

Laughter … and a heartbeat.

What was the best birthday present you ever received?

Last year I went to America for my birthday, and I got given a helicopter ride into the Grand Canyon as a present from my wife … that was AWESOME!

Characters in stories sometimes have special talents or powers. If you could choose an amazing talent or power for yourself, what would it be?

Flying or invisibility, or the power to make people do weird dances in embarrassing situations.

How do you collect and organise your story ideas?

I usually do it as I write, but if I am out I will put notes in my phone, and I always try and have a notebook with me to jot down ideas. I also do storyboards, and I also keep a copy of every single thing I write down, so that the ideas are always there on my computer.

What is the best thing about becoming a writer? 

Being able to write! And being able to encourage other people to write. And being able to take a siesta every now and again. And being able to not have to work in a suit in an office. And being able to put all these ideas and stories and jokes I have into something that will hopefully entertain heaps of people. And I will stop there because I could go on for a while, it is the best thing ever!

What do you find most challenging about being a writer?

When I have a really great idea, but when I write the story it doesn’t come across as I imagined it.

Your favourite all time meal is placed on the table in front of you. What is it?

Ooooh, chicken schnitzel and gravy.

Thanks Adam! We’re looking forward to welcoming you to ‘The Writer’s Masterclass’! Adam will have signed copies of his books on sale on the day. Unfortunately this series of The Writer’s Masterclass on April 11th is now fully booked but our next series is already taking shape. JULY 11th – SAVE THE DATE!! The Writer’s Masterclass – Series 2, 2013. If you are not already on our data base but would like information about this upcoming program, head to the homepage of this website and sign up for our newsletter.

In the meantime, head on over to Adam’s Website and check out his home grown movies ( funny) and his books. He is always up to something interesting!

I don’t know about you – but I can’t wait until next Thursday!! Let the creativity and the writing begin!

This term at The Writer’s Club, we have been creating A Writer’s Notebook which will serve as a resource for club members over the year. Hopefully they will add material, ideas and new categories as they make it their own. One category we have created during the term is ‘Words and More Words’. We discussed, collected (and swapped) our favourite words and adjectives. We played games like Awesome Adjectives and Never Repeat. We also explored how a few well chosen words can create metaphors and similes. Life was our muse for this writing activity. What imagery could we use to describe life and living? Below is a slideshow presentation brought to you from by Senior group at Parkdale. Writing like this, always makes my heart sing. I think this would make a great writing activity for any classroom. We only touched on the analogies but there is much scope for creative thinking, writing and philosophical discussion. Enjoy!

I love the quote (above) by American poet, Muriel Rukeyser and as yesterday was International Storytelling Day, it is even more poignant. Oh sure, I concede that atoms and molecules exist but it’s our stories that bind and connect us to each other. In the end, it’s our stories that really matter. I owe my life to stories in one way or another. It’s how I make a living. And every day, I’m thankful for that.

I love the way a story (personal, fiction or any great story really)  engages your physical, mental and sensory channels – all at once. It takes you right into the moment. When you’re immersed in a story, you’re not only interpreting, sorting and visualising a complex pattern of facts  and information – you are feeling it. Anger. Sadness. Joy. Relief. Courage. It’s all there. That phenomenon we call – the human experience. There’s a certain vulnerability too, when you surrender to a story. You know full well, that once it gets under your skin, it will gnaw quietly away, forcing you to think or calling you to action. It can change your point of view and allow you to see the world in a totally different way. It can bring a long forgotten memory into sharp focus. Stories can break your heart wide open. They are powerful like that. Eventually, of course, the storytelling experience ends, and you bid farewell to the teller, but the story continues to live on inside you. Somewhere behind your mind’s eye. Or perhaps, tucked carefully into a crevice, close to your heart. Hunkering down. Just waiting for the storm to pass. Waiting for the time when you will reach in and bring it to back to life again.

Now I’d like to see an atom or molecule achieve all of that!

]]> http://www.writeawaywithme.com/literature/storytelling/the-universe-is-made-up-of-stories/feed/ 0 http://www.writeawaywithme.com/literature/meet-jackie-kerin/ http://www.writeawaywithme.com/literature/meet-jackie-kerin/#comments Wed, 20 Mar 2013 02:17:51 +0000 Beth Cregan http://www.writeawaywithme.com/?p=3251 Continue reading →]]>

I first made contact with Jackie when I joined Storytelling Australia back in 2010. We chatted on the phone and via email, sharing our passion for storytelling and writing. Then, one Saturday morning, I went on down to the Mentone Public Library to listen to  Jackie tell stories and speak about her life as a writer and performer. I was spellbound for the whole hour and completely inspired by her stories and her dedication to the craft of storytelling. It was an intimate group on that Saturday morning, so we had the opportunity to ask questions and engage in a real dialogue about where ideas come from and how she went about the task of writing and preparing her stories. I remember thinking at the time, that I would have loved my students from ‘The Writer’s Club’ to be sitting alongside me. I didn’t quite realise it then, but the idea for The Writer’s Masterclass was slowly emmerging. I wanted young writers to have that same experience and come away bursting with ideas and stories. Jackie is the author of two picture books, Pharlap the Wonder Horse, and Lyerbird! A True Story. Both of these books showcase Jackie’s love of the Australian history and home grown stories (which are her specialty!!) Like to get to know Jackie better? Keep reading…

Where is your favourite place to write?

Probably in my study. But I always carry a notebook and pencil. I like writing on the train for some strange reason. And I like pencils better than pens.

Who is your favourite author?

That changes. It’s usually Mark Twain. He was an American with a splendid moustache. But right now I’m reading Anna Karenina, so it’s Leo Tolstoy. He was a Russian with a splendid beard. There are so many  – please don’t make me choose.

What is one of your most vivid childhood memories? Climbing trees and then more trees.

Name one essential item you keep on your desk.

My diary.

What is one thing you couldn’t live without?

My diary

What was the best birthday present you ever received?

My first bike. It was second hand and freshly painted blue. It was love at first sight. I have ridden a bike ever since.

Characters in stories sometimes have special talents or powers. If you could choose an amazing talent or power for yourself, what would it be?

It used to be flying but since I read Harry Potter I have found myself wishing I had the power to apparate.

How do you collect and organise your story ideas?

I have a folder on my computer titled ‘story ideas’. Inside this folder are many other folders carefully named with possible titles. I am very organized with this, as I wouldn’t want a good idea to be lost.

What is the best thing about becoming a writer?

I am doing what I love to do – making stories.

What do you find most challenging about being a writer?

Sitting down and getting on with it. Writing is hard work. It doesn’t make sense but much as I love writing, I can make up all sorts of excuses not to go and sit down and just do it!!!

Your favourite all time meal is placed on the table in front of you. What is it?

It would have to be something from the garden … home made basil pesto with homegrown tomato salad followed by poached figs (from the tree) with meltin.

Thanks Jackie! We’re all looking forward to welcoming you to ‘The Writer’s Masterclass’ ! Jackie will have signed copies of her picture books on sale on the 11th April.

Phar Lap – the Wonderhorse by Jackie Kerin, illustrated by Patricia Mullins, published Museum Victoria (Eve Pownall CBCA Noteable) $20.00
Lyrebird! A True Story by Jackie Kerin, illustrated by Peter Gouldthorpe, published Museum Victoria $17.00

We have limited places available for The Writer’s Masterclass on the 11th April 2013 at Oakleigh primary School. Visit www.writeawaywithme.com’s home page for program details. And why don’t you head on over to Jackie’s website and visit her blog? She is always up to something interesting!

What better way to celebrate International Women’s Day 2013 than to showcase an up and coming Australian writer! Sarah loves writing, reading and drawing. She writes and illustrates her own stories and is totally up to date with self publishing. Sarah credits her mum and dad with her love of writing. The dedication on her last book reads:

“This book is dedicated to my mum who loves me and helps me find ideas. And to my dad who loves reading my stories.”

So without further ado, I’d like to introduce Sarah, eight years old and a passionate member of The Oakleigh Writer’s Club. She’s a writer, illustrator and author of many stories including the one she will share today – Tut Loses His Crown. This story was written during our ‘Quest For Adventure’ program. King Tut may eventually find the crown but the female characters in this story certainly save the day with their quick thinking. Sarah usually reads her stories with such expression and energy but today, I’m afraid, you will have to do that task for yourself. So to women everywhere, young and old – let’s celebrate each other’s achievements! Every single day.

Long ago and far, far away, across the sea, on a huge island called The Land of the Sphinx, in the palace, inside a bedroom, is King Tut. He wore a linen kilt, a golden belt, lots of jewellery and his crown. But one day, Tut lost his crown so he looked in the bathroom. He looked in his wardrobe and he even looked in the toilet room but poor Tut still couldn’t find it. He decided he would have one last look in the Throne Room. He looked everywhere but he still could not find his crown and he was frowning worse than ever. Tut frowned for many days and everyone is his kingdom did not feel very happy. They were sad to see King Tut like this.

King Tut asked his wife Nefret to help him look for his crown. He remembered that he went to a party at Mr Carter’s house and took his crown off there. Nefret asked her servant Phibi to go to Mr Carter’s house to see if he knew where King Tut’s crown was. Phibi ran to Mr Carter’s house as fast as her legs could carry her. When Phibi got to the house, she rang the doorbell. Mr Carter opened the door and said “Hello Phibi, what are you doing here?”

Phibi said, “Have you seen King Tut’s crown anywhere?”

Mr Carter said he had not seen the crown anywhere. He said good bye and quickly closed the door. Mr Carter said “Phew, that was close! I’m glad I put in the Pyramid.”

Phibi went back to the palace and told Nefret that Mr Carter said he had not seen it anywhere and quickly shut the door. Nefret had a feeling that Mr Carter was lying and felt sad because King Tut had known Mr Carter for many years and he had never lied to him before. Nefret told King Tut everything she had heard and Tut said, “Shall we go to the Sphinx and ask it for a clue as to where my crown is?”

King Tut, Nefret and Phibi had a five minute walk to the Sphinx. King Tut said, “Oh mighty Sphinx, may we please find the way to enter the Great Pyramid?” The Sphinx said, “You must push three bricks; one down, one on the side and one up.” They all went to into the Pyramid and got past the door. Luckily King Tut had the Crook and Flail of Protection so he could go past all the dangerous traps but there was one thing he couldn’t really get past. He had to  choose a symbol to get into the Archi-Chamber (the burial chamber).

In a room before the chamber entrance, a Shabti (a small carved servant) said, “Choose wisely for the symbol of life is what you need to get into the Archi-chamber. Many people have got it wrong and have been turned to ashes.” King Tut chose the Ankh and the Shabti said, “You may all pass”. Happy as can be, King Tut tip-toed into the chamber where his dad laid in his sarcophagus (coffin). King Tut said, “I will be able to manage it by myself now,” and his dad woke up and said “Who is in my pyramid?”

King Tut said “It’s only me and my friends Dad. I’ve lost my crown and I’m trying to get it back. Have you seen it anywhere?”

King Tut’s father said, “Yes I know where it is. Go up the ladder and you will find it.” Very happily King Tut found his crown and went back to his palace. Everyone in the Land of the Sphinx was happy again.

The End.