In this very interactive and lively presentation, I walk elementary school students through the steps required to make a story. We start with our main character.  The children come up with three animals, and we vote to determine the best one. Then we vote on the name, and the ways that this animal is different from all the others (characteristics.) Pretty soon I have something to draw, and the kids love to watch as their character comes to life on the blackboard in front of them. Then it’s time for action – we need a plot! (They are often so intrigued by the first part that I have to warn them that it won’t ever be a story unless this guy does something!) Then we get some action, so watch out! I point out beginning, middle and end as we roll along, and I draw the various antics they think up for our character. They need to be coaxed into an ending, because they don't want to quit. But authors have to do their job! We make the end feel like an ending (everything's OK) and the session rolls to a slower pace. In the end, they have made a story! The students see first hand that they can do it. Creating a book is not only possible, but great fun. I round it out by showing a few art samples in stages and explaining my illustration style. I leave time for a few questions before I say goodbye. 45 minutes. Contact Ms. Stoeke for rates and availability: janet@minervalouise.com