Story Starters, Vol. 1

What sparks a child's mind? How do you set it soaring? Start with some guidelines (you need a beginning, a middle, and an end) and suggestions (a setting, some characters, and a problem) and bring it to life with some clever computer animation. Designed for classroom or home use, this tape tries to open an elementary-aged child up to the possibilities of authorship with several you-finish-the-story projects, "Quick Starts" (brief ideas for more stories on many different topics), and lots of "what if's?" The producer has tackled this difficult project with some creative energy of her own: plenty of interesting animation, morphing, unusual old footage and creaky voice-overs, wildlife in action, and funny sound effects are added to the story starters to inspire a child to let loose on the narrative path. Also mentioned are the tools of the writer's trade: drafting outlines, editing one's work, and constant rewrites. Broken into 10-15 minute segments, this tape is affordable and perfectly laid out for a whole language class exploring creative writing. Highly recommended for school or home use. Editor's Choice. (E. Druda)