National Share a Story Month

Introduction

Get ready to unleash your imagination and celebrate National Share a Story Month on May 1! This month-long event was created by the National Storytelling Network in 1992 to promote the art of storytelling and its importance in our lives. From ancient oral traditions to modern-day books and films, stories have been a fundamental part of human communication and entertainment. So why not take this opportunity to share your favorite stories with others, or even create new ones of your own? Whether you're a professional storyteller or just love hearing a good tale, this month is all about celebrating the power of storytelling.

National Share a Story Month Timeline

1992

Foundation of National Storytelling Network

The National Storytelling Network, an American organization dedicated to advancing all forms of storytelling within the community, is established.

1995

First National Storytelling Festival

The National Storytelling Network hosts its first annual National Storytelling Festival, bringing together storytellers from across the nation.

2000

Storytelling and Education Events

The Network begins to host events focusing on storytelling in education to support learning in schools and libraries.

2012

Inauguration of National Share a Story Month

The National Storytelling Network inaugurates a yearly National Share a Story Month to foster the tradition of storytelling.

2015

Storytelling Network Goes Worldwide

The National Storytelling Network expands its reach globally, bringing its mission of sharing stories to a wider audience.

How to Celebrate National Share a Story Month

1 Host a storytelling night

Gather friends and family for a night of storytelling. Each person can take turns sharing their favorite stories or even create a new one on the spot!

2 Start a book club

Choose a book with a captivating story and gather a group of friends to discuss it. Everyone can share their thoughts and insights about the story and how it impacted them personally.

3 Write and illustrate your own storybook

Get creative and make your own storybook! You can write a story, draw illustrations, and even bind it together to create a one-of-a-kind book that you can share with others.

4 Attend a storytelling event or workshop

Search for local storytelling events or workshops and attend one to learn from experienced storytellers and get inspired to share your own stories.

5 Create a story-themed scavenger hunt

Get friends and family involved in a story-themed scavenger hunt! Create clues that lead to different locations and incorporate elements from different stories into the hunt. The first team to complete the hunt wins a prize and everyone gets to have fun sharing stories along the way.

Why We Love National Share a Story Month

A

It brings people together

National Share a Story Month is all about connecting with others through the power of storytelling. Whether it's sharing personal experiences, reading a book with a loved one, or listening to someone else's story, this month encourages us to come together and bond over our shared love for storytelling.

B

It sparks creativity

Telling stories allows us to tap into our imaginations and create something unique. National Share a Story Month inspires us to get creative and share our own stories with others. It's a great opportunity to flex our storytelling muscles and try new things.

C

It celebrates the power of storytelling

Stories have the ability to transport us to different worlds, teach us valuable lessons, and evoke powerful emotions. National Share a Story Month recognizes and celebrates the impact that storytelling has on our lives. So take this month as an opportunity to share your favorite stories and appreciate the magic of storytelling.