Cindy Phillips is a librarian and a storyteller who grew up on a family farm in Arkansas. She shares folktales and fairy tales with willing listeners of all ages. Ms. Phillips is a promoter of literacy and life-long learning, and she is particularly interested in helping emerging readers become people who love to read by enchanting them with the ancient art of oral storytelling. Everyone enjoys a good story, and we learn from stories all the time - what to do, what not to do, how to be.  Children especially love stories, and they always want to hear more. Ms. Phillips’ storytelling programs can vary in theme, length, and audience make-up, but a small, intimate setting is best for effective storytelling. She hopes to connect with students by observing their faces as the stories unfold, making sure they understand and are comfortable with the stories.  Many of the tales in her repertoire are participatory, and listeners are invited to sing, chant, provide sound effects, or otherwise play along.  Her goals in storytelling are these: to stretch and exercise imaginations, to promote literacy, to re-introduce the art of oral storytelling in our culture, to encourage children to be good storytellers, and to bring a little joy into their school days. The outcomes should be smiles and laughter, a sense of wonder and curiosity about our world, and an interest in finding and telling stories. Teachers are encouraged to listen and participate right along with their students. By doing so, they may discover what a powerful educational tool storytelling could be for them.

Skunneewundee clip

Coyote's Crying Song 11 8 2024