Anansi Boys

I've said it before, we all tell stories, but what we need to realize is that not everyone tells them well. There are lots of ways to learn to craft and tell a better story. One such way is by reading fiction.



An interesting, although a bit unrealisitc, is the book "Anansi Boys" by Neil Gaiman. Anansi is a trickster spider from Africa that shows up in many African folk tales. There are many websites that describe who Anansi is; some even have the text of stories for your reading pleasure.



Currently I am listening to the CD of "Anansi Boys" (the actor reading is great), it is fun, light. What is especially intriguing are the references to Anansi and the inclusion of several of the African tales. So far we've met two brothers, one's name is Spider and is summoned by Fat Charlie (the other brother) by simply asking a spider, any spider, to speak with his brother. I can't wait to see/hear what the author does with this slightly magical twist



Listening, reading, telling, all good ways to learn the rhythm and techniques to convey your message wrapped in a story. The great part is you can enjoy the tale and by repetition begin to understand the mechanics of constructing a powerful narrative of your own to make your message memorable.



Corporate Storyteller, Carol Mon

www.carolmon.com