The Art of Storytelling - John Walsh

When I went back to Singapore for the summer holidays, I got roped into giving an impromptu Sunday school class one Sunday. Well, since most of my family has been/is involved in children's ministry one way or the other, I guess this isn't so unusual. So when I started reading this book, I immediately thought of how I could use this the next time I'm giving the children's sermon (although that may be a few years away).

While the title sounds as though it's a guide on how to create a story, it's actually a guide on how to tell a story effectively. According to the book, the bible is 75% is in a story format because "God had it written this way to make it easier for people to learn, remember and share with others." I'm not sure if this is true, but considering that most of my Sunday School lessons were taught through stories, effective storytelling is definitely going to be an asset.

The book is divided into three sections. Section One is about how to create a captivating story. Section two is about how to present the story well (this section is not essential, but recommended for anyone who wants to improve their storytelling skills). Section three is about why storytelling is essential. The focus isn't so much on how to come up with a good story, it's about teaching you how to tell a story effectively.

What I liked about this book was that story-telling wasn't restricted to just kids, it's presented as a way of sharing that can work for everyone. And while the first application for story-telling that came to mind was for sermons, this book also shows that it's possible to use it in a classroom setting.

If you're looking for a book that will help you in Children's ministry or in any ministry that requires public speaking, you should definitely pick up this book.

Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review.
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Eustacia Tan joined Into the Book in May of 2011. She has always loved reading, but particularly loves fiction, apologetics, and theology. She has a love for God, and hopes to someday go to the Japanese people as a missionary.