I started reworking Bible stories for storytelling when I was a parish priest. I frequently had groups of children to tell Bible stories to. One day, I didn’t like any of the versions that I had on my shelves, and so I wrote my own. I am very grateful to Bob Hartman for all of his stories. I also went on a course that Bob taught about Biblical Storytelling, which was very formative for my own development as a storyteller. I still sometimes use Bob’s stories, and those of others too.
I have rewritten lots of Bible stories, and I have a particular method. Each Bible story is accompanied by a set of actions and/or sounds that the storyteller teaches to the audience/congregation before telling the story. Then, when the storyteller gets to particular words, or other cues, everyone listening can join in with the sound or action they have been taught.
I have one published collection of stories, 50 New Testament Stories for Storytellers, and one about to be published, 50 Old Testament Stories for Storytellers. I am blessed to have both books illustrated by the Rev. Amanda Ruston, a parish priest in the Diocese of New Westminster.
Click here to go to the Amazon page for 50 New Testament Stories for Storytellers.
Video of the book launch for 50 New Testament Stories for Storytellers, held at a Messy Church at Christ Church Cathedral, Vancouver
Rob James 