100 books like The Art of Storytelling

By John Walsh,

Here are 100 books that The Art of Storytelling fans have personally recommended if you like The Art of Storytelling. Shepherd is a community of 11,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of The Story Vine

Margaret Read MacDonald Author Of Teaching with Story: Classroom Connections to Storytelling

From my list on storytelling for teachers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am passionate about the importance of telling stories in the classroom. My career has been as a children’s librarian in public libraries, but with much time spent telling stories in schools. My daughter and her husband followed in my footsteps as storytellers and found that using storytelling in the classroom has so many benefits. We all offer workshops for teachers, write articles encouraging storytelling, and try in any way possible to grow the corps of teachers who discover this joyful addition to the classroom.

Margaret's book list on storytelling for teachers

Margaret Read MacDonald Why did Margaret love this book?

I found some wonderfully unusual formats for storytelling here. The book includes string figure stories, drawing stories, finger play stories, riddle tales, and tales told with dolls and incorporating music. I use some of the simple stories like the mosquito string figure tale when I’m teaching beginning tellers. My students find them easy to learn and fun to use.

By Anne Pellowski,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Story Vine as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Anne Pellowski gives readers instructions to use a variety of methods to show and tell stories from around the world in this fascinating and informative collection.

The Story Vine is an unusual collection of stories that have been loved by youth and elders alike around the world, each of which requires the storyteller to use string, nesting dolls, sand painting, drawings, or musical instruments to help embellish the tale.

With stories from Africa, Japan, America, Australia, and Central Europe, each story is accompanied by clear, step-by-step instructions, as well as line illustrations, so even a beginner can grow into a…


Book cover of Children Tell Stories: Teaching and Using Storytelling in the Classroom (Multimedia DVD included with the book)

Margaret Read MacDonald Author Of Teaching with Story: Classroom Connections to Storytelling

From my list on storytelling for teachers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am passionate about the importance of telling stories in the classroom. My career has been as a children’s librarian in public libraries, but with much time spent telling stories in schools. My daughter and her husband followed in my footsteps as storytellers and found that using storytelling in the classroom has so many benefits. We all offer workshops for teachers, write articles encouraging storytelling, and try in any way possible to grow the corps of teachers who discover this joyful addition to the classroom.

Margaret's book list on storytelling for teachers

Margaret Read MacDonald Why did Margaret love this book?

It is exciting to encourage students to start telling stories too. This book had lots of good ideas that I use in my storytelling classes for children. Kids enjoyed activities like rolling a yarn ball back and forth across a circle as they add to a story. The book includes 25 easy-to-tell tales for student beginners. And I learned from watching the DVD Children Telling Stories: A Storytelling Unit in Action that was included.

By Martha Hamilton, Mitch Weiss,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Children Tell Stories as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The revised edition of this award-winning guidebook on storytelling in the classroom includes over 80% new material. The authors provide compelling rationales for the value of storytelling, links to state standards, detailed storytelling unit tips, uses throughout the curriculum, and bibliographies. Includes a multi-media DVD with demonstrations of storytelling by the authors, teachers and students, plus related materials and resources.


Book cover of Once Upon a Time... Storytelling to Teach Character and Prevent Bullying

Margaret Read MacDonald Author Of Teaching with Story: Classroom Connections to Storytelling

From my list on storytelling for teachers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am passionate about the importance of telling stories in the classroom. My career has been as a children’s librarian in public libraries, but with much time spent telling stories in schools. My daughter and her husband followed in my footsteps as storytellers and found that using storytelling in the classroom has so many benefits. We all offer workshops for teachers, write articles encouraging storytelling, and try in any way possible to grow the corps of teachers who discover this joyful addition to the classroom.

Margaret's book list on storytelling for teachers

Margaret Read MacDonald Why did Margaret love this book?

I found that owning a collection of tales organized by these themes was very useful. Over 100 short folktales on themes of cooperation, courage, diversity, empathy, friendship, generosity, honesty and fairness, perseverance, respect, responsibility, self-control, and bullying prevention. Pearmain also gives suggestions for telling these and for extending them in the classroom. Wrapping an idea in a story really helps the concept sink in for the listener. Having a collection like this helped me build programs for use in the library.

By Elisa Davy Pearmain,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Once Upon a Time... Storytelling to Teach Character and Prevent Bullying as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

This book features 99 multi-national and multi-cultural folk tales with familiar character and bullying prevention themes but encapsuled in wonderfully diverse stories. The author, a professional storyteller, provides actual stories plus chapters on how to tell a story, not just read it; activities for students; and bulliten board ideas. She also provides hints and tips for teaching kids the art of storytelling which encourages communication skills and classroom unity.


Book cover of Moral of the Story: Folktales for Character Development

Margaret Read MacDonald Author Of Teaching with Story: Classroom Connections to Storytelling

From my list on storytelling for teachers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am passionate about the importance of telling stories in the classroom. My career has been as a children’s librarian in public libraries, but with much time spent telling stories in schools. My daughter and her husband followed in my footsteps as storytellers and found that using storytelling in the classroom has so many benefits. We all offer workshops for teachers, write articles encouraging storytelling, and try in any way possible to grow the corps of teachers who discover this joyful addition to the classroom.

Margaret's book list on storytelling for teachers

Margaret Read MacDonald Why did Margaret love this book?

This book contains twelve easily told tales that can be used to discuss character development. The Norfolks include suggestions for classroom use of the tales. I like to recommend this to the teachers in my storytelling classes as the advice comes from a teacher who has written several other books on using stories in the classroom.

By Bobby Norfolk, Sherry Norfolk,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Moral of the Story as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

To kids everywhere, in the hope that their elders will never stop telling stories.

Throughout history, traditional cultures have recognized the role of storytelling in teaching values to children. This user-friendly, hands-on guide to using storytelling and folktales in character education provides not only rationale for this approach, it includes stories. These twelve stories are fun, time- and audience-tested, and accessible to a wide range of listeners, from preschool to high school.

The tales are enhanced by suggested activities or informal lesson plans, source notes, and extensive bibliographies that point the reader to additional sources of folktales suitable for character…


Book cover of TED Talks Storytelling: 23 Storytelling Techniques from the Best TED Talks

Bernie De Souza Author Of Getting "Yes" Decisions: What insurance agents and financial advisors can say to clients.

From my list on closing skills for insurance agents and network marketers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I see salesmen talking and selling, but never being able to close. They use outdated techniques from 30 years ago. The world now is over exposed and over marketed to. Buyers are more sophisticated. We have to change.

Bernie's book list on closing skills for insurance agents and network marketers

Bernie De Souza Why did Bernie love this book?

Simple lessons on storytelling structure. Plus the book is short and entertaining because of the stories and the backgrounds.

We don’t need a complicated 12-step Hero’s Journey story structure for selling. Our prospects won’t have the time for our prose, and we can’t command the attention like a hundred dollar movie production. Instead, we have to engage our prospects’ imagination fast.

Storytelling is a great way to sell to our prospects.

By Akash Karia,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked TED Talks Storytelling as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

"Every speaker can put these ideas into practice immediately -- and they should!" ~ Dr. Richard C. Harris, Certified World Class Speaking Coach

"An insightful read" ~Dennis Waller, Top 500 Reviewer

"Superb communication advice" ~ Larry Nocella


MASTER THE ONE THING ALL GREAT TED TALKS HAVE IN COMMON

What is the secret to delivering a great TED talk?

What is the magic ingredient that makes a TED talk captivating?

And more importantly, how can you use those secrets to make your presentations more powerful, dynamic and engaging?

To try to answer these questions, I studied over 200 of the best…


Book cover of Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling

Mark Leruste Author Of Glow in the Dark: How Sharing Your Personal Story Can Transform Your Business and Change Your Life

From my list on personal storytelling to grow your business.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a kid I used to sit around the table, hearing my French grandparents share stories about life during the Second World War and helping the French Resistance movement. I remember seeing my mum sitting down to interview my French grandad about his life and getting captured near Dunkirk as a young French soldier. That’s where my love for storytelling was born. By the age of 26 I had interviewed over 100+ government officials and business leaders across 7 countries. By 2021 my podcast The Unconventionalists won “best-interview podcast” at the podcasting for business awards. I wrote Glow in the Darkto help entrepreneurs and business leaders impact the world with their story.

Mark's book list on personal storytelling to grow your business

Mark Leruste Why did Mark love this book?

Matthew is a serial public speaking champion who basically should be entered in The Moth Hall of Fame asap. If you've never heard Matthew Dicks talk, pause this and go watch his videos online. He's that good. What I love about his book is that he shares how he crafts his own stories and shares some amazing tips on how to capture everyday events that can later on be turned into powerful stories. Although this book isn't so much geared towards business or work, I think everyone can learn a great deal from Matthew's impressive experience of making people pay attention and connect to what you say (both as a best-selling novelist, school teacher, and public speaking champion).

By Matthew Dicks,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Storyworthy as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A five-time Moth GrandSLAM winner and bestselling novelist shows how to tell a great story — and why doing so matters.

Whether we realize it or not, we are always telling stories. On a first date or job interview, at a sales presentation or therapy appointment, with family or friends, we are constantly narrating events and interpreting emotions and actions. In this compelling book, storyteller extraordinaire Matthew Dicks presents wonderfully straightforward and engaging tips and techniques for constructing, telling, and polishing stories that will hold the attention of your audience (no matter how big or small). He shows that anyone…


Book cover of Speaking Up without Freaking Out: 50 Techniques for Confident and Compelling Presenting

Joel Schwartzberg Author Of Get to the Point! Sharpen Your Message and Make Your Words Matter

From my list on improving your presentation prowess.

Why am I passionate about this?

I began my journey in communications as a competitive public speaker in high school and college, culminating in a national championship. That experience inspired me to help others develop their public speaking and presentation skills, especially effective point-making, which is fundamental to communication success but rarely addressed by trainers. Nowadays, I’m thrilled to combine my skill, experience, and passion in my work as a speechwriter and speech coach for organizations ranging from American Express to State Farm Insurance, as well as a speechwriter for a major nonprofit and contributor to media outlets including Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and Newsweek.

Joel's book list on improving your presentation prowess

Joel Schwartzberg Why did Joel love this book?

What’s unique and valuable about Matt’s book is his use of scientific research to explain what makes so many of us nervous about public speaking and—knowing those triggers and minefields —how to manage and overcome it.

The book is short, physically small, and focused, but brilliantly so because it reads like a manual and even an ally in your ear, giving you the tips and support you need to speak confidently. Matt includes many “Try This” recommendations and an awesome appendix that reviews a wide variety of physical and psychological anxiety-management techniques.

I have lots of highlight marks and circled sections in my copy, which is a surefire sign that a book is extremely practical. 

By Matthew Abrahams,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Speaking Up without Freaking Out as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

50 Scientifically-Supported Techniques to Create More Confident and Compelling Speakers

Speaking Up without Freaking Out by Matt Abrahams is an easy-to-read book containing over 50 anxiety management techniques that are based on scientifically supported theory and evidence that will help you become a more confident and compelling communicator regardless of where you present -- on stage, in a meeting or virtually.

Confident and compelling presenting involves a complicated mix of physiological and psychological factors. In the 3rd edition, this book provides specific guidance and opportunities to practice developing the skills you will need to feel more comfortable speaking in front…


Book cover of From Page to Stage: Inspiration, Tools, and Public Speaking Tips for Writers

Mary Helen Sheriff Author Of Launch Pad: The Countdown to Marketing Your Book

From my list on authors who want to sell more books.

Why am I passionate about this?

I believe that people need stories and book marketing done well can help readers find the stories they need to craft a more hope-filled, compassionate, and meaningful life. The authors I meet are sharp and creative, but many don’t have experience with book marketing. I find coaching authors to amplify their platforms is a rewarding way to support the community. My front-row seat to watching my clients’ dreams become reality is so inspiring. This book was a collaboration of book marketing experts, whom I admire, and I was so honored they agreed to share their insights with our readers. 

Mary Helen's book list on authors who want to sell more books

Mary Helen Sheriff Why did Mary Helen love this book?

Public speaking is one of the best marketing tools for authors. Good speakers sell books and can often supplement their incomes through paid speaking gigs.

From Page to Stage helped me hone my speaking points. It is loaded with tips to help even the most shy of authors give a good talk. The author is a psychotherapist who has worked with many clients to overcome their fear of public speaking. I loved that this book was written specifically for authors, and so it directly addressed the types of events and talks common in the book industry. 

By Betsy Graziani Fasbinder,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked From Page to Stage as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In this accessible, straightforward book, seasoned author Betsy Graziani Fasbinder offers readers the why, what, and how of public speaking, along with exercises and resources to support ongoing learning. She provides inspiration and encouragement to help writers to overcome their fears of public speaking, but she doesn't stop there; she also lays out the practical, nuts-and-bolts tools they need to select, deselect, and arrange the content of what to say when they're on a podium, in an interview, or in casual conversations about their writing, and includes a model for handling challenging questions from interviewers and audience members with confidence…


Book cover of Simply Speaking: How to Communicate Your Ideas with Style, Substance, and Clarity

Natalie Canavor Author Of Business Writing for Dummies

From my list on writing persuasive messages that win what you want.

Why am I passionate about this?

Early in my career I landed a job as a magazine editor. Shazam! I could publish my own articles! But I discovered that I actually had no idea how to write anything interesting, English major though I’d been. So I began to figure out what makes writing work. Over decades as a journalist, corporate communicator, and consultant, I did learn. I also saw colleagues miss their best opportunities, even screw up their lives, by writing badly—unpersuasively. And a mission was born: to share the tools and techniques of powerful communication. I’ve created dozens of workshops for businesspeople and professionals, taught graduate students, and now happily author books jammed with practical advice. 

Natalie's book list on writing persuasive messages that win what you want

Natalie Canavor Why did Natalie love this book?

Why do I recommend a book on speechwriting? For the same reasons my book covers spoken communication. Good speeches base on the written word and in turn, yield many lessons for all writers. For example, “sayability” is a hallmark of writing that works, and a good way to check yourself. Noonan’s book also reminds us of what matters most: Deciding what you want to say—the substance. Fancy language never camouflages empty thought. Rather than trying to manipulate people, reach them with sincerity and specific language that’s “simple, unadorned, direct, declarative.” Noonan recommends appealing to the brain with logic. Psychologists, meanwhile, stress that we make most decisions based on emotion—but I think both are right: Persuasive writing reaches both heart and mind. 

By Peggy Noonan,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Simply Speaking as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Advice from Peggy Noonan:"The most moving thing in a speech is its logic. It's not the flowery words or flourishes, it's not the sentimental exhortations, it's never the faux poetry we're all subjected to these days. It's the logic behind your case. A good case well argued and well said is inherently moving. It shows respect for the brains of the listeners. There is an implicit compliment in it. It shows you're a serious person and understand that you are talking to other serious people.

No speech should last more than 20 minutes. Why? Because Ronald Reagan said so. Reagan…


Book cover of TED Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking

Anna Cley Author Of The Journey of the Heart

From my list on courage and the way of the heart.

Why am I passionate about this?

A few years ago, I asked my friends, family, and colleagues how they would describe me in three words. To my surprise, the word that kept coming back was “courage”. I was not sure what they meant then. I always felt that if I denied the calling in my heart, then I would die inside. I believe that to make the world a happier and better place, it starts with every one of us working toward our own happiness. It turns out the word “courage” originates its meaning in the Latin word “Cor” (heart). It all makes sense, doesn’t it? That’s why the journey of the heart (some would call it courage) matters so much to me.

Anna's book list on courage and the way of the heart

Anna Cley Why did Anna love this book?

Fun fact: public speaking ranks number 1 among human beings’ fears. Before death, heights, or any wild animal. Speaking in public exposes us to shame, failure, boredom, opposition, and so on. And with everything being recorded nowadays, there’s a great chance to leave indelible evidence of our performance somewhere. But regardless of their fear, millions of people want to share their ideas on stage. How to overcome this fear? With preparation. Lots of preparation, lots of patience, and the courage to ask for feedback, question ourselves, and edit our talk at will. Chris Anderson’s TED Talks is a brilliant resource. To anyone who wants to share a meaningful and impactful message, whether through speaking or writing, I can only recommend giving this book a go. It’s changed the way I write and introduce myself. Cherry on the cake: it’s really fun reading! 

By Chris Anderson,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked TED Talks as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In the New York Times-bestselling Ted Talks Chris Anderson, head of TED, reveals the inside secrets of how to give a first-class presentation. Where books like Talk Like TED and TED Talks Storytelling whetted the appetite, here is the official TED guide to public speaking from the man who put TED talks on the world's stage. 'Nobody in the world better understands the art and science of public speaking than Chris Anderson. He is absolutely the best person to have written this book' Elizabeth Gilbert.

Anderson shares his five key techniques to presentation success: Connection, Narration, Explanation, Persuasion and Revelation…


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