It's almost Halloween. To build the spooky atmosphere -- and also to encourage creative writing -- I'm offering these nine read-alouds, spooky stories written by students aged 11-17, all featured on my Cabin Tales podcast last October. They range from silly fun to gory terror, ideal for this time of year. First is the shortest… Continue reading Halloween Student Stories
April 2021 Update: The readings listed below have passed, but I have one more National Public Reading coming up on June 9th, hosted by the Muskoka Authors Association, about writing for children and adults. Many thanks to the Canada Council for the Arts and the Writers Union of Canada for the NPR Program. While I'm… Continue reading national public readings
A “telling tales” format with guest authors Marty Chan, Jeff Szpirglas, and Frieda Wishinsky. Featuring an original story with an ambiguous ending; a famous twist from Ambrose Bierce; gorgeous last lines and satisfying summations; and a story prompt about a deus ex machina. PG. 50 minutes. Check out the Episode 7 webpage for audio, show… Continue reading Just Get it Over With (Episode 7: Endings)
An episode about how to begin a story, with guest authors Karen Bass, Kate Inglis, and Chris Jones. Featuring an original story, great first lines from classic fiction, and suggested writing exercises. PG. Check out the Episode 6 webpage for audio, show notes, and author bios.
The Post-Halloween Special Episode, featuring four student stories about: a monster that demands sacrifice; a historic Halloween; teens in the deep woods; and a supernatural Air B&B. From young writers Aleina Wang, Olivia Beauchamp, Lexi-Jade McCowan, and Olivia Li. PG. Check out the Special Episode webpage for audio, show notes, and author bios.
Catherine Austen 