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An engaging story uses descriptive language and has a strong character-driven narrative. It creates an image in the reader’s mind. But for centuries people have also passed on stories through speeches and song. During the 1930s and '40s, radio programs were not just for entertainment, but a powerful and efficient way to spread news and information. In the 21st century, public radio style podcasts are communicating nonfiction stories in intimate and unique ways. I was first drawn to audio storytelling during summers at sleepaway camp while sitting around the campfire at night, the embers fanning towards the sky, marshmallows burning at the end of thin sticks, insects buzzing about, and the harmony of the river nearby. Stories were spun about pirates and people journeying alone through nocturnal woods. The best storytellers made characters come to life with distinctive voices, breathing emotional oxygen into them by raising and lowering their voice and replicating accents. I recall one counselor expertly imitating the sounds of horse hooves clopping and bullfrogs croaking “jug-o-rum.”  I’ve been interested in incorporating audio into my stories ever since.

Using audio to make your stories sing

Meet your new favorite way to tell stories. With StoryMaps, the future of digital storytelling is here to bring together media, maps, and text in ways you never thought possible.

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