Our Stories

October 15, 1996
Gr. 6^-10. "Our Stories" is meant to be a companion to "What's Your Story?" (1992), which "explores issues of craft more fully," and "Writer's Story" (1995), which "focuses on the role of inspiration in the writing of fiction." Here young authors learn to refine fiction writing techniques--develop characters, create effective dialogue, establish point of view, etc.--by examining 30 selections written by students in grades 4 through 12. Bauer critiques each piece, pointing out strengths and suggesting ways the writing could be more effective. She then encourages readers to rewrite the sample, focusing on specific elements. Budding writers will find this of interest as will language-arts teachers, who may want to add copies to their classroom collections. ((Reviewed October 15, 1996))(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 1996, American Library Association.)