National Tell A Story Day

A group of children sitting around a campfire, telling magical stories about wizards, dragons, and talking animals.. — National tell a story day illustration

Step right up, folks! It's time to bring out your wizards, dragons, and talking animals- it's National Tell a Story Day! An amazing day when we release our inner Scheherazade and weave narratives that could enthrall an audience (or at least your cat), as long as you avoid ‘Once upon a time...’ (just kidding!).

When is Tell A Story Day?

It's national tell a story day on the 27th April.

When the Tale Began

The first whispers of National Tell a Story Day fluttered online around 27th April 2017, when an impressive 3347 mentions made it a trending topic. Since then, it's become a much-loved day for story-lovers of all ages. Teachers, librarians, parents—everyone's in on it!<\p>

The Plot Twist

The day isn't just about the literal telling of tales. It's also about listening, experiencing emotions, and joining others on a collective journey―essentially, celebrating the art of storytelling. From folktales and fables to personal anecdotes, goals achieved, and lessons learned; every story, every voice counts.<\p>

The Climax

Whether it's sitting around a campfire or sharing stories over a meal, every bend of the tale brings us a step closer to understanding someone’s experiences or the world better. So, basically, the day is equivalent to a heart-rendering novel or a binge-able Netflix series―it sticks with you!<\p>

The Denouement

As these stories spread, so does a sense of community. It’s a grand finale where we're brought together by the magic of stories and lived experiences. What could be more humanizing?<\p>

The Sequel?

Well… that depends on the storyteller in you. So, for next year's National Tell a Story Day, go on, surprise us!

History behind the term 'Tell A Story'

1667

The birth of the term

The term 'tell a story' originated in the year 1667. It comes from the Middle English word 'storie' which means a historical account or narrative. At this time, storytelling was primarily an oral tradition passed down through generations, capturing the imaginations of listeners and providing entertainment and education.

1792

The rise of literary storytelling

In 1792, the art of storytelling began to shift from purely oral to written form. This marked the rise of literary storytelling, with the publication of various notable works that captivated readers. Authors like Charles Dickens, Edgar Allan Poe, and Jane Austen popularized storytelling as a form of literature, paving the way for the imaginative and descriptive narratives we know today.

1920

Advent of radio storytelling

The year 1920 witnessed a significant milestone in the evolution of storytelling with the advent of radio. This marked a new era for storytelling, as it allowed people to hear stories, dramas, and adventures unfold in their own homes. Radio programs such as 'The War of the Worlds' by Orson Welles captivated audiences and showcased the power of audio storytelling.

1937

Walt Disney introduces animated storytelling

In 1937, Walt Disney revolutionized storytelling by introducing Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the first full-length animated feature film. This marked a significant shift in storytelling techniques, captivating audiences of all ages through the magic of animation. The success of this film laid the foundation for the tremendous impact of animated storytelling in the years to come.

1990

Digital storytelling emerges

By the year 1990, technological advancements led to the emergence of digital storytelling. The development of personal computers and graphic design software allowed individuals to create and share their stories in various digital formats. This opened up new possibilities for creativity and expanded storytelling beyond traditional mediums, making it accessible to a wider audience.

2005

Rise of social media storytelling

The year 2005 marked the rise of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, providing an innovative way for people to share their stories instantly and globally. Social media platforms became powerful tools for storytelling, allowing individuals to connect, inspire, and influence others through personal narratives, photographs, and videos.

Present

Diverse storytelling forms and mediums

In the present day, storytelling has transcended traditional boundaries and encompasses a multitude of forms and mediums. From books, movies, and documentaries to podcasts, virtual reality experiences, and interactive online storytelling, the possibilities are endless. Storytelling continues to shape cultures, inspire change, and provide a powerful means of expression and communication.

Did you know?

Did you know that 'National Tell a Story Day' isn’t just a fun national day but also a brilliant conversation idea for a first date? That's right - storytelling strengthens bonds and builds connections.