How Our Little Elves Became Authors

Sometime inspiration comes from the most unexpected places.  This time our inspiration to write came from sets of fun, lively, and colorful illustrations found on Storybird.  It's a site where you can choose a set of illustrations to use for your pictures in a book authored by you!  Each group worked with a group from Mrs. Budman's class in PA to write an original story.  First, we Skyped to choose our illustrations, next groups took turns switching the story back and forth digitally, last we Skyped to agree on a title.  Our favorite part was reading what the other group wrote.  Sometimes you think you know the direction the story is headed, but their were many surprises along the way.  Also, two groups used Andy McNally's illustrations and two groups used the art of shishir.  The groups came up with completely unique stories using the same set of pictures as another group.  During the final Skype call, students in both classes were wearing holiday headgear.... so they chose to author them accordingly.  Thank you to Mrs. Budman's class for collaborating with us! 

Will the Big Problem in Sillyville Be Solved? on Storybird

Mr. Ice Cream Man's Sweet Plan on Storybird

A Weird Problem is Brewing in Animal Corner on Storybird

Chester's Big Dream on Storybird