Because of an overemphasis on analyzing literature, it can feel like teaching how to write fiction is far too difficult for normal people. That is absolute rot. You tell your children stories all the time. They probably tell you stories as well. OK, some of their “stories” aren’t exactly truthful, but they also tell real stories. If asked, they can make up a quick story with just a bit of prompting.

You can make up stories yourself. If you can make up a character, a situation, and an outcome, you’ve created a story. Stories are a fundamental part of who we are and therefore anyone can create stories. Your stories may not be masterpieces of fine literature, but then again, there are lots of masterpieces of fine literature that have absolutely no meaning to normal lives. A story about a little lie that turns into something bad happening is a whole lot more relevant and instructional to your child than anything written by Hemingway, Faulkner, or any of the other renowned literature icons. There is a time and place for great literature (where would we ever be without Jane Austen?!?) but everything starts with our own internal stories.

At Create Great Stories, the courses are designed to help teach interesting, shareable stories. However, everything starts with the recognition that the skills enhance the already inherent ability you already have to create original stories. You can teach your children how to write stories! Your children have the ability to write stories! You can help them achieve the most fundamental connection with other people by the use of telling stories. And it’s going to be a whole lot easier than teaching almost any other subject because it’s already in the deepest part of your soul.