Youth
Storytelling
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What audiences are saying about The Normal Storyteller and his tales? Look below for comments by PARENTS, TEACHERS, LIBRARIANS, READERS, ADMINISTRATORS, and more... The references listed below are real! 
"Your CD is wonderful...... You have definitely created an award winning piece."
Mary Jo Huff, Indiana Storyteller and National Early Childhood Speaker "Your storytelling at TIBE (The Taiwan Book Fair) was a big success. It was a full house, even the floor was packed with kids sitting around on the ground."
Jerome Su, Owner of B.K. Norton's in Taipei, Taiwan, Founder of Bookman's Company in Taiwan "Your enthusiasm, the dialects, the humor, and the participatory nature of your stories made the night a hit!"
David Leake, Coordinator for Staerkel Planetarium, Champaign, IL (Comments about Stories by Starlight Program) "In the midst of storms last night, we had to go to the basement. Instead of being afraid, our sons were having a blast walking around singing songs like the river spirits from Anansi in your CD!"
John Leitzen, Businessman and Parent in Heyworth (His sons are proud owners of all four of Dr. Lockett's CDs.) "His specialty is to focus on the folk tales of America, including dialects, unusual language patterns, and regional vocabularies. The students were excited by his excellent presentations."
"Pantagraph," Bloomington, IL "I remember your stories from Grant School in Chicago about ten years ago?"
Bradley University Student in Peoria, IL (remembering a tale a decade later) “It’s obvious that this man knows how to talk to kids.” – NAPPA - National Association of Parenting Product Awards
Mother of three - 2008 Product Tester and Reviewer for NAPPA Tales for the Young at Heart won a 2008 NAPPA Honors Award. "Dr. Lockett is about the best story teller around."
Kevin Curtain, Principal of Garfield School in Peoria, Illinois "My daughter listens to Dr. Lockett's CD over and over. I think she has every story memorized."
Parent of a special education child in central Illinois at Tri-Valley Elementary School in Downs "My son goes to bed listening to Lockett's stories every night."
Terry Ludwig, Director Sound of Illinois Chorus, Bloomington, IL "Shhhhh! Maybe if we're quiet, he'll tell us a story again tomorrow!"
Overheard at Towanda School in Towanda, IL from a story loving student. "Dr. Lockett's tales contained wonderful messages, required audience participation and the use of imagination. Dr. Lockett shared interesting statistics and encouraging words with the parents regarding the importance of sharing time together and reading as a family."
Alison TouVelle, Event Chairperson, Northmoor-Edison Primary School, Peoria, IL "I wasn't doing 'nothin' wrong . . . I was only listening so I could tell my brother a story at home."
(Middle school student in Chicago caught hiding out behind library shelves during a storytelling program) "Mr. Story, those were the best special effects I ever have seen!"
Fourth grade student at Oakdale School in Normal, IL after storytelling assembly.
Special Comments About Dr. Lockett's Programs From Principals and Other Administrators April, 2010
""What a wonderful presentation! Our teachers and students were "Wowed" by your stories and your storytelling skills. Thank you! The classroom presentations were especially enjoyable for our boys and girls. We look forward to your return to our school."
Dr. Robert P. Walter Jr., Principal, Nettie Davis School, Watseka, Illinois, Past President Illinois Principals Association March, 2010
"We have received the book order (the teachers were so happy). Thank you again for a wonderful asembly that was absolutely perfect for 3-6 year olds. The students really enjoyed themselves."
Lori Motsch, Principal, Spencer Trail School, New Lenox, IL (The teachers at New Lenox were among the first to be able to purchase Dr. Lockett's new books.) June, 2007
"I received nothing but positive comments from students and staff regarding you and your presentation. THANK YOU! You know how difficult it is to have an assembly EVERYONE likes."
Rick Sharp, Principal, Beverly Manor Elementary School, Washington, IL March 23, 2007
"I have nothing but rave reviews!!! I asked for a little feedback (from the staff) and received wonderful comments. I only wish I could have been at more of the sessions. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I can't say enough how much our students learned and enjoyed your session. The word is out and I hope you don't mind that I've sent your email address to XXX ~ they are interested in having just you come and do a presentation with their high school. Please let me know if there is anything I can do as a follow-up to your time here. I would be happy to be a reference for you. Thanks,"
Amy Coffman, Assistant Principal, Metcalf Lab School, Normal, IL November 29, 2006
"Our third grade teacher was thoroughly impressed by your presentation to her students. You captured and held their attention for the full hour and fifteen minutes, and they had a great time listening and asking questions. The fact that you told historical fistionstories about people who actually lived in McLean County helped her to address these (Illinois State Standards for social science) standards as well as several language arts standards. The students were completely enthralled and couldn't stop talking about your stories. Even today, the students were recalling parts of the stories and songs they heard yesterday."
Carmen Bergmann, Principal, Carlock Elementary School, Carlock, IL June, 2006
"Our students enjoyed the stories for their educational benefit as well as the humor that was meshed within the stories. Our staff was impressed enough to request them back for future assemlies."
Kurt Swearingen, Principal, Prairieland Elementary School, Normal, IL (referring to program by Mike Lockett and Vivian Carter) Spring, 2006
"Thank you for such a worthwhile and rewarding afternoon!"
Scott Myers, Principal Hudson Elementary November 2006
"The storytelling enticed and enchanted the students. The children were actively listening and participating in the assembly."
Sarah Edwards, Principal, Towanda Elementary School, Towanda, IL June, 2000
"Mike's storytelling motivates students to read more because it makes books come alive in the students. Students look at reading in a different light after hearing Dr. Lockett's stories." (Part of nomination for the 'Those Who Excel' in Education award for Illinois Administrators. Dr. Lockett won the award as Administrator of the Year in Peoria in 2001 and won honors at the state level as a school administrator.)
Dr. Maxine Wortham, Executive director Early Childhood Programs, Peoria, IL
From Librarians December, 2011
"I am the librarian at Olympia South Elementary and I just wanted to share with you that your books were purchased when you visited our students last year, and they are never on our shelves! The students love reading them and request them all the time! Thank you so much for providing such engaging reading material!"
Ami Lawson, Olympia South Elementary Librarian September, 2011
"Thanks so much for the great storytelling at Bloomington Public Library! The storytelling of the Aesop’s fable, “The Tortoise and the Hare” was delightful! The children were enthralled, and your use of the puppets and your voice to convey the “action”, made the kids feel as if they were the only ones “in on the secret” about how the story would end. Many thanks for your contribution to the Louisa May Alcott program series. Your ability to research and use your teaching background shine through in your presentations, making for meaningful encounters for all ages."
Julie Derden, Teaching Liaison, Illinois state University June, 2009
"Mike Lockett had our summer reading program youth (pre-K - 5th) laughing and telling stories with him and their full attention! He is a master storyteller who weaves each audience member into his tales through audience participation. What a wonderful central Illinois treasure we have. Keep sharing your stories and talent, Dr. Lockett.
Beth Porter, Summer Reading Program Coordinator, Heyworth Public Library June, 2008
"Dr. Lockett's performance was very professional and well received by our patrons, so I have no hesitation recommending his services to others. In addition to his prompt and professional demeanor, Dr. Lockett's performance was varied and engaging. He was able to hold the attention of even the youngest members for the full length of his performance without losing the interest of the adults. The stories were a broad sampling of traditional folktales complete with varied use of voices as well as audience participation. Many of the children were also impressed with his use of the dulcimer and incorporation of song into the stories. Based on our library's experience, any organization would be pleased with the performance and professional dealings with Dr. Lockett, The Normal Storyteller
Katherin Nolan, Carlinville PublicYouth Services Librarian, Pontiac Public Library, Pontiac, IL March 3, 2006
I wanted to thank you very much for the wonderful CD ....it has been very enjoyable to listen to. I have been playing it in the evening when I'm cooking dinner; my family has been coming into the kitchen and enjoying it with me! (Imagine 2 teenagers and a seven year old plus their father all gathered around the table so they can listen to the stories with me.) That definitely says something positive...you are a wonderful storyteller and easily catch the attention of others! I will definitely keep you in mind whenever the need arrives for a performer. Thanks again!
Lisa Davenport, Carlinville Public Library, Carlinville, IL June 23, 2006
"Thank you for enchanting the Book Island Readers at Parlin-Ingersoll Public Library with stories from around the world. You made the summer reading theme come alive for the children by discussing islands and involving them in the dialogue. I watched the children's faces as you told the stories. They were mesmerized by your voice and the expressions on your face. Thanks for sharing your talent with us."
Linda Schultz, Youth Services Librarian, Parlin-Ingersoll Public Library, Canton, IL October, 1995
"The evening was a success! The library has never been so full of parents, students and staff. The children still ask about you. You made a great impression."
Debi Fulk, Harrison Library Manager, Peoria Public Schools
From Teachers and College Instructors October, 2011
"Our youngest learners on campus at ISU Childcare Center had a GREAT experience today with Master Storyteller Mike Lockett--- "The Normal Storyteller" and honored ISU Alum from 1972. He played the dulcimer, harmonica, told stories and sang songs with the kids. After his presentation, when I told the children I purchased his storytelling CD for the Center, they literally broke out jumping up and clapping! He certainly struck a chord with them all. ... I just wanted everyone to know that Mike Lockett's visit today was wildly successful; a hit with the children, teachers, FCS college students and our parents in attendance."
Karen Stephens, Director of Illinois State University Child Care Center May, 2010
"Thank you again for the wonderful experiences you provided our students on Monday. The children, teachers and parents are still talking about your talent for involving and entertaining them all. I look forward to seeing you again. J"
Linda Schulthes, Title I Director, ROWVA School District, Western Illinois March, 2010 (note to principal by teacher)
"Thanks for having Dr. Lockett come today. He was an awesome storyteller, and my kids loved it! We actually came back down and read our story "From Head to Toe" by Eric Carl during reading and then made up our own story motions like Dr. Lockett did with us today to go along with the story. He really showed that there are so many ways to incorporate different reading strategies in the classroom, too by taking opportunities for certain books to change them into stories of our own in the classroom. It was fun to have the kids involved in helping make a story. I just wanted to say thanks for having him come in."
Lisa Homerding, Kindergarten Teacher, Milford, Grade School, Milford, IL (after student assembly) February, 2010
"Dr. Lockett is a natural at not only connecting with kids, but also at establishing a passion for stories within young learners in an inspiring and animated way! He puts forth no effort to disguise his love of words as he intertwines values and lessons in his storytelling approach."
Laurel Noble, Seth Whitman Elementary School, Belvidere, IL May, 2009
"Your presence and wonderful storytelling made a huge hit at all levels here. We find so many references to your stories in our lives here, and students beg to have you come back."
Judy Robinson, Title I Teacher February, 2006
"The program last Wed. went above and beyond my expectations--and basic needs for the course. Already, we've talked about storytelling and students have referenced methods of storytelling in their writing."
Julie Fraser, Literature Instructor, Heartland Community College, Normal, IL 61761 June, 2000
"I have seen him (Dr. Lockett) have an entire gymnasium full of students 'in the palms of his hands.' His presentations skillfully combine suspense, humor and anticipation. I have never before seen an individual presenter mesmerize an entire student body for the length of time he is speaking. (Regarding National Library Week program for approximately 325 at-risk middle school students)
Carol P. Adams, Sixth Grade Teacher, White Middle School, Peoria, IL
From Parents and Parent/Family Programs March, 2012
"I have listened to you tell stories in groups from preschool age to adults, and I have yet to see any of the crown (especially myself) not mesmerized. I have 2 of your CD's myself."
Lisa Matchett, Parent in Normal, IL (after scouting event) September, 2011
"Your stories saved the day. School was out and ... Our whole family has been enjoying your stories. - I know I keep saying that over and over. It means a lot to me to find something my children (especially the 3 younger ones) can do together without fighting.
Shery, Hackel, Parent in Pennsylvania. (Former student of Dr. Lockett) November, 2008
"Mike, You truly are a gift to the children of the world. I hope you realize how special you are. Thank you for making my son's 6th birthday party one he and his friends will NEVER forget!
Lori Cook Baird, Central Illinois Parent June, 2007
"Mike, I enjoyed the recent Pantagraph article about your storytelling activities in your retirement. It brought to mind that storytelling was a part of your teaching, as evidenced by our son Andy, who was a student of yours in his 4th grade year. Andy would tell us from time to time how much he enjoyed your storytelling because it helped him to remember facts in the lesson. Good luck in your "new" old endeavors."
Judy Hirsch, Parent of former student and former school secretary April, 2002
"We thoroughly enjoyed your program! It just can't be said enough! You met all our expectations and went beyond. The messages to our parents and teachers in between your stories helped tie our program into a great present for all those that attended. It was a pleasure to host you."
Rosie, Title I Coordinator for Freeport, Illinois Schools
From Churches and Church Leaders February, 2011
"This workshop was very instructional. The topic was great! The handout was helpful. Bring him back!"
Evaluation from Equip Ministries Conference in Peoria, IL (Topic was "A Practical Look at Using Stories in Ministry") January, 2010
"Thanks for making the Bible come alive for us."
Victor Y, Taiwan Fall, 2009
"Just a note to say thank you. We loved your stories and truly enjoyed the fellowship. We can't pay you what it was worth to us, but we pray God will continually bless you.
Elder Lee Carter, Gospel Experience Church, Peoria, IL August, 2009
"You have been an amazing blessing not only to the adults but also to the children and teens at our Taiwan Missionary Fellowship Conference. In my opinion you and John have helped make this conference the best one ever."
Callum, TMF (Taiwan Missionary Fellowship) Conference Chair August, 2009
"This week will be a pivotal point in my ministry. We got a BIG dose of storytelling and we were shown how we can teach Bible storytelling. I believe it will be a dynamic much used of God for discipleship."
From evaluations at Taiwan Missionary Fellowship Conference
July, 2009
"What a delight and blessing you have brought us this week. Thanks so much for all your stories, instruction and vision-casting. Note: Mike was invited back again in January, 2010.
Anne Alexander, Hsinchu Taiwan May, 2008
"Mike Lockett has become a favorite storyteller at our church, especially with our Awana kids. The kids literally gasp with delight when they see him come in the door and say, "The Storyteller!" I highly recommend Dr. Lockett for storytelling."
Rhoda Kennell, Awana Sparks Director, East White Oak Bible Church, Carlock, IL December, 2007
"It was our pleasure to have Dr. Michael Lockett with us for a day. Dr. Lockett told stories to the Sunday School classes, delivered the message during our morning Worship service, and returned to present a program in the evening. His skillful weaving of stories, both secular and religious, was well received by all of our youngsters, from pre-school to those well into their eighties. His entire presentation was suitable for a mixed-age audience and contained absolutely no objectionable material. His ability to slip into character helped make the stories come alive and his interaction with the audience, especially the young children, made the stories come to life. Note: Dr. Lockett was invited back again in 2008.
Pastor Leroy Allison, Arthur (IL) United Methodist Church
From Storytellers     November, 2008
"In the storytelling world, only a few performers have the mimetic gift to create vocal effects that transport and entertain the listener. Mike Lockett, although he is The Normal Storyteller, is supra-normal when it comes to this art form. A master of sound effects."
Odds Bodkins, award-winning master talesman and author (In response to Mike's family performance at the Three Apples Storytelling Festival in Bedford, MA) February, 2008
"One of the things I love most about Mike is his way of drawing you into a tale. He is an expert at building the suspense in a story up to a cymbal-crashing crescendo. He can also make the most serious of listeners double over in full-bellied laughter. In addition, Mike builds in the element of participation into almost every tale he tells. The young and the young at heart are more than eager to jump in and play a part. The real story often begins with the spark Mike ignites in the mind of his listener."
Sadarri Saskill, from Sadarri and Company
Award Winning International Storyteller and Recording Artist April, 2007
"Brother, You stole our dialect, and you did it better than we do."
Brother Blue, famed storyteller and street poet (In response to listening to Mike tell his Caribbean version of Anansi and the Python at the Sharing the Fire Conference in New Hampshire) April, 2006
"I enjoyed every word of every story on your new CD and it let me travel to so many lands with my imagination. A great talent - sharing story with the whole world."
National Storyteller and Early Childhood Presenter , Mary Jo Huff of Indiana February 21, 2006
"I consider myself a very 'picky' audience, and yet you captivated me from the very first story! Your talents include seamless storytelling, a wonderful flair for voices and sound effects, and child-like enthusiasm that is downright infectious!"
Sandy Silver, Storyteller, Ventriloquist-Songstress - (In response to listening to Tales from the Hills)
From Conferences and Festivals November, 2011
"I attended your storytelling session at ELT in Taipei yesterday, It was a brilliant presentation that you had in both English and Chinese. Bravo! You also came to the Taipei American School a few years ago and had storytelling sessions with our children. I am thankful for your devotion in teaching teachers how to use storytelling to teach all peopl.' "
S. Chen, Grade 1 & 3 Support Teacher, Taipei American School October, 2011
"We want to express our appreciation for the workshop you did for us on Telling Stories to Children. You drew an enthusiastic audience. Most of them signed up for our newly formed Storytelling Guild. Your workshop was certainly a significant spark in what we hope will be a storytelling explosion here. As one participant commented, 'This opened up a whole new world for me.' "
Mike and Betty Roe, Storytelling Festival Committeem Performing Arts Alliance of Rural Tennessee (Following Dr. Lockett's appearance at the Cumberland Mountain Storytelling Festival) September, 2011
"Dr. Mike Lockett always has a historical anecdote to share. His stories are, as he often explains of the strange but true variety that causes his listener's eyes to open wide in anticipation of a surprise ending. He plucks his dulcimer absently as he spins the tale and glances up to gauge the effect on the listener as the story winds down to its conclusion. He takes a quiet moment to strum a mournful chorus of "Rally Round the Flag, Boys" As he gazes off into the distancethen turns back and asks with a twinkle in his eye, "Have you heard the one about . . . ?" If you have the opportunity to listen to some of Mike's stories, by all means take it."
Oriene Morrow Springstroh, Editor, Illinois state Genealogical Society Quarterly (This comment followed Dr. Lockett's keynote address in Springfield, IL for their National Conference Luncheon.) April, 2011
"I enjoyed listening to your presentation at the Illinois ASCD Kindergarten Conference. It was entertaining. I really like how your books are dual language and they have the cd story with them.Thanks again for speaking at the conference. I look forward to seeing you at the 2012 conference.
Angela Horner, Classroom Teacher, St. Charles, IL August, 2010
"Several people stopped me to tell me how much they enjoyed your presentation." (Illinois ASCD Leadership Training Conference, Galena, IL)
William Dodds, Executive Director of Illinois ASCD August, 2010
"Enjoyed your presentation at the YES preconference. Thanks for sharing so much and so many valuable resources on your website. What a wonderful conference we had! As a board member, I am delighted and thrilled. As a storyteller, I'm still blissed and blessed. Kudos to all who helped make it (The National Storytelling Conference) so successful. That included you." (YES = Youth, Educators and Storytellers)
Jane Crouse, Storyteller and Member of Board of National Storytelling Network April, 2010
"Thank you once again for presenting at this year's Great Lakes Conference. Without knowlegable presenters such as yourself, we could not possibly offer our conference. Evaluations of 4.93 out of 5.0 for the overall quality of Dr. Lockett's presentation, including his effectiveness and to hold the interest of the attendees)
Jennifer Morgan, President-Elect and Conference Chair for Wisconsin Council for Social Studies December, 2009
"Everything ran so smoothly. The children of all ages enjoyed your songs and storytelling! I can't tell you how much your part helped maintain structure & the many smiles on the children's faces when you greeted them."
Bloomington Festival of Trees Coordinator December, 2007
"There is probably no other person who shared as much as you during the five days of The Festival & brought so much joy as a result. Your talents, support & friendship are truly appreciated."
Larry Phillips,Chairperson Festival of Trees
Dr. Lockett entertained during five days of the Baby Fold Festival of Trees with an extensive amount of storytelling, and with vocal music with his Barbershop quartet. August, 2007
Your wealth of knowledge helped make Spring into Training a huge success!
Carrie Margis, Illinois Trainers Network Project Assistant April 14, 2006
We received very good evaluations- averaged out at 9.89 out of 10 almost perfect- I am very happy to have received such a great score!! You are so good for all ages!! And that is proof!! Thanks again for beginning the Rock Island Trail Storytelling Festival with such success- we did have a great day!
Lorraine Stotts, Children's Librarian, Peoria Heights Public Library March 30, 2007
The 2007 IRC Conference can be hailed as a success, and you were a part of the excellent programming. Our attendance at the conference was over 2900. We appreciate your willingness to share your expertise with fellow teachers and administrators.
Arlene Pennie, Executive Director, Illinois Reading Conference
From Senior Citizen Organizations December, 2009
"I want you to know how much we appreciated your fantastic program.
Audrey Bishop, Young at Heart Senior Program for St. Pat's of Myrna Church. (Note: Second program in two years) May, 2009
"Your program was wonderful. We enjoyed your dynamic stories and words of wisdom. We appreciated your visit - talent, stories, dulcimer, and resident involvement.
Janice Kiper, Westminster Village, Bloomington, IL
From Young Authors' Programs and Conferences April, 2009
“We are privileged to have as our storyteller, the multi-talented Dr. Mike Lockett. Dr. Michael Lockett is an accomplished storyteller. He travels throughout Illinois and the Midwest telling stories to audiences of all ages from pre-school through senior citizens. He is known for his audience participation stories and his use of dialects when telling traditional folktales.”
(Pre-Program flyer for Lockett's second appearance at Madison County Young Author's Conference in Edwardsville, IL)
April, 2009
Thank so much for the time and effort you gave for our young author celebration at Lexington. Your interaction with and the response of the students was fantastic. I don't think we have ever had a presenter that was so universally liked, from little ones, older students, and even teachers. They just couldn't say enough nice things about your presentation. The only question I heard was, "When can we have him come again?"
Jan Heuer, Lexington, IL April, 2007
"The audience thoroughly enjoyed his sound effects, his dialects and his not-so-normal manner of telling stories. At the end of his storytelling, he talked to the parents about the importance of reading to and with their children as well as being the role-model that our children of today so desperately need. Please keep Dr. Mike Lockett in mind, if your district will be using a storyteller. He's one of the best I've heard."
(Marti Kismer, Regional Office of Education, Edwardsville, IL)
From Workshop Participants April, 2009
"You were an absolute joy to watch at the NCSS conference! You are an inspiration to teachers everywhere. Thank you for sharing your gift."
Candi Bauernfiend, Social Studies Teacher March, 2002
"I truly enjoyed Dr. Lockett! He was very inspirational and encouraging and uplifting, etc. etc. He really captures everyone! His message and the way he presented it sent us out inspired and on our way!"
Ann Joyce, Educator (comment from program evaluation for Peoria County Educators' Professional Day, March 15, 2002
From Students May, 2011
"Thank you for coming to our school and telling us Civil War Stories. The stories were really interesting. I had not heard any of them before.
"Josh F., Student at Prairieland Elementary School in Normal, Illinois Note: Dr. Lockett has been asked by teachers to tell Civil War stories for FIVE years in a row for fifth graders. Contact teachers at Prairieland for references. April, 2011
"Dr. Lockett's stories were weird and funny at the same time. The stories were really fun to listen to!" AND "I liked the sound effects and how they added to the stories that I've heard before. I liked the way Dr. Lockett changed the stories and gave me a different way of thinking about them, It made them fun to hear!" AND "The stories were really good because stories were really good because Dr. Lockett had a way of making them come alive.
"Anna, Austin, and Sierra, Students at Hartem Elementary School in Illinois
From Readers June, 2010
"I always like a good story that teaches the value of friendships. This book does just that. Even as an adult, we can learn the lessons here. Recently I was a little annoyed by an innocent habit of a friend. Then I read this book, and realized the message was not just for children, but for me. Thanks, I needed that.!"
John Walsh,International Christian Storyteller and Author of the Art of Storytelling talks about Dr. Lockett's book, Monkey and Rabbit Together
From Listeners in Other Countries November, 2011
"Dear Mike, I went to Guangming Primary School in Hsinchu to listen to your storytelling seminar. It was great to listen to you. You are really a master. I have long been thinking about how to perfect my teaching skills, and now I find the key after I heard and saw what you have shown us. You have opened my eyes. Thank you. May God bless you and your work."
Fang Ziqin of Guandong Primary School in Hsinchu City. August, 2007
"I had a great opportunity enjoying your storytelling training class which was held by east west books on August 5. You are really an amazing and wonderful storyteller. Thank you sooooooo much for what you have done to (for) Taiwan and to me. I learned a lot and I tried to tell stories to my little boy... Please keep on what you are doing to (for) the children and parents in the world. You are giving us a better world, and that's beautiful. Thank you!"
Winnie Chang, Classroom Teacher and Parent (of 2 year old son) from Taipei, Taiwan
(Comment based on series January, 2007
"Dear Dr. Lockett, On behalf of the hundreds of students who had the privilege of hearing you share your wonderful stories today, thank you so much. We a appreciate your time and energy in making oral tradition come alive."
Rick Rabon, Principal, Taipei American School February, 2007
Thank you , thank you, thank YOU! It was my great honor to talk to you and learn from you during your visit (to Taiwan). You have no ideas how touched I was when I was listening to your stories, watching you having fun and observing how you treated each person so nicely! I know it takes a lot of love and belief to do what you did for us!
Wendy Shyu, Classroom Teacher/Educational Consultant for Scholastic Company, Taipei, Taiwan
(Comment based on series of lectures/storytelling performances at five Taiwanese universities, Taiwan Elementary schools and Taipei Book Fair in January, 2007), January, 2008
"To make those stories in a high speed world where entertainment sound bites fly at you a dozen a minute, he uses old-fashioned fun and well-honed honest talent, singing barbershop music, imitating sounds of nature, adding music to help the tale. In his denim clothes and straw hat, he's the image of a farmhand, wire rim glasses on a delightful cherry face and hands that move constantly during presentations at schools, churches, workshops and libraries."
A**x Dorset, The Bahamas Weekly
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