Your Story Your Way

K-Gr 6—Barbara Joosse is the award-winning author of over 40 picture books, such as Mama Do You Love Me?" and I Love You the Purplest. This program introduces the author and her approach to writing. In the first 15-minute segment, she takes viewers on a tour of her home and introduces family members and friends. There's also a walk through town to her office and tips on how a writer might get ideas for a story. The majority of this segment seems random and, except for the final bit, is a disappointment. The author's lack of a clear focus is not helped by jumpy camera work and a few continuity problems. The second segment is much more valuable. Joosse focuses on the writing process, offering tips on how to prepare to write a story; how to develop a beginning, middle, and end; choosing the right words; and finding a good "voice." There are plenty of opportunities to stop the program for class discussion. The camera work is much steadier in this part, although there are still a few problems with angles. Bonus features include a short biography of the author, information about The Happy Racers musical group (some of their songs were written by Joosse), and a performance of three of their songs that go with one of her books. The intent of this program is admirable—it's just unfortunate that it wasn't better edited.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary, Federal Way, WA