When storytelling, in any medium, it is important to have a clear structure and purpose. Using a story spine is a great way to do just that. The structure of the story spine is broken down into 5 sections.
1. The Beginning
This is when the main character’s world is introduced to the audience. The main character is described and their normal routine is established. The sentence starters used in this section of the story spine are:
Once upon a time…
Every day…
2. The Event
The next step in the story spine is the event, this is where the routine is interrupted. Something happens in the main characters life or world that breaks the normal everyday routine that is established in the beginning. The sentence starter used in this section of the story spine is:
But, one day…
3. The Middle
This is where the bulk of the story takes place. The main character experiences major consequences as a direct result of the routine being broken. There is no clear path and the outcome is unclear. The sentence starters used in this section of the story spine are:
Because of that…
Because of that…
Because of that…
Typically there are 3 incidents in the story that the main character experiences. One is a result of the other.
4. The Climax
This is where the main character’s journey comes to a peak. They experience success or failure as a direct result of what they were faced with. The sentence starter used in this section of the story spine is:
Until finally…
5. The End
For the main character the world has forever changed. Whether the they have success or failure, in the end, a new routine is established. The sentence starter used in this section of the story spine is:
And, ever since then…
The author, Kenn Adams, who created the story spine has said that over the 3 decades since he developed it others have taken it and modified it to make it their own. But some of these adaptations have made it less powerful. I think that the power of the story spine is in its simplicity. It gives the author a structure of a story of which they can build upon.
You have a small window of opportunity to stop someone from scrolling and be interested in what your post has to offer. What can you say to make someone stop scrolling? How do you keep their attention? Make them react?
You want to convey a good story, all within the limitations of a social media platform. To do this, there are a few simple tricks that will help your social media writing and grab your readers’ attention:
In the fascinating world of storytelling, every great narrative creates a story that is trying to help you. Whether you’re writing a book, blog, or a simple post, there are certain principles to develop your story from ordinary to captivating. Let’s unlock the secrets with these 5 essential storytelling principles:
1. Plot & Planning:
Plot and planning is the architect of the story, a blueprint that guides the characters throughout the journey. Thoughtful planning helps to develop a cohesive and engaging story, that leads the audience on a fascinating adventure. A Storyboard is helpful in this creative process it will flush out the main ideas.
2. Captivate the Audience:
A captivating story is one that grabs its audience from the start. By creating characters or a story that is relatability, and will solve an issue. Draw the readers or viewers into a place where they can invest emotionally. Captivating the audience requires building a connection between your audience and the story /characters, making them care about the outcome.
3. Conflicts & Resolutions:
A story is must contain conflict. It is the crucible in which characters are tried and changed. Conflicts and resolutions add layers to the story that develop tension and uncertainty. Whether internal struggles or external challenges, conflicts afford the risks that keep the audience wanting to know more. We want a solution, even in digital media the audience is looking for resolutions.
4. Emotions that Resonate:
Emotion is the essence of any story. Emotions that resonate stay with the audience long after the story ends. Whether it’s joy, sorrow, anger, or fear, evoking genuine emotions generates a thoughtful connection. Showcasing the human experience in all its complexity enhances storytelling, the story becomes unforgettable and impactful.
5. Conclusion that Makes Sense:
A satisfying conclusion is the string that ties a story together. A Conclusion that makes sense doesn’t automatically mean a tidy ending; rather, it suggests a resolution that feels earned and reasonable. It answers remaining questions, supplies closure to character arcs, and leaves the audience with a feeling of fulfillment.
I love Christmas, the whole Christmas season! I love the music. I love the magic. I love time spent with loved ones. I love giving. I love cheesy Hallmark Christmas movies (regular Christmas movies are pretty good too). I love the traditions. I love the decorations!
One of our Christmas traditions is decorating the house the last weekend in November. Decorating day is a much anticipated event around here, only third in line after Christmas Day and the day the scout elves arrive. This year I live tweeted the momentous event.
How it Started
I began my story by setting the scene. The first step is dragging all the decorations upstairs from the storage room in the basement and cleaning the area to prepare it. There was lots of excitement and my elves were eager to help! The first few hours were filled with lots of teamwork, stories of our favorite ornaments and Christmas’ past. Each year we each buy a new Hallmark ornament so they are all special and all have their own unique story. Then things started to get a little dicey.
My ‘type A personality’ started to kick in and I was doing my best to keep my composure but the elves ornament placement didn’t quite have the same vision as I did. I decided to look past it (or rather I had decided that I would make adjustments once the elves were asleep!) and turn my attention to the mess of ornament packaging. A few disagreements ensued between the elves because one wouldn’t share with the other and feelings were hurt. I had my doubts if we were going to be able to complete the decorating in one night. My momma intuition kicked in and figured they were hangry elves that needed to eat. While most elves food consists of “candy, candy canes, candy corn and syrup”, according to Buddy the elf, we decided to order pizza. With fully bellies and tired bodies the Prep and Landing TV short made its way onto the television and I knew this had become a solo mission.
How it’s Going
I will admit at this point I was feeling a little hopeless. The house was a mess, there was boxes and decorations half put together all over the place, I knew I needed help. So I called in a couple of reinforcements named Innis & Gunn. They really helped encourage me to keep going. And little by little things started to come together. First, Santa’s village was completed with only one casualty. He’s still in decoration hospital but he’s expected to make a full recovery. Then the mantle above the fireplace took shape. It took a long time to put together. I am so grateful for those temporary 3M hooks. Without them I wouldn’t have been able to hang the stockings or keep the garland in place.
How it Ended
Completion of that gave me the motivation to get the last of the decorating completed. The half dressed tree the elves had started was my last assignment. I added more ornaments, mostly the round shinny kind and placed the tree topper, an angel. It was late, my feet were aching and my eyes were burning. It had been a long day but it was sure nice to sit back and enjoy all the work we put into decorating the house.
Everyone knows the classic tale of the hairy green outcast that plans to ruin Christmas for the whimsical town of Whoville. The story is not so much about How the Grinch Stole Christmas, even though it is the title, but Why the Grinch Stole Christmas and What he learned in the process. This story is simple, it follows a well planned story spine, is relatable and even though the main character is a grumpy, selfish, beast, in the end we all fall in love with him. But why is that? Why does this interest us? Lets take a closer look at the mechanics of the story.
Once upon a time…
The story begins by describing a secluded Grinch. The author, Dr. Seuss, paints a picture of an outcast that is not like others. “Every Who down in Who-ville liked Christmas a lot… but the Grinch, who lived just north of Who-ville did NOT!”
His location is outside of the town. His name is and identity are different; he’s a Grinch not a Who. And he is the only one that does not like Christmas. While I don’t always like to admit it, there have been times in my life where I felt like I didn’t fit in, like I was not part of the group. Making that connection with the character, makes it feel like we are involved in the story.
Every day…
As the story continues, we learn that every Christmas the Whos’ wake early (disrupting the Grinch’s sleep), quickly open their presents and make a lot of “Noise! Noise! Noise! Noise!” They are then described to sit down to a feast of “Who-pudding, and rare Who-roast-beast”. And if that weren’t enough they would then join hands and start singing!
When it seems like everyone around us is jolly and enjoying all the events, festivities, music, materialism of the season but all we feel is stress, chaos, and empty wallets. I think this one of the reasons this story is so powerful as there are so many that can relate to how the Grinch feels like an outsider, all alone in the craziness of the season. If it wasn’t already, by now the readers interest is peaked. We have an understanding of why he is so grinchy but what will the Grinch do?
But, one day…
For the Grinch this is too much to bare “I must stop this whole thing! Why, for fifty-three years I’ve put up with it now! I MUST stop this Christmas from coming!… But HOW?” All of a sudden, the Grinch got an idea that would finally break the Christmas routine for the Whos’.
This is where the Grinch is able to break the routine he has become accustomed to. He is no longer willing to endure the joy of the Whos’ and has decided to take action. The storytelling is a bit suspenseful here as the author doesn’t tell us exactly what the idea is and is a great way to keep the reader engaged.
Because of that…
The Grinch now must put his idea into action. First, he dresses the part “What a great Grinchy trick! With this coat and this hat, I look just like Saint Nick!” He even enlists the help of his sidekick, his dog Max to play the part of the reindeer.
At this point in the story we are not too sure what the Grinch is up to but we appreciate his creativity and ingenuity. Our curiosity keeps us engaged, which can be challenging today with our short attention spans. This book was original published in 1957 but this story has a strong narrative that promises to keep the readers attention.
Because of that…
They journey to Whoville on a sleigh with empty boxes and sacks in anticipation. In a rather clever way the Grinch imitates Santa Clause and goes down every chimney and clears out every home in Whoville. “Then he did the same thing to the other Whos’ houses. Leaving crumbs much too small for the other Whos’ mouses!”
While the thought of breaking and entering another persons home is not something that most of us would condone, we can relate. There has been times in everyone’s life when we have been driven to the brink of insanity and had thoughts of doing things that are questionable. Watching someone act on those thoughts is interesting. To anyone that has ever thought “what if?” this is a glimpse into that reality. This is yet another way the reader feels involved in the story.
Because of that…
Once their mission is complete they travel back up north to dump everything that was collected. The Grinch is filled with excitement in anticipation of what all the Whos’ will find when the awake. “They’re finding out now that no Christmas is coming!” He waits to hear their disappointment, so he can rejoice in their sorrow.
We know that the climax of the story is coming and we are anticipating the outcome. We expect that the Whos’ will wake and be saddened by what they find, much like the Grinch.
Until finally…
To the Grinch’s surprise what he hears is joy. He is confused that Christmas still comes even though he had stolen all the material items that make Christmas. But then he comes to the realization that ” ‘Maybe Christmas,’ he thought, ‘doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas… perhaps… means a little bit more!’ ” The Grinch then takes back all the presents and food and decorations to Whoville.
This is where the theme or message of the story is revealed. And it is the opposite of what we had thought would be the Whos’ reaction. It instructs us and provides meaning that, while at Christmas time there are presents and decorations and food and drinks and materialism, that is not the true meaning of Christmas. It is about the friends and family you share your time with. It is about giving. It is about celebrating together. It is about community. It is about believing in the magic that we all have inside of us. This is where I get those warm fuzzy feelings of Christmas.
And ever since then…
The Grinch then joins the Whos’ in their celebration. “And he… HE HIMSELF…! The Grinch carved the roast beast!
This is the resolution of the story. It eludes to the fact that from that time forward the Grinch participates in Christmas with the Whos’. And I’d like to think that he is no longer an outsider. The Whos’ accept the Grinch into the community the whole year. In the end this leaves us with a sense of happiness and the belief in the magic of Christmas. The ending inspires us to live the true meaning of Christmas.
A Classic Christmas Tradition
As you can see the story has a good foundation. The story spine shows the simplicity of the timeless tale. And the 4 I’s of good storytelling definitely hit the mark. Because of this How the Grinch Stole Christmas has had longevity and a timelessness that has been proven time after time in the many different adaptations of the tale. From the first animated cartoon, to the live action movie, a full length animated movie and even a Broadway musical, audiences through the generations have embraced the true meaning of Christmas.
Having hypnosis and improve come together is like a perfect storm. The power of relaxation and meditation, with the only thing holding you back is your morality and the power of suggestion. Mix that in with the force of improve with a Canadian legend, and you have yourself a winning combination. Hypnosis shows can be a little lackluster and repetitive, but when you have the comical mind and imagination of Colin Mochrie, it takes it to the next level!
I was lucky enough to have seen Colin Mochrie’s Hyprov comedy show for our company’s Christmas Party this year, and it was one for the books! I’m a 90’s baby, so I grew up watching Whose Line Is It Anyway? and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to experience an inkling of the cult classic. The show was hilarious and the volunteers were great and it’s what prompted me to live tweet a segment from the show.
Just had my company’s Christmas Party. And oh. my. gOD. I NEED TO TELL YOU ABOUT IT HAHA. Let’s set the mood, right? Just had a nice, fancy dinner at Vicky’s Bistro (#iykyk get the Alaskan, it slaps so hard every time) #EXSM3989pic.twitter.com/0SUdbEQuOs
When I was live tweeting, I wanted to follow a few simple principles of snippet storytelling. I wrote the way I talk – I wanted to share my experience with others, and I wanted others to be as excited as I was. I wanted my thread to have intent and to set the stage for the joke. I tried to be relatable with how I posted, and wanted to build up the suspense for the zinger that one of the volunteers had. I tried to evoke a reaction/emotion, be it warm and fuzzy for remembering the joys of Whose Line Is It Anyway? or the absolute hilarity that ensued from the joke. I added hashtags where I could and also included visuals that would hopefully catch the eye and used punctuation in a way that would maybe stop someone from scrolling and be interested.
And now for a classic Whose Line Is It Anyway? moment #arctictern
Like most, I love me a good movie. It’s nice to be able to sit down and forget about reality for a bit and dive into the life of something or someone else.
I watched a highly anticipated movie when it first came out in 2009, and to this day, it left a lasting impression on me. I remember feeling inspired, in awe, there was love and loss, conflict and resolution, and had a good, strong narrative. I remember feeling like I was having an existential crisis afterwards. The feeling and inspiration of wanting to do more.. be more.
The Na’vi people have a word for “bond” or “connection” and it’s called Tsaheylu – a mental connection to one another. This connection in a way, was brought to life, when experiencing this movie for the first time. You felt like you were a part of the the character’s development and the trials and tribulations of Jake Sully, Neytiri, Dr. Grace Augustine, the Na’vi people, and the creatures of Pandora. Each with their own unique layers, motivations, and struggles. You had characters you fell in love with and were rooting for, and you had the villains you despised. The emotion put into every single detail of the alien environment, music and characters is fantastic and the story it told was remarkable. The connection between the current real world encroachment on our ecosystems is also very prevalent and really gives you something to think about and reflect upon.
Visually Captivating
This movie was innovative and visually stunning especially for it’s time being released in 2009. The movie transported you to a world unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. The colors, CGI effects, movements, symbolism, and the elements of spirituality all tied in to create the most beautiful and captivating cinematic experience. During the plot development in the beginning of the movie (just when you thought the visuals couldn’t get any better) you’re introduced to Pandora at night. The subtle lighting cues and the experience of the bioluminescent environment is like something out of a dream. Avatar was pinnacle in the film industry, as it was one of the pioneers in 3D technology.
The Plot
The film’s plot follows a classic formula of an outsider thrown into a new world facing conflicts, and ultimately finding themselves aligned with the indigenous people. While this theme is not entirely original, Avatar manages to create a compelling narrative with a strong environmental message. The themes of corporate greed, exploitation, and the destruction of nature resonate, and they serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving our planet. The story is captivating, gripping and suspenseful – blending science fiction, action, and romance in a way that keeps you involved and on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
It’s a true masterpiece in it’s own way and it will leave you in awe long after the credits have rolled.
When Toy Story was released in 1995 I remember being enthralled from the initial scene. It was the first animated movie of its time and told an engaging and stimulating story, for children and adults alike. It even holds up as I can watch it today and still be fully entertained. I believe it contains multitudes of good storytelling elements that will endure for generations to come.
Child’s Play Plot
Toy Story does a phenomenal job of following Kenn Adam’s: The Story Spine. Now a longstanding strategy that Pixar Animation Studios employs for their productions, The Story Spine follows a simple structure for planning a story. The plot of Toy Story follows it as below:
Once upon a time there was a toy cowboy named Woody who is the favorite toy of little boy Andy. Every day, Andy played with Woody and Woody is the leader of all the other toys.
Andy playing with Woody, his favorite toy (image source).
Until one day Andy has a birthday party and receives the newest and coolest toy, Buzz Lightyear. Buzz quickly becomes Andy’s favorite toy and gets played with more than Woody. Even the other toys are more impressed with Buzz and his galactic technology.
Andy’s name on Buzz Lightyear’s boot (image source).
Because of all of that, Woody becomes jealous of Buzz and starts acting out against him, mainly verbally. But because of that, when Buzz accidentally falls out of a window, the other toys assume Woody pushed him on purpose and they work together to remove him. Because of that Woody and Buzz end up at the neighbour’s house. While that sounds non-threatening, the boy next door is Sid, who is abusive and torturous to toys. Because of that Woody and Buzz need to work together to escape. They are able to overcome their differences and formulate a plan. Until finally, they shoot themselves out of the window and Andy sees them on the ground. They are reunited with Andy and he is able to take them on his move to his new house. And ever since then, Woody and Buzz have been friends and happily share Andy.
Some of the toys in Andy’s collection (image source).
The story seems rather basic when it is broken down in such a way and there are definitely many other plot elements but at its core, this is the story being told. The themes of friendship, overcoming jealousy, and being accepting of others shine throughout and can teach some very valuable life lessons.
Revolutionary Talent
The bright and colourful nature of Toy Story was truly revolutionary. And it was not only revolutionary because of its computer animation but also because of the phenomenally engaging story it told. The voice acting was performed by a vast cast of talented actors and the main characters were played by A-list actors Tom Hanks and Tim Allen. This was probably the initial draw to the movie for a lot of adults.
Stars Tom Hanks and Tim Allen with their characters (image source).
From the opening montage, the music in Toy Story is heartwarming and catchy. The soundtrack, performed by Randy Newman, does such a good job of conveying emotion and making the viewer feel the same way that Woody does.
To Infinity and Beyond!
Toy Story is excellent at employing the four I’s of engaging storytelling. It is immersive and maintains the viewer’s interest and attention. You are drawn in to see what will happen to Woody and captivated by his emotional journey. The audience is involved when Andy is playing with his toys with such passion that you remember playing with your own toys that way. Children can relate in real time and adults can reflect back on their own childhoods. Toy Story provides instruction and has meaning with how it relays life lessons through Woody and Buzz. Woody overcomes his jealousy as told in the main plot but Buzz also has challenges to overcome. He starts the film not realizing he is a toy and believing he is an actual astronaut with flying abilities. When he discovers he is not, he needs to deal with accepting himself for what he is and it resonates with the audience’s own need to do so. Finally, the story really inspires viewers to maintain good friendships and value those around them. By the end of the movie, you feel happy and have a childlike view of life which makes it a great viewing success.
With the number of movies, I have viewed and books that I have read, this story stands out. It is their ability to compose a story that is universal, timeless, and leaves an impression on the heart. This storytelling masterpiece is Pixar’s Up. It was released in 2009, and continues to embrace audiences with its emotional journey, and memorable characters. It’s incredible visual storytelling weaves a wonderful unique story. Although it follows the principles of Pixar’s story spine, its relatable because its on base of the real-life story. The article “Even in death, ‘Up’ house owner Edith Macefield remains a mystery” written by Jayson Jenks tells a story that has some parallels to Up. There are similarities with both of the homes being threatened with construction of newer developments and the senior citizens owners are not wanting to sell their property. https://www.seattletimes.com/pacific-nw-magazine/searching-for-edith-macefield/ Although the Up movie has found its own heartfelt story and it takes you on a wild adventure. The parallels in both of these stories that I like is that money does not win.
Oh, that montage!
This warm-hearted journey has all the fundamentals of great storytelling, but the montage in the beginning creates an instant connection to the audience. This connection has us cheering for Carl, and wishing positive outcomes for him. We all share the experience the loneliness Carl is enduring within his life. The loss of Ellie his wife draws out a sense of empathy for Carl, we even forgive him for being a grumpy person. The audience recognizes that losing someone changes you. A bond has been established with Carl, the audience is engaged, earnestly anticipating to see what unfolds next for him. Up has found its audience and provides a meaningful connection that ensures this story to be memorable. Even within the IMBd website, the favorable reviews speak of Up being one of the best Pixar movies ever made, some even say it’s masterpiece. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1049413/reviews?ref_=ext_shr_lnk In reading the reviews there is a common theme of the write ups, it is an emotional story that captures our hearts. This story crosses my thoughts from time to time, serving as a reminder that embracing change can be an adventure.
Up and away!
With the threat of being put into a senior’s facility and losing his home. Carl decides to have an adventure by attaching thousands of balloons to his home in hopes of fulfilling his promise to Ellie by reaching Paradise Falls and escaping the insistent developer. Although this idea may seem impossible, there was a group that tested this idea with surprising results. This experiment only adds more magic to this story and the excitement is evident on all the volunteers involved. ABC news reports on the Disney’s “Up” house created in real life and flown for National Geographic show. This is a must watch report that will stir up that magical feeling of wonder. https://youtu.be/rV6rNqin4P8?si=nOenIIP9d_o6GTmx
What now?
Even with the home taking flight, there are still many conflicts and challenges along the way. Such as Russell, the eager Wilderness Explorer who accidentally tags along on this adventure, adding another likable character to the mix. Russell and Carl find commonalities and build an unlikely friendship during this wild ride to Paradise Falls. Indeed, a villain is present in this story. Charles Muntz, is attempting to take the rare bird who is traveling with the duo. Charles and his speaking dog army are trying to steal the bird, no matter the cost. Doug, the gentle canine escapes Charle’s army, and joins Russell and Carl befriending them on the journey. This conflict helps these lovable characters in forging bond. They must collaborate to defeat Charles Muntz, and navigate the dangerous environment.
It’s a win!
After overcoming all of the obstacles, this adventure changes Carl. Who becomes a sympathetic mentor and friend to Russell, and far less grumpy. It reminds us of how to be courageous, be adaptable and the power of love. The end scenes will beautifully tie up all loose ends, leaving the audience with a profound sense of closure and fulfillment.
This story.
The manner in which this story is crafted along with the visuals, took my heart and I was ready to go the distance with Carl. The relatability of this movie shocked me at the beginning of how deep it went, especially for a Pixar picture. The sense of loss and loneliness is something I truly understand. This story reminds me that being uncomfortable will sometimes delivers the best growth moments in life.
As a single mom, there are lots of days I am home alone. When my kids are gone to be with their Dad, I find myself longing for the sights and sounds of another living entity in my condo. I started to think about getting a pet, something for the kids. But in reality, that was just a way for me to justify it … we all know the pet was for me. I have always had dogs, but living in a condo isn’t ideal for training a puppy; I am severely allergic to cats; Fish are not ones that can provide the companionship I was looking for.
But as a kid I not only grew up with dogs, but we also had birds. My kids have been fascinated by birds for a long time too. I decided that a Cockatiel would be the best bird to fit into our family dynamic. They are friendly, love to be a part of the “flock” and can sing and talk if you spend enough time with them. I reached out to a local breeder and began the process of slowly setting up the condo for a Cockatiel.
Fast forward a few weeks later, and my neighbour who knew I was getting a bird, messaged me and said that they found a Budgie in a tree. After posting to the YYC Lost Pet Facebook page, no one claimed the little guy and they asked if I would like to take him home.
At this moment, my internal dialogue was more, at the moment, than a responsible adult rationale. Two birds, of course, would be totally better than one. Then they won’t be lonely. But what would be better than 2 birds??!! Why…. 3 birds of course. I quickly send a message to the breeder I was getting the original first Cockatiel from and asked if he would happen to have another Cockatiel available for adoption. He did…Sign me up! I have now turned into the crazy bird lady.
The first week of July, the kids and I packed up for a day trip to drive to Leduc to pick up our two new Cockatiels that would be joining Budgie. We bought this backpack we saw on TikTok that can be used as a cat carrier or… a bird carrier.
When telling this story on Twitter, I defaulted to the 8 points a Story Arc. I think in general most stories will fall under this story construct structure. Unless, of course, you write a cliffhanger… but with my story, well you all know how it ended.
I also included the typical beginning, middle and end. I am slowly starting to like storytelling through Twitter. But I am still a novel girl.
EXSM 3989 - Digital Storytelling Class Blog 