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Reviewed by Ruth Olds, English teacher, Rathkeale College, Wairarapa
Opening sentence
"Live each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself." - Henry David Thoreau
'Seasonal Storytelling' is a rich and versatile resource that sits comfortably between a storybook and a teacher’s handbook. From a New Zealand classroom perspective, it is particularly valuable for Years 1–4, offering meaningful ways to explore the seasons through story, drama, and thematic learning.

The book is organised around the cycle of the seasons, with short, engaging stories drawn from Aotearoa New Zealand and cultures around the world. These stories work well as read-alouds, but they also naturally invite dramatic retelling, role play, and simple classroom performances. Clear guidance supports teachers to use the stories for process drama, making it easy to adapt them into short dramatic productions or group storytelling activities.

The accompanying audio content is a real strength, allowing students to listen to stories, songs, and rhythms, which supports oral language development and engagement for diverse learners. As a resource book, it provides ideas that link storytelling with movement, music, seasonal celebrations, and inquiry learning.

Overall, Seasonal Storytelling is an inspiring and practical resource that supports literacy, drama, and cross-curricular learning. It encourages teachers to teach in connected, creative ways while helping students develop a deeper understanding of the seasons and the world around them.
Author & Illustrator: Kristy Barlow (illustrator)
Publisher: Lasavia Publishing
ISBN: 9781991083197
Format: Paperback
Publication: January 2025
Ages: 5 - 9 years
Themes: Art, drama, seasons, culture