Shoshana Litman
Biography:I started storytelling in the 1980's after I heard a talented Irish poet named David Whyte recite his poetry by heart with enthusiasm. Before that time I had been writing and reading poetry in bookstores in Olympia, Washington where I received a Bachelors Degree in Environmental Science. I became convinced that speaking directly to people without notes would be a much better way to reach an audience and that storytelling would be a great way to practice. Soon after I moved to Victoria, BC with my family I joined the Victoria Storytellers Guild, since storytellers don't read their stories out loud, they tell them. I also practiced telling stories to our two sons when they were young. Even when I read them books like the Harry Potter series, I did so in a lively way, seeing each scene as it unfolded. When I read or tell stories, listeners find that they can easily imagine the action because I visualize the story as I tell it. I am also a writer who writes every day in a personal journal. Some of my stories, poetry and articles have been published in anthologies, newspapers, chap books and blogs. I have also worked at many interesting jobs, including work as a field biologist, observing grey whales and harbour seals frolicking in the waves near an aboriginal fishing village called Neah Bay. Another of my favorite jobs was the Way to Go! School Program, which inspired children and their families to walk, bike, car pool or take the bus to school so they could be more active and help reduce the impact of their travel choices. Now I work for an agency called the Mussar Institute that helps adults to be better people. I have also begun a partnership with a business called Par-T-Perfect to tell fun stories to children for their birthdays. Many of my stories and songs have inspiring messages that encourage us to be awesome human beings, who take care of the planet and each other. I do this in a fun way so that we will feel good about ourselves as we work together to make our world a better place. Presentation Information:Shoshana Litman offers unique interactive storytelling programs for children of all ages. She has developed an enthusiastic following for her popular Storytime programs for young children and their families every week at Tall Tales Books www.talltalesbooks.ca in Victoria over the past two years. She often features stories adapted from renowned children's author, Robert Munsch (with permission) and retired children's librarian, Margaret Read McDonald. Shoshana shares traditional action songs, fun jokes, puppets, finger plays, intriguing voices, facial expressions, easy-to-follow actions and warm smiles to engage even the youngest listeners. Elementary school students will enjoy Shoshana's entertaining original tales, melodies and choreography featuring environmental awareness, cooperation, literacy and geography. Shoshana's thought provoking program for middle and high school students explores humanity's evolution as a storytelling species and encourages listeners to create their own inspirational tales to help make the world a better place. Praise for Shoshana Litman:“Everyone was so pleased with Shoshana's Earth Day performance. Both staff and students thought it was wonderful!” - Laurie Tighe, Millstream Elementary Teacher "The kids really enjoyed listening and participating. Shoshana left them wanting more. That's always a good sign." - Rowena Keeb, Grade 2 Teacher, Lochside Elementary School "My students and I visited with Shoshana in March 2011 at Congregation Emanu-El Synagogue. We really enjoyed the time spent with her and learned much from the stories that she had to share. It was a great experience for us all." - Sue McKerracher, High School Teacher, Pacific Christian Secondary School “I have had alot of positive feedback (for Shoshana’s celebration of Hanukah at our school). Shoshana's presentations are wonderful, educational and fun. We hope to have (her) back next year to celebrate.” - Don Adams, Teacher, Oaklands Elementary School "Shoshana's songs and stories are great and I would strongly recommend that folks see her perform live if they can." - Doug Banner, M.Ed., Storyteller “It was a joy and a blessing for Shoshana to share her gifts with us. The kids at camp enjoyed her visit and were moved by what she had to share.” - Rabbi (Teacher) Seth Goldstein, Temple Beth Hatfiloh “I heard that Shoshana’s stories were wonderful. I am thankful for her talent and hard work. Our community is blessed by her presence.” - Rabbi Jane Litman, Former Principal, Kolot Mayim Religious School |
 Craft:storyteller Ideal Audience Size:25 without amplification, any size with amplification Maximum Audience Size:50 without amplification, any size with amplification Grades:preschool and elementary school Special Equipment:Shoshana requires a cordless lapel mike for large groups. Felt board would be nice for preschoolers if possible. Website:School Reading Fee:$150.00 plus GST per presentation Public Reading Fee:$250.00 plus GST per presentation (four readings are covered by the Canada Council for the Arts) Book Week Tour Contact:Bonnie Farmer |