Jim Weiss, Gifted Storyteller

When the question invariably comes up as we're driving to the annual state homeschool conference in North Carolina, each of us -- kids and adults alike -- all say the same thing, answering the question of which speaker do we want to see and hear first.

The answer, of course, is Jim Weiss.

Jim Weiss is without a doubt the best storyteller I've heard in my life. He's not boisterous; in fact, he seems rather low key at times; and yet his voice is amazingly and beautifully effective at holding the listener's attention (and it doesn't matter whether the listener is three years old or one hundred years old, the listener will be entranced); at portraying clearly what's happening in the story; and at keeping the flow of the story moving along.

Choosing his words carefully, he leads the listener through story after story, delighting crowds with the imagery of adventurous tales and children's fables, stories that teach us moral values and that help guide us toward being better people.

Any would be storyteller needs to listen to Jim Weiss. The organization of the stories, the pattern of speech, the vocal inflections, and his positive attitude all work together to create a memorable event for the audience.

Jim Weiss has a heart for kids and he has a heart for storytelling. He weaves the story beautifully, and using only his voice as a tool, he effectively brings the listener through the sorrows and the victories of life.

We went to both of Jim Weiss' sessions this weekend. The first was on the works of G.K. Chesterton; in particular, Weiss told us about the Father Brown mysteries, and he recited one for us (The Blue Cross); it was beautifully done! He also told stories surrounding the history of the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, from when the temple was first built and torn down, to the time the temple was torn down again.

In addition to hearing Jim Weiss speak at the conference every year, we have also purchased numerous of his "audio on tape" products for listening in the car. I highly encourage parents to consider finding some of his tapes for your next long car trip (check your library too -- they very well may have some of his tapes).

Thank you, Mr. Weiss. You've delighted my kids; you've delighted the whole family. When my kids think of storytellers, they think of you. You are admired and loved!