Book Review: How to Tell a Story: An Ancient Guide to the Art of Storytelling for Writers and Readers
Storytelling is one of humanity’s oldest and most powerful tools. It connects us, inspires action, and transforms the way we see the world. In How to Tell a Story, created by The Moth and authored by Catherine Burns, Meg Bowles, Jenifer Hixson, Sarah Austin Jenness, Kate Tellers, Padma Lakshmi, and Chenjerai Kumanyika, we are invited into the art of storytelling with a fresh perspective.
Drawing on decades of expertise from The Moth - a globally celebrated storytelling organization - the book offers readers a comprehensive guide to crafting meaningful and memorable narratives. At its core is a foundational idea:
“A story is a living organism, with a beginning, middle, and end, each part intricately connected to the others. The beginning sets the stage, introducing characters and conflicts; the middle develops the narrative, building tension and complexity; and the end brings resolution, providing closure and insight.”
This timeless truth underscores the importance of structure in storytelling, reminding us that a well-told story isn’t just entertainment - it’s a bridge to understanding and action. Whether you’re preparing a speech, drafting a grant proposal, or simply looking to inspire your audience, the principles laid out in this book offer invaluable guidance.
Building on this foundation, the authors break down the elements of storytelling - tension, conflict, character, and emotional resonance - while weaving in stories from The Moth that illustrate these techniques in action. The result is both instructive and deeply inspiring.
What sets How to Tell a Story apart is its accessibility. It doesn’t require any prior knowledge of storytelling theory or literary techniques. Instead, it distills complex ideas into practical steps that anyone can follow, making it an essential resource for nonprofit professionals, local leaders, and anyone aiming to create meaningful connections through their words.
For those committed to the craft of storytelling - whether to inspire change, rally communities, or share the impact of their work - How to Tell a Story is a must-read. It’s more than a guide; it’s a call to action to tell stories that matter.
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This review was written by Larry Blake Harvey, Principal Consultant at Harvey & Smith Impact, where he partners with nonprofits and local governments to craft compelling narratives and strategies that turn ambitious visions into real-world impact.