WRITING

Books

Seven Secrets of Spontaneous Storytelling

by Danyah Miller

 
‘Here in this unique book is the inside story of a supreme storyteller. Here you can discover how the magic of storytelling is made.’
Sir Michael Morpurgo, Foreword

When Darinka and Adam unexpectedly meet Dorothy, at first by an old windmill, they embark on a roller coaster journey that transforms their family through the power of spontaneous storytelling. Dorothy’s seven storytelling secrets are the magical tools they need to connect deeply with each other in daily life – from playing to shopping, enjoying mealtimes and bedtimes, from tidying up to resolving conflict.

There are fifteen simple, fun games to help you easily make up stories with your children. These games, tips and tricks will give you the confidence to tell spontaneous tales with your family and friends – any time, any season and anywhere.

‘Full of brilliant inspiration, wisdom and practical storytelling tools. I would encourage any carer, parent or teacher (or anyone really…) who wants to connect deeply with the children they are fortunate to spend time with, to read this book. Told in the form of an engaging tale, by such a brilliant storyteller, the power of stories and story-making as a means for social change and personal development, are woven in beautifully and could not be clearer.’
Karen Napier MBE – CEO, The Reading Agency

‘I have just finished reading your book and it has left me feeling validated, inspired and ready for more.’
Claire Godson

‘I devoured this intelligent and magical book in one day and will keep it on hand for reference for many years to come.’
Lynda Waterhouse, children’s author

 

Illustrated by Kate Bunce
Published by
Hawthorn Press

I Believe in Unicorns 

By Michael Morpurgo

Adapted for stage by Danyah Miller & Dani Parr

‘Pure storytelling, pure theatre and pure magic.’
Daily Express review

Award-winning storyteller Danyah Miller brings best-selling children’s author Michael Morpurgo’s treasured story to life.

This intimate show is set in a library full of books that hold more than stories within their pages. It is a tale of the power of books, and the bravery of 8 year-old Tomas who hates reading and school. The young boy’s world is turned upside down the day he meets the Unicorn Lady in his local library and embarks on a spellbinding journey… 

An enchanting and interactive production, I Believe in Unicorns, which won an Argus Angel Award for Artistic Excellence at Brighton Festival, sparks imagination in both young and old. We challenge you not to believe in unicorns after joining Tomas’ spellbinding journey.

An utterly magical stage adaptation of Michael Morpurgo’s enthralling children’s tale.’
The Stage

‘Taps beautifully into the tale’s centre.
Time Out

‘I Believe in Unicorns taps into the inspiration and solace that books can provide. Its beauty is that it allows us to share those imagined new worlds together.’
The Guardian

Articles

Click the links below to read some of Danyah’s latest articles and features:

Top Ten Tips for Stunning Storytelling
The Guardian

Imagination is Like a Muscle
The Federation of Children’s Book Groups

Top Tips for Engaging Young Children with Stories, Songs and Rhymes
BookTrust

How to Embrace a Slow, Meaningful Christmas
Country Living

Our Children Need Stories Now More Than Ever
Primary Times

The Power of Imagination
Primary Times

Quietly and Firmly on Setting Boundaries
Primary Times

The Importance of Bedtime Stories
Primary Times

Podcasts

Click the links below to listen to some of Danyah’s latest features and interviews:

The Verb Christmas Special
BBC Radio 3

Activity Quest Podcast
FunKids Live

Bestsellers Podcast