IT’S ALL ABOUT . . . HOLIDAY WRITING!

by Melissa Stoller

​December brings the winter holiday season for many faith traditions. I celebrate the eight nights of Hanukkah, and at this time of year, I find myself immersing in holiday foods, family parties, and lots of decorating. I am thankful to be able to enjoy the holiday lights with family and friends and I hope to spark some story ideas when we are all together.

​Here are a few ways you can gather inspiration this holiday season:

1. List the rituals and ritual objects related to the holidays you celebrate. Notice the details on your objects and research their meanings. Are there any family stories associated with your observances?Interview family members and jot down ideas for stories.

 

1. As you make your favorite holiday recipes, ask some questions. Where did this recipe come from? How was it handed down in my family? Who were the people that cooked it years ago? Where did they come from? What types of ingredients are used? Perhaps as you taste a treasured holiday treat, you will be inspired to write a related story.

 

1. As you decorate or enjoy decorations in your neighborhood or in area store windows, think about the festivities. How is light incorporated into many holiday traditions? How do symbols play a part in the holiday atmosphere? Perhaps watch movies or search online for movie scenes and get inspired by the decorations, lights, and festive attire. 

 
I hope these brainstorming exercises spark some story ideas or revisions – let me know in the comments. 
 
Cheers to creativity and to a joyous and peaceful holiday season!

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MELISSA’S BIO:
 
Melissa Stoller writes to bring connection, joy, and a bit of magic to her readers. She is the author of the chapter book series The Enchanted Snow Globe Collection - Return to Coney Island, and the picture books Scarlet’s Magic Paintbrush; Ready, Set, GOrilla!; Sadie’s Shabbat Stories; Planting Friendship: Peace, Salaam, Shalom; and Building Bridges: Peace, Salaam, Shalom (co-written with Callie Lovvorn and Shirin Rahman). Melissa is a Blogger and Course Assistant for the Children’s Book Academy, a Rate Your Story Judge, a volunteer with SCBWI/MetroNY, a Book Meshuggenahs member, a Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center Advisory Council member, and a past school and synagogue Trustee. She also interviews authors and offers resources on her blog. In other chapters of her life, Melissa has worked as a lawyer, legal writing instructor, freelance writer/editor, and early childhood educator. She lives in New York City with her family, and enjoys theatre, museums, and Central Park walks. Melissa is represented by Jonathan Rosen at The Seymour Agency. www.MelissaStoller.com
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