Storyteller hopes to inspire kids to tell their own tales
The ideal story for Matthew Hermes has both humor and suspense.
The Naperville storyteller, who also is a writer, broadcaster and former teacher, says his biggest hope is to inspire children to share their own stories.
"I pray that somehow I might inspire them to be writers or storytellers, or to learn to love the written word in a way they haven't before," he said.
Hermes will share his latest round of stories with children at a Naperville Park District Campfire Stories session at 8 p.m. today at Seager Park, 1163 Plank Road. Drinks and marshmallows will be provided. Registration is required.
Before tonight's session --which Hermes says will have "a little bit of scariness and a lot of laughter" -- the popular storyteller answers a few questions.
Q. What is the key to telling stories to children?
A. Getting them involved in the story, whether it's repeating back, chanting (or) saying rhymes. My style is not sitting and telling. I stand and move around and am very animated.
Q. Why is humor so important in your stories?
A. The suspense draws the listener in in a great way. But you also have to incorporate humor. It gives the kids a break from being scared … and brings them back to the present time. It makes them realize the story doesn't have to be necessarily true; therefore, I can continue to listen and enjoy it.
Q. Have you had any unusual reactions to stories?
A. Besides the smaller kids crying? The unusual would be the child who makes a statement and tries to predict what's going to happen next. What I do is incorporate it into the story or respond in a funny way.
Q. What about when the kids cry?
A. They're the younger kids. I incorporate that. I simply stop and say, "I'm sorry, but there's a happy ending coming up."
If you go
What: Naperville Park District Campfire Stories
When: 8 to 10 p.m. today
Where: Seager Park, 1163 Plank Road
Cost: $5 for residents, $10 for others; registration required
Info: (630) 848-5000 or napervilleparks.org