The Making of Stranger in the Woods

This assembly shows the creative process behind the book Stranger in the Woods, by Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick, as well as highlights of how we turned the book into a movie.

Who came up with the original idea for the story? How did that idea turn into a finished book? We emphasize that writing is a process that involves choices, and we make it fun! The program is very interactive, featuring video clips and music from the movie. Students will sing, dance, make animal noises, help edit photographs and hear some of the authors' inside stories.

(You'll also probably hear Robert tell a unique story of what happened when he dressed like a snowman for the movie . . . and let a deer eat his real carrot nose.)

Does this assembly relate to our curriculum?

Our program helps elementary students:

• Recognize that authors make choices as they convey meaning and influence an audience. Examples include word selection, use of illustrations, etc.
• Analyze the impact variables on components of the communication process. This includes the impact of different voices during an oral message.
• Begin to develop and use strategies for planning, drafting, revising and editing text.
• Identify and use aspects of the craft of the speaker, writer and illustrator to formulate and express their ideas artistically. Examples include design, perspective and dialogue
• Experience how science concepts can be interpreted through creative expression, such as language arts and fine arts.

"Sisbro Studios' live stage show really brought Stranger in the Woods to life! One of our main goals at The Field Museum's Crown Family PlayLab is to encourage young children to connect with nature through play. Laura and Robert understand the importance of learning through play and it came through in their highly interactive performance."  --  Danny LaBrecque, Programs Coordinator, Chicago Field Museum