Change the story, change the world

THE third and latest episode of local podcast Gather was released earlier this month, exploring the world of myths and fairytales.

Minerva’s Books and Ideas’ Amy Tsilemanis is the producer who has unpacked the ways in which stories can be adapted to become more representative of a diverse and complex contemporary world, while staying true to their core message.

“There was so much to think about,” that she decided to record Fairytales Continued; a second part to the episode, and children or young people in your life could play a starring role.

“I’ve been really inspired lately by young people who are passionate about social and environmental justice,” Tsilemanis said.

“We’re having a Change the Story, Change the World kids’ writing competition to get them involved.

“I feel like they would have really interesting takes on well-known fairytales, but change them up to reflect a more equal world. This is about supporting people of all ages to be creative.”

Children and teens are invited to write and illustrate a one-page story based on a fairytale of their choosing.

They can “change up” the ending, or the characters, to make it a more “representative” narrative.

The competition will have two age group streams; five to 10, and 11 to 16. One person from each section will win a book voucher, and have the opportunity to record a reading of their story in-studio for the second part of Gather’s fairytale episode.

Entries can be emailed to [email protected], or dropped into 115 Webb Avenue, Ballarat East by Wednesday, 12 May.

Minerva’s Books and Ideas will be at the Creswick Market this Saturday, 1 May. Families are invited to head along to meet the team, ask any questions about the competition and podcast, or pass on their entries.