In this post I introduce you to Michael Rosen, the storyteller. Michael’s story Going on a Bear Hunt many be more familiar to you than his name. But Michael Rosen is a storyteller extraordinaire and his website is a treasure trove to explore*.
*Note: Not all of Michael’s stories and videos are suitable for early childhood. Please preview them before presenting them to students.
One of my favourites of Michael’s stories is Chocolate Cake. Please follow the link to view it on his website.
In the story from when he was a boy, Michael sneaks downstairs in the middle of the night and eats all of the remaining chocolate cake, leaving not a skerrick for a lunchtime treat. If only he’d been able to restrain himself, then he would have had a treat as well.
Michael tells the humorous story with expressive voice and face. Children laugh out loud as they recognise themselves in the story, if only they dared (or did they?); and beg for it to be retold, often spontaneously joining in with the telling.
After a few repetitions, children are confident enough to retell the story independently, imitating many of Michael’s humorous gestures and intonations.
Listening to Michael tell stories is a great way to encourage the development of expression, in both telling and reading stories.
Suggestions for using the story:
Continue reading at: Storytelling with author Michael Rosen – Readilearn
Norah Colvin 
Michael Rosun is so much fun!! Thanks for sharing!
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This is one of my favorite authors you’ve introduced me to! I find this cake story funny every time!
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I’m pleased you enjoyed it. I find it such fun!
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What a treat. I could listen to Michael all day. I also love chocolate cake.
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I agree! Both great treats! Thank you.
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Love the Chocolate Cake story!!!!!! My ESL learners will also love it – it’s full of modal verbs, present tense, present continuous, simple past and of course a great example of a recount!! Excellent – what a fun activity this will be!! Thanks for sharing, Norah! 🙂
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It is a hoot, isn’t it! Your learners are going to love it. Of course, I don’t think of all those modal verbs for my little ones. You’re very clever. 🙂
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