Back before e-readers existed, before the internet brought us digital libraries, before books themselves were published, people still used words to communicate and transmit information, to entertain each other and to tell stories. This tradition of oral history helped humans around the world to keep their cultures alive and teach their children the skills they needed to survive. Once the daily necessities were done with, however, story telling and performance brought people together around the campfire – or today, in the theater or on stage. Instead of reading stories, people are remembering how much is added to the experience when they’re listening to someone tell that story. New writers are also becoming new storytellers, and spoken word poetry is introducing audiences to a form of literature they might never have thought they’d like. Because we know that the written word and the spoken word are so closely connected, we encourage you to look for people and performances that can spark your interest in reading more, or perhaps even writing and telling stories yourself. Here are some suggestions:

Project V.O.I.C.E. Sarah Kay and Phil Kaye help schools and students learn to appreciate and participate in spoken word poetry. They believe that their “Vocal Outreach Into Creative Expression” project can help young people learn better writing skills, improve self-esteem, and encourage a student’s involvement in a wider community.

The Moth Radio Hour Performances of people telling their stories, recorded in front of a live audience, that showcase the best, worst, funniest, and saddest aspects of the human condition. These performances are broadcast on a weekly public radio show available throughout the United States and through web podcasts.

Poetry Slams Poetry and the spoken word are closely linked, and this form of creative expression is more popular than ever. The modern take on the poet’s recitation is the “poetry slam,” a competition between poets who read their works in front of audiences and get judged by a panel of audience members. This form of literature is increasingly popular with teens and young adults, and poetry slams are held worldwide. The Australian Poetry Slam 2013 is going on right now!

Oral History Society This UK organization is devoted to preserving the stories and the details of peoples’ lives all around the British Isles. They believe that the lives of “ordinary” people are worth preserving, and that they form as important a part of history as well-known kings and queens and politicians. The StoryCorps organization in the United States performs the same service, and sends mobile recording studios around the country to allow people to talk about their experiences.

What’s your favorite way with words when you’re not reading? Speak out!