ABSTRACT
This book has been forming in my head for a long time but I would never have been able to write it without the help of the following people. My sister Lors, for sharing stories with me, that were whispered and giggled across the gap between our beds in the dark of night. To Bill, my husband, friend, administrator, cook, cheerleader, supporter and so much more, who is always ready to stop what he is doing and to read and comment on my latest chapter. To my son, Callum, who is never short of an encouraging word, and who has always been my motivation for why story is important. Amie Taylor for designing yet another stunningly beautiful cover, and for being able to capture the true essence of this publication through the cut-out images she positioned on a bridge. Elaine Bennett for doing me the honour of writing a foreword that had the ability to make me cry. Isla Hill, my business companion, comrade, friend and partner in crime, whose constant support and passion for this work is something I will never take for granted. Debby Thacker, board member, friend, and online mentor who has always been there during this lockdown writing process. Her thoughts and advice encouraged me to keep digging deeper and thinking harder as I explored the growth of a storyteller. Jane Katch, friend and advisor, who I have admired for years and who filled me with joy with her willingness to read and comment on those early versions of this work. Sheridan Upton, Lisa Wilkins, Faye Rogers and Amy Holt from St Paul’s Primary School for their constant belief in the value of Helicopter Stories, and for allowing me to share my practice in their classrooms. And to Emma Williams and Vicky Strange at The Oaks Pre-school for always welcoming me into their setting and for allowing me to spend time with their wonderful children. Yvonne Robinson from Falkirk and Amanda Belbin from Bincombe Valley Nursery for sending me videos so I could transcribe their children. Emily, Harry and Samuel for one of my favourite photos. And to all the children and the adults and schools and settings who have helped by welcoming me or sending me their thoughts on what Helicopter Stories means to them and on why Vivian Gussin Paley is so important. Thank you to all of you for making this possible…
