Our Program
Folktellers for Literacy Program
In the Folktellers Universe, one truth reigns supreme: whoever holds the story wields the power.
The Folktellers for Literacy Program is an immersive learning and entertainment experience that transforms students into storytellers, filmmakers, and heroes of their own narratives. Designed to spark imagination, boost literacy, and strengthen emotional well-being, this program reminds every participant that their story matters.
Through the interactive art of storytelling, students discover the joy of reading, the magic of filmmaking, and the importance of community connection—all while exploring how stories can heal, inspire, and unite.
At the heart of the program is bibliotherapy—the therapeutic use of literature to support mental health. By blending storytelling with emotional exploration of acting, students gain a safe and creative outlet for processing feelings, building resilience, and cultivating empowerment—key elements that help reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness.
As young storytellers dive into characters and themes, they begin to reflect on their own lives, fostering empathy and courage. Storytelling becomes a bridge to self-expression and open dialogue about life’s challenges, promoting connection and emotional wellness across classrooms and communities.
Free Scholarships are available. A school, library, or literacy group qualifies by enrolling, requesting a scholarship, and agreeing to submit and enter at least one video per kit in the 2027 Folktellers for Literacy Kids Film Awards. Qualifying groups receive a program kit at no cost. The program is free to students. Each kit serves up to 30 students. Schools that do not request or receive a scholarship may purchase a kit.
2027 Program:
- Age Elementary - Middle School
- Students per Kit: 30
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2027 Timeline
Open Enrollment:
Kits Ship:
Program Runs:
Celebrity Judging:
Red Carpet Premiere:Aug 2026 - Jan 2027
February 2027
Feb - Apr 2027
May 2027
June 2027 - Language English
- Cost $999 / kit
- FREE Scholarships Available
More Than a Program—It’s an Experience
Our all-inclusive Folktellers for Literacy Program Kit integrates seamlessly into school enrichment programs or community-based learning initiatives. Through a collaborative, team-oriented approach, participants don’t just develop creative and technical skills—they also form meaningful bonds, learning to support one another through shared creative expression.
By creating and sharing their stories, students learn empathy, teamwork, and emotional resilience—essential skills for thriving in today’s digital world.
Program Focus Areas
The Folktellers for Literacy and Wellness Program supports the following key educational disciplines:
- Reading and Literacy
- Emotional Well-Being and Resilience (through personal and group narrative exploration)
- STEM Integration
- Writing and Composition
- Geography, International Studies, and World Cultures
- Multimedia Communication and Filmmaking
- Team Dynamics, Directing, Acting, and Public Speaking
- Self-Empowerment and Self-Esteem Building
Folktellers for Literacy Kids Film Awards
The adventure culminates in an exciting creative challenge!
Students, working individually or in teams, will produce their own short film (2–3 minutes long) inspired by the program’s stories.
Final video submissions will be featured on the Folktellers for Literacy website, where they’ll be voted on by celebrity judges.
Finalists will receive a once-in-a-lifetime invitation to walk the red carpet at Emagine Theaters, where their films will premiere on the big screen—and the 2027 Program Winners will be announced in a dazzling celebration of creativity and courage.
Currently the award ceremonies are only avaiable in Michigan.
What's Inside the Program Kit?
Educators can order Folktellers for Literacy Program Kits, which include everything needed to bring this transformative experience to life:
- 30 award-winning children’s or young adult novels
- 30 participant awards
- 30 Folktellers bookmarks
- 1 First-Place Winner Award
- Red Carpet Runner (for the final event!)
- Comprehensive Program Instructions
- Download and Contact Information
Qualified for a scholarship for your school/organization? Enter you coupon code at checkout to receive your free program kit. (This covers the kit only - taxes and shipping are extra)
Why Phases of the Moon Is the Benchmark
We didn't choose Phases of the Moon because it tested well. We wrote it around the belief the program runs on: whoever holds the story wields the power. The characters have to find their own voice, depend on other people, and face real consequences. That isn't a theme tacked on at the end. It's the plot.
From that story, students read, plan as a team, and film a short scene, trailer or alternate ending.
The book is the benchmark, not a locked catalog. Authors whose work meets the criteria below are welcome to submit. Selected books can become part of the program.
A book belongs in the program if it:
- Centers on a character who has to find and use their own voice
- Makes self-empowerment the main plot, not a side theme
- Requires the character to depend on a team or community
- Holds the character accountable for real consequences
- Has scenes a class can turn into a 3–5 minute film, with room for an alternate ending
- Supports courage, empathy, resilience, or community — not only comprehension
- Is written for grades 4–7 and fit for a full classroom
Can sustain a multi-book arc
If it continues an existing track, stays in that world
Author contest submissions also need:
- A complete manuscript, or opening chapters plus a synopsis
- The intended grade band or program year
- A plan for future books, if it starts a series
- Confirmation the work is original and unpublished, or that rights are available
- Willingness to adapt the work for the workshop and film rubrics
- Agreement to the program's terms for inclusion, licensing, and compensation if selected
Thank you for your support!
In the Folktellers Universe, stories aren’t just told—they change lives. Join us in helping young minds discover their voices, build resilience, and light up the world with their stories.