But I still believe that we, as teachers, can help each and every kid become an engaged and inspired writer. We do still have to teach them to do the “other kind” of writing – test writing, on-demand writing, etc. Kids should have opportunities to choose topics and write about things that are meaningful to them. I think it’s so important that kids are motivated to write, like the little girl in the story. I recommended this book in the very first lesson in my 2nd grade writing workshop curriculum. The Best Story has such a great, true message for young writers!! My stories sometimes got a little wacky, and as an adult, I’ve realized how much more meaningful it is when I incorporate elements from my own life into my writing. I think this story is SO sweet and inspiring! I was an aspiring writer as a kid, and I wish this book had been around for me to hear. I love that the ending does not reveal whether or not she wins the writing competition – she’s content either way, having done her best work and written a meaningful story. Only then does she start writing from her heart – using elements from her own life (her friends, cat, etc.) to make the story her own. She consults with various family members, all of whom tell her exactly what she needs to put in her story to make it the very best.īut when she does combine all of their zany suggestions into a story, it doesn’t turn out quite right. In the story, a little girl sets out to win a writing competition by writing the “best” story. It’s called The Best Story, and it’s by Eileen Spinelli.

The best story by eileen spinelli