Relatable Stories for Children
These stories written by Joann Howeth are not (yet!) published, each with their own goal and purpose, and showcase relatable tales of friendship, kindness, and a little silliness for good measure.
THE NATURE OF MR. WILSON
Oliver is convinced a pet will alleviate his curmudgeonly neighbor’s loneliness. Finding the right companion is a challenge, however, when the recipient is uncooperative. Only when Oliver accepts that not everyone has the same likes and desires, does he learn that there is something else he can offer that’s even more meaningful.
The Goal
I wanted to tell a story of an intergenerational friendship that celebrates the value each person can give to another’s life despite a difference in age.
Why you’ll love it
While some precocious children can be tiresome, Oliver is all heart. His efforts are sincere and pave the way to bonding with his older neighbor as they find an activity they can both share and enjoy.
10th Place - Children’s/Young Adult Category 2013 Writer’s Digest Writing Competition
MURDOCK: THE PRIMITIVE MODERN CROC
Murdock thinks he’s as modern as the next guy; his BFF (Best Feathered Friend) Percy, disagrees. Determined to win this argument, Murdock attempts to spin his primordial instincts into modern behaviors. But Percy remains unimpressed, changing his mind only when Murdock rescues him from the throes of a tropical storm by using a strategy mother crocodiles utilize to ensure their hatchlings reach the water’s edge.
The Goal
I enjoy examining the ironies of life and wanted to write a story whose punch line rests on the conundrum of presuming a status of incongruity where none exists.
Why you’ll love it
Some friendships thrive on snark. Murdock and Percy are the perfect example, but beneath the banter lies true affection.
SUNSHINE ON THE INSIDE
Mileesha, a shy kindergartener, loves school. Her BFF, Cami, is not as enamored but they are happy to be in the same classroom and do everything together, to the exclusion of their classmates. When Cami has to stay home with a tummy ache, Mileesha is challenged to make new friends.
The Goal
I wanted to explore the worries children face as they enter school and how a best friend can help lessen the fear inherent in new beginnings. Additionally, I love surprise endings.
Why you’ll love it
It’s a story that kindergartners and 1st graders will relate to as they navigate their expanded new worlds upon entering school.
Cora & Presto
UNCOMMONLY COMMON Friends
Cora wants a cupcake! Maybe even two, but she has to get to the bakery first. And not that she would complain, but her best friend is holding her back! When a melodramatic flamingo and a brainy armadillo repeatedly fail to get to bakery before all the cupcakes have been sold, out-the-box thinking is required. Despite Presto’s affection for all things cerebral, it is Cora who comes up with a stylish and speedy solution that procures the cupcakes and preserves their friendship.
The Goal
I wanted to tell a story about a friendship between two unlikely characters whose differences are only skin deep.
Why you’ll love it
Incorporating the rule of three and peppered with silly made-up words, this is a feel-good story about friendship, problem solving, and kindness.