Sydelle
Pearl is an author, storyteller and songwriter. She often incorporates
original songs that spring from the multicultural and original
stories that she tells to preschool, elementary and family audiences.
She tells tales of mystery and magic to older children (grades
3 and up) and adults.
She also presents her original folksongs to adult audiences.
A professional storyteller since 1991, Sydelle has her Bachelor's degree in Education. She received her Master's in Library Science degree from Simmons College, Boston, MA and has worked as a children's librarian. She has performed in schools, libraries and festivals.
Sydelle is a listed Residency Artist with the PA Council on the Arts through the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. Her book, ELIJAH'S TEARS: STORIES FOR THE JEWISH HOLIDAYS, was published by Henry Holt and Company in 1996 and republished by Pelican Publishing Company in 2004. BOOKS FOR CHILDREN OF THE WORLD: THE STORY OF JELLA LEPMAN (February 2007) is also published by Pelican..
SELECTED PROGRAMS:
A Library for Children of the World
A presentation about how Jella Lepman made her dream library become a reality.
Grades pre-k, K-3, 4-adult.
Branches From the Tree of Life: Jewish Stories
Ideal for synagogues, preschools and day schools. Adapted for all ages.
Come Along on the Story Journey! A Residency:
Sydelle uses the life story of a famous African-American who traveled around the world as a springboard to help students "travel" through multicultural stories. She also brings along a big, colorful map to point out where the stories come from. Extension activities involve a multidisciplinary approach to literacy: storytelling, singing, moving, acting, writing, acting and drawing. Please note that residencies can be designed to incorporate the life of a famous American from any ethnic group that would be relevant to the students. Sydelle finds residency work to be "joyful, moving and full of discovery". [Grades preK-6]
Courage to be Kind: Multicultural Stories:
This program uses storytelling to bring to life characters from different cultures who step beyond their own comfort zones to help others. [Grades K-2; 3-5/6, family audiences]
My Grandfather's Violin and Other Folksongs:
Sydelle presents a concert of her original folksongs for adults.
Storysong: The World in our Hands:
Sydelle shares stories from around the world and invites children to clap, sing, imagine and move. [Grades preK-K; K-2, family audiences]
The Magic Turtle and Other Animal Tales:
Grades K-2, family audiences.
CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS AND WORKSHOPS:
Sydelle Pearl presents on the following topics and will also strive to tailor a presentation on other requested topics.
