REFERENCES

Octavia’s  genuine Appalachian dialect and love for her beloved Kentucky Mountains are the magic that brings her stories to life.  She is one of our few, true folk artists and her performances are authentic representations of the tradition from which she comes.

 Loyal Jones, Author

111 Forest Street

Berea, KY 40403

859 986-3406

Throughout the time I have known Octavia, I have learned so much about Kentucky storytelling, the literary arts, and the people who make Kentucky wonderfully unique.  She is a master storyteller of the Kentucky Appalachian style, and I became enraptured the first time I heard her tell stories at a festival.  When I have had Octavia come to my school, I have been impressed with the way she tied together the general arts of storytelling with social information about Kentucky culture, Appalachian history, and the strength and intelligence of its people, especially its women.  Through her stories and lessons, Octavia breaks down stereotypes, and this is one of the main reason she is my favorite storyteller in the world.

Jessica Bryant, Language Arts Teacher, Academic, Drama, and Storytelling Coach

Southern Middle School

Pulaski County Schools

Jessica.bryant@pulaski.ky.schools.us

I have known Octavia ever since I became the Director of Arts Education Programs for the Arts Council in 1990. She is a gifted artist and one of the most talented storytellers I know. She does not hesitate to undertake new and challenging projects and may be relied upon to see them through to a successful conclusion. Her communication skills and warm personality enable her to be an accomplished teacher in the classroom and workshops alike. In addition to these traits, she is really good people and well liked by her fellow artists and those with whom she works.

John S. Benjamin

709 Magnolia Avenue

Shelbyville, KY 40065

Our students looked forward to your stories. You crossed class lines in language arts and social studies with a synopsis of life in the Appalachian mountains. You shared facts about life and the dialect of the mountains. Thank you so much for sharing enlightening and entertaining stories!

Ann Seibel, ebd teacher                         

Lowe elementary                                                                                         

210 Oxfordshire lane                                   

Louisville, KY 40222                                                                        

ann.siebel@jefferson.ky.schools.us         

502 485-8293

WHAT THE KIDS HAVE TO SAY

I was almost crying on the day you left us.  Your stories were amazing!  You are a true inspiration. If you had asked me what I knew about storytelling before you came my mind would gone blank, but now I could write a whole 900 page book (not really, but you see my point.) Sincerely, Ellie, 4^th grade, Lowe Elementary School

You ar the bestest storytellr in the wurld and I herd 2 of them. Johnathan, 2^nd grade, Mt.Vernon Elementary

You are way better than recess!!! Jack, 5^th grade, Martin Elementary

I was ashamed to talk because of my dialect before you came.  Now I know my dialect is important.  I am proud of my dialect and because of you I want to tell stories where I can share my dialect with other people.  Thank you. Maria, 7^th grade student

You ROCK!!!  I want to grow up and be you!!  Your stories are awesome!!!!  You are awesome!!!!  I love your ‘haint’ tales!!! I love your clothes too!  Becky, 6^th grade

Your story made a dvd in my head!  I could see everything you said.  How do you do that? are you magic? Gracie, 3^rd grade

I rely apreshiated you been hear.  The scary story you told us was awesome.  I think it was the best story your ever told us.  I think the Jack tales were the best you ever told us to.  Thank you for being hear I hope you come back, your student Jacob Foos, 4^th grade, Louisville

I thought storytelling was just for kids – I sure was wrong!  Not many performers can keep the attention of a room full of teenagers without some loud music.  You did!  All ears were focused on your every word, all eyes on your every movement.  Ms. Octavia you are one talented and ‘cool’ lady.  David, Nelson County High School.