Reactions
**NEW: online article from Cathy's summer, 2005 Asian trip**
“We cannot recommend Ms. Spagnoli enough for future programs; she has vast experience in collecting, reading and writing folk tales and children's stories from throughout Asia, a nd her programs here (using props, music, and hand gestures to punctuate her talks) mesmerized hundreds of Malaysians from all walks of life.”
Peck Wei Lam, U.S. Embassy, Malaysia
“Teachers and administrators commented that your presentation was excellent; they praised not only your books and your dynamic style, but also your insights about reading, authoring, and how your books can affect lives both in and out of school.”
Dr. Mary F. Andis, I-READ Director, Indiana, 2003
“The sharing of tales was very personal yet always universal; it was a gathering that made everyone in the room feel intensely special, unique and important. Cathy brings a wealth of first-hand, multicultural experience and content to the "stage," has a huge story repertoire, is versatile with whatever audience shows up, and never disappoints. You simply couldn't choose a finer author/storyteller.”
Pat Timko--Children's Librarian
“I thought her talk was really interesting and the fact that she has worked so hard to create a career that she loves was inspiring. She was also a really good storyteller.”
Laurin, a high school student, Washington, 2003
“Cathy Spagnoli captures the hearts (and attention!) of students [of every age] with the variety and fluency of her stories. She is equally inspiring and adept with teachers. Cathy is invariably the highlight of any program with which she’s involved.”
Cathy Palmer, Seattle International Children’s Fest, 2000
“You’re the best storyteller that I ever heard. Your very encouraging and also easy to understand. When I get old I want to be a good writer-storyteller just like you.”
Shelly Tours, 9, Idaho. 1997
“I must say a big thank you to you for the inspiration you’ve given and the interest you generated here in Asian folklore and storytelling.”
Panna Kantilal, National Library Board, Singapore, 1999
“Thank you so much for sharing such wonderful stories. Both children and teachers were very impressed. Please come share with us every time you come to Seoul.”
Mee Ro, librarian, Seoul Foreign School, Korea, 1997
“Her performances captivated students and teachers, who said,'wonderful, great ideas!’ ‘excellent, entertaining, informative’ ‘rich in imagination, gifted in telling, and encouraging.' Cathy brings unique information, expertise, and remarkable enthusiasm and support for others to try their hand at the art of storytelling.”
Sharon Styve, Malaspina University-College, Canada, 1996
“Cathy Spagnoli's six-week tour through South Asia was an overwhelming success. Audiences of all ages were enthralled by her performances, and English teachers crowded into her lecture-demonstrations. One typical comment reveals much: ‘I always thought American culture was what we saw on TV; now I know how deep and rich it really is.’”
Marti Villarreal, U.S. I. A., Washington, D.C., 1993
“Your plenary was the jewel in the day for everyone at the ESL/Refugee Concerns Conference. ”
Marilyn Bentson, Tacoma Community House, Washington, 1990