The Mysteries of Harris Burdick creative writing example (Just Dessert)

Chris Van Allsburg’s book, The Mysteries of Harris Burdick is an excellent medium to teach creative writing. The titled illustrations are accompanied with only the slightest bit of text. A mere suggestion as to what already has happened and might happen. Every turn of the page introduces a unique vignette, an intriguing picture that arouses curiosity that tugs at the imagination, thus sparking new ideas to fill in the blanks. The entire book is a collection of writing prompts! The tantalizing story I wrote is an example I use for my own students, as an incentive to the kind of writing they can do themselves. The version I derived from Van Allsburg’s, Just Desert was created with deliciously rich words and details and is sure to inspire your students to master their own amazing telling from whatever they choose out of the pages of The Mysteries of Harris Burdick. Through my example students can gain insight as to how the title and text can be woven into the fabric of the story. Also, there are a lot of fun twists and surprises that your whole class will enjoy!

*NOTE* I used the title JUST DESSERT...because JUST DESERT did not make sense. I took it upon myself to use literary license when creating my story. With a little research I surmised that other teachers did the same thing. The kids will love this story!!!