Choose your own adventure with Rhianna Pratchett

Unlock the power of storytelling and inspire your class to choose your own adventure with this exciting teaching sequence inspired by Rhianna Pratchett, author of Crystal of Storms.

Based on a special Author In Your Classroom podcast episode, this unit brings a virtual author visit directly into your classroom. Pupils gain insight into video game writing, where narrative meets player choice. They then apply these ideas to craft their own interactive stories.

Teaching overview

At the heart of this unit is the idea that to choose your own adventure means becoming an active participant in the narrative. Pupils explore how gaming stories differ from traditional fiction. They learn about world building, environmental storytelling and non-linear plots. Through structured sessions, children design immersive settings and memorable characters. They also experiment with the idea that action reveals character.

Inspired by the iconic Fighting Fantasy series, the children craft their own choose your own adventure story with three possible endings. Along the way, they explore narrative design, second-person narration and present tense storytelling.

The included PowerPoint, planning sheets and extracts support each stage of writing. Working wall materials help capture ideas and spark discussion. Teachers can share the podcast and read Crystal of Storms together for inspiration.

Pupils also gain practical advice on becoming writers. Rhianna Pratchett encourages them to practise regularly and read widely and recommends playing diverse games to study storytelling techniques.