Jimmy Carrane

Improv Nerd

"The story of two cute stuffed animals – Hank, a dog, and Stella, a bunny – who learn what improv is all about. There are even some fun improv games you can play with your kids at the back of the book."

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Paul L. Underwood

The New York Times

“You’re not onstage, trying to be funny,” said Damian Synadinos, an author-illustrator of a children’s book about improv. “You’re trying to be truthful, and that’s what’s funny.”

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Frog on a Blog

Guest Post

"And, by identifying and understanding my reasons for writing a children’s book, it helped guide me as I determined What to write about (improv – to be educational) and How to write it (as a picture book – to be entertaining)."

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Rebecca Herzog

Sloth Reads

"I have seen various books on how to do improv, but they have always been geared towards adults or older teens. Enter Something from Nothing by Damian Synadinos, a picture book that teaches children the principles of improvisation in a fun and engaging way."

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Joe Llorens

Reviewer

"[My kids] loved it. We started playing games right away. My daughters asked me to keep it in their room and I've seen them flipping through it since."

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Eren Alasyali

Parent

"A fun story but also gives instructions on how to do improv which was a nice change from other children’s books. We even had to stop in the middle and try out our own improv."

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Roni Matzkin

Reviewer

"You managed to convey the concept of improv in a way children can relate to."

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WCS

Alumni Newsletter

"Author and illustrator, Synadinos, playfully brings eight improvisational speaking rules to life."

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Proving Press

Article

"This entertaining book will be a welcome addition to your young reader’s library."

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Jennifer Naughton

Geek Reads Kids

"The Improv Book you didn’t know you needed. ... perfect for inspiring creativity at home or school."

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Amy Carpenter

Reviewer

"I love the message in your book. It's fun, educational without being pedantic, and very inviting. The bonus activities to do on your own, and encouragement to make up new ones, is awesome and lets them start doing improv from the get-go."

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Mid-Ohio Indie Author

Book Expo

August 10, 2019

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Brian Palermo

Actor, Improviser, Trainer

"Hank and Stella are a hit in the Palermo house. The boys gave 'I liked it's'. I liked it, too. You did a great job of introducing the 'prov basics."

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Mandy Shunnarah

clintonvillespotlight.com

"Dad turns interest in improv into new book (Aug 2021)"

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Ellie

Age 9

"The book is so cute! It is on my bookshelf with my other favorite books."

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Jen

Picture Books 4 Learning

"The illustrations are sweet and fun. I love that Damian created thought bubbles so readers can see what Stella and Hank are describing. ...I am looking forward to sharing this book with my classroom."

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Raincity Librarian

Guest Post

"Discussing and practicing these improv 'rules' can help children develop their imaginations, play cooperatively, increase their confidence, and much, much more."

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Spencer Frankenberger

Reviewer

"As an improviser who has gone through multiple training programs, this book really brings me back to the roots of improv.  What I love about this book is that, while it is for kids, is a fun read for adults, too.  It's quick-witted, sharp, and includes pairs of rhymes that work well together.  The idea of improv is so simple and yet so complex, and this story dives into this in an indirect way that doesn't distract but rather enhances the meaning of "yes, and" by teaching the foundation for children and providing a solid reminder for the adults (or the kid in you) how to approach improv and how to quite literally take "something from nothing."

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Bob Docherty

Bob's Books Blog

"Not just a picture book for kids. An important lesson for parents, caregivers and teachers."

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Bexley

Local Author Festival

August 26, 2018

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Clintonville

Authors Book Sale

December 9, 2018

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Bridget

Bridget & the Books Blog

"This book is unique because it is a picture book about a term you wouldn’t see in a regular one."

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Dr. Petro Janse van Vuuren

University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

"I think it is an excellent tool for drama teachers. I may even use some of the rhymes for the University students I teach to help them remember the principles. As an educational tool, it is simple, clever, and well-explained."

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